A Handful of Lunch Hotspots in Belize City

by Carolee Chanona

From its signature meat pies to vegan dishes and grilled specialties, the old capital of Belize City is a dynamic dining destination that almost never stands still. In Belize, you won’t find any chain restaurants or franchises, with more and more independents popping up to offer everything from authentic Japanese food to stand-out vegetarian-friendly options—changing the face of the city’s dining scene and making Belize City a rising hotspot. Here’s a handful of some hotspots to stop at along the way for lunch in Belize City!

Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza

Outdoor dining at the Belize Biltmore Plaza.

Despite its spacious parking and air-conditioned dining room, the Biltmore’s patio and poolside bar are the real stars. Take your lunch outdoors and enjoy the open-air atmosphere with daily specials outside of their regular menu. For example, their daily revolving buffets specials include Caribbean Monday, International Tuesday, Italian Wednesday, Mexican Thursday, and Belizean Friday. The in-house Chef is happy to accommodate special diets, so you need not be left with an unsatisfied craving. 

Taka Kitchen

This authentic, family-run Japanese bistro is compact, cool, and modern. The menu offers typical Japanese cuisine like sushi, soups, and various noodle dishes, as well as teas and juices, and typical desserts. Service is swift and gracious, with parking available. Taka Kitchen is open Tuesday to Saturday for midday meals only, but takeout is also available. If you’ve been wondering, here’s how to get your sushi fix for lunch in Belize City. 

The Tavern

Since 2006, The Tavern at the end of Mapp Street has been a well-loved restaurant and bar. Previously known as Riverside Tavern, this pub-style restaurant serves international food that’s popular with all ages. Did we mention their outdoor seating includes a riverside deck? Besides, their gourmet-style burger pair perfectly with Belikin Beer on tap. Coupled with a scenic river deck, plenty of parking space, Wifi, and a diverse menu, it’s easy to see why The Tavern is rated #1 on TripAdvisor

Bird’s Isle

Bird’s Isle may be one of the best food spots in Belize City that’s serving up local cuisine best. As its name implies, Bird’s Isle is an island oasis at the southern tip of town that manages to defy the urban edge just a few blocks away. Locals and tourists alike flock to the palapa (open-air shelter with a thatched roof) to relish the panoramic view of Belize’s seaport with a cool sea breeze, fresh-squeezed juice, and cold beers.

Martha’s Cafe

This homey vegetarian restaurant is set within a colonial home in the famous Fort George area of Belize, just steps away from the Tourist Village and Baron Bliss Lighthouse. The view is a special feature with its wrap-around verandah and front-row view of Belize Harbor. Not to mention, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze and zen atmosphere. Only fresh ingredients and whole grains are used at Martha’s Cafe, which includes homemade kombucha, fresh-pressed juices, and even vegan desserts. The owner, Michelle, is your gracious host and will make sure your needs are indulged.   

Header image courtesy Martha’s Cafe

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