The Buddha Bar in San Pedro

A Tibetan flag flying free over a three-story orange building, The Buddha is a landmark on the party map of Lake Atitlan.

Images of Buddha fill the first floor: behind the bar, on the walls, and in the larger-than-life wooden statue that was was last seen on the set of the film, Apocalypse Now.

Especially after knocking back a Thai Islands Iced Tea (an ounce each of rum, tequila, vodka and gin, shaken with a secret blend) only one of the lake's widest selections of exotic house cocktails.

The bar has a pool table and darts, nargila hookahs, and, of course, tables for dining and drinking. An eclectic play list delivers background music. Atmosphere varies from that of a blues bar, to a Parisian cabaret, to a Fellini film.

In the OM Lounge on the second floor, viewer's choice movies are shown on a big screen from 7-9 PM. This is also a pleasant setting for dinner.

Up on the Roof

The roof has its own bar. With 360-degree views of the lake and volcano, it's a good place to sit and watch the wheels go 'round.

Special events such as last December's "Burning of the Devil" take place here. During holidays, the roof is great for watching the fireworks. The Happy Buddha Pizza Oven is another good reason to hang out on the roof.

Live Music

Local groups play on Monday and Friday nights. Specialty acts range from acoustic guitar and vocals to clowns. It's the variety that keeps people coming back to The Buddha: they're never sure what to expect, except that it will be fun.

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Asian Cuisine

Buddha's menu focuses on Asian dishes such as Daniel's Tantric Tofu Steak, Singapore Noodles and Malaysian Nasi Goreng.

The menu features a wide selection of curries. (Well look at the restaurant in more detail in a future issue.)

The Buddha is on the main trail in San Pedro, between Jarachik and el Barrio. It opens at noon and is closed on Tuesdays. Happy Hour is 12-5 PM, 8-9 PM.

For more information and photos, see The Buddha