Troon Dines
Where the Land Meets the Sea
The Culinary Essence of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast
By Joëlle Creamer
Pura Vida. Translated to English, it means, “pure life.” And life can’t get much purer than at Reserva Conchal, a residential community perched high above the northwest coastline of Central America’s most visited destination, Costa Rica.
Reserva Conchal embodies its country’s “Pura Vida” motto. The 2,300-acre private property balances seamless luxury with pristine nature as it advances toward a completely carbon-neutral footprint. Sharing existence with the flora and fauna of nearby rainforests, Reserva Conchal’s residents and visitors relish peaceful mornings, adventure-filled afternoons, and starlit evenings where the waves touch down on one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Managed by Troon International, Reserva Conchal Golf Club and Beach Club features a Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course that meanders through the rolling coastal terrain, as well as world-class amenities and a gem of a restaurant called Neenda. Befittingly named in the native Chorotega language, meaning “where the land meets the sea,” Neenda delivers the joys of open-air dining, culinary magnificence, and a staff ready to generously accommodate requests. Oh, and the food is divine.
Neenda’s signature dish is a composition of breaded fried seafood over Huancaína sauce and chili cream, with red onion, coriander, and roasted corn. The dish was born from the idea of creating tastes and textures that represent Reserva Conchal’s essence, combining the experience of flavors from the land and the fruits of the ocean.
“During my three years at Reserva Conchal, I have lived incredible experiences full of challenges, achievements, adventures, and learnings, all accompanied by the support of colleagues,” expressed Warner Ortega, the community’s executive chef. “Working in the kitchen has become my way of life, a unique experience I enjoy giving myself every day.”
Food and beverages director Mónica Vargas agrees: “Our heart and energies are dedicated to our environment and our people,” she shared. “Creativity, innovation and expression are part of the essence of food and beverage, and of our beloved Reserva Conchal. Working here has been a very rewarding experience and full of learning. I feel very proud to belong to this family.”
Reserva Conchal also includes two resort properties, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal and the all-inclusive hotel The Westin Golf Resort and Spa – Reserva Conchal, both with golf and restaurant access.
