Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta: Best Restaurants by Area & Local Favorites

Puerto Vallarta is my favorite beach town in Mexico. Some of my favorite food memories have happened there. Most of them weren’t at fancy restaurants — fish tacos from a stand while chatting with the owner, fresh caught dorado at sunset or even just nachos and a paloma after a swim. Simple food, done right, in a city that makes everything taste better.

I’ve been coming to Puerto Vallarta long enough to have favorite spots that I go back to again and again. Unlike many “best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta” lists, every place on this list is somewhere I’ve personally eaten — many times more than once. It’s not exhaustive — the food scene in PV grows faster than I can keep up with but everything here is very much worth it.

Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta

In Puerto Vallarta, where you eat is almost as important as what you eat. The city is divided into five main tourist zones and understanding the layout makes getting around much easier. More importantly, when it comes to dinner, most visitors tend to stay close to their hotel. I organized this guide by zone so it’s convenient for finding restaurants without having to cross town for dinner.

I also created a Google Map of all the restaurants on the list. You can save it to your Google account or make your own saved list so you’ll have it ready when you land. It makes deciding where to eat or where to eat next that much easier.

As for Puerto Vallarta food itself — you’ll find a little bit of everything. The Pacific Coast is known for its seafood, but the proximity to Guadalajara means a few regional favorites too. Don’t leave without trying pescado zarandeado — a whole fish marinated and grilled — ceviche and aguachile but also try the al pastor, birria and pozole.

Puerto Vallarta Restaurants: Marina Zone

Best for: marina stays, walkable dining and easy access near the airport

The Marina Zone is just south of the airport and north of the Hotel Zone. It’s where you’ll find more standalone restaurants and less street food than in some of the other neighborhoods. For most visitors it’s either where you land or where your resort is. It’s not the neighborhood I choose first but it definitely has its advantages and few restaurants worthy of knowing about.

Tacon de Marlin — Near the Airport

When you arrive in Puerto Vallarta hungry the one place that shouldn’t be missed is right across the pedestrian bridge as you leave the airport. Tacon de Marlin before anything else. Schedule an Uber or wait for the bus while enjoying a smoked marlin tacón (a small folded burrito) and a cold Pacifico. That’s the best way to land in Puerto Vallarta. If the marlin has run out — and it does — the res, or beef, is just as good in my opinion. Marina Vallarta · Cash only · Google Map

D’Santini

A solid pick for a casual lunch or dinner in the Marina Zone is D’Santini. The menu includes Italian dishes, sandwiches and burgers but for me the star of the show is the wood-fired pizza with one of the thinnest, most flavorful crusts I’ve ever eaten in my life. Don’t ruin it with a lot of topping — pepperoni or veggies are the way to go. Marina Vallarta · Cash or card · Google Map

Casa Prime

For a meal a bit more upscale, Casa Prime serves steak, steak and more steak or “cortes” in Spanish. Even though it’s a chain restaurant with a few locations in other large Mexican cities, it’s worth a visit. And the atmosphere is just right for a special occasion or a nice date night. Marina Vallarta · Cash or card · Google Map

Cerveceria Chapultepec

This brewpub sits in the parking lot of the City Express hotel which sounds like a reason to skip it but you shouldn’t. It’s a locals place — good staff, fun and exactly the kind of place you go into and end up staying longer than you planned. Think tacos and bar food done well. I stuck to Pacifico but they have their own craft beer. Marina Vallarta · Cash or card · Google Map

Puerto Vallarta Restaurants in the Hotel Zone

Best for: resort stays, convenience and familiar dining options

The Hotel Zone is exactly what it sounds like — a stretch of large hotels and resorts, a few chain restaurants and tourist infrastructure along the bay. It’s perfectly fine in a Florida kind of way. It just doesn’t have as much authenticity as the Romantic Zone or Downtown but still, it has a place, especially if you’re staying in one of the resorts along the strip.

Los Muertos Brewing

When I’m craving a burger or pizza, I head to Los Muertos Brewing. The beer isn’t bad either. I appreciate a place that takes simple food and does it really well, and that’s what Los Muertos Brewing does. The burgers are good, the pizza hits the spot and the fresh hand-cut fries are just a bonus. Originally located in the Romantic Zone, Los Muertos Brewing now has a second location in Colonia Versalles near the Hotel Zone, making it even easier to get your burger, pizza and beer fix. Hotel Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

La Vaca Argentina

I’m a sucker for Argentinian food and since Mexico has a lot of immigrants from Argentina, I always look for Argentine restaurants when I’m traveling there. In Puerto Vallarta, La Vaca Argentina Steak House is the place. From the freshly baked bread when you sit down to the chimichurri and premium cortes of steak prepared the Argentine way — over a fire — you can’t miss. Hotel Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

La Madalena

La Madalena is a trendy restaurant and bar that serves up a bit of everything. The food is good but the bar makes out-of-this-world cocktails. The restaurant has a high energy vibe featuring a DJ most nights, so if you’re looking for a low key experience, this probably isn’t it. You could also totally skip the food and head stratight to cocktails. They’re that good. Hotel Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

Downtown Puerto Vallarta Restaurants

Best for: a mix of local places, casual eats and easy access to the Malecón

Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown, or Centro, has got it going on. Located south of the Hotel Zone, this neighborhood is a mix of local restaurants on the back streets and other eateries catering to tourists on the Malecón. There are so many good places I can’t include them all here but start with these recommendations.

Barcelona Tapas – Views & Spanish Tapas

Known for its Spanish tapas, excellent sangria and perfectly made gin and tonics, Barcelona Tapas is one of those restaurants that makes you want to linger after the last bite as the sun goes down over Banderas Bay. The rooftop views are some of the best in Puerto Vallarta, but the food is good enough that I’d recommend it even without the scenery. It’s perfect for a special occasion or just because. El Centro · Cash or card · Google Map

Mariscos Santa Anita

Mariscos Santa Anita is a little taco stand in a collection of taco carts on Calle Uruguay near Playa Camarones in el Centro. They serve a variety of seafood tacos, including marlin and quesadillas but the breaded shrimp tacos are awesome. I haven’t figured out their schedule yet and they aren’t open at night but those tacos are a perfect beach day lunch. El Centro · Cash only · Google Map

El Campanario

Even with no air conditioning and a line out the door in August — El Campanario is worth every sweaty minute of the wait. Once seated in the cute green chairs with a cold glass of agua de Jamaica in front of you, you’ll remember exactly why you came to Puerto Vallarta in the first place. This type of Mexican comfort food — cenaduría style — is the reason people brave the heat. El Centro · Cash or card · Google Map

La Bodeguita del Medio – Mojitos & Salsa Dancing

Whether you’re there for dinner, live music and dancing or just popping in for a mojito and a moment — La Bodeguita del Medio is where you will find the best Cuban food in Vallarta. I’ve eaten here more times than I can count and by far my fav thing on the menu is the vaca frita. Add some maduros — or sweet plantains — and that’s what dreams are made of. It gets really crowded in busy season. Go anyway. There’s nothing like dancing salsa on a Saturday night in PV with someone you just met. El Centro · Cash or card · Google Map

Rico Mac Taco

Rico Mac Taco is that restaurant that’s in a touristy area but not overly touristy — if that makes sense. It’s a great choice for a sit down meal in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood when everyone wants something different. The menu covers all the bases — soup, salad, Mexican, burgers and even pasta but just go ahead and order queso fundido with pico de gallo and thank me later. 5 de Diciembre · Cash or card · Google Map

El Barracuda – Beachfront & Fresh Seafood

There’s a special place that sits at the end of Playa Camarones — I’ve only been for drinks but plan on a proper visit next time I’m in town because when it’s sunset, El Barracuda is the place to be. I recommended it to some clients and they went almost every night of their vacation. The menu is small, the seafood is fresh and they have something I’ve never seen anywhere: shrimp al pastor. I can’t wait to try it. El Centro · Cash or card · Google Map

Best Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone

Best for: walkable dining, nightlife and some of the best food in the city

The Romantic Zone — or Old Town — sits just south of the Río Cuale and is my favorite neighborhood in all of Puerto Vallarta. There are more new buildings and condos than I’d like to see but it still feels like a piece of old Mexico in a big city. It’s also where I’ve spent the most time and eaten the most food. These are my favorites — but I still have a really long way to go.

Café de Olla – Breakfast Favorite

Hands down my number one choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Romantic Zone is Café de Olla. I can always count on amazing food anytime — breakfast is superb — with rich, delicious café de olla featuring their special piloncillo blend served in the cutest boxes on the table.

For dinner, the fresh catch is always delicious, along with the barbeque chicken and potatoes they grill right out front. Try to score a small table outside on the sidewalk — the people watching alone is worth the trip. Romantic Zone · Cash only · Closed Tuesday· Google Map

La Piazzetta

Italian dishes, pizza and one of the most decadent tiramisus is what’s on the menu at La Piazzetta. I didn’t expect to find that in Vallarta but I should know by now you can usually find whatever it is you’re craving. The outside patio is equally good for a casual date or a relaxed meal. And they do a pizza to-go when you just don’t feel like eating out. Romantic Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

The Blue Shrimp

I ate fresh dorado on the beach on Valentine’s Day at The Blue Shrimp surrounded by huge letters that spelled out LOVE. I decided to celebrate my solo trip because even when you’re eating alone, beachfront dining and cute waiters make everything better. Is there better seafood in Puerto Vallarta? Maybe. But you probably won’t be able to hear the ocean while you dine. Try it at least once. Romantic Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

Cuates y Cuetes – Beachfront Dining

Cuates y Cuetes may look like just another one of the many restaurants along Los Muertos Beach — but it’s my special place and a solid go-to for a quick snack, an after swim hang or a reliable dinner when I don’t want to try anything new. You get a front row view of the famous pier and traditional Mexican food, fresh seafood and nachos worth ordering every time. The live music — especially the jazz combo — keeps me coming back. Romantic Zone · Cash only · Google Map

Panchos Takos

Panchos Takos may not know how to spell tacos, jajaja — but they absolutely know how to make them. Their al pastor is life changing. You’ll have a new found appreciation for pork when you see the huge trompo quietly spinning just waiting to fill a tortilla for a delectable bite of taco. Don’t skip the salsas — they are exceptional — sample every one of them. Yes, there’s usually a line at Panchos but just get in it because in my opinion these are the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta. Romantic Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

Marisma Tacos

Tucked away under two huge ficus trees, Marisma Tacos has the best fish tacos in all of Puerto Vallarta. Mad with homemade tortillas and sauces that will make you wonder why you ever ate anywhere else. I’m not joking — I could eat here every day. The setting alone is worth finding and even on rainy days there’s enough room to not get wet. Try the expertly battered fish or shrimp tacos and you won’t be sorry. Romantic Zone · Cash only · Google Map

Jerusalem Express

When you need a break from tacos — and eventually you will believe it or not — Jerusalem Express delivers. Tabbouleh, falafel, hummus, traditional pickles and much more done properly by Alon, who is from Israel and brings that authenticity to every plate. The space is small but the food is anything but — a quiet reliable gem in the middle of all that Mexican food. Romantic Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

Best Puerto Vallarta Restaurants in the South Zone

Best for: scenic dining, day trips and restaurants with a view

The further south you go from Puerto Vallarta the more the city gives way to smaller properties, a few luxury resorts and gorgeous dramatic coastline. Even though I’ve been to Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlán this is the area I know the least about — most of my south zone experiences have been day trips Yelapa and Garza Blanca but I’m willing to make the drive.

Hacienda de Oro

I visited Vallarta Botanical Gardens — beautiful by the way — but after a humid trek down to the river I decided to cash in my complimentary agua de Jamaica — included with your ticket — at the restaurant and wow am I glad I did. Not only was the Jamaica tasty but the guacamole and shrimp tacos were delicious as well. Don’t skip the restaurant just because you’re there for the gardens. South Zone · Vallarta Botanical Gardens · Cash or card · Closed Monday · Google Map

Blanca Blue

Located about five miles south of the Romantic Zone inside Garza Blanca resort, Blanca Blue serves innovative —think Mexican food with a twist — in a space overlooking some of the bluest water in all of Puerto Vallarta. I can’t speak to lunch or dinner but the breakfast was wonderful. It’s an excellent first stop on a south beach day. The views alone justify the drive. South Zone · Cash or card · Google Map

Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Tips and FAQ

Do You Need Restaurant Reservations in Puerto Vallarta?

Most casual restaurants in Puerto Vallarta — think taco stands, palapa restaurants and neighborhood eateries don’t take reservations — you can walk right in. But for the restaurants that you plan your evening around — it’s worth making a reservation in advance and sometimes well in advance depending on the time of year.

High season in Puerto Vallarta runs roughly December through April. If you’re visiting during that time, especially around the holidays in December or Semana Santa, make your reservations earlier than you think you need to. And always check ahead of time if you have a big group.

Restaurants that typically require or strongly recommend reservations:

• Le Kliff—the sunset views make this one book up fast, reserve before you arrive in town
• La Capella—good for special occasions and books up ahead of time even for Saturday brunch
• Café des Artistes—a Vallarta institution, reservations recommended especially December through April

Many Puerto Vallarta restaurants take reservations by phone or WhatsApp rather than through OpenTable or Resy, so don’t be surprised if you can’t book online the way you would at home. A WhatsApp message to the restaurant a day or two ahead is usually all it takes.

Also keep in mind that August and September are slower months so many restaurants close or reduce hours for vacation and to get ready for another busy tourist season. Always check ahead before making a special trip in the summer months.

Paying for Your Meal in Puerto Vallarta

A few notes about paying at restaurants in Puerto Vallarta that will save you from an awkward moment at the end of an otherwise great dinner.

First — your server won’t bring the check until you ask for it. In Mexican dining culture, leaving the check on the table uninvited is considered rude — it signals you want the customer to leave. When you’re ready to go, just catch your server’s eye and ask for la cuenta por favor. It’s not slow service, it’s just how it works.

You also won’t be paying at a cash register. In Mexico, the server brings the check to your table and in most restaurants they’ll bring a card terminal directly to the table. The transaction happens right in front of you and is actually a much better system.

Before you pay, look at your check carefully. Make sure the prices match what was on the menu and check whether gratuity has already been added — especially during high season when restaurants are full of tourists. A service charge of 10 to 15 percent is sometimes added automatically and it’s easy to miss.

Tipping in Puerto Vallarta

Many card terminals don’t have a tip line or the tip doesn’t always make it to your server if it’s processed through the machine. There are enough stories circulating in traveler and expat groups about owners keeping credit card tips that it’s worth taking seriously. Bring pesos for tips and leave them on the table or with the server directly.

As for how much tip you should leave — a Mexican friend taught me to simply round up. I personally don’t feel that’s enough but then again, American tipping culture is to blame for mostly what’s wrong with tipping in the first place. At minimum, 15 percent is appropriate for good service and I wouldn’t leave less than that.

What to Wear in Puerto Vallarta Restaurants

Puerto Vallarta is a beach town and the dress code reflects that but it varies considerably depending on where you’re eating.

For casual beach and taco spots, shorts, sandals and a sundress are completely appropriate. And nobody is looking at your shoes.

The Romantic Zone restaurants are for more smart casual. A nice sundress or linen pants and shirt for women, a collared shirt or nice linen shirt for men. You don’t need heels — no one wants heels on Puerto Vallarta’s sidewalks and cobblestone streets — but you’ll probably feel out of place in a swimsuit.

For the upscale restaurants — Le Kliff, Barcelona Tapas, La Capella — dress up a little. Not formal, not a tie, but put together. Think resort elegant — a maxi dress, pants, collared shirts and maybe even a blazer for men —something that signals you’re there for the experience. La Capella in particular states no beachwear, flip-flops, tank tops or gym shorts.

Most restaurants aren’t going to turn you away for wearing the wrong thing but you’ll want to match the room. And one universal rule: even the casual restaurants prefer you not walk in straight from the beach dripping wet. Dry off and throw on a dress or shorts over your swimsuit.

Eating Your Way Through Puerto Vallarta

In Puerto Vallarta the best meals aren’t always the ones you research ahead of time. Sometimes they’re the taco stand you almost walked past, the restaurant you return to three times in one trip or the place you didn’t expect to love but can’t stop thinking about after you leave.

This list is a starting point — my recommendations after years of visiting — but the best part of eating in Puerto Vallarta is finding your own favorites along the way. If you need help planning your favorites — anything from where to stay to where to eat and everything in between —feel free to reach out with any questions.

Whatever else you do in Puerto Vallarta — find a Pacifico or a paloma and just enjoy the sunset.

See you south of the border!

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