CASEM Coop
A vibrant cooperative empowering local women artisans through unique crafts and delicious, affordable Costa Rican cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Taste authentic local cuisine
CASEM Coop
Best Time
Taste authentic local cuisine
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cooperative empowering local women artisans through unique crafts and delicious, affordable Costa Rican cuisine.
"This Artist Cooperative has a wide variety of art made by the local women of the area. Prices are very reasonable too!"
🎯 Support Local Artisans
Buy unique souvenirs here! Your purchase empowers local women artists.
🍽️ Delicious & Affordable Food
Try the 'local grinds' for amazing, budget-friendly meals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Handcrafted Souvenirs
Discover unique art and crafts made by local women, from felt ornaments to intricate jewelry and paintings.
Local Eatery
Inside CASEM Coop
Savor authentic Costa Rican dishes at incredibly reasonable prices. A true taste of local life.
Meet the Artists
Experience the warmth of local hospitality and potentially chat with the talented women who create the art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Support Local Artisans
Authentic Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support Local Artisans
Buy unique souvenirs here! Your purchase empowers local women artists.
🍽️ Delicious & Affordable Food
Try the 'local grinds' for amazing, budget-friendly meals.
🤝 Friendly Atmosphere
Expect super friendly staff and a welcoming vibe.
🎨 See Art in Progress
Sometimes you can chat with artists and see them work!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support Local Artisans
Buy unique souvenirs here! Your purchase empowers local women artists.
🍽️ Delicious & Affordable Food
Try the 'local grinds' for amazing, budget-friendly meals.
🤝 Friendly Atmosphere
Expect super friendly staff and a welcoming vibe.
🎨 See Art in Progress
Sometimes you can chat with artists and see them work!
📍 Convenient Location
Great stop for lunch on your way to Monteverde.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
CASEM Coop is highly praised for its authentic local crafts and delicious, affordable food. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to support local women artisans and enjoy a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. While the focus is on community empowerment and local flavor, some may find the selection limited compared to larger markets.
"Thank you for making the cute souvenirs for visitors. We found your crates sold at Koora Hotel (which we loved). We're so thrilled to see that it was created but local people and from an organization that supportive, inspirational and encourages self-esteem. Thank you! We bought a felt sloth ornament and will remind of the wonderful visit to Costa Rica!"
Tina Soo Hoo
"This Artist Cooperative has a wide variety of art made by the local women of the area. Paintings,jewelry,woodworking,clothing,and so much more. Prices are very reasonable too!
We were fortunate to be invited upstairs to chat & observe the artists. What a wonderful experience to be able to visit with these talented
women ."
s Mitchell
"I eat here at least 3-4 times a week. It is the very best local grinds in Monteverde. Real food, made by real people. You won't be disappointed."
Ran Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
CASEM Coop is conveniently located on the road to Monteverde. Many visitors stop by for lunch on their way into town. If you're driving, it's easily accessible. Public transport options might require checking local bus schedules, but it's a common stop for those heading to the main Monteverde attractions.
Yes, CASEM Coop is described as an 'attractive place from the road,' making it relatively easy to spot as you approach Monteverde.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter CASEM Coop. You can freely browse the artisan shop and the eatery.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's generally open during daytime hours, especially around lunchtime when the eatery is popular. It's best to check locally or assume standard business hours.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Art
CASEM Coop offers a wide variety of art and crafts made by local women. You can find paintings, jewelry, woodworking, clothing, felt ornaments (like sloths!), and much more.
Yes, visitors consistently mention that the prices are very reasonable, often cheaper than other restaurants and shops in Monteverde. +1
Some visitors have been fortunate enough to be invited upstairs to chat and observe the artists at work, making for a wonderful and personal experience.
Yes, some of the cute souvenirs created at CASEM Coop have been found for sale at other locations, such as the Koora Hotel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
CASEM Coop serves 'local grinds,' which are authentic Costa Rican dishes made by local people. It's described as 'real food.'
No, the food and drinks are highly recommended and are significantly cheaper than at most other restaurants in Monteverde. +1
The 'Open Kitchen' refers to the dining area where you can enjoy delicious local food. It's part of the CASEM Coop experience, offering a taste of authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
Absolutely! Many visitors stop in for lunch and rave about the amazing food and friendly service. It's a highly recommended spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the cooperative itself is described as an 'attractive place from the road,' and the vibrant local crafts offer great visual appeal for photos.
While it's always polite to ask, visitors have had positive interactions and opportunities to observe artists. Capturing the essence of the crafts is generally welcomed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Local Craftsmanship
The range of products is impressive, showcasing the diverse skills within the community. From colorful paintings and intricate jewelry to hand-sewn clothing and charming wooden crafts, there's something for everyone. Many visitors have shared how thrilled they were to find unique items like felt sloth ornaments, which serve as cherished reminders of their Costa Rican adventure.
Beyond the shopping experience, the cooperative often offers a glimpse into the creative process. Some fortunate visitors have been invited upstairs to chat with the artists, observe their techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and skill involved. This personal connection makes the visit truly memorable and highlights the authentic spirit of Monteverde.
A Taste of Authentic Costa Rica
Visitors consistently praise the food for its deliciousness and, perhaps even more notably, its affordability. In a region where prices can sometimes be high, CASEM Coop stands out for offering exceptional value. Whether you're stopping for a quick lunch on your way to explore Monteverde's cloud forests or seeking a satisfying meal, the food here is highly recommended and won't break the bank.
The 'Open Kitchen' concept, as seen in some descriptions, suggests a welcoming and transparent dining environment. It's an opportunity to savor traditional Costa Rican flavors in a relaxed setting, surrounded by the warmth of local hospitality. This makes CASEM Coop not just a place to eat, but a cultural immersion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit