By Belize Live News Staff: San Pedro Town is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished figures, Elvia Staines, affectionately known as “Doña Elvia,” who passed away today at the age of 92. As the founder and driving force behind Elvi’s Kitchen, a renowned restaurant on Ambergris Caye, Staines was a pioneer in Belize’s culinary and tourism industries.
Born on January 31, 1932, in San Pedro, Staines dedicated her life to her family and her restaurant. Alongside her husband, Enrique Staines Sr., she raised six children. Following his passing 23 years ago, Staines continued to lead Elvi’s Kitchen with the support of her daughter, Jennie Pinelo.
Elvi’s Kitchen began in 1974 as a modest burger stand called Elvi’s Burger Isle. Under Staines’ leadership, it grew into a celebrated seafood destination that blended Belizean cuisine with exceptional hospitality. The restaurant’s signature flamboyant tree, which shades the dining area, has become a symbol of its enduring legacy.
Over the years, Elvi’s Kitchen gained both national and international acclaim. Staines was awarded the prestigious International Gold Star Award for Quality and Excellence in 1996, and the restaurant was recognized as the Restaurant of the Year in 2022 by the Belize Tourism Board. Staines’ efforts not only elevated Belizean cuisine but also cemented her role as an ambassador for the island’s cultural and culinary heritage.
Beyond her work in hospitality, Staines was deeply involved in her community. She was an active member of the Lions Club of San Pedro for over 25 years, where her humanitarian efforts earned her the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award.
In a statement, the Belize Tourism Board honored her legacy, stating, “Mrs. Staines’ passion for Belizean cuisine and her dedication to the people of San Pedro will forever be remembered.”
Elvia Staines is survived by her children and a community that deeply feels her loss. Her impact on Belizean culture and her contributions to her community will continue to inspire future generations.
