Nando and Tulia

the mystery of the purple door

In the 1950s, Monteverde was a hidden paradise, but no one could ignore its most eccentric residents—Nando & Tulia. This madcap duo of farmers, inventors, and storytellers thrived on chaos, creativity, and cocktails. Known for their wild experiments and endless tales of magic, they turned their small mountain home into a world of wonder.

To hide their secret speakeasy, they opened an ice cream shop—but this wasn’t your ordinary dessert stop. They claimed their cocktails were made with milk from an eternally young cow, keeping drinkers youthful and strong. Their helpers? Mischievous, hummingbird-like creatures called Hummies, who darted around, mixing drinks, stealing sugar, and stirring up trouble.

Their stories were as wild as they were—jaguars whispering sacred recipes, trees sending messages from the stars, and chocolate waterfalls tumbling down hillsides. While skeptics thought they’d lost their minds, anyone who dared to taste their creations couldn’t help but wonder if the madness was real.

Nando & Tulia didn’t just serve drinks—they served magic in a glass. Their motto? “Reality is for the boring—cheers to the crazy!”

INSPIRaTION

behind each cocktail

Welcome to a unique mixology experience, where every cocktail tells a story, each ingredient connects you with nature, and every sip invites you to explore the flavors of Costa Rica. Inspired by biodiversity and sustainability, Natu’s new menu is a tribute to Costa Rica’s microclimates, cultural richness, and natural wonders.

Natu’s cocktails go beyond mixology; they embody Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, traditions, and history. We showcase emblematic stories such as the extinct Golden Toad, the magic of the Cocos Island rainforest, the longevity of Nicoya’s Blue Zone, and the power of Costa Rica’s volcanoes. Each cocktail is carefully crafted to evoke the essence of its theme, using ingredients that mirror its environment while prioritizing sustainability.

LOcaLly Crafted

supporting local artisans and a circular economy

At Natu Speakeasy, every detail reflects our deep commitment to local craftsmanship, sustainability, and circular economy principles. Our space has been thoughtfully designed in collaboration with local artisans, ensuring that every piece tells a story of tradition and community. From our handcrafted furniture, sourced from Nalakalu wood shop, to our dining ware, carefully handmade in Salitral, each element embodies the essence of Costa Rican artistry.

Our emblematic bar, a centerpiece of the experience, is built from sustainable wood and crafted by a local artist, while our tables, designed by family members in Heredia, further connect us to our roots. At Natu, we don’t just create a space—we build a community where local talent, ethical sourcing, and sustainability shape every corner.

The Creative Vision

Natu Reimagined

Jafet Villalobos, founder of Natu and creative director of its cocktail program, is a Monteverde native with a deep passion for sustainable mixology. With extensive experience in the field, he has trained alongside some of the best bartenders in Latin America, refining his craft and pioneering innovative techniques.

Jafet’s dedication to sustainability has earned him first place in sustainable mixology at the national level and second place across Latin America, proving that his technique and eco-conscious approach are fundamental pillars of what Natu represents today.

Founded in 2019, Natu took a bold new step in 2024 when Jafet partnered with local entrepreneur Diego Valverde. Together, they reimagined the concept, elevating its infrastructure and vision to new heights, shaping Natu into a one-of-a-kind experience.

sustainability

A Commitment to Our Roots

At Natu Speakeasy, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Our bar counter, crafted from over 3,000 recycled bottles, is a testament to our dedication to reducing waste and repurposing materials with purpose. This commitment earned us first place in Costa Rica and second place in Latin America in the Most Sustainable Cocktail Championship, recognizing our innovative approach to eco-conscious mixology.

Every element of our space follows a circular economy philosophy, supporting local artisans and using sustainable wood for our furniture. Beyond design, our dedication to sustainability extends to our cocktails and cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients that support small farmers and minimize our carbon footprint. From fresh herbs and seasonal fruits to responsibly harvested spirits, every detail reflects our commitment to preserving nature and empowering the community.

Innovation

Elevating the Speakeasy Experience

We blend tradition with cutting-edge innovation to create an unparalleled cocktail experience. Our bar station, designed for maximum efficiency and functionality, allows our bartenders to craft world-class cocktails with precision and ease. Every detail has been carefully considered to enhance performance, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for both guests and bartenders alike.

Beyond mixology, innovation extends to every corner of Natu. Our state-of-the-art audio system from DAS, a leading German sound company, delivers crystal-clear acoustics, setting the perfect atmosphere for every moment. Complementing this, our modern LED intelligent lighting system adapts dynamically to create an ambiance that evolves throughout the night. With a fusion of design, technology, and functionality, Natu redefines the speakeasy experience, offering a space where craftsmanship, sound, and light come together in perfect harmony.