A Costa Rican escape turns sizzling at Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort as its popular guest chef series returns. Chef Steven Howells of Philadelphia’s Blackfish Restaurant will be the featured guest May 6–10.
The immersive program includes three gourmet dinners, two hands-on cooking classes, plus coffee, rum and wine tastings. Priced at $330 per person, the package also offers participating guests special room rates from $189 to $371 per night.
“We launched our guest chef program last fall to excellent reviews,” said Hans Pfister, CEO and principal of Cayuga Collection, which manages several luxury eco-resorts, hotels, and lodges across Central America, including Arenas Del Mar. “One of the best ways to elevate Costa Rica’s culinary profile is to bring in celebrated chefs, introduce them to our local ingredients and traditions, and then let them share that experience with their audiences.”
The event promises a balance of fine dining and authentic local flavors. Attendees can expect thoughtfully prepared multi-course meals highlighting Costa Rica’s fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and regionally inspired preparations. The cooking classes are designed for a broad range of skill levels and focus on techniques, ingredient selection, and how to translate local flavors into memorable dishes at home. Complementary tasting sessions provide context to the cuisine: locally roasted coffees to explore origin and roast profiles, rums that showcase regional distilling traditions, and a curated selection of wines chosen to pair with the menus.
Beyond the culinary offerings, Arenas Del Mar’s setting enhances the experience. The resort blends beachfront access with rainforest surroundings, giving guests a chance to enjoy both ocean views and biodiverse trails between sessions. This combination of setting and food creates a distinctive getaway that appeals to food lovers, couples, and travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and hands-on learning.
For travelers interested in combining a culinary retreat with sightseeing and nature activities, the resort’s location provides easy access to nearby attractions such as wildlife viewing, guided hikes, and coastal excursions. Guests can arrange additional excursions through the resort to make the most of their stay.
Reservations are recommended, as spots for hands-on classes and dinners are limited. The guest chef program offers a focused, intimate experience that pairs professional instruction with opportunities to taste and learn about Costa Rica’s rich culinary resources.
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