Julia, a native of Punta Gorda Town in Toledo and Cleveland, a popular
jazz musician from Belize City, visited Placencia in the 1970s while on
vacation and decided to make it their new home. As tourism was slowly budding in the fishing village, Julia, a well-travelled mother of seven with a worldly taste, saw a need to promote local cooking to the international consumer. She became the pioneer of full service dining in Placencia and introduced influences from Caribbean and international cuisine to traditional Belizean cooking. The Galley quickly developed a reputation as a culinary leader in
the South with mentions in many travel guides and even the New York Times. Julia was known as a beloved cook and hostess while Cleveland was famous
for entertaining guests with his many bar jokes and favorite jazz selections. At the Galley Restaurant & Bar, we have continued to prepare the
meals Julia introduced to the Placencia community over 30 years ago,
and we still play Cleveland’s favorite music. "The Galley Restaurant and Bar should not be missed by jazz lovers or those who enjoy good food. Cleveland and Julia Berry fix a fine T-Bone, as well as Creole style lobster. Try their famous 'Seaweed Drink' - similar to egg nog with a pleasing flavor and a shot of brandy for good measure. Locals giggle and say, "It's good for de back mon!" by which they mean it improves a man's performance of his husbandly duties.
