who we are
Our history
Some couples are simply destined to meet, no matter how much life tries to take them down different paths, and Stefania and Stefano are one of those couples.
Stefania was an artist successfully running her advertising agency in Rome, pouring passion and dedication into a business that fully consumed her. Stefano, on the other hand, was an entrepreneur always ready to take on new challenges and navigate the countless difficulties of doing business in Italy.
After years of working hard to build their futures, both felt that something was missing—until fate finally allowed them to cross paths.
It was a chance encounter, one that wouldn’t have happened without a series of coincidences, and from there, a love story began that continues to this day.
However, such a vibrant picture needed a completely different frame, far from the routine and stress of Rome and Italy. So, one day, they set off for Costa Rica and never looked back!
She’s an artist, he’s a talented chef (and both are Made in Italy)—what could they possibly do together? 🙂
The first restaurant opened in Samara (Guanacaste) in 2009, and in no time, Gusto Beach Club became the go-to beachfront spot for tourists and locals alike.
In 2018, they launched Gusto RistoArte in Lindora de Santa Ana (San Jose), where Stefano’s culinary creativity merged with Stefania’s paintings, decorations, and Italian furnishings, transforming the restaurant into a modern “food & art gallery.”
What many initially saw as a highly risky gamble quickly turned into a dream come true, crowned by a family of four children (including triplets!), four dogs, and a few cats! 🙂
At Stefania and Stefano’s restaurants, you’ll find top-tier Italian cuisine—even by Italian standards—in an eclectic and creative atmosphere, the perfect fusion of their founders’ personalities. But more than anything else, you’ll feel right at home, surrounded by the passion they put into everything they do.
It’s no coincidence that their motto is:
“Live with Gusto!”
Get to Know Chef Stefano Montalti
I believe my passion for the culinary world was sparked by my grandfather, who was a renowned Italian pastry chef in his time. I was mesmerized by the things he made and explained to me, and this led me to attend several cooking courses.
Over the years, I continued to study and nurture a boundless passion for the restaurant industry. However, the family business and other career opportunities always kept me farther from the kitchen than I would have liked.
Then I met Stefania, and perhaps at that moment, I realized that nothing in life is guaranteed, and I had the chance to choose what would truly make me happy.
When we arrived in Costa Rica, initially just to explore rather than to move permanently, Stefania and I immediately sensed the possibility of turning a lifelong dream into reality—a dream I had been harboring (not so secretly) for a long time. That’s how “Gusto” was born.
At our restaurants, I want to bring not only authentic Italian culture, with the recipes and ingredients of my homeland, but also a culinary experience that makes every guest feel pampered and, of course, amazed by the flavors of every dish we serve.
Even today, after many years, I remain the Executive Chef of Gusto restaurants, creating new recipes—using mostly 100% Italian and locally sourced ingredients—revisiting them periodically, and ensuring that the quality of our cuisine remains at the highest level.
Some have asked me if I dream of earning a Michelin star one day. While such an achievement would certainly make me proud, what truly fills my heart with joy is seeing the smiles and ecstatic expressions of our guests—along with the wonderful family that Stefania and I have built here in Costa Rica.
Menu
Here you’ll find the menu of “Gusto Beach Club – Samara”, not just an Italian restaurant on the beach of Samara, Costa Rica, but a true fusion of culinary creativity with international influences, Italian flavor, and a generous touch of “Pura Vida”!
Click the button to discover the dishes created by Chef Stefano Montalti and his team—featuring Made in Italy and locally sourced ingredients, including fantastic fresh fish—available today at our restaurant.
