Costa Rica is world-renowned for its coffee, often referred to locally as grano de oro (grain of gold). The volcanic soil and high altitudes provide ideal conditions for Arabica beans, traditionally prepared using a chorreador—a wooden stand with a cloth filter bag. Beyond coffee, the national alcoholic drink is Guaro, a clear, slightly sweet spirit distilled from sugar cane. The most famous brand is Cacique Guaro. It is the base for the popular "Guaro Sour" or the "Chiliguaro," a spicy shot similar to a Bloody Mary made with tomato juice, lime, and hot sauce. For non-alcoholic options, visitors often enjoy refrescos (fruit smoothies made with water or milk) or fresco de chan, a unique, slimy, yet refreshing drink made from the seeds of the Hyptis suaveolens plant, which are similar to chia seeds and known for their digestive benefits.