Roatan Bay Islands, Honduras Travel Guide
Roatan's cuisine combines traditional Honduran (mestizo) and Afro-Caribbean (Garifuna) influences. Its island location emphasizes fresh seafood.
Expect fresh fish, shrimp, lobster, and conch. Rice and beans are staple accompaniments. Plantains and cassava are common. Coconut milk is often in seafood stews and rice dishes. Local dishes often have mild spices.
This area has more authentic Garifuna dishes, like Sopa de Caracol (conch soup with coconut milk) and Hudut (mashed plantains with seafood soup).
These tourist areas cater to international tastes, with a wider mix of local and global cuisine, including American, Italian, and Mexican options.
This is the place for true local "comedores" (small, informal eateries) where you find everyday Honduran fare at affordable prices.
Mainly within luxury resorts in West Bay or at standalone upscale restaurants. They offer international cuisine with a focus on high-quality ingredients and ocean views.
Reservations are often needed, especially in high season.
Common in West End and West Bay. They have a mix of local Honduran/Caribbean dishes and international favorites like Italian, American, and Mexican.
A good balance of quality, atmosphere, and price.
Comedores are small, local, informal eateries with affordable daily specials. Baleada stands are common. The Mercado Municipal in Coxen Hole is a market for fresh produce.
Excellent for authentic local food and experience.
Formal cooking classes are less common. Some resorts or private chefs sometimes have personalized cooking experiences. Guided tours may visit local markets or eateries.
Several restaurants in West End and Oak Ridge are built on stilts over the water. Beachfront dining is common in West Bay, where you can dine with your feet in the sand.
Baleadas are the main and most popular street food. They are quick, customizable, and affordable. Occasionally, you find grilled corn on the cob or fruit skewers near busy areas.
Non-alcoholic options: Fresh Fruit Juices (Jugos Naturales) and Licuados (fruit smoothies), Coconut Water directly from a fresh coconut. Alcoholic options: Local Honduran beers like Salva Vida, Port Royal, and Barena. Guifiti is a traditional Garifuna rum-based herbal drink.
Tajadas: Fried green plantain slices, often a side or savory snack. Pastelitos: Small fried pastries with savory meat or vegetables. Rosquillas: Fried dough rings, sometimes sweet, available in local bakeries.
Roatan's popularity as a tourist destination means a good selection of international cuisines. You can find Italian (pizza, pasta), American (burgers, BBQ), Mexican, and sometimes Asian fusion.
Mostly available in West End and West Bay.
While local dishes are a must, there are many options to satisfy diverse palates.
Check menus for specific international offerings.
Many luxury resorts have fine dining.
Beachfront dining in West Bay.
Over-the-water restaurants in West End and Oak Ridge.
Special dishes during local festivals.
It is a delicious and affordable taste of Honduran culture.
Look for local stands in Coxen Hole or West End.
Some restaurants include a service charge automatically. Verify before tipping extra.
10-15% is standard for good service.
If you plan to cook, the Mercado Municipal in Coxen Hole is the main market for fresh produce, meat, and seafood.
For a truly local experience, visit the Mercado Municipal in Coxen Hole. You can observe island life, find fresh produce, and discover local flavors.
Punta Gorda on the East End is a living museum. Visitors can experience traditional Garifuna music, dance, and learn about their heritage.
Explore this unique over-the-water community by dory boat (a local dugout canoe). Insights into traditional island life await, away from typical tourist centers.
Visiting Garifuna villages offers direct engagement with the culture, including local food, music, and interactions with residents.
Fried green plantain slices, served as a side dish or savory snack.
A common and versatile local item.
Small fried pastries filled with savory meat or vegetables.
Quick and tasty street food.
Fresh seafood is the star, with fish, shrimp, lobster, and conch. Grilled or in stews.
Honduran and Garifuna influences mix, creating unique flavors with coconut milk, plantains, and mild spices.
From budget-friendly street food and local "comedores" to mid-range restaurants and fine dining resorts.
Before your trip, familiarize yourself with some basic Spanish food phrases.
