El Norte Bar & Grill — Restaurant in North Ambergris Caye

A Tropical Escape at Ambergris Caye’s Best Tiki Bar! On our recent trip to Ambergris Caye, we discovered an absolute paradise tucked away in the form of a charming tiki bar. This vibrant spot turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip, delivering a fantastic blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that made us feel like family.

The menu offers a variety of island-inspired dishes, but we were particularly blown away by the ceviche. Fresh, tangy, and loaded with the perfect balance of citrus and spice, the ceviche was a refreshing starter that gave us a true taste of Belize. The Coconut Curry was another standout. The rich, creamy sauce had just the right hint of sweetness from the coconut milk, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the dish. It was both hearty and comforting, bringing a bit of island warmth with every bite. We couldn’t help but savor every mouthful.

No tiki bar experience would be complete without some island-inspired cocktails, and the Rum Punch here certainly didn’t disappoint. Crafted with local rum and expertly balanced with fresh fruit juices, these cocktails were the perfect accompaniment to our meal. The drinks were strong but smooth, with a tropical sweetness that went down easily (perhaps a little too easily!). If you're looking for a refreshing yet potent drink that captures the spirit of the Caribbean, this Rum Punch is a must-try.

What really made this tiki bar stand out was the service. Ceci and Carlos, the bartenders, were absolutely delightful. They went out of their way to make us feel at home, always checking in to ensure we were enjoying ourselves and making personalized recommendations based on our tastes. They added a personal touch that transformed our visit from a simple meal to a memorable experience. Iz, the owner, was an absolute gem. His vibrant personality and engaging stories kept us thoroughly entertained throughout the night. He seems to have a genuine love for the bar and a deep connection to the island, which shines through in everything he does. His energy and hospitality made us feel like we were visiting old friends. The atmosphere at this tiki bar is pure island magic. Surrounded by lush tropical plants and the gentle hum of island music, we felt instantly transported. The setting is comfortable and inviting, striking a perfect balance between laid-back relaxation and lively entertainment. And the best part? The friendly, beautiful dogs that roam freely around the bar. They added such a charming, playful touch to the whole experience. We loved having these happy pups lounging by our feet and welcoming new guests. It felt like they were just as much a part of the place as the food and drinks.

For the quality of food, drinks, and service we received, the price was more than reasonable. This place offers incredible value, especially when you consider the memorable experience that comes with it. We left feeling like we’d discovered a true hidden gem where we could indulge without breaking the bank.

Overall Experience This tiki bar in Ambergris Caye is a hidden treasure for locals and visitors alike. Between the fresh, flavorful dishes, the well-crafted cocktails, and the lively ambiance, it’s a place that captures the essence of the island. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, a laid-back evening with good food, or simply a great place to relax with a drink in hand, this spot delivers. We left with happy hearts, full bellies, and memories that will bring us back again and again. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re ever in Ambergris Caye—you...

First off, the food was amazing. The staff there know how to make good food. The service is good. We stayed at the air B and B in addition to eating/drinking at the bar. The room itself was adequate. The advertisement says the kitchen was fully stocked. It was not. The downstairs bathroom sink was broken. Bring your own supplies if you plan to cook there. The host and staff live on site which is helpful. The front door has no lock on it. Insects are viscous. The host gets very "handsy" when he drinks so be prepared to get groped. Oh, I forgot to mention, make sure you charge your devices. There are frequent power and...

I can’t say enough good things about our experience at El Norte and Playa Del Sol. If you’re looking for a true local Belizean experience, this is it. Iz is a wonderful bartender and makes the best rum punch on the island. Iz was truly hospitable and gave us so many good recommendations and pointers for our stay on the island, we visited him 3 times over our 5 day trip! We also took a fishing trip with David that was unbelievable, followed by cooking our catch of the day. El Norte is rated highly for good reason, we can’t wait to come back and visit the bar. Make the drive, you...