The Unique Costa Rican Eatery That Serves Food Inside A Massive Caterpillar

While the pounding surf and lush rainforest offer a taste of the pura vida (pure life) adventure, tucked into a National Park, a unique Costa Rican eatery blends tasty food with a larger-than-life visual. Although the restaurant's appearance sparks people's interest in making a visit, a bigger story emerges from that locale. At Restaurante La Oruga, the structure might be a caterpillar but the food story is a flight of fancy.

According to VisitarCostaRica.com, the country's cuisine is influenced by local ingredients and some Spanish as well as African influences. Fresh fruits, spices, fish, and beans are the centerpiece of popular dishes like casado, ceviche, and chan. As one of the most famous Costa Rican dishes, gallo pinto might be more commonly enjoyed at breakfast, but it is a dish that is often associated with the country (per The Latin America Travel Company).

Even though its gastronomy is diverse, the uniqueness of a particular locale can have some people making a special visit. And for diners who want to dine inside a massive caterpillar, this Costa Rican eatery is a must-visit.

While some visitors head to Costa Rica for its "La Vida Pura," as mentioned, the dining scene is quite robust. From quirky restaurants to intimate escapes, Travel Triangle has a long list of locales that celebrate the country's culinary range. But, these restaurants are a little more traditional. At Restaurante La Oruga, the food blends with design to create a unique experience.

According to Atlas Obscura, Restaurante La Oruga is located in La Amistad National Park and was created to entice both locals and tourists to explore the area. The vibrant caterpillar looks as if it is emerging from the landscape. It has become a popular destination for capturing that fantastical image. While the structure often gets the most attention, the restaurant offers a variety of simple dishes in a cafe-like setting. In addition, the restaurant sells a variety of crafts and other trinkets.

Restaurante La Oruga supports Artesanas del Bosque. The women-led organization looks to create business opportunities while supporting natural resources and sustainability. The women involved help to serve guests, create crafts sold in the store, and work within the business.

It is a blend of creating community jobs without hindering the natural landscape. In addition, the hope is that this business will serve as an example of a place where natural resources can be leveraged in a positive way for all those involved.

While many people visit Restaurante La Oruga due to the design created by local artist Francisco Quesada and the kitchen's handiwork — a peek at the menu on Instagram reveals loaded empanadas and two versions of casado — the vibrant locale also celebrates Costa Rican artisans. As seen in a Facebook video, the store offers a variety of local chocolates, beers, and other food gifts. Each one gives a taste of the area's regional gastronomy. Similar to the women who run the restaurant, the sales of these items support the local community. Through tourism support, the area hopes to gain more financial independence for its residents.

In addition to the financial aspect, Restaurant La Oruga is a celebration of sustainability. The Facebook video describes how many recycled materials were used in the building's construction. A great example is the stained glass window art. Through the fluid design that incorporates the natural landscape, the destination hopes to show an example of responsible development on several levels.