Pulling off the winding coastal road into Sardinal, Guanacaste, Restaurante Rincón Tico welcomes you with subtle charm—the kind that feels like you’re stepping into a beloved local home. Rustic décor, the gentle hum of conversation, and the surrounding greenery set the tone for a warm, unpretentious dining experience that just feels right.
Authentic Costa Rican Cuisine
One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Restaurante Rincón Tico is the authenticity of its food. This is not “tourist Costa Rican”—it’s the kind of homestyle cooking you’d enjoy in a Tico household, prepared with the same care and flavor traditions passed down for generations.
The star of the menu, in my opinion of course, is the Gallo Pinto! You would think that a Gallo Pinto, as easy as the preperation and the ingredients are, would taste the same in any part of the country, well that’s not my experience as an avid national tourist. At Rincón Tico they just get it right!
Of course you can’t forget the Casado—a generous plate that brings together rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein (like chicken, beef, or fresh fish). Every casado here feels hearty, perfectly seasoned, and full of balance, making it one of the best introductions to local dining for newcomers.
Another must-try is their Ceviche, prepared with freshly caught fish, lime juice, cilantro, and just the right touch of spice. It’s bright, refreshing, and exactly what you’d expect from a coastal Guanacaste kitchen.
And then there are the details that elevate the experience: homemade tortillas that taste like they were just pressed by hand – beacuse they just were! Perfectly fried plantains with that caramelized sweetness, and soups that feel like comfort in a bowl. And speaking of soups, you can’t miss their famous Olla de Carne, only served on Sunday’s.
As one happy customer put it:
“Excelente comida y atención. Lo recomiendo.” Facebook Review by O.M.
That simple phrase—excellent food and great service—sums up what makes dining here so memorable.
At Rincón Tico, every bite connects you to Costa Rica’s culinary roots. It’s food that’s not only delicious but also deeply cultural, healthy, natural, reminding you why Costa Rican cuisine is celebrated for its freshness, simplicity, and pura vida spirit. As the National Tourism Institute says in their slogan… “No artificial ingredients!“
Fresh Drinks Made from Real Fruit
Made from fresh, ripe fruit right there in the kitchen. No powders, no syrups—just pure, refreshing fruit flavor. I love their mango drink, it’s so vibrant and naturally sweet that you will end up ordering a second glass. It’s the kind of drink that instantly makes you feel you’re in Costa Rica, cooling off with something wholesome and refreshing.
Service That Feels Like Family
What ties the whole experience together is the service. From the moment you walk in, the owner, Gerardo, will greet you with a big smile and make you feel like a welcomed guest rather than just another customer. The staff is just as warm—attentive, patient, and genuinely happy to share recommendations from the menu. You will not feel rushed; instead, feel cared for.
Super delicious food, amazing service, reasonable prices and great atmosphere. If you want to try local cuisine in Guanacaste, this is the place. We tried only their breakfast and the amazing part is when they make coffee in front of you. – Google Review by W.A.
That combination of authentic flavors, fresh drinks, and heartfelt hospitality is what makes Rincón Tico such a special place. It’s not just about eating—it’s about experiencing a piece of Costa Rican culture, served with pride and a lot of corazón.
Social Responsability
In the two years I’ve been coming to Rincón Tico, one thing that has deeply touched me is witnessing Gerardo’s generosity in action. Time and again, I’ve seen him quietly and humbly give food to people in need from the community. It’s a gesture that goes far beyond running a restaurant—it reflects the kind of heart and care that make this place truly special. So next time you visit, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, feel free to leave a little extra, knowing that ‘Gera’ will pay it forward.
Moments like these remind me why so many people fall in love with life in Costa Rica. It’s not just about the beaches, the mountains, or the warm weather—it’s about the sense of community, kindness, and connection that you feel every day. And when people start looking at homes here, whether in Guanacaste or beyond, that spirit of giving and neighborly care is often what truly seals the decision.
Living here isn’t only about owning property—it’s about belonging to a community that feels like family. – David Hernández – Broker/Realtor® Magnolia Real Estate
For a Google Maps Location to Rincón Tico Click Here!
Tico style address:
Rincón Tico – From the Sardinal bridge, 250 meter north!
Sardinal, Carrillo, Guanacaste.
