Food in Nicaragua

Although it feels a bit like going back in time 100 years when you enter Nicaragua it's not really noticeable in the food. Obviously they have their own cuisine very similar to that of Costa Rica and Panama. But you can also easily eat Western dishes. What exactly, you can read here.

Typical food and drinks in Nicaragua

The typical dishes in Nicaragua are quite similar to those of Costa Rica and Panama. Tipico or gallo pinto is the typical breakfast with rice, beans, egg, and a block of cheese. They also have tostones here, which are exactly the same as patacones: flattened fried plantains. In Nicaragua, however, they like to put a big block of cheese on it. And by big, I really mean a mouth full. You have to love it, because the cheese is very different from the one in the Netherlands.

In addition to these dishes, they also have Chi Frijo here: a rice dish with beans, fried banana and vegetables. Ceviche is also a popular dish here, often made with fish. This fish is “cooked” in vinegar and lemon juice. It has a very sour taste and is eaten with some vegetables and rice.

Nicaragua has 2 national beers: Victoria and Toña. Toña is known as a beer for young people because it is a bit fresher. Victoria beer is seen as an old men's beer, because it has a stronger taste. They also have very tasty seltzer: Adán & Eva. These fresh drinks can be found in several flavors and can be bought almost everywhere.

Other popular food

In Nicaragua is Mexican food, just like in the rest of Central America also a popular cuisine. You can get nachos, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, etc. everywhere. Also pizza and hamburgers you can get in every place. Often in the real fast food form. Fatty with lots of cheese.

Yet in San Juan del Sur and Leon you will also find a lot of hip places with more healthy Western dishes. Think of poke bowls, tasty sandwiches, sushi or smoothie bowls. And a delicious cup of coffee can be found everywhere here. You can also find special coffees and iced coffees with, for example, soy milk or almond milk.

Meat, fish, or vegetarian food in Nicaragua

In Nicaragua it's easy if you don't eat red meat. Many dishes are with fish or chicken. (This was super nice for us.) Fish in particular is eaten here a lot more than in the other countries in Central America. 

Because in San Juan del Sur and Leon you can find some more hip restaurants, it is easier to find restaurants with more variety here. There are plenty of choices to eat vegetarian or vegan, if you look carefully. You can also order a coffee with almond or soy milk fairly easily, for example. These dishes and drinks are still affordable, just like all the others costs in Nicaragua.