I can say with confidence that the restaurants in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye are the best in Belize.
Related: Top Things to Do in San Pedro & Top Hotels & Resorts in San Pedro
The island has been Belize’s most popular destination for a long time, which has led to the development of a robust food scene. Along with that, (1) San Pedro has a large American ex-pat community who often dine out, and (2) when compared to other locations in Belize, the standard of living there is much higher and thus, “San Pedranos” are more open to eating out.
10 Best Restaurants in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
1. Elvi’s Kitchen
Elvis Kitchen is one of the oldest local restaurants in San Pedro. It is my favourite and I’m fortunate to be friends with the family that owns it. The first time I visited San Pedro, I was alone, 15, and strapped for cash. But one day as I passed by Elvi’s Kitchen, the aroma of the food was so great that I forgot about my budget and splurged! My first meal was an amazing garlic butter red snapper…and the rest is history.
2. Estel’s Dine by the Sea
Estel’s is my favourite restaurant in San Pedro for breakfast. It’s smack downtown and the vibe is wonderful. And since they’re right on the beach, a beautiful view compliments their amazing food. On Sundays, you can join them for their beach BBQ, which includes Chicken, Pork Chops, Ribs and sausage. Om nom nom nom!
3. Blue Water Grill
I hate this place…they regularly share their daily specials on social media and it makes me want to take a bite out of my phone! Haha! What makes Blue Water Grill so great is that they have an extensive menu (ask for their Sushi special), are perfectly located on the beach with views of the barrier reef, and have a nice patio that feels casual yet fancy
4. Waruguma
Waruguma is a great place for affordable meals in San Pedro! They are popular for pupusas, and chances are that you hadn’t thought about having that in Belize. Well, you’ll miss out on a lot if you skip them because I’ve had pupusas in various places and Waruguma reigns supreme. But they don’t only serve pupusas, try their lobster burrito, it’s even too delicious to describe.
5. El Fogon
El Fogon is one of the best places to go in San Pedro for authentic Belizean food on a budget. When this restaurant is mentioned by locals, they say, “it’s simple, good food,” but after a visit, you’ll find out it’s being downplayed. I recommend having their rice and beans with chicken or beef, but if you’re feeling more adventurous, get it with Royal Rat.
6. Robin’s Kitchen
Located in South Ambergris Caye, Robin’s Kitchen is an unassuming hole-in-the-wall restaurant that will surprise your taste buds. Their delicious jerk chicken BBQ is a favourite among tourists and locals, drawing people from all over the island! Along with their food being incredibly delicious, it’s cheap too!
7. Wild Mangos
Ask any local for a nice restaurant recommendation in San Pedro and they will likely mention Wild Mangos in their top five. Located on the waterfront in downtown San Pedro, Wild Mangos offers superb seafood dining in a casual atmosphere. If you visit, I recommend the charred watermelon salad and the almond-crusted grouper.
8. Hungry Grouper
Located in downtown San Pedro, across from the football field, the Hungry Grouper is a small local restaurant serving authentic Belizean food. It is where the locals go for lunch and dinner! I had one of my best meals on the island there: blackened red snapper with cilantro lime rice, while also having a great conversation with the owner. He’s such a friendly and cool guy!
9. Caramba Restaurant and Bar
Caramba is a bar and grill in downtown San Pedro that offers a fusion of Caribbean and Mexican cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, they are famous for their “Catch of the day” display which showcases freshly caught seafood that can be chosen for your meal. My favourite dish here is their jerk fish, it’s hot and spicy…just the way I like it!
10. Lily’s Treasure Chest
Located in front of the famous Amigos Del Mar Dive Shop, Lily’s Treasure Chest is another unassuming local restaurant in downtown San Pedro. A favourite among tourists and locals, the food is fresh, tasty and affordable. Divers, in particular, love stopping by before and after their dive trips. Happy hour drinks and ceviche are a must!
Bonus: The Belize Chocolate Company
Located smack downtown on Barrier Reef Drive, the Belize Chocolate Company is the place to visit for artisanal chocolates that are made from locally grown Belizean cocoa. But the shop offers more than just chocolate bars, guests can stop by for coffee, baked goods, or even perhaps to take a chocolate-making class.
Map of Top Restaurants in Ambergris Caye
The Ambergris Caye restaurants listed on the map below are ranked based on personal preference. I have visited all of these restaurants and tried several of their food items.
This post is a part of my
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Awesome! You covered 3 of my favorites and how nice to see the old Elvi’s of the 80’s. Many memories of dinner at Elvi’s and goma chaser breakfasts at Estels
Glad we share favourites! 🙂 I’m guessing they are Elvis and Estels… Which is the third?