When Rommy Kie first set foot in Belize in 1976, he was just a young man following his father’s dream. His father had traded the bustling streets of Hong Kong for the Caribbean breeze, opening a small bakery in Belize City. For two years, the sweet aroma of baked goods filled their days, but Rommy’s ambitions pulled him toward the world of savory dishes. He opened his own restaurant in the city, building a reputation for hearty meals and warm hospitality. Rommy also married a young lady from Caye Caulker that frequented his restaurant.
Meanwhile, family members in San Pedro ran a little restaurant of their own. They invited Rommy and his wife Neri to the island to see if he might be interested in taking over. The moment Rommy arrived, he was captivated—the sparkling turquoise sea, the friendly faces, and the easy rhythm of island life stole his heart. He didn’t just want to visit San Pedro. He wanted to stay.
A decade later, in 1986, Rommy’s culinary journey took an unexpected turn. The owners of Ramon’s Reef Resort (now Ramon’s Village Resort) approached him with an idea: would he consider running a restaurant at the resort? Rommie sold his restaurant in town and poured his energy into what would become Ramon’s Reef Restaurant, a tiny eatery with only 16 seats and a 15-dish menu.
A year later, when Richard Headrick purchased Ramon’s Village, he insisted Rommy had to stay on. His wish was for them to grow old and gray together. The dining room was completely remodeled to provide seating for 50 people and then a new kitchen able to support it was built. During the renovation period Rommy and his young family visited New Orleans, where he worked with Chef Paul Prudhomme at his K Paul’s Louisiana Restaurant, soaking in the bold spices and soulful cooking techniques. Rommy then returned to Belize eager to blend Cajun flavors with traditional Belizean dishes. The results were unforgettable.
Under Rommy’s leadership, the Restaurant at Ramon’s flourished and along the way became known as Pineapples On The Beach, a name as sunny and inviting as the island itself. His passion for food and love for people created a restaurant that felt like home to locals and visitors alike. For nearly 40 years, Rommy has been its heartbeat—working 16-hour days not out of obligation, but out of love. “It doesn’t feel like I’m at work,” he says with a smile. “I love it. I want the restaurant to thrive.”
This dedication is a family affair. Rommy’s son, Ronnie, joined Pineapples two decades ago. Together, father and son craft and refine the menu every single day. Ronnie dreams up new dishes, while Rommy brings them to life with his masterful touch. “We check the menu every day to see what we can improve,” Rommy says proudly.
Guests rave about the Steak On A Stone, the Pineapple Boat, and our Rasta Pasta—though Rommy himself has a soft spot for the Jolly Roger, a choice cut of filet with black pepper seasoning.
And he never forgets the people who make it all possible. “We have a great staff here,” Rommy says. “Gina takes care of us. Our waiters and waitresses are amazing.”
More than just a restaurant, Pineapples On The Beach is a family legacy built on hard work, culinary passion, and a love for the island. After nearly four decades, Rommy’s dream isn’t slowing down—and neither is he.