Jaco Central Pacific Coast, Costa Rica Travel Guide
Costa Rican cuisine prioritizes freshness, simplicity, and reliance on local ingredients. Meals often center around rice and beans, which are dietary staples.
Common flavorings include cilantro, onion, garlic, and cumin. Salsa Lizano, a savory, slightly sweet condiment, is a national favorite found on almost every table.
Jacó features authentic Costa Rican "sodas" alongside a wide array of international restaurants. Fresh seafood is a particular highlight due to its Pacific coast location.
"Soda" dining is casual. A service charge (10% gratuity) is often included in restaurant bills. An additional tip for exceptional service is appreciated.
Lunch (almuerzo) is the main meal (12 PM - 2 PM). Dinner (cena) is typically later (6 PM - 9 PM). Breakfast (desayuno) often includes gallo pinto.
A quintessential Costa Rican lunch with rice, black beans, fried plantains, salad, and choice of meat.
Find at any "soda" for great value.
Traditional breakfast of rice and black beans, seasoned with cilantro, onion, and garlic. Served with eggs or sour cream.
Available at sodas and hotel breakfasts.
Rice mixed with chicken or shrimp; fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, onions, cilantro.
Find at many restaurants (rice dishes) and seafood eateries (ceviche).
Fried or baked pastries with various fillings. Chifrijo is a popular bar snack with rice, beans, pork belly, pico de gallo.
Cajeta (caramelized milk candy), Arroz con Leche (rice pudding), Churros, Copos (shaved ice). Fresh fruits are available year-round.
Mainly within the Los Sueños Resort and Marina complex (15-minute drive north). La Vista Restaurant at the Marriott or other upscale eateries around the marina.
Abundant in Jacó town, offering Costa Rican, Italian, pizza, American, seafood, and Asian options.
"Sodas" (local, family-run) offer affordable, authentic meals. Vendors sell snacks near the beach or bus stops.
Jacó boasts diverse international dining, reflecting its popularity with tourists. Find Italian, Mexican, American, Asian options.
Variety to suit any palate.
No large dedicated food halls. Supermarkets offer prepared foods, groceries, fresh produce, baked goods.
Buy ingredients to prepare your own meals if accommodation has a kitchen.
Many restaurants on or overlooking Jacó Beach. Perfect for sunset views.
Fresh seafood and quality meats are excellent here.
Many spots for drinks and socializing after dinner.
The most authentic and affordable meal experience.
Awareness is growing but not widespread. Rice and beans are naturally gluten-free.
Carry a Translation card to explain allergies in Spanish.
Always confirm dishes are prepared without dairy or lard for vegan options.
Stick to simpler dishes where ingredients are easier to confirm.
Halal and Kosher availability is very limited in Jacó.
Research supermarkets for permissible packaged foods.
Local tour operators or private chefs may offer Costa Rican cooking classes.
Coffee plantations or fruit farms are not directly in Jacó. Arrange day trips to agricultural areas in the Central Valley.
Jacó does not host major culinary festivals regularly. Local town festivals sometimes feature traditional foods.
Typically served from 6 AM to 9 AM.
Often features gallo pinto.
The main meal, usually from 12 PM to 2 PM.
Most locals eat a casado.
For an authentic and affordable meal, seek out local "sodas." These serve delicious traditional dishes and offer great value.
Embrace the "Pura Vida" pace; do not expect hurried service. Enjoy the moment and the relaxed atmosphere.
A service charge (10% gratuity) is often included. An additional tip for exceptional service is appreciated, but not always expected.
Jacó’s dining scene offers variety. Do not hesitate to try local fruit drinks from street vendors.
