A Food Lover’s Guide to Flores, Guatemala
The island of Flores is found in the northern Peten province of Guatemala. It’s a picturesque little place that makes a great base for a visit to the Mayan ruins at Tikal. Curiously it’s also home to a number of fabulous eateries that will keep foodies content.
Eat looking over Lake Peten Itza
The top choice for a laid-back meal on the island is the San Telmo café, where you can sit looking out over the lake. The views are complemented by great food that runs from breakfast until dinner, a good musical selection, and an attentive, if somewhat slow, service.
For a late afternoon meal on a budget, wait until around 4pm when street food sellers start to hawk their wares along the shore. Prices are reasonable, and there is a huge variety of dishes on offer. Ask for Calle 15 de Septiembre or follow the road around the shore.
Top spots for fans of Italian food
If you want to treat yourself, check out La Villa del Chef, Raices Bar and Grill, or La Casa de Enrico. These three restaurants are commonly cited as the top choices on the island. The first two options serve up Central American classics, while the third is an Italian fusion restaurant. Another option if you’re in the mood for Italian is Terrazzo Ristorante & Bar.
Make friends at Hostel Los Amigos
Head to Sky Bar to take in the sunset with a great view over the lake, with food and drinks served on an incredible terrace. Solo travellers should make the trip to Hostel Los Amigos, where you can eat and drink in a sociable atmosphere. There’s a bar, a restaurant, and a pool table where you can meet other travellers and potentially arrange joint trips to the ruins at El Mirador or to take out a boat on the lake.
Visitors to Flores will be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere to eat. Chow down on the Italian cuisine at La Casa de Enrico and Terrazzo, or eat like the Guatemalans do at the street food market.