When visiting Costa Rica, I loved staying at the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo. The only bad thing I can think of about staying there is the lack of exposure to the Costa Rican culture. The hotel is about 45 minutes from the Liberia airport, and there is little to see in between. Fortunately, on my second trip to Costa Rica, I was able to venture out to experience the local flavor of the country.
Somewhat off the beaten path, a great place to dine is Abbocato, owned and operated by Chef Paola Villalobos Pinzon and his wife. It’s located in a recently restored 100-year-old home. It is usually only open for breakfast and lunch, but fortunately for my group of 12, the restaurant opened for our private dinner. Our dining experience was unlike any I’ve had; one where we enjoyed the best of Costa Rica.
Our waitress and co-owner of the restaurant served our two four-course options for dinner: the portion sizes were perfect, and we had a little taste of everything, starting with a pork and mango combination prepared on a small homemade tortilla, which was complementary and served to everyone. We were given the option of a traditional Costa Rican menu or a classic twist on the traditional, and the entrée choice was either pork or fish.
I selected the traditional Costa Rican menu. Followed by the starter came four small pork dumplings served with shredded romaine lettuce and soy sauce for dipping. The third course was a homemade tuna and mango sushi roll – YUM! And for my main course, I selected the fish option – dorado (mahi-mahi). I enjoyed a generous portion of fish served with julian-cut vegetables.
For dessert, we were given a small portion of rice pudding to taste as well as a chocolate cake and a coffee sponge cake – again YUM! A great place for small groups looking for an intimate place to eat, Abbocato’s can also cater events or serve as a private chef to people looking for a top-notch dining experience!
Located just past the Liberia Airport, be sure to stop by La Choza de Laurel – and make sure you go with an appetite. I have eaten here once before, for breakfast on my way home. So needless to say, breakfast is my favorite here.
The La Choza de Laurel breakfast includes your choice of coffee, tea or hot chocolate (get the coffee, it’s the best!), rice and beans (pinto), eggs (any way you like them), fried or natural cheese, fried plantain and a homemade tortilla. In addition, all of their fruit juices are great! Just writing about this makes my mouth water again! It is one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had, and it won’t break your bank. La Choza de Laurel is a Costa Rican chain and can also be found in La Fortuna, San Carlos.
