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Offered languages
- English
- Spanish
Rather than a standard restaurant cooking demonstration, this class immerses you in the authentic culinary traditions of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world's renowned Blue Zones. Hosted in a welcoming local home in Sámara, you'll prepare traditional recipes alongside a local instructor while learning practical cooking techniques that can easily be recreated at home. The experience combines hands-on cooking, cultural storytelling, traditional tropical drinks, and a shared meal in a relaxed social setting.
Example Menu
Starter
Fresh Tropical Fruit Juices & local drink
Traditional alcoholic drink and/or seasonal fruit juices & fresh water.
Starter
Patacones with Guacamole & Fresh Pico de Gallo
Crispy double-fried green plantains served warm with house-made avocado guacamole and freshly chopped tomato, onion, and cilantro salsa.
Starter
Handmade Corn Tortillas
Learn the traditional method of pressing and grilling fresh corn tortillas on a hot griddle (comal).
Main
Traditional Casado
Master the staple Guanacaste-style meal featuring seasoned rice, black beans, fried sweet plantains, fresh salad, and tender grilled chicken
Main
Picadillo de Ayote or Chayote
A savory traditional side dish made from diced local squash cooked with sweet peppers, onions, and delicate herbs.
Main
Empanadas de Queso
Golden, crispy corn masa pockets stuffed with local melting cheese, prepared as an interactive cooking item.
Dessert
Chorreadas (Sweet Corn Pancakes)
Classic Guanacaste sweet corn pancakes served hot with a dollop of fresh local sour cream (natilla).
Dessert
Arroz con Leche
A comforting, creamy rice pudding infused with cinnamon, cloves, and lime zest served for dessert.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The exact meeting point will be provided by our booking manager after the purchase, since we have two possible locations available near the area, and the instructor will meet you there. Please contact us via Whatsapp so we can better coordinate.
What to expect
Throughout the class, you'll learn how to select, season, and cook authentic regional recipes using fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, native herbs, and traditional spices. Your instructor will guide you step by step, sharing practical cooking tips, local food history, and the secrets behind the healthy, wholesome diet of the Guanacaste region.
As the meal comes together, enjoy freshly prepared local juices, and traditional drinks while cooking alongside fellow travelers in a warm, friendly atmosphere.
After cooking, sit down to enjoy the complete feast you've prepared. Exchange stories about Sámara, Costa Rican culture, and everyday local life with your companion, or with fellow travelers if you select the shared group experience.
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Exact meeting point details will be provided after booking; please contact us.
- Please let us know in advance about any food allergies or dietary restrictions so we can accommodated.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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