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Guaro - The National Spirit of Costa Rica

Guaro is Costa Rica's most beloved liquor - a clear spirit distilled from sugarcane. While it's similar to vodka in appearance, guaro has a naturally sweeter taste and lower alcohol content, making it incredibly versatile in cocktails.

The official brand is Cacique, produced by the government-controlled Fábrica Nacional de Licores (FANAL). Don't let its affordable price fool you - Cacique is a quality spirit that forms the base of Costa Rica's most famous cocktails.

Traditional Costa Rican Beers

Imperial (since 1924) is the undisputed king of Costa Rican beers. Recognizable by its black eagle logo, this light golden lager at 4.6% ABV is perfectly suited for the tropical climate - refreshing, crisp, and easy to drink all day.

Pilsen (since 1888) is actually older than Imperial and remains the second most popular choice. At 5.1% ABV, it's slightly stronger with a distinctive red and white label.

Bavaria rounds out the traditional trio, brewed by Cervecería Costa Rica (the same company behind Imperial and Pilsen).

The Craft Beer Revolution

Costa Rica's craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, led by pioneers like:

• Costa Rica Craft Brewing - The trailblazers who launched Libertas (tropical golden ale) and Segua (red ale) in 2010
• Monteverde Brewing Co - Uses mineral-rich local waters to create unique mountain brews like Sirena Dorada golden ale
• San Roque Brewery - Family-owned underdog offering Matabuey IPA, Terciopelo Golden Ale, and Toboba Coffee Porter
• Volcano Brewing Company - Tamarindo's beachfront brewery at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
• PuddleFish Brewery - Jaco's craft destination with fish tacos to match
• Luke's Taproom - Puerto Viejo's Caribbean craft spot with honey mango ale and chocolate porter

Local brewers often incorporate native ingredients like mango, coconut, pineapple, and cocoa to create beers that capture the essence of Costa Rica.

Signature Costa Rican Cocktails

Chiliguaro

Born in the bars of Playas del Coco, this spicy shot has become a Costa Rican institution. Mix guaro with hot sauce, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. It's like a spicy Bloody Mary in shot form - the perfect way to start a night out.

Guaro Sour

The classic Costa Rican cocktail. Combine guaro with fresh lime juice, sugar, and club soda for a refreshing tropical twist on the whiskey sour.

Michelada

A spicy beer cocktail perfect for hot beach days. Mix Imperial or Pilsen with lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt. Served in a salt-rimmed glass, it's Costa Rica's ultimate hangover cure.

Coco Loco

Found throughout the Caribbean coast, especially in Puerto Viejo. Fresh coconut water mixed with rum and fruit juice, served right in the coconut shell.

Costa Rican Mule

A local twist on the Moscow Mule - Imperial beer mixed with lime juice and ginger beer.

Miguelito

A sweet shot made with guaro, coconut water, and evaporated milk - tropical and smooth.

Holiday Drinks

Rompope is Costa Rica's version of eggnog, traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and Independence Day. Made with rum, milk, eggs, sugar, and warming spices, it's a creamy indulgence that brings families together.

Happy Hour Tips

• Most happy hours run from 4pm to 6pm (or 4:30-6:30pm)
• Look for 2-for-1 deals on cocktails and $2-4 local beers
• The legal drinking age is 18 years old
• Tipping 10% is customary at bars
• Always try the local craft beers - the scene is booming