La Dolce Vita Placencia: Authentic Italian Dining
- Craig Densham
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant - This beloved spot has become a must-visit for travelers and locals alike — a cozy, candlelit retreat where handmade pasta, rich sauces, and fine wine meet the easy rhythm of Belizean coastal life.
A Taste of Italy in Belize
Run by Chef Simone De Angelis, who hails from northern Italy, La Dolce Vita delivers authenticity with every bite. The menu is built on the Italian philosophy of fresh, simple, quality ingredients — a rare find in the tropics.
Signature dishes include:
Lobster Risotto – creamy, rich, and unforgettable during lobster season.
Tagliatelle with Shrimp & Garlic Cream Sauce – handmade pasta that melts in your mouth.
Osso Buco with Polenta – a hearty Italian classic served with a Belizean twist.
Homemade Tiramisu – light, luscious, and made daily in-house.
Pair your meal with a glass of Italian Chianti or crisp Pinot Grigio from their curated wine list — the perfect complement to a Caribbean sunset.
The Atmosphere
Dining at La Dolce Vita feels like being invited into a friend’s seaside home. The open-air setting captures the essence of Placencia — laid-back yet elegant. Candlelight flickers off rustic wooden tables, and soft music plays as waves lap nearby.
It’s a place where conversation flows easily, where Chef Simone often greets guests personally, and where every meal ends with laughter — and maybe an extra sip of limoncello.
Why Locals & Visitors Love It
La Dolce Vita isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. It’s where honeymoons are toasted, where friends gather for long dinners, and where travelers discover just how perfectly Italian food pairs with Belizean hospitality.
For many, it’s the best restaurant in Placencia — not only for the food but for the warmth and charm that keep people coming back year after year.
Location & Tips
Address: Placencia Road, Placencia Village, Belize
Reservations: Recommended (especially in high season)
Hours: Dinner only — typically 5 PM – 9 PM
Facebook: La Dolce Vita Placencia
Pro Tip: Visit during lobster season (June–February) for the freshest seafood specials.
Stay Close By
For guests staying at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, La Dolce Vita is just a short golf cart ride away — making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or relaxing evening after a day of sun and sea.
The Sweet Life in Placencia
“La Dolce Vita” means the sweet life — and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. Between the scent of basil, the sound of the ocean, and the warmth of good company, this little Italian treasure in Placencia serves up more than a meal — it serves a memory.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
