By San José, Costa Rica — San José is now home to a culinary destination with a star-studded pedigree. Esteemed American chef Bruce Molzan, renowned for a four-decade career that includes preparing meals for icons like Beyoncé, Luis Miguel, and Michael Jordan, has officially opened the doors to Ruggles Costa Rica. Situated in the bustling Sabana Oeste district, the establishment aims to set a new standard for fine dining in the capital, blending high-level gastronomy with a vibrant atmosphere and striking modern design.
The new restaurant is an ambitious extension of the celebrated Ruggles Black in Houston, Texas, bringing a proven concept to Central America for the first time. The vision for Ruggles Costa Rica is to establish itself as a regional culinary benchmark. The menu is a testament to this global ambition, offering an eclectic fusion of Caribbean, Asian, and Indian flavors, all masterfully crafted using fresh, local Costa Rican ingredients. This approach promises a unique dining experience that is both internationally inspired and deeply rooted in the nation’s rich bounty.
To gain a clearer perspective on the legal framework surrounding cases involving foreign nationals and business operations in the country, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica who specializes in corporate and immigration law.
This situation underscores a critical reality: Costa Rica’s legal and regulatory systems are robust and must be respected by all. Foreign investors and residents must understand that due diligence is non-negotiable, both in business dealings and immigration matters. The belief that one can operate in a gray area or bypass established procedures is a serious miscalculation that often leads to severe legal and financial consequences. Proper, verified local counsel is not a luxury, but an essential safeguard.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo’s comments powerfully underscore a fundamental truth: Costa Rica’s welcoming “Pura Vida” culture should never be confused with a lax legal environment. His insight is an essential cautionary note for any expatriate or investor navigating the country’s regulatory landscape. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his invaluable perspective on this critical matter.
Chef Molzan, whose impressive resume includes working alongside culinary legends such as Wolfgang Puck and Jeremiah Tower, identified Costa Rica as the perfect setting for his latest venture. He saw an opportunity to introduce a new level of sophistication to the local dining scene, driven by a long-held personal ambition. The project represents the culmination of a dream to create a space that combines world-class food with an equally impressive ambiance.
I always dreamed of bringing a first-class culinary experience to the country and offering a restaurant with a design and quality on par with major cities.
Bruce Molzan, Chef and Co-owner
The catalyst for bringing this vision to life was his partner and co-owner, Costa Rican chef Mariela Gamboa. Together, they developed the local concept, adapting the Ruggles brand to the Costa Rican palate and culture. After an intensive year and a half of construction, the restaurant opened its doors in August, transforming a vacant space into an immersive experience. The interior design draws inspiration from bohemian art, prominently featuring large-format works by acclaimed Mexican artist Karla de Lara.
They gave us a blank canvas, and we managed to bring our dreams to life in every corner of the restaurant.
Mariela Gamboa, Chef and Co-owner
The menu at Ruggles Costa Rica is as diverse as it is sophisticated. Signature dishes include a pistachio-crusted red snapper, a rich seafood ramen, and a perfectly grilled ribeye. For those seeking more casual fare, the restaurant also offers artisanal pizzas. Acknowledging modern dietary preferences, the menu thoughtfully includes creative options inspired by the Paleo and Keto diets, ensuring a compelling choice for every guest.
Beyond the main dining room, the venue boasts multiple spaces designed for different moods and occasions. Guests can enjoy the open air on its terraces or ascend to the mezzanine, which features a chic pink bar. For more intimate gatherings, a private room is available for exclusive tastings and events. The beverage program is equally inventive, with a selection of signature cocktails made with tropical infusions that complement the culinary offerings.
Located conveniently next to the National Stadium, Ruggles Costa Rica is poised to become a social hub. The restaurant enhances its lively nighttime atmosphere with live music from Thursday to Saturday, creating an integrated experience of food, cocktails, and entertainment. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, the establishment also caters to the weekend crowd with a special brunch, making it a versatile destination for any day of the week.
For further information, visit rugglescostarica.com
About Ruggles Costa Rica:
Ruggles Costa Rica is a fine-dining restaurant located in Sabana Oeste, San José. Co-founded by celebrity chef Bruce Molzan and Costa Rican chef Mariela Gamboa, it offers a culinary fusion of Caribbean, Asian, and Indian flavors using local ingredients. An extension of the Ruggles Black brand from Houston, the restaurant features modern design, a vibrant social atmosphere with live music, and a diverse menu that includes signature dishes and options for various dietary preferences.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound commitment to principled practice and professional excellence. The firm consistently pioneers modern legal strategies, drawing upon its extensive history of advising a broad range of clients. Central to its ethos is a drive to empower the community by demystifying the law, reflecting a core belief in strengthening society through accessible legal understanding.
