From the citrusy freshness of ceviche to the decadent indulgence that is grilled lobster, don’t miss the many delicious seafood dishes available in Belize! The country’s cornucopia of seafood delights has wooed even the most discerning palates. Here are five must-try Belize seafood dishes that foodies simply can’t afford to miss during their trip to this gastronomic paradise.
1. Ceviche
Ceviche at Big Dock in Hopkins. Photo courtesy of the Belize Collection
Undoubtedly, it’s a signature dish when it comes to seaside eats. Delight in the marriage of fresh seafood—typically conch or shrimp—with zesty lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and maybe even a hint of habanero pepper. Served chilled, this dish is a feast for the senses, offering a burst of citrusy goodness with every bite. Our advice? Order a plate while on the shores of Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker or Placencia, and pair it with a nice cocktail or Belize’s classic Belikin. A simple meal, but all the more enriching.
2. Conch Fritters
Lily’s Treasure Chest on Ambergris Caye
Conch fritters are another beloved Belizean bite that showcases the bounty of the Caribbean Sea. These golden orbs of seasoned conch meat are perfectly fried to crispy perfection. Served alongside tangy dipping sauces, these savory fritters are a delightful appetizer that will leave you craving more. Some like it as a simple snack while many think of it as their favorite seafood dish. Most restaurants at the cayes and along the coast offer this delicious meal when conch is in season. That includes the ever-popular Lily’s Treasure Chest in San Pedro Town. However, don’t be surprised if you hear a street vendor passing through and announcing they have conch fritters for sale. You might just find your new favorite snack!
3. Fried Fish (With a Side of Rice & Beans, of Course)
Photo courtesy of Lily’s Treasure Chest
Elevate your culinary experience with a taste of a quintessential Belize dish: fried fish with rice and beans. You may already know Belize’s unofficial national dish of rice and beans, but you’ll be surprised to see how many different variations exist! In addition to rice and beans with stewed chicken, baked chicken, or even barbecued meat, add fried fish to the list. Savor the succulent flavors of locally caught fish, delicately seasoned and expertly fried to golden perfection. Paired with savory rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, this hearty meal is a comforting ode to Belizean tradition.
4. Fisherman’s Soup
Fisherman’s Soup at Victoria House Resort & Spa
Dive into a bowl of fisherman’s soup at Victoria House Resort & Spa. It’s a hearty medley of fresh seafood, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Brimming with the catch of the day, including snapper, lobster, and shrimp, this soul-warming broth is a celebration of Belize’s coastal bounty. In this particular recipe, you can even elevate the taste with calamari! Served with a side of white rice, it’s a comforting embrace that soothes the soul.
5. Grilled Lobster
Grilled lobster with lots of butter, please. Photo by Elvi’s Restaurant
Indulge in the ultimate seafood extravagance with Belize’s famed grilled lobster. Sink your teeth into succulent lobster tails, grilled to perfection and infused with smoky flavor. Served with a drizzle of garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lime, each decadent bite is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to seafood paradise. Visit during lobster season in Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, or Placencia and see what all the fuss is about! It doesn’t gain that much attraction for no reason.
As you make your way to Belize, keep in mind the country’s unique collection of traditional meals. While many span across different cultures, what they share is a mouthwatering taste. Try at least one of the dishes on this list to truly live like a local for a day!
