Chef Ivan Fonseca

Chef At Home in Playa Flamingo
Chef Ivan Fonseca
Spanish · English · French · Portuguese · ItalianLanguages
Playa FlamingoI travel up to 60 km

Get to know me better

Photo from chef Ivan Fonseca

I am a passionate chef from Costa Rica dedicated to blending traditional local flavors with global culinary techniques

I'm originally from the lush, coffee-growing region of Tarrazú, Costa Rica, where I grew up surrounded by the aromas and flavors of fresh, local ingredients. My culinary journey began in my grandmother's kitchen, where she taught me the art of traditional Costa Rican cooking-simple yet deeply flavorful dishes that celebrated the bounty of the land. Inspired by her techniques, I ventured into the culinary world, determined to take those cherished traditions to new heights.

After years of honing my skills, I had the opportunity to work in some of the most renowned hotels in Guanacaste. It was there that I mastered the art of blending Costa Rican flavors with global culinary techniques. From crafting fine-dining menus to leading large-scale events, I built a reputation as a chef who could transform fresh, local ingredients into unforgettable meals.

Whether it's an intimate dinner on a secluded beach or a farm-to-table feast in a lush garden, my goal has always been to create moments of pure joy shared over incredible food.

Whether it's the smoky aroma of freshly grilled fish, the vibrant zest of lime over ceviche, or the sweetness of ripe tropical fruits, my dishes are crafted to resonate with both locals and travelers alike. My story is a celebration of blending tradition with innovation, a reminder that life's greatest joys are often the simplest: walking barefoot on the sand, tasting the richness of local flavors, and sharing a meal with those we love.

More about me

For me, cooking is...

For me, cooking is a way to celebrate my heritage and bring people together through the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica.

I learned to cook at...

my mother, grandmother, aunts, restaurants, hotels, culinary school

A cooking secret...

try every time and dont waste anything

My menus

A taste of what I cook. Tell me about your event and I'll send you a proposal built around your guests, allergies and what's in season.

Types of cuisine I prepare

  • Local
  • Seafood/Fish
  • Chef's special

Book your experience with Chef Ivan

Specify the details of your requests and the chef will send you a custom menu just for you.