The coastal town of San Pedro runs on island time, fueled by a vibrant local food scene. Here, perched on the edge of Ambergris Caye in Belize, the Caribbean Sea glimmers just steps away from open-air eateries where laughter and the scent of grilled seafood drift through the air.
San Pedro’s food culture is a true melting pot, shaped by Creole, Mestizo, Maya, Garifuna, Chinese, and East Indian influences. One hearty meal might bring you to a beachfront grill serving stewed chicken and coconut rice; the next, a tucked-away kitchen offering handmade pupusas or a perfect plate of curry.
Whether you’re here on vacation or perhaps considering putting down roots, exploring with your taste buds is a great way to get to know this town.
But where do you even start?
From cozy neighborhood cafes to white-tablecloth destinations, here are the best restaurants in San Pedro, Belize.
Table of Contents:
CASUAL EATS
In San Pedro, you don’t have to look far and wide for great food—just follow the locals. These are places where the dish speaks for itself, and where you’ll find yourself sitting elbow to elbow with fishermen, business owners, and fellow travelers alike.
Don’t want to overthink where to eat? You can’t go wrong with these options:
- Neri’s Tacos is a true island staple. It’s a no-frills, all-flavor place where you grab a paper plate of tacos for less than the price of a cup of coffee. Their fry jacks are legendary—fluffy, golden, and stuffed with your choice of beans, cheese, or eggs. Perfect for breakfast or a late-night bite after a couple of rum punches.
- Robin’s Kitchen is another go-to, especially for jerk chicken fans. The aroma alone will pull you off the street. Served with coconut rice and beans, coleslaw, and a spicy-sweet sauce, it’s hearty, affordable, and made with love.
- Lily’s Treasure Chest is a beloved beachfront eatery serving Belizean comfort food all day. Start your morning with fry jacks or a lobster omelette, then dive into their signature ceviche—frequently hailed as the best on Ambergris Caye. With hearty portions, refreshing sangria, and laid-back ocean views, it’s a bite by the water that you simply can’t miss out on.
- El Fogon—the Spanish term for the traditional fire hearth—offers slow-cooked stews, rich with local flavor. Here, generations-old recipes meet open-flame cooking, and every bite tells a story of a rich island history. Make sure to try their chilmole and pigtails on rice to experience some truly authentic Belizean flavors.
- Waruguma is famous for its massive lobster burritos, freshly made pupusas, and generous portions. The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, with the comforting clatter of a busy kitchen and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where you come hungry, leave full, and plan your next visit before you’re even out the door.
- Caramba is a lively, family-run spot known for its bold Caribbean flavors and build-your-plate seafood bar. Pick from fresh lobster, snapper, or conch and have it grilled, curried, or blackened. With dishes like pork pibil tacos and coconut curry shrimp, it’s a colorful, flavor-packed favorite for locals and visitors alike.
UPSCALE DINING
San Pedro may be a laid-back island town, but when it comes to a more elevated dining experience, this place knows how to impress.
Whether it’s a special occasion, a romantic night out, or a quiet celebration of a personal milestone, these are some of the best restaurants in San Pedro, Belize for upscale dining:
- Rain Restaurant & Rooftop Terrace is perched atop the Grand Caribe, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea (an especially magical experience at sunset). The menu is a creative mix of Caribbean and international flavors. Think curried snapper with coconut rice and fried plantains, fresh lobster ceviche, or Creole mahi paired with crisp white wine. Just remember they often rotate their menus, depending on the season.
- Hidden Treasure Restaurant & Lounge is great for a more intimate, tucked-away experience. Located off the beaten path in the Escalante neighborhood, the ambiance is candlelit and lush, perfect for a romantic night out. Try the coconut shrimp with fruit salsa or the seafood ceviche for upscale dining in the Belizean way.
- Frenchy’s Restaurant & Bakery is unique, offering elegant French-Caribbean cuisine in a quiet, garden-lit setting, with an expertly curated wine list to match. Must-tries include the escargot, Steak Diane, and their signature soufflés. It’s refined, personal, and perfect for a relaxed yet elevated night out.
- Blue Water Grill offers a chic beachside setting with sushi nights, fresh seafood, and a rotating menu that always surprises in the best way. Their spicy margaritas and key lime pie round out a perfect oceanfront meal under the stars. Fair warning: it’s an awesome spot to dine with your feet in the sand.
BEACH BARS AND HAPPY HOURS
Beach bars in San Pedro, Belize come alive at night, a splendid setting for cocktails, laughter, and ocean breezes shared with friends under the stars.
San Pedro has some of the best restaurants in Belize and some of the best bars too! Drinks are excellent, the music is easygoing, and there’s plenty of good company.
If you’re looking for a laidback place for drinks or some good bar fun, here’s where you should drop by:
- Palapa Bar and Grill is a longtime favorite with its over-the-water setting and laid-back energy. Float in an inner tube with a drink in hand, or grab a table for crispy fish tacos or their well-loved BBQ ribs. Their signature Palapa Punch is tropical, strong, and goes down easy as the sun dips low.
- Wayo’s Beach Bar is popular with locals and longtime expats for its low-key setting and laidback vibe. Enjoy some of the best happy hour deals on the island while listening to live acoustic music—all set against the backdrop of the Belizean sunset. Try their coconut shrimp or conch fritters alongside a cold Belikin (a popular Belizean beer) or a classic rum and coke for some true beach vibes.
- Truck Stop isn’t a beach bar in the traditional sense, but it’s one of the go-to places for drinks on the island. Built from shipping containers, it houses a bar and multiple food vendors, plus a beer garden, live music stage, and even an ice cream shop. It’s where you go for fun, games, and craft cocktails under the stars.
- Rum+Bean is a fine establishment that has two identities: cozy café in the morning and sleek little bar by evening. They serve great craft cocktails in a relaxed and intimate setting. “The finest craft cocktail rum bar & café in San Pedro,” they claim. Well, there’s only one way to find out!
COFFEE SHOPS AND MORNING ESSENTIALS
Mornings in San Pedro have their own kind of magic, characterized by quiet streets, salty breezes, and the scent of fresh coffee wafting through the air.
Whether you’re an early riser looking for a decent breakfast or a digital nomad scoping out a seaside Wi-Fi haven, these are the spots to start your day right in San Pedro:
- Estel’s Dine by the Sea is a beloved beachfront staple, perfect for a laid-back breakfast or brunch. Try the fry jacks with eggs and refried beans or go big with the stuffed French toast. Grab a table with your toes in the sand and watch the waves roll in as San Pedro slowly wakes up.
- Rum+Bean makes a second appearance in this blog post, but this time for coffee. It’s a great place for that “coffee-first” kind of morning. Their iced lattes, coconut milk cappuccinos, and pastries are spot-on, and the setting is quiet and beautifully designed—perfect for reading or catching up on work.
- The Baker is another island favorite, especially for fresh-baked goods. Their cinnamon rolls—soft, gooey, and generously iced—are legendary. Other favorites include coconut tarts and Nutella croissants, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Pair your pastry with a hot coffee before heading out on the water.
- Caye Coffee Roasting Co is a must-visit for coffee lovers. They have three signature blends: Back Street Bold, which showcases deep, full-bodied richness; Middle Street Medium, known for its smooth, balanced flavor; and Front Street Light, offering a bright, mellow cup. Each is crafted from high-elevation Guatemalan Arabica beans and roasted fresh on the island for the best flavors.
HIDDEN GEMS
Some of San Pedro’s best bites aren’t found on the main street or splashed across tourist guides. They’re hidden gems passed around by word of mouth and tucked behind side streets.
For a gastronomic journey off the beaten path, these are the places you should check out:
- La Divina Providencia is part grocery store, part restaurant, and all Belizean flavor. It delivers some of the best home-cooked meals around. Their stewed chicken, rice and beans, and plantains are simple, authentic, and always satisfying. It’s a favorite for those working nearby or anyone craving a hearty, affordable meal without the fuss.
- My Secret Deli lives up to its name with a quiet, tucked-away location and a menu full of Belizean staples. Locals love it for its generous portions, low prices, and consistently delicious food. Their stewed chicken with coconut rice and beans, blackened snapper, and shrimp quesadilla are especially worth seeking out.
- The Green House Market is San Pedro’s go-to for fresh, high-quality Belizean ingredients. Perfect if you to try your hand at cooking up some Belizean food yourself. Stocked with local produce, tropical fruits, cheeses, seafood, and artisanal items like Caribbean Spice blends and cold-pressed coconut oil, it’s an essential stop for home cooks and food lovers seeking authentic local ingredients.
STREET FOOD IN SAN PEDRO, BELIZE
From early-morning tacos to late-night BBQ, San Pedro’s street food captures the island’s bold, authentic flavors.
And of course, don’t overlook Belize’s stellar street food scene. These quick, flavor-packed bites are an essential part of local life and a gateway to truly take in the island’s culinary spirit.
You’ll find these popular street food offerings on corners and curbsides throughout town.
- Breakfast Tacos: Soft corn tortillas filled with seasoned chicken or pork, topped with pickled onions and hot sauce. Quick, affordable, and found at roadside stands across town.
- Pupusas: Thick griddled corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork. Served with curtido (pickled slaw) and salsa. Perfect for a satisfying evening snack with bold flavor.
- Dukunu: A sweet Belizean delicacy made from grated corn, coconut milk, and spices. Steamed in banana leaves and often sold by street vendors calling out through neighborhoods (although it’s a less common offering in San Pedro town).
- Meat Pies: Small, flaky pastries filled with spiced ground beef or chicken. A popular grab-and-go snack any time of day. Best enjoyed warm, straight from the cart.
- Street BBQ: Weekend grills serve up smoky chicken, pork, and sausages with rice and beans. Follow your nose to the nearest curbside pit for this hearty island favorite.
- Fruit Stands: Fresh-cut mango, pineapple, and watermelon topped with lime, salt, and chili powder. A refreshing, spicy-sweet snack that captures the island’s tropical soul in every bite.
FOOD FESTIVALS IN BELIZE
In Belize, food is more than just mere sustenance. It’s a reason to gather, celebrate, and share Belizean culture. Throughout the year, the area hosts a variety of vibrant food festivals that highlight local ingredients, traditional cooking, and regional pride.
If your schedule permits, consider making time for these local festivities:
- San Pedro Lobsterfest, held each summer to mark the opening of lobster season. The celebration stretches over several days with beach parties, live music, and vendors serving lobster every way imaginable—grilled, curried, in tacos, or drenched in buttery Creole sauce.
- Cashew Festival in Crooked Tree and the Chocolate Festival in Punta Gorda are beloved local festivals beyond Ambergris Caye. They feature unique local heritage with tastings, cooking demos, and artisan goods.
- Belize International Music & Food Festival is great for those who love music and global cuisine. The event is a high-energy showcase of international chefs, performers, and flavors from all over the world.
TIPS FOR NEWCOMERS TO SAN PEDRO, BELIZE
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a long-time resident. San Pedro’s food scene always has something in store for you.
If you’re new to San Pedro, there are a few things worth knowing to make the most out of the local food scene.
First, let’s talk tipping and dining norms. In most local eateries, tipping 10–15% is customary for good service. It’s always appreciated and goes a long way in smaller, family-run spots. Don’t be surprised if your food takes a bit longer than you’re used to. Things move at island pace here. So, relax, enjoy the view, and embrace the slower rhythm.
And since we’re on the subject of payment, cash is still king in most parts. While most upscale restaurants accept cards, smaller establishments and street vendors are usually cash-only, so it’s smart to keep some Belize dollars on hand—especially in small bills.
Next, try to go out of your comfort zone. We always recommend newcomers to try a mix of high-end restaurants and home-style kitchens to get the full picture of San Pedro’s culinary world. What makes San Pedro food stand out is its range—from lobster risotto at a rooftop bistro to jerk chicken on a picnic table with reggae playing in the background.
But before you take a bite, ask what’s fresh or in season. Many restaurants get their fish or produce that very morning from local markets, so even if it’s not on the printed menu, the chef might have something special cooking.
Also, mind the spice level. Belizean cuisine loves a good kick, especially with habanero-based sauces. If you’re not used to heat, it’s best to try hot sauce on the side before diving in.
EXPLORE SAN PEDRO, BELIZE REAL ESTATE
With a real estate investment in San Pedro, Belize, you’ll just be a few paces away from an amazing culinary experience.
Get in touch with Mirna Waight and the team at Belize Coastal Real Estate to discover your real estate options in Belize.
With over a decade of experience and deep local roots in San Pedro, we have guided countless clients through successful real estate transactions across Ambergris Caye. From beachfront condos to investment properties, we bring expert insight, professionalism, and a personal touch to every step of your journey.
Start your island lifestyle now— send an email or call us at +501-226-5478 (Belize) or +1-512-549-2078 (USA).