My experience at Cafe de Palo in Roatan, Honduras
Cafe de Palo is arguably one of Roatan’s best, yet most hidden, gems. The cafe is located in West End, a popular area in Roatan. West End is known for its local shops, restaurants, and beautiful beach. Everyone in West End is friendly and welcoming, which is a plus when traveling to a new country. The first time I visited Roatan (and trust me, was not the last time!), I took my best friend who is practically my sister, Mackenzie.
How I found Cafe de Palo
We met a local named Luis, who worked at the infamous Argentina Grill and owns his own freelance massage company. You can find Luis’ website where he offers different types of massages in Roatan. We instantly connected through his friendliness, as he offered suggestions of places to visit during our short time in Roatan.
My grandfather, who owns a condo in Roatan, knew Luis and his warm personality. After talking with Luis a few times, he offered to take Mackenzie and me on a West End tour! Presumably, he would show his favorite places to eat, local hidden gems, and then lunch. To say we were excited was an understatement.
Hanging out with a Roatan Local
Luis definitely did not disappoint us with his 2-hour tour of West End. Before lunch, we walked up the main street in West End, he showed us some of his favorite spots including Sandy Buns, a local cafe owned by Texans, Franks Burgers, Harry’s Hideout, and probably so many more that I can’t remember.
“I wanted to take you guys to Sandy Buns, but it looks like they are closed today. Are you up for a little bit of a walk?” He asked us. We were a bit hesitant because there were so many restaurants already we had passed, but he assured us that his second choice was well worth the walk–and to no surprise, it was.
Walking to Cafe de Palo
The walk to Cafe de Palo was not terribly bad, actually. It was probably a five-minute walk from the main street, maybe 10 from the main water taxi station. It seemed a little bit secluded, as we started walking on a dirt path to get there. If it weren’t for the numerous signs saying “Cafe de Palo” with arrows pointing down the path, we probably would have been scared.
After about 5 minutes, we arrive at this brown building, what seemed to be a hotel. We walk through this cute pathway, naturally shielded by the sun with tree branches.
Initial Thoughts
We were welcomed by a lovely waitress who promptly greeted us with menus and water. Not to our surprise, she seemed to recognize Luis. They were friends! It seemed as though he was friends with everyone. I guess that’s what happens when you live on the small island of Roatan all your life, you know everyone!
Trying the Food
The first time I went, I ordered the Nutella pancakes. Unfortunately, I do not have a picture of them to share, but believe me, they were absolutely scrumptious. Mackenzie tried the avocado toast and a side of fruit, which also did not disappoint.
Now that I have been to Roatan many times, and thus visited Cafe de Palo many times, I have tried a lot of their menu. Let me quickly give an overview of some of my favorite options on the Cafe de Palo menu. I’ll try to provide as many pictures as possible below.
1. Nutella Pancakes
As previously mentioned, the Nutella pancakes are to die for. They come with a side of fruit, and sometimes banana on top. It’s the perfect mix of pancake, chocolate, and banana. Probably not the healthiest of options, but when you’re on vacation–enjoy it!
2. Creamy Burrata Salad
This menu option is fairly new but is definitely a keeper. A mix of greens with avocado, tomatoes, mandarin orange slices, and other ingredients I probably couldn’t pronounce. Just see for yourself, this is a wonderful and healthy option!
3. Happy Hippie
Happy Hippie is a vegan sandwich, hosted with hummus, sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and red onion. Definitely comfort food, but one that won’t make you feel like crap after eating it!
4. Revolution Vegetarian
Revolution vegetarian is absolutely delicious. It has a bit of a kick to it, hence why it isn’t my #1 (I don’t bode well with spicy foods!). However, mild spice aside, it is very yummy. Toast with avocado, eggplant, mushrooms, tomatoes, and house sauce creates the legendary Revolutionary Vegetarian.
5. Tarzan Brekky
The Tarzan Brekky is listed first on Cafe de Palo’s menu for good reason. With a host of avocado, red beans, eggs, bacon, and cheese, alongside corn tortillas and hot sauce–the best! It is even better than it sounds, too.
The Best Drinks in West End
1. Iced Matcha Green Tea (with Almond Milk)
So far, out of all of the coffee, juices, and smoothies, this is my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, their coffee is amazing, hence why it is second. However, the matcha takes 1st place in my heart. It is absolutely delicious. I personally get mine with almond milk, as I think it adds a nutty flavor to the coffee.
2. Iced Coffee (with Almond Milk)
Cafe de Palo’s iced coffee is a close second with their matcha green tea. It’s smooth and chocolatey (flavor notes, not actual chocolate), made from local Honduran roasted beans. I get it with almond milk on the side for the perfect cup of iced coffee.
3. Hibiscus Flowers Iced Tea
The hibiscus flower iced tea is really, really good. I am not sure if it is locally made with hibiscus flowers, because there are so many in the area, or if it is premade. However it’s made, I don’t care. It’s so good! If you enjoy tea, definitely a must-try.
4. Kombucha
I’ve only tried Cafe de Palo’s kombucha once, but I must say it was pretty good (as good as kombucha can be!). I am not the biggest fan of kombucha’s taste, but often I put up with it for the generous benefits that it offers one’s body.
How to get to Cafe de Palo in Roatan
Cafe de Palo is located on West End in Roatan, Honduras. Technically, the address is Mangrove Bight, West End, Roatan 34101. If you don’t have a GPS to guide you and need more directions, the best I can give you is this: If you are near the water taxi station or at the beach in West End, keep walking until you find Cafe de Palo. When facing the beach on West End Road (the main road in West End with all of the shops and restaurants), go right until you get to Cafe de Palo.
Visit Roatan for the View and the Food
Roatan is a small island off the coast of Honduras that is a popular tourist destination. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and friendly people. Roatan is also a great place to try new food. The island has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from African, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisine. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, so you can find something to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a casual beachfront meal or a fine dining experience, Roatan has things to do for everyone.
