Why I Love Elvi’s Kitchen – A San Pedro Favorite That Just Keeps Getting Better

There are very few restaurants anywhere that truly stand the test of time: Elvi’s Kitchen is my top example on Ambergris Caye and in Belize as a whole. The oldest restaurant on the island, Elvi’s has been serving locals and visitors for decades, and somehow, they keep getting better.

You can read the history of the restaurant (and the island) here – “Elvi’s Kitchen started about 39 years ago with a ‘hole in the wall’ takeout window…” Sadly, Miss Elvia (Elvi) passed away at age 92 earlier this year, but her youngest daughter, Chef Jennie, and Miss Elvi’s children and grandchildren have been carrying on her legacy for years.

Yesterday I met my friend Beth for lunch – and I realized I hadn’t been in for a while! I don’t sit down for lunch (or dinner) out very often. To stop that madness because I quickly realized how much I love Elvi’s Kitchen…I can always find 10 things on the menu that I REALLY want to try (or have again) – it got me thinking…

There are lots of reasons I love Elvi’s. First: the menu is big.

I hear you…I also know what that usually means! It means the food quality might not be too good – too many choices, not enough focus. And maybe they are out of a bunch of items… But that’s not the case at ALL at Elvi’s. Everything I’ve tried – from their killer stewed chicken to appetizers to the famous coconut curry shrimp – has always been delicious. Always.

You can find the Lunch Menu here.

Chef Jennie (daughter of Miss Elvi – who sadly just passed away at age ) put a real focus on local flavors and ingredients, with dishes inspired by Mayan, Yucatecan and Garifuna cooking, always with a fresh, modern twist. But if you’re in the mood for something more familiar, they’ve also got great burgers, wraps, and salads. It’s one of those rare places where everyone can find something they’re excited about. Usually 3 or 4 things that you can’t decide between…

I had the delicious Fried Buffalo Chicken Wrap.

My friend had this GORGEOUS poke bowl with fresh tuna. I am totally getting that next time.

Here’s the Dinner Menu. I LOVE the Caribbean Chicken. Jennie even taught me how to make it when I one a photo contest almost a dozen years ago.

The prices are reasonable, especially for how nice the space is. You can stop in for a casual lunch or make it your spot for a special dinner—and either way, you’ll leave happy. The service is always super friendly and helpful and knowledgeable.

Another thing I really appreciate? They’re open all day from lunch to later. Many restaurants in San Pedro cater to the lunch rush. Belizean lunchtime is strict: 12 to 1 pm sharp, especially for takeaway. Elvi’s is busy then too (their stewed chicken is a local favorite), but you can walk in at 2 or 3 in the afternoon and still get a full meal. That’s a rare and very welcome thing. Especially for visitors who might want to grab a late lunch (maybe you woke up at 10am…or you are coming back from a diving trip at 2) or an early dinner…

Lastly, Elvi’s has a photo of me prominently displayed at the restaurant. Ok…that is a stretch. But I love the photo of one of the coolest nights (not temperature-wise…it was BROILING) I’ve spent blogging in Belize. The night I went to see Prince Harry visiting Belize!

You can read about my experience going to see Prince Harry in Belmopan in 2012 here.

I asked to be seated right underneath it… 🙂

And while they’ve made some updates recently—like installing full air conditioning throughout the restaurant (feels SOOOO good on these hot hot hot early summer days) – they haven’t lost any of the charm. The big flamboyant tree still stands in the center of the dining room wrapped in twinkly lights, and they’ve kept the original sand floors. It still feels like San Pedro.

Whether you’re a visitor or you live here full-time, Elvi’s Kitchen delivers – every single time. I’m a big fan.

I’ve written about Elvi’s a bunch over the years – my cooking lesson, attending the 40th Anniversary Party for Elvi’s (I don’t know HOW I scored an invite…it was incredible) – you can read them all here if you are in the mood.

Also, I took quick picture of my fruit stand yesterday…and all the pretty fruits that can be available in May/June. From dragon fruit to passionfruit…mangos and avocados and even the weird jackfruit.