Going to Costa Rica, need dining suggestions!

[JulesTei]

Hi everyone,

I'm going to Costa Rica in early July and was wondering if there are any must-see foodie spots. From my research, it doesn't sound like a huge food destination, but I just want to avoid the tourist traps and hopefully get some great seafood and fruit.

We'll be in Arenal, Manuel Antonio and probably Monteverde, so any suggestions for these areas would be much appreciated! I'll also be there for my birthday, so if there's anywhere with a great view or that is otherwise special, would love to know about it.

Thanks!

[Veggo]

It's not so much must-see foodie spots as fresh fruit, mild arabica coffee, and the best black bean soup (often served with a poached egg) you will find throughout your trip. Seafood will be slim pickin's in Arenal and Monteverde. Best view on your birthday would be a picnic on Irazu Volcano, from which you can see both oceans on a clear day (of which there are few, but you have a good chance in July). Best seafood is on the Nicoya peninsula, which is unfortunately not on your agenda. The lowlands south of Jaco to Quepos have a lot of runoff into the Pacific, and most fishing boats there don't travel out to blue water because of fuel costs. But your best fish meals will be in Quepos. I think your expectations are on point - CR is not a foodie Mecca, but the beauty of it is extraordinary and memorable. It seems every square meter of the country is nicely manicured and something is growing, and even modest restaurants on dirt roads have fresh orchids in a small vase on the tables. That's always a good beginning.

[JulesTei]

Thanks so much for the Irazu Volcano suggestion, I'll look into it!