San Jose By Night Tour: Farm to Table Dinner & Cocktail Class

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San José

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Immerse yourself in the culture and history of San Jose on this historic tour. Visit the Central Market, learn about local cuisine, explore architectural gems, and enjoy an authentic Costa Rican dinner in a charming private home dining experience.

Duration: 4 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Banco Central de Costa Rica - Our tour begins at the entrance of the bank, right next to the Monumento de los Presentes, which features small, green figures. We’ll start by discussing how this monument symbolizes the resilience and survival of the community through challenging times, bridging the past and present. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength and unity that have shaped the city, setting the tone for our journey through its rich history and vibrant culture.
Central Market (Mercado Central) - We will visit the Central Market, established in 1880, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the foundations of Costa Rican agriculture and daily culture. This historic market is a vibrant hub of local life, offering a glimpse into the traditions and practices that have shaped Costa Rican cuisine for generations. As we explore the market, you’ll discover the essential ingredients, meet local vendors, and gain insight into the agricultural practices that sustain the region. It’s a perfect introduction to the rich cultural tapestry that makes Costa Rica unique.
Teatro Nacional Costa Rica - We will have the opportunity to visit the National Theatre, a stunning architectural masterpiece built in 1890. This historic building is not just a symbol of artistic and cultural achievement, but also a reflection of the powerful oligarchies of the time that played a significant role in shaping modern Costa Rica. As we explore the theatre, you’ll learn about its rich history, the influential figures behind its construction, and how it has become a cornerstone of Costa Rican identity. This visit offers a deeper understanding of the social and cultural forces that have contributed to the nation’s development.
Morazan Park - Here, we visit Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop, where you’ll have the opportunity to freshen up and learn about specialty coffees sourced from the top 20 plantations in the country. As you savor these exceptional brews, you’ll gain insight into the coffee-making process and what makes Costa Rican coffee world-renowned. After our coffee stop, we’ll continue our walk through Morazán Park, a place rich in history and architecture. This park, with its beautiful design and cultural significance, offers a serene setting to explore and appreciate another facet of the city’s vibrant heritage.
Templo de la Musica - We will pass by the Templo de la Música, an iconic structure located in Morazán Park. As we explore this beautiful pavilion, you’ll learn about its rich cultural history and the significant role it has played in the city’s artistic and social life. Built in the early 20th century, the Templo de la Música has hosted countless concerts, events, and gatherings, becoming a beloved symbol of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Its design, inspired by classical architecture, adds a touch of elegance to the park, making it a perfect spot to reflect on the cultural heritage that has shaped the community.
Metallic Building (edificio Metalico) - We will have the opportunity to visit the Escuela Metallica, a school renowned for its unique history and architecture. this iconic constructed in the late 19 th century, is made entirelyof metal. a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of the time. As we explore , you will learn about the fascinating story behind its construction , its role in Costa Rica educations, and the significance of its distinctive chimneys. The schools designs and historical importance make it a remarkable landmark, offering a glimpse into the architectural and educational heritage of the country.
Otoya - As we pass between Parque España and the National Liquor Factory, we’ll enter the historic Barrio Otoya, a neighborhood known for its rich architecture and history. This area is home to some of the most beautifully preserved colonial and early 20th-century buildings, offering a glimpse into the past. Here, you’ll also learn about a significant milestone in Costa Rican history—the installation of the country’s first public street lighting. This advancement marked a turning point in the modernization of San José, illuminating not just the streets, but also the path toward progress and development.
Parque Espana - We’ll walk through one of the city’s parks, surrounded by lush nature and beautiful architecture, including landmarks like the Casa Amarilla and the old liquor factory. As we continue our stroll, we’ll pass through the charming neighborhoods of Barrio Amón and Barrio Otoya. These historic areas are known for their picturesque streets, colonial-style buildings, and rich cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and the vibrant community that thrives here today.
Parque Nacional Park - After strolling through the National Park, we’ll visit some historic houses where we’ll hold our cocktail workshop. Following this, we’ll head to a private home for a farm-to-table dinner. This intimate, home-cooked meal is crafted with fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farmers at the old Carretas Market, who deliver their produce to us every morning. By dining here, we’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also supporting the hardworking farmers who have been a part of this community for generations. This unique experience blends history, culture, and culinary delight, making it a perfect ending to our tour.

What's Included

Sangria, Craft beers made with Honey Basil Ale, Ginger, Vanilla, Watermelon, Blackberry etc
Walking like a local around the Historical Center and beautiful neighborhoods like Otoya and Amon
We use coconut, we have vegetarian & gluten-free options
Special Dinner 4 course Tasting Menu at Farm to Table Concept at private home dining
Participate in making Cocktail Classes and Tasting
Visit the Central Market, Metallic Building, Spain Park for a fantastic view of the Yellow House
The food and the ingredients used are of a pre-Hispanic character that is they don’t contain gluten

What's Not Included

Transportation: if you need to quote transportation service, write to us.
Also not included are additional food and drink beyond what is specified.

Additional Information

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the city. Starting in the Central Market, which is the only way to learn about the city’s food. Stroll the market with your local guide and get to know about uses of the roots, herbs, and fruit common in local cuisines, including ingredients that will play a role in your authentic Costa Rican dinner. After the market, we’ll make our way learning about the city’s history and anecdotes, as well as visiting one of the most architecturally beautiful buildings, the National Theatre, then with a walk through Morazán Park and we will visit Mr Sloth Coffee Shop to coffee tasting. We’ll continue to charm Barrio Amon, one the oldest neighborhoods. We’ll be spending the rest of the evening at best private home dining for special menu focused on pre-Hispanic Caribbean food dinner and make el Morenito, one delicious coffee cocktail o fresh fruit.This cozy house offer the best in Costa Rican cuisine, a unique space.

Children under 12 years of age are not allowed on the tour
Dress code: casual
Safety Tips, San Jose is a big city like any other, it is a preventive measure to dont wear flashy jewelry

Location

Los Presentes

Calle 4

Between Avenue one and Central Avenue on street 4, we have the Central Bank of Costa Rica, in front of the main entrance we have a Monument with several small green people, this monument is known as the Monument de los Presentes, there is where the we will be waiting to start the tour.

Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings

4.8

(339 Ratings)

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Chigham

Aug 18, 2024

Great Walking Tour followed by Fabulous Dinner - This tour was fun with our tour guide, Andrea. We walked through downtown, which was extremely busy because it was payday! Everyone was cashing their checks and shopping. Andrea offered insights to various sites: park, government center, a couple statues. We stopped at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop where she engaged my teenage nephews to help her brew freshly ground coffee to make a special drink! Our final stop was a private dinner prepared by an upcoming chef: we had the freshest and best ever sangria, bread, rice (of course), local veggies and a chicken dish, followed by scrumptious dessert. I would highly recommend this tour....and ask for Andrea!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Carmen_h

Aug 18, 2024

Fun Walking Tour following by Delicious Dinner - This tour was fun with our tour guide, Andrea. We walked through downtown, which was extremely busy because it was payday! Everyone was cashing their checks and shopping. Andrea offered insights to various sites: park, government center, a couple statues. We stopped at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop where she engaged my teenage nephews to help her brew freshly ground coffee to make a special drink! Our final stop was a private dinner prepared by an upcoming chef: we had the freshest and best ever sangria, bread, rice (of course), local veggies and a chicken dish, followed by scrumptious dessert. I would highly recommend this tour....and ask for Andrea!

Review provided by Viator

Bpshurn

Aug 15, 2024

Amazing Foot Tour Through the New and Old Heart of San Jose. - Angel was our guide on this tour and he offered me and my wife along with 2 others a very intimate experience walking through both the new and old capitals (city centers). There was a lot of history given and opportunities to experience some of the culture. We ended the evening sharing a homemade meal, full of local delicacies, hosted at one of the local homes. If you are looking for a good 3-4 hour foot tour, be sure to sign up for the San Jose by Night Tour!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Lori_p

Aug 14, 2024

An enjoyable and interesting experience - Highly recommend! Our guide was professional and knowledgeable. The tour was appropriately balanced. The dinner was AMAZING!

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Boss_d

Aug 9, 2024

Very Nice. - The experience was great, unfortunately it rained most of the time but the experience was amazing. Our tour guide was very informative, and it was well worth it.

Review provided by Viator

Faraway469780

Aug 8, 2024

A great way explore the city of San Jose - My friend and I had a awesome time on our tour, Daniel was super awesome. He was very knowledgeable and him and his wife created a really fun experience. The cocktail class and the chef prepared dinner was amazing, the also made great accommodations for dietary needs because we're vegan. I would definitely recommend this tour.

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Martha_c

Aug 6, 2024

Highly recommend! - Just loved the insights about San Jose on the walking tour. The coffee cocktail lesson was educational and tasted amazing. The multi course dinner was delicious and we were considering going on the tour again the next night!

Review provided by Viator

Julianav1611tm

Aug 4, 2024

A must do ! - This has been my second visit to Costa Rica and this tour was an awesome refresher to quickly get some fun in depth view Costa Rica! Jose was amazing and very helpful! 100% recommend!

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283wassimh

Jul 29, 2024

Great way to get to know San Jose - I had this tour as soon as i arrived to San Jose. It was an amazing experience where i learned a lot about San Jose and Costa Rica. Angel and Eric were great and helpful and food was AMAZING!

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Felicia_m