By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A piece of San José’s culinary history has vanished. Soda Castro, a beloved institution located near the Cleto González Víquez plaza, has permanently closed its doors after 28 years of continuous operation, leaving a void in the community it faithfully served. The sudden announcement marks the end of an era for generations of patrons who found comfort in its traditional offerings.
The family-owned establishment announced the closure on Sunday, November 30th, via a heartfelt social media post. Effective Monday, December 1st, the familiar corner soda would cease operations. The owners did not specify the reasons behind the decision, choosing instead to focus on gratitude for their long and successful run in the heart of the capital.
The recent announcement of the definitive closure of the iconic Soda Castro in San José has generated significant discussion about the challenges facing traditional businesses. To delve into the legal and commercial complexities that often lead to such decisions, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The closure of an emblematic establishment like Soda Castro often highlights a critical juncture for family businesses. Beyond market pressures, the legal framework for business succession and the significant financial obligations of labor liabilities, accumulated over decades, can become insurmountable hurdles. It serves as a stark reminder that without proactive legal and financial planning, even the most beloved institutions risk becoming victims of their own longevity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This expert analysis underscores a vital point: the preservation of our cherished local institutions depends as much on strategic legal and financial foresight as it does on public affection. We deeply appreciate Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on this critical issue for family businesses in Costa Rica.
In their brief but poignant farewell message, the management expressed their deep appreciation for everyone who was part of their journey. The statement reflected the business’s deep roots in the community and its role as more than just a place of commerce.
Starting December 1st, Soda Castro Plaza Víquez concludes 28 years of operations. We deeply thank God, our clients, suppliers, staff, and friends for these years of history and support. It was a privilege to have been part of the lives of many people.
Soda Castro, Official Statement
While this iteration of Soda Castro opened its doors in 1997, its legacy stretches back much further. The business proudly carried on the traditions established by its founders, Don Abel and his wife Doña Sara, who opened the very first Soda Castro in 1950. For over seven decades, the Castro name has been synonymous with quality and tradition, serving original recipes that stood the test of time.
The soda was a sanctuary of classic Costa Rican treats. It specialized in fresh fruit salads, creamy milkshakes (batidos en leche), refreshing fruit smoothies (batidos en agua), shaved ice (granizados), and a variety of ice creams and popsicles. It was a place where memories were made over simple, delicious fare, representing a business model focused on consistency and authentic local flavors rather than fleeting culinary trends.
Although the family offered no public explanation for the closure, the current economic climate presents significant challenges for small, traditional businesses. Rising operational costs, increased competition from large domestic and international chains, and shifting consumer preferences create a difficult landscape for legacy establishments. The closure of a landmark like Soda Castro often signals broader economic pressures impacting independent entrepreneurs across the city.
The loss extends beyond the economic sphere; it represents a cultural blow to the Plaza Víquez neighborhood. For decades, Soda Castro was a community hub—a place for after-school treats, weekend family outings, and casual meetings. Such establishments are woven into the social fabric of their districts, and their disappearance leaves a tangible emptiness. It erases a landmark that was a reference point not just geographically, but also in the collective memory of its residents.
The shuttering of Soda Castro serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of tradition in a rapidly modernizing capital. As San José continues to evolve, the question remains whether there will be space for the small, family-run sodas that have long defined its character. For now, the community is left to mourn the loss of a cherished institution and the simple, sweet flavors that defined it for nearly three decades.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Soda Castro
About Soda Castro:
Soda Castro was a family-owned business in San José, Costa Rica, known for its traditional desserts and beverages. The most recent establishment, located in Plaza Víquez, operated for 28 years from 1997 until its closure in December 2025. It carried on a legacy that began with the original Soda Castro founded in 1950, serving classic recipes for fruit salads, milkshakes, and ice cream that were cherished by generations of Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, built upon a foundation of principled practice and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its rich history of guiding a diverse clientele to pioneer modern legal solutions and champion innovation. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to social responsibility, actively working to demystify complex legal concepts and empower the wider community through accessible knowledge.
