Savor Local Flavors - Western Caribbean Street Food

A Baleada from Roatan

Don’t miss the Baleada in Roatan. This dish resembles a stuffed taco, crafted with a thick flour tortilla instead of the thin corn tortillas found in Mexico. The classic baleada features mashed, fried beans, cheese, and sour cream. For a true local experience, consider adding scrambled eggs, or elevate it further with meat or vegetables. Popular additions include sausage, plantains, avocado, chicken, and pork. The more you add, the messier it becomes!

A Spicy Pupusa from Belize

In Belize, embrace local culture by grabbing a pupusa on your journey to explore. Originally from El Salvador, the pupusa is just as cherished in Belize as it is in its neighboring country. This thick corn pancake can be filled with cheese alone, or combined with beans or meat. It’s typically accompanied by curtido, a slightly fermented cabbage slaw with red chilis and vinegar. Feel free to add extra chili for a spicier kick.

A Traditional Corn Tortilla Taco in Mexico

It’s impossible to think of Mexico without tacos, and Mexican street tacos are truly exceptional. An authentic Mexican taco lacks the crunchy corn shell often found in the U.S. and is rarely filled with ground beef. Instead, it’s served on soft, small corn tortillas and filled with a variety of delectable meats. Be sure to try tacos al pastor, featuring pork slow-roasted on a spit with a hint of pineapple. Another must-try is cochinita pibil, a Mayan-style barbecue of pork marinated in orange juice and spices, then smoked in banana leaves and served with pickled onions. Other popular fillings include pollo, carne asada, carnitas, and pescado. Pair your tacos with a cold Sol, the local Mexican beer, or refreshing horchata, a sweet rice milk drink infused with vanilla and cinnamon. Now you’re experiencing true authenticity!

A Traditional Conch Salad in the Bahamas

Across the Bahamas, conch salad is a staple. This classic dish features a delightful mix of fresh conch and vegetables like green peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It’s zested up with habanero chili and a tangy combination of orange, lemon, and lime juice. The unique Bahamian blend truly elevates the flavor. Don’t hesitate to savor the conch salad like a local... on the go!

A Delicious Patty Pastry in Jamaica

The beloved street food in Jamaica is the patty, a culinary remnant from the island's British colonial era. Known locally as ‘potty,’ this flaky pastry is packed with seasoned ground beef, and tens of thousands are devoured daily by hungry Jamaicans. The patty represents a fusion of cultures that shaped the nation: reminiscent of the British Cornish pasty, infused with curry spices brought by Indian indentured servants, and seasoned with cayenne pepper introduced by African slaves. Truly, the patty is a national treasure—visiting Jamaica without trying one is incomplete!

Jerk Chicken in the Cayman Islands

While jerk chicken is often linked to Jamaica, this iconic dish is equally loved and celebrated in the Cayman Islands. The finest jerk chicken can be found sizzling in large metal drums at roadside shacks. When unsure, trust the locals! This spicy chicken is marinated with scotch bonnet peppers and allspice, typically accompanied by a slice of white bread. We suggest having a cold beverage ready, as the jerk chicken can pack quite a punch.

Now you’re truly dining like a local. Bon Appétit!