If you’re visiting the beautiful Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, a tour in Manuel Antonio is a must. From lush rainforests to pristine beaches, the experience is unforgettable. But what truly completes your day of adventure is the chance to enjoy traditional Costa Rican cuisine, and no meal is complete without a side of authentic Costa Rican food.

In Quepos, the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, local restaurants and tour operators offer delicious homemade meals featuring staples like seasoned beans, achiote chicken, and of course, freshly prepared white rice. This simple yet essential dish is made with garlic, oil, and just the right amount of salt and pepper, providing a flavorful base that complements any Costa Rican plate.

Whether you’re rafting through the rapids in the green mountains of Quepos, hiking the trails of Manuel Antonio, or relaxing on the beach, be sure to treat yourself to a local meal. Many tours include a traditional lunch called “Casado,” where you’ll get to savor Costa Rica’s famous white rice as part of an authentic culinary experience.

Book your Manuel Antonio tour in Quepos today and enjoy the flavors of Costa Rica, one bite at a time.

Ready to Taste Costa Rica?

This tour is a must-do while visiting Quepos or Manuel Antonio. You’ll learn something new, meet great people, and most importantly, taste the real flavors of Costa Rica.

Book Your Local Flavor Costa Rican Cooking Experience Now

This creative twist on traditional ceviche uses boiled green plantains or bananas in place of seafood. It's tangy, refreshing, and packed with bold Costa Rican flavor. A splash of Fresca adds a unique sweetness that balances the lime perfectly.

Instructions:

• 2 green plantains or 4 green bananas
• 1/4 white onion
• 1/4 red onion
• 1/4 sweet pepper
• 1/4 bunch of flat-leaf cilantro
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1 cup Fresca (soft drink)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black peppe

Instructions:

1. Boil the plantains or bananas: Peel and cut them into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender but still firm (about 10–15 minutes). Drain and let cool completely.
2. Chop: Once cooled, dice the plantains or bananas into small cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Add vegetables: Mix in the chopped white onion, red onion, sweet pepper, and cilantro.
4. Add liquids: Pour in the lime juice and the Fresca.
5. Season: Add salt and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly.
6. Chill: Let the ceviche rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
7. Serve cold as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, with crackers or tortilla chips.

Simple, fresh, and full of crunch, this salad pairs perfectly with any Costa Rican plate. A quick squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of salt bring all the natural flavors to life.

No Costa Rican meal is complete without a side of seasoned black beans. Whether you pair them with tortillas, rice, or eggs, these beans are a hearty staple seasoned with garlic, sweet peppers, and a touch of local spice sauce.

Marinated in vibrant annatto oil and sautéed with fresh aromatics, this juicy chicken dish is a favorite across Costa Rica. It's the perfect main course to serve alongside rice and beans.

It may be simple, but Costa Rican-style white rice is anything but bland. Cooked with garlic, black pepper, and just the right amount of salt, it’s a flavorful companion to every meal on the table.

Soft, warm, and made entirely by hand, these tortillas are a must at any Costa Rican table. They pair beautifully with everything from beans to achiote chicken.

Tucanes Tours is here to help you discover the best that Costa Rica and Manuel Antonio has to offer. We offer unparalleled knowledge and access to some of the most incredible natural and cultural experiences in Costa Rica.

From kayaking in Golfito Bay to whitewater rafting Rio Savegre and fishing for the trophy sized sailfish, Tucanes provides a wide variety of activities for adventure seekers.

The knowledgeable guides at Tucanes Tours can help you explore all the wonders that Costa Rica has to offer, from discovering the Indigenous Boruca tribe and their culture to observing whales and dolphins playing like teenagers in their natural habitat during a kayak tour in Golfo Dulce.

With so many tours available, there is sure to be something that perfectly fits every persons interests and desires! It is also a great way for visitors young and old alike to connect with nature while learning about its inhabitants when visiting Costa Rica.

No matter if you're an ecotourist or more interested in chasing wild adrenalin filled adventures, our guides at Tucanes can make your dreams become your reality.

See how truly incredible Costa Rica can be when you book experiences with Tucanes Tours today – it will be an experience unlike any other where memories are guaranteed to last forever!