7 Must-Try Dishes in Mahogany Bay

Honduras remains somewhat of a hidden gem in the cruising world, which adds to the charm of a cruise to Mahogany Bay. Situated on Roatán Island, just off Central America’s coast, this breathtaking location offers incredible scenery and vibrant local culture. Notably, the name Honduras translates to “deep water,” highlighting the island’s abundant water activities — not to mention its fantastic seafood.

Wondering what to eat in Mahogany Bay? There’s a wide array of beloved dishes you simply can’t miss during your visit. Here are some top picks that showcase the finest of Mahogany Bay’s culinary offerings and are readily available once you disembark from the ship. Enjoy your meal!

1. Baleadas

Baleadas are a must-try street food staple in Honduras, easily found from various vendors throughout Roatán. Begin with a baleada sencilla, a freshly made flour tortilla stuffed with refried beans and crumbled fresh cheese. The secret ingredient is local mantequilla, a delightful blend of sour cream and cream cheese. These toppings are spread on the fluffy tortilla, which is then folded in half for easy eating. If you enjoy it, consider customizing your baleada with extras like scrambled eggs or shredded chicken — both are popular choices!

2. Sopa de Caracol

The calm, deep waters of Honduras offer an ideal setting to indulge in various seafood delights. Sopa de caracol, or conch soup, is a beloved seafood chowder found throughout Mahogany Bay and along the coastal regions of Central America. This dish features tender conch meat, along with hearty chunks of potatoes, tomatoes, celery, and an assortment of local vegetables and spices. The outcome is a rich and flavorful soup that is one of the traditional dishes you simply must try in Mahogany Bay.

3. Horchata

While horchata might be the trendy beverage at your favorite coffee shop, it has long been a staple in the Caribbean. This creamy and delicious drink is crafted from a blend of ground nuts and grains, including rice, tiger nuts, and even melon seeds. It's typically flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and cocoa. Each horchata has its own unique taste, influenced by the specific mix of ingredients, but it is always a cool and refreshing choice for a warm afternoon. When you’re exploring Mahogany Bay, treat yourself to samples from different shops to discover your personal favorite.

4. Pupusa

If you’re craving more street food, another beloved late-night snack is the pupusa. This delightful dish features a soft corn tortilla filled with various hearty ingredients, then fried to perfection for easy enjoyment. Fillings can range from pork and cheese to beef and beans, depending on availability. Due to its rich flavor, pupusas are commonly served with encurtido, a zesty pickled cabbage slaw that balances the richness and provides a refreshing crunch. Pupusas are not only a staple in Mahogany Bay but are also widely enjoyed throughout Central America.

5. Plato Típico

Plato típico translates to “typical dish” in Spanish, and its composition varies by region. In Honduras, a local plato típico often features tender cuts of beef, the country’s favorite meat. Accompanying it is a selection of traditional sides, including fried plantains, which resemble starchy bananas. You can also expect beans and rice, a refreshing slaw of marinated cabbage, and possibly a dollop of sour cream. Rather than bread and butter, fresh tortillas are served on the side.

6. Mutton Peppers

When it comes to spicy delights in Roatán, mutton peppers are the secret ingredient that elevates the flavors. Whether incorporated into a sopa de caracol or served in a salsa or rice dish, mutton peppers deliver a fiery kick and distinct taste. They resemble Scotch Bonnet peppers, but you truly need to experience their unique flavor to appreciate them. It's recommended to try them within a dish, as eating them alone is not for the timid.

7. Anafre

Anafre refers to both the unique clay pot in which this dish is served and the delightful appetizer itself. This creamy bean dip is made from either red or black beans, blended to a silky smooth consistency. Seasoned with local spices, it can be topped with chorizo for an added burst of flavor. The beans are placed in the pot and covered with cheese, which melts as the anafre pot heats up. Once it arrives at your table, grab some tortilla chips and dig into this tasty local snack.

As you plan your itinerary for things to do in Mahogany Bay, make sure to set aside time to wander through the port and soak in the vibrant local culture. No visit to the area is complete without sampling the cuisine of Mahogany Bay, so get ready for a culinary journey! If you find yourself enamored with any of the flavors, consider picking up a recipe book from a souvenir shop to try your hand at Honduran cooking at home — it makes for a fantastic keepsake!