Chile's Restaurant in San Pedro

After five years in the same location, Chile's remains one of the most popular restaurants in San Pedro for two reasons: the up-close lake view and the variety of cuisine. Yet another reason is the free salsa lessons on Tuesday and Friday nights.

Outdoor Dining

Each meal is served with a splendid view of the lake from the wooden deck overlooking the Panajachel dock. The 16 tables on the deck are shaded by big umbrellas, and a palapa-style bar is outside as well. Both are great spots for people-watching as travelers debark from the lanchas.

You can choose from Italian, Dutch, Tex Mex or Asian dishes, as well as various fish, beef and chicken dinners. One favorite is the grilled fish cooked with garlic and herbs. Another is the chicken fajitas.

Vegetarians will appreciate the Thai curry and eggplant with pesto. (All vegetables are washed in purified water.)

Brunch and Lunch

There are ten kinds of sandwiches on the menu, all served on wheat or baguette. Three of these are cheese sandwiches like the unusual melted Camembert with honey and thyme. Others include tuna and the Chapin, with ham, sausage, bacon and avocado.

Breakfast brings more decisions. Granola or steak and eggs? Pancakes or omelets?

Dessert with a Difference

The desserts menu also presents unique delights: try a hot crepe with Amaretto or peaches with chocolate. Of course, on March 17 St. Patricks Day you'll want to have an Irish Cappuccino. Coffee lovers will return more than once for the French-pressed cafe, cappuccino or espresso.

Top it off with a few puffs off the Nargila water pipe, and you're on your way to a great day or night.