Eat like a local
The saying “You have to taste a culture to understand it” certainly holds very true for Belize.
One of the greatest pleasures of visiting our country is exploring its vibrant and flavorful food scene, and lucky for you, some of the best local restaurants are just minutes from your door.
Here are our top picks of places to experience authentic Belizean cuisine:
D’Vine Cravings | ~2 Minute Drive
A fantastic, family-owned cevicheria that we swear by, perfect for a fantastic takeout meal. Don’t let the simple hut fool you—this place serves some of the best ceviche in all of Belize: fresh, marinated to perfection, and has a citrusy kick that screams Belizean seaside vibes, even though we’re inland. It’s affordable, healthy and the staff is very friendly. Be sure to try it with their freshly made corn chips. A word of warning: they often include a small cup of extremely spicy peppers, so proceed with caution!
Good to Know: It’s primarily a takeout location. Ordering in advance is a necessary move to avoid wait times.
Opening hours:
Thursday through Saturday: 6:00-9:00 (Dinner)
Crave House of Flavor | ~ 6 Minute Drive
If you’re in the mood for somewhere a bit more upscale, Crave is a spot we always recommend. A culinary gem next to Galvez Stadium that has a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s also a must for meat lovers! We will always rave about the signature ribs, they are tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked. The “Happy Cow” burger is also a amazing, they have an in-house bun and perfectly proportioned toppings. The presentation of every dish shows a real attention to detail.
Good to Know: The dining space is small and it’s a popular spot. It’s advisable to make reservations, particularly on weekends or during peak dinner times, to secure a table.
Opening hours:
Wednesday through Monday: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM (bar closes at 10 PM)
Guava Limb Cafe | ~ 6 Minute Drive
Farm-to-table dining at its finest. This cafe is located right next to the Macal River Park with produce sources from their own Maya farm and is rated as one of San Ignacio’s top spots. The ambiance is airy and perfect for a special lunch or dinner, often featuring balcony seating overlooking the park. It prides itself on using fresh and organic ingredients and offers a mix of international and Central American cuisine. We highly recommend the Indonesian Gado Gado with peanut sauce and the wood-fired pizzas.
Opening hours:
Tuesday through Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Ko-Ox Hannah (Let’s Go Eat) | ~6 Minute Drive
A beloved local spot right in downtown San Ignacio whose name means “Let’s go eat” in Mayan. Our comfort food haven, it nails affordable, hearty eats and offers a wonderfully diverse menu that happily blends Belizean and Indian cuisines. We love their stew chicken with rice and beans, and we love their Korean BBQ pork chops, but their huge variety ensures there’s something for everyone. It’s also a fantastic option for vegetarians and vegans.
Good to Know: This is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, as it’s open from early morning until late.
Opening hours:
Daily: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
