56 Philip Goldson Highway
Indian Hill Estate
Orange Walk Town
+501-322-2403
Open daily
Lunch and Dinner
Casual dining
Rustic
$$
This restaurant is located on the northern outskirt of town, at the second roundabout as you’re exiting Orange Walk Town.
The owner, Mr. Albino Vargas is an antique collector. The restaurant and bar is a myriad of old memorabilia, ranging from an organ to farm equipment. Albino also has a letter dated 1968, written by Belize’s then premier, the Right Hon. George Price to Albino’s father, extending his condolences on the death of a family member in the village of San Roman, Rio Hondo. George Price is considered the father of independence in Belize.
The restaurant and bar are in a thatched building, quaintly lit. The atmosphere is relaxing and quiet.
Some all time Mestizo favorites can be found here: Escabeche, Relleno Negro, Pib.
If you’re not feeling adventurous, El Establo also offers popular menu items such as Quesadillas, Fajitas, Belizean Rice and Beans. Dinner options include Garlic shrimp, grilled fish, grilled chicken, aracherra steak, t-bone steak, pork chops. Sides are fries, veggie salad or steamed veggies.
You can always get a good Salpicon at El Establo. Salipcon is similar to a seafood ceviche except it is smoked pork cut in cubes, tomatoes, onions, cilantro and bathed with lime juice. It is also served with tortilla chips.
Sundays are big days at El Establo, since foods unique to Northern Belize are served. Two popular meals are Relleno Negro and Escabeche. The Relleno is a black soup similar to the Chirmole, but additionally cooked with a free roaming yard chicken, stuffed with ground pork.
The Escabeche is an onion soup, seasoned with Oregano and Pimienta Gorda, served with a crispy baked chicken and corn tortillas.
Please note that these local foods are naturally hot and spicy.
The prices are reasonable and the drinks are stiff. Good value!