If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica and want to eat like a local, you’ll quickly learn that the best meals aren’t always found in fancy restaurants—they’re served in sodas.
But wait—what’s a soda?
In Costa Rica, a soda isn’t a fizzy drink; it’s a small, open-air, family-run restaurant that serves traditional Costa Rican food at unbeatable prices. These spots are everywhere—from the cities to the beach and mountain towns—and they’re an essential part of daily life for ticos.
Eating at a soda is not only a delicious experience, but also a smart way to save money while traveling. Meals are hearty, made with love, and give you a real taste of Costa Rican culture. Here’s your guide to the most popular dishes on the menu and what makes them so beloved.
Casado – The King of the Soda Menu
If you ask a Costa Rican what their go-to soda meal is, chances are they’ll say casado. It’s the ultimate plato típico — a generous, well-balanced meal that’s affordable and satisfying.
A casado typically includes:
- White rice
- Black beans
- Fried plantains
- Salad with a light vinaigrette
- Protein (usually chicken, beef, pork, or fish)
Optional sides may include pasta salad, a fried egg, avocado slices, or tortillas. Every soda adds its own twist, so no two casados are exactly alike. Why is it called casado? One popular theory is that the name comes from married men (casados) who would bring similar packed lunches to work. Today, it’s a favorite of everyone—and a great value meal that typically costs $4–$8 USD.
Gallo Pinto – The Breakfast of Champions
This national dish is a breakfast staple, but you’ll find it on soda menus all day.
Gallo pinto is a savory mix of rice and beans cooked together with onions, sweet
peppers, garlic, and cilantro. It’s usually served with:
- Fried or scrambled eggs
- Fried sausage (salchichón)
- Tortillas
- Plantains
- Sometimes a slice of bread with a dollop of sour cream (natilla)
Many locals top it off with Salsa Lizano, Costa Rica’s tangy brown sauce, it’s a must-try. Gallo pinto is filling, vegetarian-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect fuel for a day of hiking, surfing, or exploring.
Arroz con Pollo – A Party Favorite
Arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) is Costa Rica’s version of a classic Latin American comfort food. Made with seasoned yellow rice, shredded chicken, and mixed vegetables like carrots and sweet peppers, it’s often served with a side salad, refried beans, and potato chips. Though it’s a common dish at birthdays and family gatherings, you’ll find it regularly on soda menus as a flavorful and affordable lunch.
Chifrijo – For the Adventurous Foodie
If you spot chifrijo on a soda menu—go for it! This iconic Costa Rican creation combines chicharrón (crispy pork belly), frijoles (beans), rice, pico de gallo, and tortilla chips in one glorious bowl.
It’s crunchy, savory, and packed with flavor. While traditionally served in bars or during soccer matches, chifrijo has earned its place as a favorite in many sodas, especially near coastal or tourist areas. Perfect for sharing or as a hearty snack with a cold Imperial beer.
What to Drink
Wash down your meal with a refresco natural—fresh fruit blended with water or milk. Popular flavors include mango, pineapple, passionfruit, watermelon, and soursop. These juices are made fresh and usually cost $1–$2.
If you want to blend in, skip the soda pop and go for the juice, it’s what most locals
do.
Final Thoughts
Sodas aren’t just restaurants, they’re where construction workers, students, families, and travelers all come together to enjoy honest food at honest prices. If you’re traveling Costa Rica and want to stretch your budget without sacrificing flavor, eating at sodas is one of the smartest and most rewarding choices you can make. You’ll get to taste traditional cuisine, meet friendly locals, and practice your Spanish.
So next time you see a sign that says “Soda El Rinconcito” or “Soda La Cuchara de Doña Marta,” stop in, grab a seat, and enjoy a true pura vida experience on a plate.
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