A destination as diverse as Belize is bound to reflect a vast range of cuisine from North to South. While each region could be considered a culinary gem, those with refined palates will want to make their way to epicurean-haven Ambergis Caye offshore Belize. More specifically, the fervent town of San Pedro. The island is already on the bucket list of many foodies, but trying to taste all the best dishes in the area may require more than one quick day trip. If you find yourself hopping onto a puddle-jumper flight to the island this summer, here’s where to dine on succulent Belizean food all weekend long.
Friday, Day 1. Arrive in San Pedro
San Pedro is a mere 15-minute flight away from the international airport, making it easily accessible for those always on the go. Once you set foot onto the sand-clad island, make your way to your luxury accommodations at SunBreeze Hotel. Conveniently located in the heart of San Pedro Town, SunBreeze offers oceanfront dining at their on-site restaurant, Blue Water Grill. Grab lunch here as your first stop in your foodie itinerary for the long weekend. Blue Water Grill is the go-to for both travelers and San Pedranos alike. Overlooking cerulean waters and swaying palm trees, the restaurant specializes in pizza, poultry, and even sushi on special days.
For dessert fanatics for chocolate indulgence, an epicurean can make their way to the Belize Chocolate Company a short walk away. Here, you’ll sample authentic Belizean-made chocolate the quality of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else on the island. Hear the stories of how these sweet treats are made and stock up on a few for souvenirs.
For dinner, head to the oft-praised eatery El Fogon for scrumptious rice and beans made exactly how Belizeans enjoy it. Talk to the owners about the restaurant’s unique feature – the fire hearth – and the dedication and care that goes into making great food.
Saturday, Day 2. Explore the island.
Kick off your second day in San Pedro at the backpacker favorite Estel’s Dine by the Sea. This beachfront breakfast joint has become a pillar in the island’s culinary scene, with fry jacks as fluffy as a cloud on a warm summer day. Pair it with either beans, eggs, or just jam to fuel up before exploring the island on foot.
For a more local off-the-radar spot, grab lunch at Briana’s Food Place in the center of town. Also within walking distance, this low-key restaurant is a best friend to your budget since you can get a hearty plate of Creole-inspired cuisine for inexpensive prices. This way you can have extra dough for a fancy dinner at San Pedro staple Elvi’s Kitchen.
Sunday, Day 3. Reset.
Check-in at the opulent Alaia Belize for your last night in the rambunctious town. After all, your last day in San Pedro should consist of going all out and there’s no better place to splurge on delicious food than at Alaia. Located on the southern end of the island, the Marriott-branded property awaits with decadent rooms and even more impressive dining.
Alaia is only 10 minutes away from the center of town via golf cart yet it feels like a whole world on its own. Set the bar high by having lunch at the Vista Rooftop Pool and Lounge to enjoy Belize’s Barrier Reef from a new angle. If you have time, dip your toes in the infinity pool at the edge of the rooftop lounge.
In the afternoon, nurse some artfully-shaken cocktails at the Beach Bar adjacent to the Deck and Reef House Suites. When you’ve had your fill of ocean breezes, dinner at Sea Salt restaurant is naturally the next step. Indulge in international cuisines influenced by local flavors for an elevated culinary experience.
Before jumping on your early morning flight, grab some coffee and pastries at Alaia’s coffee bar for a perfect end to your long summer weekend in epicurean heaven and foodie-sanctum Ambergris Caye, Belize.
