Costa Rican culture is deeply rooted in its cuisine, where simple, traditional dishes bring people together. Just as nourishing as the food is the ritual of gathering — sharing a meal, cooking for someone, sitting down without rush. In Nosara, you’ll find plenty of places serving the kind of food locals actually eat: fresh, delicious, unpretentious, and made with care.
Start with the Staples
Costa Rican food is built on fresh, real ingredients—nothing fussy, just satisfying and flavorful. A great place to begin is with gallo pinto, the country’s signature breakfast. It’s a simple mix of rice and beans, typically served with eggs (huevos), sweet plantains (plátanos), fried cheese (queso frito), and sour cream (natilla).
Next up: the casado—a classic lunch plate made with rice, beans, salad, plantains, and your choice of grilled meat or fish. It’s the everyday Costa Rican meal, and it hits the spot. Add some Salsa Lizano—you’ll find it on every table—for a tangy, unmistakable finish.
From the Coast: Ceviche and Caldosa
Nosara sits on the Pacific coast, which means access to some of the freshest seafood in the country. You’ll find ceviche everywhere—from restaurants to roadside vendors—made with white fish or shrimp cured in citrus, tossed with onions, peppers, and cilantro. We might be biased, but the ceviche options at Sendero are outstanding.
Looking to try something even more local? If you get the chance, order a caldosa—a uniquely Costa Rican snack made by pouring ceviche over crunchy corn chips, typically served in a plastic bag or cup. It’s salty, citrusy, and the ultimate casual beachside bite.
Something Sweet, Something Cold
No meal in Costa Rica is complete without something sweet or refreshing. Try a slice of tres leches cake or torta chilena, both local favorites. To drink, go for a fresco de tamarindo (tamarind juice) or one of the many jugos naturales (fresh fruit juices)—just ask what’s in season. And if you’re near the beach or walking by Sendero’s surf school, grab a pipa fría—cold coconut water served straight from the shell.
Where to Go
For true local flavor, head to places that have been serving the community for generations.
- Rosi’s Soda Tica, Celajes and Soda Garza are go-to spots for hearty, traditional dishes—expect a casual setting, homemade food, and warm service.
- Malacrianza offers a relaxed environment with classic dishes and fresh ingredients.
- For a more elevated experience, Huacas brings a refined touch to Costa Rican flavors, perfect for a night out without losing the essence of the cuisine.
What to Order: A Quick Guide
- Gallo pinto for breakfast (don’t skip the plantains)
- A casado for lunch—go classic or try the grilled fish
- Ceviche, and when we say fresh catch, we mean it
- Tres leches or torta chilena for dessert
- Jugos naturales or an ice-cold pipa on a hot day
Local Flavor, Steps from Your Stay
You don’t have to venture far to eat well when you stay with us. Sendero’s on-site restaurant serves traditional Costa Rican dishes with a fresh, simple approach. Think local ingredients and flavors that reflect the region’s character, with a twist. Whether you’re wrapping up a surf session or working remotely under a palm tree, you’ll find something satisfying right here.
Book your stay at Sendero Hotel and get a taste of Costa Rica—literally.
