To celebrate the recent refresh of Santarena Hotel in Costa Rica, the property unveiled new additions and offerings. The 45-room boutique hotel, located in Las Catalinas, underwent an extensive refurbishment earlier this year. In addition to a redesign of the lounge area, the property saw the addition of Ponciana Bar.

© Courtesy of Las Catalinas

The overall refresh focused on the deep green and glass wine cellar situated in the center of the lounge area. Hotel architect Ricardo Arosemena wanted to make the cellar the focal point of the room, doubling the structure and adding the new Ponciana Bar to further highlight the area.

Ponciana Bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating, serving small plates and sharing platters. The Mediterranean-inspired menu sees Costa Rican dishes come to life with ingredients straight from the nearby ocean, mountains and farms. Menu highlights include fried avocado with balsamic aioli, tuna bruschetta, Spanish croquetas and a charcuterie board.

© Courtesy of Las Catalinas

In honor of the new bar and redesign of the lobby area, Santarena Hotel offers guests the chance to try their own hand at cooking and cocktail making with monthly mixology and cooking classes. Ideal for guests wanting to learn how to make Ponciana’s signature cocktails and dishes, the classes see the hotel’s mixologist, sommelier and chef come together for a memorable experience.

© Courtesy of Las Catalinas

In the mixology class, guests will learn how to make signature cocktails like the Ponciana old fashioned and the popular wild berries margarita. Each cocktail or glass of wine is then paired with a specific dish created by the chef. Guests can sign up for the 12-person classes by emailing [email protected]