Our Story
From Cairo and New York to Costa Rica: The Journey of JP & Mary
It all started in New York, where Jean Pierre — or JP, as his friends call him — grew up with a deep love for sports. Born in Cairo, Egypt, JP spent his childhood in Queens, New York, playing stickball and trading baseball cards — small signs of a lifelong passion for teamwork, excitement, and community.
JP later earned a BA in Film and Cinema from The Ohio State University, worked in the film industry alongside his father in London and Chicago, and eventually built a successful career in finance. But no matter where life took him, one thing never changed — his connection to Costa Rica.
That connection began back in the 1970s, during a college trip that would forever change his life. He fell in love with the country’s beauty, warmth, and pura vida lifestyle. In 1994, he made his first real estate investment in Costa Rica, and over the years became involved in several major projects, including Marina Flamingo, one of Guanacaste’s most significant developments.
He received his real estate license in Chicago nine years ago and is currently with properties in Chicago and Christie’s in Costa Rica. Along the way, JP also cultivated his artistic side through professional photography — a passion that continues to this day.
(You can learn more about his work at JP Boustany Photography and his real estate expertise at The Boustany Team.)
Mary: A Passion for Food and Hospitality
Mary’s story begins in Wisconsin, where she was born and raised. She attended Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where she earned her degree in Business Administration — at one of Money Magazine’s Best Colleges in America.
After graduation, she moved to Chicago, where she began her career at FCB Advertising, one of the world’s leading creative agencies. Yet, her true calling was always in the kitchen — cooking had been her lifelong passion and creative outlet.
Driven by that passion, she went on to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts, turning her love for food into her profession.
Mary and JP met in Chicago through mutual friends — a connection that marked the beginning of both a love story and a shared dream.
The Birth of JP’s Bar & Grill
After many years between Chicago and Costa Rica, JP and Mary decided to make their dream a reality. In June 2024, they permanently moved to Playa Flamingo and with the tremendous help of their three daughters (Alex, Maya and Callie) opened JP’s Bar & Grill — a place that perfectly blends their passions for sports, friendship, and the laid-back Costa Rican lifestyle.
The restaurant’s walls are lined with decades of sports memorabilia, each piece with its own story. It’s not just a place to eat or drink — it’s a nostalgic journey for sports lovers and a welcoming spot for everyone to relax, celebrate, and share good times by the beach.
Whether you’re watching a big game, enjoying a tropical cocktail, or simply soaking up the ocean breeze, JP’s Bar & Grill captures the best of both worlds: the excitement of sports and the serenity of coastal living.
Living the Pura Vida
Today, JP and Mary aren’t just the owners of JP’s Bar & Grill — they’re proud members of the Flamingo community that welcomed them with open arms. Their story is one of passion, adventure, and the belief that life is best enjoyed with good food, good friends, and good vibes.
Because more than a restaurant, JP’s Bar & Grill is a celebration of dreams fulfilled, lasting friendships, and the true meaning of pura vida.
