Wish Willy Bar & Grill

Wish Willy 🦞 is hyped up - the vibes are great, you can bring your own drink or choose stuff from the cooler, he’s very laid back if you need to go and get cash out (he doesn’t take card) he’ll trust you to go and come back after the meal. The toilet door doesn’t lock and swings open to maybe go before you arrive! We had a lobster/fish mix as there wasn’t enough lobster 🦞 and it was good 👍 but you can get a more decent size portion of lobster at a few other grill places. COME EARLY/reserve a table with him in the day.

Wish Willy Bar & Grill is one of those places that captures everything good about Caye Caulker—laid-back vibes, unreal food, and that feeling like you’re just hanging in a friend’s backyard. Most nights, the sun’s going down, the grill’s fired up, reggae is rolling through the air, and Maurice is behind the scenes working his magic. Grab a seat at one of the long picnic tables for a family-style setup, or tuck into one of the covered spots if it looks like rain. Drinks are self-serve—just keep your empties and square up after your meal, island-style. The food? Chicken, fish, and lobster are all top-tier. If you’re lucky (or plan ahead), ask for the hummus plate—trust me, it’s something special. Portions are perfect, flavors are incredible, and the backyard vibe makes every bite better. Maurice is a legend. Usually busy cooking, but if the pace slows down, take the chance to chat—and don’t forget to say hi to the dogs! We kept coming back for the chill atmosphere, the consistently amazing food, and prices that feel more than fair (around $25 BZD per plate). Just ask if you’re unsure—Maurice will let you know what’s up. A true island gem worth revisiting again and again.

We loved the unique on the dock dinner reservation experience! We got to meet the owner, Willy, who was very friendly and easy going. The food was cooked perfectly and seasoned to perfection. This is a must-visit place near the split!

This place is incredible. Wish Willy’s was the best meal we had in Caye Caukler. It’s hard to explain but it is like a beach bbq in his backyard, where he offers you a beer or soda when you sit down and them cooks an incredible meal of lobster tail, fresh sautéed vegetables and a side dish of pasta. Highly recommend.

Top place in Caye Caulker. Feels like a guy bbq’ing in his backyard (pretty sure it actually is). Take drinks out of the fridge, he just asks what you want grilled, no real menu, but very reasonable prices. We had lobster and fish and the fish was genuinely amazing (lobster was great too)! Just chill and relax and have some amazing food. Must do dinner when visiting Caye Caulker

The barracuda curry here was amazing!! This restaurant is literally in Willy’s backyard and has communal benches. Bring/wear bug repellent though because we were getting bit like crazy!

We first visited Maurice 23 years ago on a trip to Caye caulker - and were determined to spend some time at Wish Willies again this time returning with kids. Food is exceptional- the rub for his chicken is out of this world, and cooked to perfection. Our son is now taken with lobster (might have to change when home), and fish dishes also amazing. The laid back environment just makes it perfect - great music, help yourself to drinks, and feels like dinner with mates. You have to head here when on the island! Highly Recommended!!!

If you eat one meal in Belize - make it this place. Feel blessed to have found this spot - amazing food, vibe and price. Made to feel so welcome by Willy who is a kind soul and an incredible chef. Planning to return to Belize from the UK for the opportunity to eat here again!!