A Foodie’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta

close up photo of rice and tacos
Photo by Chitokan C. on Pexels.com

¡Buen Provecho! Puerto Vallarta’s Culinary Delights

Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a beach bum’s paradise, this vibrant Mexican town is a haven for gourmands with a smorgasbord of flavors waiting to tantalize your taste buds. From toes-in-the-sand seafood shacks to elegant fine-dining establishments, here’s a guide to the top 10 restaurants that will have you saying ¡buen provecho! (that’s “enjoy your meal” in Spanish) with a smile.

  1. For the Oceanfront Experience: La Palapa. Imagine digging your toes into the sand while indulging in freshly seared salmon and lobster shrimp tacos. La Palapa offers an iconic beachfront setting with a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or romantic dinner, serenaded by live music.
  2. A Tapas Treasure: Restaurante Barcelona Tapas Puerto Vallarta. Channel your inner Spaniard at this lively spot. Barcelona Tapas boasts a delectable array of small plates, perfect for sharing with friends as you sip on sangria and soak in the city and ocean views.
  3. Fine Dining with Flair: Cafe des Artistes. Calling all art lovers with discerning palates! Cafe des Artistes combines an elegant ambiance adorned with artwork with a menu that’s a masterpiece itself. Be prepared for an unforgettable culinary journey.
  4. Fresh Catch Delights: The Blue Shrimp Puerto Vallarta. Seafood lovers, rejoice! This open-air eatery lets you savor the bounty of the Pacific Ocean. From plump shrimp and mussels to overflowing seafood platters, The Blue Shrimp lives up to its name.
  5. A Taco Tour de Force: Pancho’s Takos. No Puerto Vallarta exploration is complete without experiencing the magic of authentic tacos. Pancho’s Takos is a local legend, serving up simple yet delicious tacos that are sure to become a vacation staple.
  6. Breakfast Bliss: Fredy’s Tucan. Start your day right at Fredy’s Tucan, a cheerful spot known for its generous portions and friendly service. Their fluffy pancakes and omelets are the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.
  7. Upscale Mexican with a Twist: Trio. This Puerto Vallarta mainstay is a favorite for a reason. Trio takes classic Mexican dishes and elevates them to new heights with creative presentations and innovative flavor combinations.
  8. Hidden Gem Alert: El Tacon de Marlin. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you. El Tacon de Marlin is a local favorite famed for its marlin tacos, a Puerto Vallarta specialty you won’t want to miss.
  9. Viva la Vista!: Le Kliff. Panoramic ocean views? Check. Stunning sunsets? Check. Exquisite French-Mexican fusion cuisine? Check, check, check! Le Kliff offers an unforgettable fine dining experience with a breathtaking backdrop.
  10. Craft Beer and Bites: Los Muertos Brewing. Craving something a little different? Los Muertos Brewing is your answer. This gastropub offers a wide selection of house-brewed beers alongside a menu of delicious pub fare. Perfect for a casual evening with friends.

This is just a taste (pun intended!) of the exciting culinary treasures that await you in Puerto Vallarta. So grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!