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Food and drink San Jose, Costa Rica

Authentic Costa Rican Cooking Class & Central Market

4.8 (5 reviews) 3 h 30 min Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Authentic Costa Rican Cooking Class & Central Market

About this activity

During this immersive experience, you'll not only indulge in the deliciousness of Costa Rican food but also gain insights into local agricultural products and other ingredients that define Costa Rica's cuisine.There’s no better place to experience local cuisine than the Central Market, a 120-year-old building full to the brim with typical Costa Rican food and drink. It’s here that we’ll also buy the ingredients for our cooking class. Learn to prepare classic Latin American dishes such as ceviche and empanadas, picadillos, all while sipping on mojitos, sodas, and tropical drinks.

There’s no better way to experience the flavour of a country than by going from market to kitchen, and we hope by the end, you feel like an authentic Costa Rican foodie! After your class, head back to your hotel with a stomach full of food and a head full of memories for you and your family that will last a lifetime.

Cooking Classes Small Group Short term availability Weather Dependent - Weather-Proof

At a glance

Duration
3 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 14 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English, Spanish
Operated by
San Jose Urban Tours

Ages: Children (5–10 years) · Adults (11–76 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Coffee Tasting, learn how to brew coffee the traditional way
  • Included: Chifrijo, Sweet Plantain Empanadas with cheese or beans, Picadillo and Patacones, Sweet Dessert.
  • Included: Participate in a hands-on this cooking lesson and learn to make traditional dishes
  • Included: Something fun to do for kids, teens, adults and grandparents!
  • Included: Enjoy drinks like cas mojitos.
  • Included: Taste the best tropical juices.

Not included

  • Not included: Everything that is not specified that is included

Itinerary

Dive into Costa Rica’s flavors! Shop for exotic ingredients at the historic Central Market, then head to a secret kitchen to cook authentic dishes with local chef. The ultimate market-to-table tour. Your adventure begins at the iconic San José Central Market, a vibrant, 120-year-old landmark overflowing with tropical colors, rich aromas, and authentic local life. Guided by your expert host, you’ll learn about local agricultural products, taste unique ingredients, and handpick the fresh produce needed for your cooking class. Next, we’ll head to our exclusive secret location for a hands-on, 2.5-hour cooking masterclass led by the talented Chef . Under his guidance, you’ll master the flavors and techniques of traditional Latin American and Costa Rican cuisine. You'll learn to prepare classic dishes like fresh ceviche, savory empanadas, and traditional picadillos—all while sipping on refreshing mojitos, tropical drinks, or local sodas. There’s no better way to connect with a country's culture than through its food. After sharing a delicious meal, you’ll head back with a satisfied appetite, new culinary skills, and unforgettable memories to share with your family!

  1. Stop 1

  2. Central Market (Mercado Central)

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • In front of the Central Bank, Monumento Los Presentes.

End point

  • In front of the Central Bank, Monumento Los Presentes.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Traveller ratings

4.8 out of 5 · 5 reviews
5
80%
4
20%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Authentic Costa Rican Cooking Class & Central Market

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