Dining & Drinks
Terminal restaurants, lounge buffets and quick bites for transit travellers.
Costa Rican Local Flavor
Juan Santamaría International Airport offers travelers a taste of authentic Costa Rican cuisine, including gallo pinto, casados, and freshly made empanadas. Look for spots serving traditional dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Central Valley region. These are perfect stops for departing passengers wanting one last taste of Costa Rica or arriving visitors getting their first.
Costa Rican Coffee
Costa Rica is world-renowned for its high-altitude arabica coffee, and SJO airport is an excellent place to sample a freshly brewed cup before your flight. Several cafés throughout the terminal serve locally sourced beans from regions like Tarrazú, Naranjo, and the Central Valley. Picking up a bag of whole beans from airport shops is also a popular tradition among departing travelers.
Quick Transit Bites
For passengers on tight layovers or connecting through SJO, the airport has a variety of fast-casual options scattered across both the domestic and international terminals. Grab a bocadillo, a fruit cup of fresh tropical produce, or a quick sandwich to keep you fueled between flights. These outlets are conveniently located near the gates to minimize time away from your boarding area.
Sit-Down Restaurant Dining
Travelers with more time before their flight can enjoy a relaxed sit-down meal at one of SJO's full-service restaurants, which blend international menus with Central American flavors. Dishes often feature staples like plantains, black beans, and local tropical fruits alongside familiar international options. These restaurants are spread across the pre- and post-security areas, making them accessible to meeters, greeters, and departing passengers alike.