Food and Shopping in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers a relaxed and down-to-earth approach to both food and shopping. Rather than focusing on excess or extravagance, local life revolves around fresh, seasonal ingredients and the value of handmade goods. For visitors, this means plenty of chances to experience authenticity – whether you’re ordering lunch at a family-run soda or browsing a craft stall in a coastal town.
Meals typically highlight home-style cooking and regional produce, with an emphasis on simplicity and balance. Most local dishes are not heavily spiced but instead rely on fresh herbs, vegetables, and quality staples. Coastal regions often incorporate seafood into daily fare, while inland areas feature hearty comfort foods. No matter where you go, meals are unhurried and designed to bring people together.
Shopping reflects a similar attitude. Rather than large-scale commercial outlets, you’ll find open-air markets, independent stores, and artisan stalls selling goods made with natural materials and traditional methods. While cities like San José do have malls and branded shops, much of the shopping culture is shaped by local production and small businesses.
Products commonly highlight Costa Rica’s natural resources, particularly wood, leather, coffee and cacao. What you bring back is often something simple but meaningful: maybe a handwoven bag from a small town or a bar of chocolate made just down the road. Food and shopping in Costa Rica aren’t about fancy labels or big brands. They’re more about everyday life, things made with care, shared with pride, and connected to the people and places you’ve seen along the way.
Recommended Tours in Costa Rica
Opening Hours in Costa Rica
Most shops open between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Some tourist-oriented stores may stay open later or on Sundays, especially in beach towns. Grocery stores and pharmacies often have extended hours, while local markets typically start early and close by mid-afternoon. Public holidays and regional events can affect opening times, particularly in rural areas.
Dining Hours in Costa Rica
Breakfast is commonly served from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Lunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and dinner from around 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Most locals eat early, and smaller eateries may close by 8:00 p.m. Tourist areas tend to offer more flexible hours. Reservations are rarely required except at upscale restaurants.
Making Payment in Costa Rica
The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), though U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are commonly used in cities and larger establishments. In rural areas, carry cash, preferably in smaller denominations. ATMs are widely available. Tipping is customary but modest—about 10%, often included in the bill.
Tax-Free Shopping in Costa Rica
Costa Rica does not offer a nationwide tax-free shopping system for tourists. However, some larger stores or airport shops may offer duty-free goods, especially on international departures. The standard value-added tax (VAT) is 13%, usually included in displayed prices. Always ask if tax is included when shopping in markets or small shops.
What to Buy in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for quality handcrafted goods, locally grown products, and region-specific items that reflect the country’s culture and natural environment. Coffee is a top purchase, especially beans grown in the Central Valley and Tarrazú regions. Look for whole beans from small-batch roasters or certified organic blends. Chocolate, especially from local cacao cooperatives, makes a meaningful and tasty gift.
Wood crafts, including bowls, salad servers, and carvings, are popular souvenirs, particularly those made from sustainable or reclaimed wood like teak and rosewood. Handmade jewelry, often using seeds, stones, or volcanic rock, is widely available at artisan markets.
You’ll also find natural skincare products, including soaps, lotions, and balms made with ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and coffee grounds. Textiles such as woven bags and hammocks are both functional and decorative. On the Caribbean side, items often reflect Afro-Caribbean heritage, including colorful garments and spices.
Buying from small producers or cooperatives helps support local communities and ensures authentic, high-quality items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best regions in Costa Rica for culinary travel?
San José and Central Valley for fine dining and cafes; Guanacaste for beachside fresh seafood; Monteverde and Osa for farm to table and jungle inspired meals.
What traditional Costa Rican dishes should I try?
Start with gallo pinto, casado, arroz con pollo, olla de carne and sopa de pejibaye. Street snacks like chorreadas and empanadas round out the experience.
Where can I find authentic Costa Rican souvenirs?
Visit artisan markets in San José, Grecia, Sarchí, and beach towns like Tamarindo and Nosara for handmade crafts, ceramics, and textiles.
Is tipping expected in restaurants in Costa Rica?
A 10% service charge is often included. Adding 5–10% extra for excellent service is appreciated but optional.
What are typical dining hours in Costa Rica?
Breakfast before 9 AM, lunch between 12–2 PM, and dinner from around 6 PM onward—though that varies in tourist areas.
Our local expert in Costa Rica
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Costa Rica
With personalized recommendations, local contacts, and curated itineraries, Finest Journeys helps you make the most of Ecuador’s food scene and shopping opportunities. Our team ensures a smooth and rewarding experience tailored to your interests, allowing you to sample regional cuisine, meet artisans, and discover the best places to buy traditional goods.