Caye Caulker's Ultimate Dining Guide

Caye Caulker in Belize has a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale options, all within walking or biking distance. The dress code is casual and the theme is go slow, so service can be a bit slow but it's always friendly. The island's restaurants offer a range of cuisines, including Caribbean, Central American, Italian, and French.

For breakfast, Errol's House of Fry Jacks is a popular choice, serving the local specialty of fry jacks—fried dough stuffed with savoury fillings. For lunch or dinner, Pasta Per Caso Anna & Armando is a tiny, popular Italian restaurant with only two choices of pasta per day, one meat and one vegetarian. Chef Juan's Kitchen and Pastries is another great option, serving generous portions of Caribbean-inspired fare, including fry jack and coconut curry chicken, with outdoor seating and homemade desserts.

If you're looking for a fancier option, Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana offers Italian cuisine with a focus on seafood and pasta, while Hibisca by Habaneros is Caulker's poshest restaurant, located in a brightly painted clapboard house in the centre of town, serving gourmet international food.

There is also a great street food scene on Caye Caulker, with vendors frying up fry jacks, grilling the catch of the day, and making papusas.

Italian food

If you're looking for Italian food in Caye Caulker, Belize, there are a few options to consider.

Pasta Per Caso

One popular choice is Pasta Per Caso, a small restaurant run by Italian couple Anna and Armando. They serve two special homemade pasta dishes each night, prepared fresh with traditional sauces that are simple and genuine. The menu is small but amazing, and the coffee is reportedly the best in town. The restaurant fills up fast, so reservations are recommended.

Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana

For a fancier option, try Il Pellicano. Located in an elegant garden setting, it offers delicious Italian food and amazing pizza, with live music most nights.

Il Pelicano

Il Pelicano is another great choice for Italian food in Caye Caulker. They serve delicious pizza with great sauce and generous toppings, as well as tasty sausage rolls.

Sandro's

Previously known as Sandro's, Pasta Per Caso is another authentic Italian restaurant, with the previous owner hailing from Milan. They serve a range of classic Italian dishes, including shrimp Alfredo and lasagne.

With these options, you're sure to find some delicious Italian food to enjoy during your time in Caye Caulker, Belize.

Seafood

Caye Caulker, a small island off Belize's north-central coast, is known for its quaint atmosphere and Caribbean vibes. The island's motto, "Go Slow", reflects its relaxed pace and laid-back lifestyle. Fishing has been a primary source of income for the island, and seafood is, therefore, a speciality. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy seafood on the island:

Chef Kareem's UnBelizeable Lunch

A beachside grill known for its open flame barbecue, grilled seafood, and jerk chicken. It offers a casual dining experience with a menu that includes coleslaw, which has received praise from patrons.

The Little Kitchen

Located in a somewhat hard-to-find spot, this eatery serves fresh local cuisine, especially seafood. It is known for its curry-infused dishes, garlic butter lobster, and conch fritters. The prices are fantastic, and the atmosphere is genuine and local.

Maggie's Sunset Kitchen

This restaurant embraces island flavours and offers scenic sunset views. It serves a variety of seafood dishes, including stewed chicken, conch ceviche, and grilled lobster. Vegetarian options are also available.

Wish Willy - Bar & Grill

Wish Willy offers casual island dining with a unique no-set-menu approach. They specialise in fresh grilled seafood and BBQ, including grilled lobster, fish, and chicken, paired with local sides.

Hibisca Restaurant

Hibisca is a lively spot offering a variety of dishes, including Korean-style cauliflower and snapper with watermelon and mint. The restaurant features live music, refreshing cocktails, and unique desserts.

Tropical Paradise Restaurant

Located just a few yards from the ocean, this restaurant offers outdoor seating and an open-air design, allowing diners to feel the ocean breeze. They serve excellent fresh seafood, including grilled barracuda steak, whole snapper, lobster kabob, and pork chops.

Street food

Caye Caulker, a small island off the coast of Belize, is known for its relaxed vacation vibe and its motto, "Go Slow". The island offers a variety of street food options, from seafood to jerk chicken and Italian cuisine. Here are some of the top spots to enjoy street food in Caye Caulker:

Errolyns House of Fry Jacks

A popular spot among locals and tourists, Errolyns House of Fry Jacks serves delicious and inexpensive fry jacks, tacos, and tortas. The pibil fry jack, made with marinated slow-roasted pork, beans, cheese, and cabbage slaw, is a favourite among customers. It's a busy place, so be prepared to wait in line, but it's worth it for the cheap, quick, and tasty food.

Chef Kareem's UnBelizeable Lunch

Located along the main road near the split, Chef Kareem serves up seasonal delights with a jerk seasoning twist. You can choose from a variety of grilled options, including red snapper and lobster when they are in season. Don't forget to try the roasted corn and rice and beans as sides!

Maggie's Sunset Kitchen

This spot is popular for its traditional Belizean dishes. Go for lunch and order the stewed chicken, which often sells out, or try the stew beef or baked chicken. Meals are served with a side of rice and beans and fried plantain, embracing the island's flavours.

Sip N' Dip Beach Bar

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, head to Sip N' Dip. They offer tables and swings in the water, so you can enjoy your meal and drinks while immersed in the ocean. The mixed ceviche with shrimp and lobster is a popular choice, and they also have chicken tacos that are a hit with the kids.

Northside Beach Club

Located on the north side of the Split, this beach club offers a young and hip vibe. They have a bar, a DJ, and weekend parties. While there is no cover charge, you must purchase food or drinks to hang out. The blackened fish tacos and pina colada come highly recommended.

Caye Caulker offers a variety of street food options to satisfy any craving. Whether you're looking for cheap eats or unique dining experiences, the island has something for everyone.

Breakfast spots

Caye Caulker, a small island off the coast of Belize, offers a variety of breakfast options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some popular spots to enjoy a delicious morning meal:

Ice and Beans

Ice and Beans is a great choice for those seeking a quick bite and a peaceful morning by the beach. They offer freshly brewed coffee, light snacks, and delicious treats like the yoghurt parfait with granola and fresh pineapple. Grab your breakfast and head to the beach to enjoy the ocean views and the tranquil atmosphere.

Crepes & Dreams

Located right by the boat pier, Crepes & Dreams is the perfect spot for those with a sweet tooth. They offer a variety of sweet and savoury crepes, along with a nice cup of coffee to start your day. Indulge in their fresh fruit crepe with chocolate drizzle or explore other tasty options.

Amore Y Cafe

Amore Y Cafe provides a pleasant outdoor dining experience with tables and counters. They specialise in breakfast sandwiches, perfectly paired with their refreshing iced coffee. It's a great option for a casual sit-down breakfast to fuel your day of exploration.

Errolyns House of Fry Jacks

Fry Jacks are a traditional Belizean breakfast dish, and Errolyns House of Fry Jacks is the place to try them. Open from 6 am to 11 am, this takeaway spot offers a variety of tasty and affordable fry jacks stuffed with eggs, bacon, cheese, or chicken. There are a few bar-style chairs if you prefer to dine in.

Chef Juan's Kitchen and Pastries

Chef Juan's Kitchen and Pastries is a locally owned spot that serves delicious breakfast options. While their chicken curry is a popular choice, they also offer an incredible key lime pie. It's so good that some visitors come back for it every day!

Caribbean Colors Art Cafe

Caribbean Colors Art Cafe provides a unique combination of breakfast and art, offering international cuisine and sushi with a view. It's a great spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast while admiring the local artwork and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Bars and grills

Caye Caulker, Belize, is a popular tourist destination, known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery. The island offers a variety of bars and grills to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and specialties. Here are some of the top spots to check out:

The Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill

The Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill is arguably Caye Caulker's most famous attraction. Located at 'The Split', a channel that divides the island in two, it offers a unique experience with benches and tables in the sea, allowing patrons to enjoy their drinks and bar food while soaking their feet in the cool, clear waters. The Lazy Lizard is known for its strong drinks, including the infamous "lizard juice", and it often hosts parties and events, such as its Scary Masquerade Monsters & Margaritas Halloween Party. It is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the Caribbean sea.

Sip N' Dip Beach Bar

Located on a pier, Sip N' Dip is currently the only 'over-water' bar in Caye Caulker. It offers a unique 'beer garden' experience with tubes, rubber rings, swings, and hammocks in the water. It is an adults-only area, but there is also play equipment on land for children. Sip N' Dip serves a range of drinks, including local rum mixes and cocktails, and offers happy hour specials.

Northside Beach Club

Northside Beach Club is located on the less inhabited North Island and is accessible by a shuttle boat that runs regularly. It boasts the biggest and best beach in Caye Caulker, with plenty of deck chairs, sun loungers, hammocks, and swinging beds available for a fee. The club has an infinity pool, although it comes with a hefty price tag. The food is reasonably priced, and they host regular events like bonfires, movies, and beach parties.

Barrier Reef Sports Bar & Grill

This waterfront bar and grill offers a vibrant mix of live music, trivia, and karaoke. It is a great spot for social encounters, with daily specials and stunning views of the beach.

Wish Willy - Bar & Grill

Wish Willy offers casual island dining with a focus on fresh grilled seafood and BBQ. They have a unique no-set-menu approach, allowing patrons to choose from grilled lobster, fish, chicken, and local sides.

The Magic Grill Restaurant & Bar

The Magic Grill is a beachfront dining spot, serving a variety of dishes, including ceviche and a notable jalapeño burger. They offer happy hour specials and fresh cocktails, creating a relaxed atmosphere with scenic views.

Caye Caulker has a diverse selection of bars and grills, each offering a unique experience to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a lively party atmosphere or a quiet sunset dinner, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Frequently asked questions