The Sidewalk
Let’s start at the famous “Sidewalk”. This is a must-do for visitors to this part of Belize. People wander along the brightly colored stalls, cafes and restaurants, stopping for refreshments and souvenirs.
We have chosen a few of the best restaurants in Placencia or places that are not too far away, as a guide for your trip to Belize when you come to inspect our properties. You’ll find many expats in Maya Beach and the Placencia Peninsula.
Breezeaway Restaurant & Pool Bar
Perfect for al fresco dining. Breezeaway rates as the #1 in Trip Advisor at the moment.
- Location: Located right on the beach in the village of Placencia. It’s just a short walk south of the main town area.
- Cuisine: Fresh seafood is the speciality here, focusing on local catches like red snapper, mahi mahi, shrimp and lobster. They also serve classic Belizean dishes and international fare.
- Atmosphere: Casual and beachfront setting with tables right on the sand overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It’s very relaxed and family-friendly.
- Popular Dishes: Coconut shrimp, whole fried red snapper, conch fritters, coconut rice and beans, lobster tacos. Their seafood platters are also highly recommended.
- Drinks: Full bar serving cocktails, wines and local beers. Fresh fruit juices and smoothies too.
- Service: Known for friendly, attentive service from the local staff.
- Hours: Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Open air structure so hours may vary depending on weather.
- Price: Moderate to high. Expect to pay around $15-30 per person without drinks.
- Reviews: Consistently gets rave reviews for the fresh seafood, beachfront atmosphere and great service. Highly recommended by locals and travelers alike.
Breezeaway is considered one of the best restaurants in Placencia for its prime beachfront location and fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes. It’s a great choice for a memorable meal.
Maya Beach Bistro
Located right on the beach in Placencia, this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes like coconut shrimp and blackened mahi mahi. They also have great breakfast options.
- Location: Right on the beach in the village of Placencia, just steps from the ocean.
- Cuisine: Focused on fresh, local seafood with influences from Caribbean, Mayan and international cuisines.
- Atmosphere: Casual and beachfront with dining tables directly on the sand or under thatched-roof shelters. Relaxed ambiance.
- Popular Dishes: Coconut shrimp, blackened mahi mahi, conch fritters, lobster quesadillas, fish tacos. Daily seafood specials.
- Price: Moderate to high. Average $15-30 per person without drinks.
Mangos
- Location: It’s located on the mainland near the village of Independence, about a 15-20 minute drive north of Placencia.
- Setting: Situated right on the shore of Placencia Lagoon, offering stunning views across to the peninsula.
- Cuisine: Fresh seafood and tropical fruits are highlighted on the Creole/international menu. Known for its whole red snapper.
- Popular Dishes: Coconut shrimp, lobster tails, conch ceviche, coconut curry chicken, mango chicken.
- Drinks: Full bar and an excellent wine list to complement the dishes. Fresh juices too.
- Atmosphere: Romantic, laidback vibe with outdoor dining right over the water.
- Service: Exceptional and attentive service provided by a knowledgeable staff.
- Hours: Dinner only, from 5 pm until around 9 pm or 10 pm.
- Price: Considered a splurge but worth it. Average $30-50 per person without drinks.
- Reviews: Repeatedly praised for its incredible setting, fresh ingredients and consistency. Often listed as the best restaurant in southern Belize.
Mango’s stellar waterfront location, creative menu and high-quality of food make it a real treat and one of the best restaurants in Placencia. It’s worth planning an evening trip from Placencia village. Reservations are essential.
Elvis Kitchen
- Location: Situated on Barrier Reef Drive in the heart of San Pedro town.
- Cuisine: Casual Belizean and Caribbean fare with an emphasis on fresh seafood.
- Atmosphere: Laidback, beach shack-style setting. Outdoor seating under thatched roofs.
- Popular Dishes: Conch ceviche, coconut shrimp, red snapper, lobster tacos, jerk chicken.
- Drinks: Full bar serving cocktails, beers and wines. Fresh juices too.
- Service: Friendly, local staff providing no-frills service.
- Hours: Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Open 7 am-10 pm.
- Price: Very reasonable. Most dishes are $10-20 BZD. Good value for San Pedro.
- Reviews: Highly rated for the tasty, authentic food at affordable prices. A popular local favorite.
Elvis Kitchen offers a casual, no-nonsense dining experience focusing on well-prepared Belizean and seafood dishes. It’s an excellent budget-friendly option in San Pedro town and very popular with locals and tourists alike. Cash only.
Rumfish y Vino
- Location: Situated on the beach side of the main road, right on the waterfront in Placencia village.
- Cuisine: Fresh seafood and international dishes with a Caribbean influence, using local ingredients.
- Atmosphere: Romantic, beachfront setting with tables directly on the sand or under thatched roofs.
- Popular Dishes: Coconut shrimp, rumfish, lobster mac and cheese, fish tacos, paella.
- Drinks: Excellent wine list plus signature cocktails made with local rums and fruits.
- Service: Professional yet casual staff known for good service and knowledge.
- Hours: Dinner from 5 pm nightly, closed Sundays.
- Price: Considered mid-range to high for Placencia at around $20-40 per person without drinks.
- Reviews: Repeatedly praised for fresh ingredients, creative dishes and stunning beach setting. Consistently rated as a top Placencia restaurant.
Rumfish y Vino’s beachfront location, delicious food and great drinks make it a memorable dining experience. Reservations are recommended, especially for the prime beachfront tables. Highly rated as one of the best restaurants in Placencia.