Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Caribbean cuisine is the most distinctive in Costa Rica, having been steeped in indigen-
ous,
criollo
(Creole) and Afro-Caribbean flavors. It's a welcome cultural change of pace
after seemingly endless
casados
. Regional specialties include
rondón
(whose moniker
comes from 'rundown', meaning whatever the chef can run down), a spicy seafood gumbo;
Caribbean-style rice and beans, made with red beans, coconut milk and curry spices; and
patí,
the Caribbean version of an
empanada
(savory turnover), the best street food, bus-
ride snack and picnic treat.
For a glossary of Costa Rican food terms, see.
Casado (set meal)
CHRIS FERTNIG / GETTY IMAGES ©
Drinks
Coffee is probably the most popular beverage in the country and, wherever you go,
someone is likely to offer you a
cafecito
. Traditionally, it is served strong and mixed with
hot milk to taste, also known as
café con leche
. Purists can get
café negro
(black coffee); if
