In San Pedro
Seafood is, of course, the most popular food on the island, and there's plenty of it around all year. However, please keep in mind that there are seasons for lobster and conch (because sea turtles are endangered, never order turtle). Officially, lobster season runs from July 15 to February 14, while conch is available from October 1 to June 30. Local restaurants and fishery officials have struck a deal to allow lobster to be served in the off season. Supposedly this is lobster caught and frozen during the open season, and not while they are mating in the formerly closed season.
The best produce and specialty items can be found at The Greenhouse Produce Market (tel. 226-2084), located on Pescador Drive.
In addition to the places listed elsewhere on this site, Ruby’s Cafe and Celi’s Deli, on the ground floors of Ruby’s hotel and across from the San Pedro Holiday Hotel, respectively, are good places to pick up a light meal, and both specialize in fresh-baked breads and pastries and sandwiches to go.
Other dependable options include Caramba (tel. 226-4321), which serves a mix of Belizean, Mexican, and Caribbean fare; and Caliente (tel. 226-2170) which is a good choice for traditional Mexican food, including chicken mole. For a seafront seat in the sand, it’s hard to beat Lily’s Treasure Chest (tel. 226-2650), which is great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
South of San Pedro
South of San Pedro there are a few good options beyond the ones we’ve listed elsewhere on this site. If you’re hankering for good Italian food, head to Pinocchio (tel. 226-4447). The owners are from Rome, and everything from the pastas to the wood-oven pizzas is authentic and delicious. Meanwhile, the Hidden Treasure (tel. 226-4111; www.hiddentreasurebelize.com) is earning raves for its creative local and New Latin cuisine. Coffee has been trending on the caye, but it’s Rum + Bean (tel.236-5102; www.rumandbean.com) at Mahogany Bay Village that’s getting people to flock south of town for their caffeine fix.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
