Episode 76: David's Food Favorites — San Pedro & Caye Caulker

Episode 76: David's Food Favorites — San Pedro & Caye CaulkerFood is a huge part of the Belize experience, and after 16+ years here, I've eaten my way across this country. Let me share what I've found on the islands.San Pedro Go-To SpotsFor Seafood (Note: I'm allergic to all seafood, but for my listeners):Elvi's, El Fogon, Caramba — You can't beat anything these places serve. Fresh catch, perfectly prepared. Expect $20-$40 for a full meal.For Casual Lunch:Lily's Treasure Chest — On the beach in town, where a lot of locals go. Stew chicken with rice and beans is my go-to. $11 gets you stew chicken, rice and beans, and salad.Caliente — My favorite is the beef fajitas, $14.For a Nicer Dinner:Blue Water Grill — Great atmosphere, right on the water. The steak and yucca is worth the splurge (~$43). Great seafood and sushi too.Street Food in San PedroKevin's BBQ (between Super Buy South and the gas station) — Quarter chicken, rice and beans or beans and tortilla, salad for $7 USD.Pop-up in Caribbean Chicken parking lot (at night, in the south) — Amazing Mexican-type tacos, $6 USD for four tacos.Nary's Tacos — One of the best breakfast tacos on the island. Three tacos for 50 cents, or 37 cents for a pork taco. Full breakfast or stuffed fry jack available.Tourist Traps to AvoidSome resort places charge double for the same food you can get a block away. My rule: If it's a branded hotel and empty of locals, keep walking. If you see Belizeans, expats, and locals eating there, you're in the right place.Caye CaulkerSmaller, more laid-back, and the food scene reflects that.Chef Juan's Kitchen and Pastries — Tacos are awesome. Simple spot, amazing food. Must try the Key lime pie.Las Palapas Belize — For lobster (when in season). Grilled, garlic butter, the works. $30-$60 depending on size.Erolyn's House of Fry Jacks — Selling barbecue ribs. A few dollars and you're set.Lobster SeasonJune 15th to sometime between February 14th - March 1st. Outside those dates, it's illegal to catch or sell lobster. If someone offers you lobster in April, walk away. Respect the season — it's why Belize still has lobster.Drink PairingsBelikin beer — With anything fried or grilled. Light, crisp, pairs with everything.Belikin Stout — Try it with ceviche (sounds weird, but it works).Rum punch at sunset — Toast in San Pedro makes a strong one, be warned.Fresh watermelon juice or lime juice — If you're not drinking. The fresh juices here are unreal.Coke Zero or frozen mojito — My personal drinks of choice.Price Expectations on the IslandsStreet food and local spots: $5-8 USDCasual restaurants: $12-20 USD for a full mealNice dinner with drinks: $40-60 USD per personHigh-end splurge: $80-100+ USDThe islands are more expensive than the mainland, but you can still eat well on a budget if you know where to go.Myth of the Week"You have to spend a lot to eat well on Ambergris Caye."Not true. Some of my best meals have been $10 or less at local spots. The key is getting off the main tourist drag and asking locals, "Where do you eat?"Tips for First-Time VisitorsCash is helpful — Some smaller spots don't take cards.Ask what's fresh — The daily catch is always better than something frozen.Try the specials — Local restaurants do daily specials based on what's available.Venture beyond the main street — The best spots are often one or two streets back.Talk to your server — Ask what they recommend. They'll steer you right.Bottom LineThe islands have incredible food, from cheap street eats to memorable dinners. Mix it up. Don't eat at the same tourist spot every night. Explore, ask around, try new things.Connect📧 [email protected] with your food questions 🏠 RE/MAX 1st Choice Belize]]>