Top 4 Places to Eat in Livingston

Written by Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
Livingston, Izabal - Guatemala
Exploraguate, Wikimedia Commons

Livingston's culinary landscape offers an authentic taste of Garifuna and Caribbean influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood.

1. Las Tres Garifunas

Cuisine: Authentic Garifuna Caribbean Cuisine

Las Tres Garifunas immerses diners in a vibrant atmosphere with its authentic Garifuna Caribbean cuisine. The extensive menu features traditional dishes such as *caracoles*, *Langosta*, and the renowned *Tapado*, alongside staple sides like *platano frito* and *arroz con frijoles*. It is highly regarded as one of Livingston's most typical restaurants, offering a truly authentic, family-owned experience with friendly and helpful staff. Guests can also try *Gifiti*, the traditional local liquor.

Price: Meals typically range from 80 GTQ (approximately 10 USD) to 150 GTQ (approximately 19 USD) per person.

Getting There: The restaurant is centrally located in the heart of Livingston, on the main street of the market, easily accessible by walking from the main dock area.

2. Happy Fish Restaurant

Cuisine: Garifuna Cuisine and Seafood

Happy Fish Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Garifuna cuisine, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers. Its signature dish is the flavorful *Garifuna Tapado*, a rich seafood and plantain soup prepared in spicy coconut milk. Beyond the renowned soup, the restaurant serves mouthwatering fried shrimp. The location by the sea, near the Rio Dulce river mouth, provides pleasant views, a refreshing sea breeze, and often features live Garifuna music on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere.

Price: Dishes generally range from 85 GTQ (approximately 11 USD) to 160 GTQ (approximately 21 USD) per person.

Getting There: The recommended location is by the sea, close to the river mouth of Rio Dulce, and is a short walk from the main area of town.

3. Restaurante El Malecón

Cuisine: Varied Local and International Cuisine

Restaurante El Malecón offers a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, including fresh seafood, traditional local dishes like *arroz con pollo*, and even Chinese cuisine. The *Tapado*, a rich Garifuna seafood soup made with coconut milk and green plantains, is a standout and highly recommended. Known for being clean, reliable, and one of the most affordable dining options in Livingston, it is a convenient choice for a satisfying meal.

Price: Expect to find affordable options, with main dishes typically between 60 GTQ (approximately 8 USD) and 120 GTQ (approximately 15 USD).

Getting There: The restaurant is conveniently located right in the heart of town, just a short walk up the street from the main dock.

4. Gamboa Place

Cuisine: Authentic Guatemalan, specializing in Tapado

Gamboa Place is highly recommended for an exceptional *Tapado* experience, particularly their *Tapado Mixto*, which features fried fish, fresh shrimp, and crabs in a delightful green sauce with green bananas. Despite a humble appearance, the service is excellent, and the family operating it is notably friendly. The *Tapado* here is considered outstanding, with generous and tasty portions.

Price: A substantial bowl of *Tapado* is approximately 105 GTQ (around 13.5 USD), offering a significant amount of seafood.

Getting There: Gamboa Place is located slightly off the main thoroughfare, reachable by a short walk or an inexpensive tuk-tuk ride from the main area of Livingston.

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