Signature Aviation Spring 2025

elite traveler SPRING 2025 129

DINING

There’s an endless array of incredible dining across Costa Rica, from fi ne-dining establishments to hyper-local, family-run eateries (typically known as sodas ), and typical Costa Rican cafes. The Michelin Guide doesn’t publish in the country (yet) so there are no starred restaurants, but there is no shortage of can’t-miss hotspots serving up local delicacies. The country has long held high standards for organic produce, biodynamic farming, fresh seafood and homegrown ingredients, which contribute to the Nicoya region’s Blue Zone status. All across Costa Rica you’ll fi nd healthy food with fresh, clean ingredients, with each of the seven provinces o ff eringa unique take on national and international cuisine. In San José, Sikwa (sikwacostarica. com) was the fi rst restaurant in the country to appear on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The restaurant was opened in collaboration with the indigenous Bribri community; it aims to preserve and revitalize the culinary traditions of Costa Rica by interpreting traditional ingredients and recipes that have been orally handed down through generations. Near Tamarindo, HiR Fine Dining (elmundodenoam.com) is more than a restaurant, it’s the home of chef Mercedes Noam Kostucki, who opens up her personal address for 12 lucky individuals per night for an informal seven-course meal. TacoStar is a locally loved open-air taco stand favored by surfers and beachgoers in Playa Grande. Enjoy a swim and laze on the hammocks to savor one of the best tacos in the area. When in Santa Teresa, pay a visit to Soda Tiquicia , a chill local spot serving up delectable gallo pinto , one of Costa Rica’s most famous dishes, comprised of beans and rice. The fi ve-star W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal is home to sophisticated fi ne-dining restaurant Latitud 10°Norte (latitud10norte.com), which pairs expert mixology with an elevated gastronomic experience highlighting Costa Rican fl avors. Enjoy a meal followed by a stop at the hotel’s buzzy beach club. Costa Rica’s climate encompasses everything from mist-shrouded highlands to humid rain forests and sun-kissed beaches. Though warm weather prevails year-round, the country has two distinct seasons: the dry season (December–April) o ff ers radiant sunshine and prime conditions for outdoor exploration, while the rainy season (May– November) brings verdant landscapes and fewer visitors, ensuring a more secluded, intimate experience. Whentogo

Photos Ricardo Quirós, Andres Garcia