Abundantly fertile and blessed with year-round tropical weather, Guyana is rich in local foods and known for its exotic fruits, fresh vegetables and grains, free-range chicken and beef, and diversity of fish species.

Guyana is a melting pot of culture, and you can truly see that in the local cuisine. Traditional Guyanese cuisine is inspired by the Indigenous Peoples, who have always lived off of the abundance of the land. Other influences stem from East Indians, Africans, and Chinese, colonial occupiers like the British and Dutch, and the neighboring Caribbean nations.

Cassava, split peas and lime are some of the most popular ingredients used in local Guyanese dishes. Cassava bread is a staple in Indigenous Communities and is often paired with pepper pot (often hailed as the ‘national dish of Guyana’), meat curries and vegetables. In Indian households, brown rice and dhal (a gravy dish made with split peas) are popularly served with masala-based curries and stewed local vegetables. The African community is well known for its contribution of cook-up rice, conke and foo foo. The European settlers’ contribution of garlic pork and a variety of pastries is now a staple in the Guyanese diet.  Cassava pone, pholourie, metemgee, farine based dishes, fried bora, salt fish and bake, fish cake and Indian bara are some of the other local dishes to try in Guyana.

Caribbean, Asian and South America flavours merge together to offer a diverse menu of street food and snacks in the country. Split pea fritters called pholourie are one of the most popular street snacks available in markets. Chinese style noodles, Indian inspired bara, Guyanese fudge, sugar cake made from local cane sugar and coconut, egg balls and plantain chips are other popular options for a perfect snack when strolling in the market or shopping.

Georgetown has a vibrant dining culture. It has an ample variety of local and international cuisines that entice locals and travellers alike. From plush restaurants to casual dining options, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in Georgetown that make hanging out during the evening fun. While outside of Georgetown, you will have to seek out recommendations for great dining experiences. Your efforts will be rewarded with local spots that will likely be the culinary highlight of your trip. You can find more information under Cities and Towns.

A designated week to honour the diversity of food in Guyana gave birth to Guyana Restaurant Week, which is celebrated two times a year. In May and November, participating restaurants notch up their offerings and showcase their best dishes. This is the best time to get deals and discounts and enjoy a whole week of eating out, sampling excellent dishes and the rich variety of cuisine.

Guyana’s love for music and dance is legendary, just like its Caribbean and Brazilian neighbours. Georgetown is the best place for hitting pubs and discos where one can party till the wee hours of the morning. Palm Court, Baroombar, Gravity Lounge, Bollywood Nightclub (link), Club RainArena and Latino Bar & Nightclub are some of the best nightlife places of Guyana. For music lovers, you can make your way to the Duke or Hard Rock Cafe for Wednesday night karaoke, the Ignite Bar at the Pegasus Hotel for live poolside music on the weekends, or the Strip at the Giftland Mall for local bands belting out popular music covers. A couple other major towns have nightlife spots that are popular among the locals and travellers alike. You can find more information under Cities and Towns.