Così makes Costa Rican debut

Lately, more and more fast-casual U.S. chains are coming to Costa Rica. The newest, Così, has about 140 restaurants from the United States to the United Arab Emirates, and now it has found its way to Latin America.

Così’s motto is “Life should be delicious,” and its food lives up to this. The restaurant, which looks like a Parisian café, serves rather large portions with fresh and natural ingredients, and there are also vegetarian and low-calorie options.

The menu consists mostly of lunch items like soups, salads and sandwiches, which may be paired with signature potato chips or small carrots. Sandwich options include the Turkey Brie sandwich and Pesto Chicken melt; other items include Smoky BBQ Chicken flatbread pizza and Così Cobb salad made with Gorgonzola cheese and sherry shallot vinaigrette.

Così serves up lemonade, real fruit smoothies in addition to a selection of both hot and cold coffee drinks. Coffee drinks accompanied by a dessert items (brownies, cake, and cookies) can be a good snack any time of day. Since desserts are not displayed on the menu, customers have to examine the display counter.

Because diners can be satisfied with just one or two of the menu items, a meal usually doesn’t wind up too pricy. For instance, a lunch of Margherita flatbread pizza and fruit smoothie will set you back only $10. Coffee drinks range between $2-4, while desserts are more expensive, at almost $4 for a small pecan tartlet.

The most expensive item is the s’mores, made right at your table. The experience costs almost $20, but you get enough food for four people to join the fun.

The waitstaff at Così is well-trained and knowledgeable about each item. There were also hosts around to help out and clear out the tables. The one thing missing from the staff, however, was a friendly smile. Perhaps making our lives delicious is a lot of hard work?

Così is located in the Multiplaza Escazú shopping mall in San José. The restaurant is located in front of the movie theaters and next door to Chili’s on the second floor.