Georgetown's food scene has exploded in recent years. From reservation-only fine dining experiences that rival anything in the Caribbean to humble puri shops that have been perfecting their craft since the 1950s, Guyana's capital offers something for every palate and budget.
Whether you're a tourist looking for authentic Guyanese flavors or an expat craving international cuisine, this guide covers the 15 best restaurants in Georgetown based on local recommendations, Google reviews, and our own visits.
Fine Dining & Special Occasions
1. Nikkei Guyana $$$
(64 reviews) - The hottest table in Georgetown
Chef-owner brings Peruvian-Japanese fusion to Guyana with stunning results. The tasting menu changes seasonally and showcases local ingredients in unexpected ways. Reservation only — book at least a week in advance.
2. Backyard Café $$$
(92 reviews) - Where Anthony Bourdain would eat
Chef Delven Adams has put Guyanese cuisine on the world map. His reservation-only restaurant serves elevated versions of local classics using only the freshest ingredients. The menu changes based on what's available at the market that day.
3. Terra Mare Restaurant $$$
(45 reviews) - Marriott's flagship restaurant
Located in the Guyana Marriott, Terra Mare offers an impressive fusion of Indian, Thai, Japanese, and Italian cuisines. Great for business dinners or special occasions with waterfront views.
International Favorites
4. Aagman Indian Restaurant $$
(349 reviews) - Best Indian in Guyana
Rich, authentic Indian cuisine in a beautiful setting. The paneer tikka masala is legendary, and the biryani portions are generous. Perfect for groups.
5. Texas de Brazil $$$
(704 reviews) - All-you-can-eat Brazilian
The famous churrascaria brings tableside service of endless grilled meats. Come hungry — the gaucho chefs keep coming until you flip your card to red.
6. New Thriving Restaurant $$
(582 reviews) - Georgetown's Chinese institution
A Georgetown institution for decades. The outdoor balcony seating is perfect for people-watching, and the dim sum on weekends draws crowds. Expect generous portions.
7. Hard Rock Cafe $$
(475 reviews) - Reliable international chain
You know what you're getting — classic American fare, music memorabilia, and good vibes. Great for families and groups who want something familiar.
Local Favorites & Street Food
This is where Georgetown really shines. These aren't fancy restaurants — they're institutions.
8. Shanta's Puri Shop $
(534 reviews) - The legendary puri shop since 1955
If you eat at only one place in Georgetown, make it this one. For almost 70 years, Shanta's has been serving the best puri and roti in Guyana. The lines start early, and they sell out fast. Cash only.
9. German's Restaurant $
(320+ reviews) - Authentic Guyanese comfort food
No-frills spot serving the dishes Guyanese grow up eating. The cook-up rice is excellent, the pepperpot is authentic, and the prices are incredibly fair.
Explore All Georgetown Restaurants
Browse our complete directory of 50+ restaurants, cafes, and eateries across Georgetown with ratings, hours, and contact info.
View Food & Drink GuideQuick Bites & Casual Dining
10. Oasis Cafe $$
- Best coffee and brunch
The go-to spot for expats and digital nomads. Great coffee, reliable WiFi, and an all-day brunch menu. Perfect for working remotely.
11. The Apartment $$
- Trendy rooftop vibes
Modern lounge-restaurant with a great rooftop space. Popular for after-work drinks and casual dinner with friends. International menu with local twists.
Tips for Dining in Georgetown
- Reservations: Essential for Nikkei and Backyard Café. Recommended for weekend dinners elsewhere.
- Cash: Many local spots are cash-only. ATMs are widely available.
- Tipping: 10-15% is standard. Some restaurants add service charge automatically.
- Best time to visit Shanta's: Arrive before 10am to avoid the longest lines.
- Dress code: Smart casual for fine dining. Casual everywhere else.
- Water: Stick to bottled water at all restaurants.
What to Eat in Guyana
New to Guyanese food? Here are the essential dishes to try:
- Pepperpot — The national dish. A rich meat stew with cassareep (cassava-based sauce). Traditionally served at Christmas but available year-round.
- Cook-up rice — Rice and peas cooked in coconut milk with meat. Guyanese comfort food at its finest.
- Puri & channa — Fried flatbread with curried chickpeas. The breakfast of champions.
- Metemgee — Coconut-based soup with ground provisions and dumplings.
- Roti — Flatbread filled with curried meat or vegetables. Different from Trinidadian style.
- El Dorado rum — Not food, but essential. The 15-year is world-class.
Plan Your Georgetown Trip
Get the complete guide to Georgetown — attractions, hotels, transport, and more.
Things to Do in GeorgetownMap of Georgetown Restaurants
Most restaurants listed here are located in central Georgetown, within the Bourda, Campbellville, and Kitty neighborhoods. MovieTowne restaurants (Texas de Brazil, Hard Rock) are on the East Bank, about 15 minutes from downtown.
Getting around: Taxis are affordable and widely available. Most trips within Georgetown cost GYD 500-1000 ($2-5 USD).
Last updated: January 2026. Know a restaurant we missed? Contact us and we'll add it to the list.