
Fish and seafood are essential ingredients in Chetumalean cuisine, although meats and poultry are also used. Some wild animals are considered delicacies such as, deer and the native pacas (known as tepezcuintles in Mexico) which are seasoned with different chili pepper pastes called "recados".
The red and black pastes are made with different chili peppers, ground pepper, other aromatic spices like annatto seeds and sour orange juice, a common ingredient in many traditional dishes of Southern Mexico.
Because Chetumal and Belize are geographically so close together, they share the bond of friendship as well as some traditional cuisine, such as the famous rice and beans, which is rice with fried bananas in coconut oil, served with beans, chicken and seasoned with coconut milk. There is also a meat pie originally from Belize that has become a popular dish, made with ground beef and chili.
After a delightful dinner, how about trying some typical desserts? Like dulce de ciricote, dulce de nance or dulce de papaya, which are tropical fruits in syrup seasoned with cinnamon.
Enjoy a friendly, country atmosphere at Forastereos. Savor an array of steaks, chorizo, pork, and tacos al pastor, a style of roasting where meat is skewered on a spit and revolves over a flame. Also, try their baked potato, grilled cheese or specialties, such as frijoles charros, country style beans. Enjoy your meal with a refreshing cold beer.
You have to try their tender, juicy tacos de arrachera, which are broiled skirt steak tacos, marinated in lemon juice and other secret ingredients. Order your tacos with an ice-cold beer. There is no doubt that Don Jose's are the best arracheras in town. Great food, fine service and conveniently located on the seaside promenade with an excellent view of the bay, makes this restaurant an excellent choice.
This restaurant is the one most recommended by locals. Mahahuana has a variety of interesting and spicy beef and pork steaks. Order a combination platter or just a few tacos. The restaurant has a friendly atmosphere and the waiters make you feel at home, perfect for a family lunch or dinner.
If you enjoy authentic Italian cuisine then Sergio's should be on your list of restaurants to visit. Although pizza is their specialty, they also have a variety of pastas and traditional Italian wines. Don't miss the opportunity to eat at Sergio's Pizzas next time you're in Chetumal.