Puerto Vallarta Restaurants: A Guide to the Best Places to Eat, and Top Food Spots

There is something about Puerto Vallarta that always pulls you back. It may be the golden coastlines or the cobblestone charm. But once you have tasted the local food? You are hooked forever. That happened to me as well.  

When I landed for the first time, I dropped bags at the hotel, and stepped out for a walk. Even that first walk ended with grilled octopus on my plate and lime juice dripping from my fingers.

One thing I can say for sure is that Puerto Vallarta does not ask you to come hungry. It makes you hungry. The smell of tacos sizzling on a street corner. The sound of clinking glasses at a beachfront café. The sight of a shrimp tostada piled so high that you almost need a fork.

Over the years, I have eaten at rooftop bistros, back-alley taquerías, fancy date-night spots, and other places. Each time, I find something new. Something unforgettable.

So if you are headed to this coastal gem and wondering where to eat first or next then you are in the right place. I have pulled together the ultimate guide to Puerto Vallarta restaurants. It will cover local favorites, fine dining, all-inclusive gems, and some personal picks I keep dreaming about.

Why Puerto Vallarta Food Has a Flavor of Its Own

There is a reason people talk about Puerto Vallarta food like it is a story and not just a meal.

This coastal city does not have only beaches. It also has food that speaks a local language with a global accent. You will find fresh seafood straight from the Pacific. But you will also taste the roots of Mexico’s heartland, with dishes passed down for generations.

What makes it different? Three things:

• The ocean is right there. That means snapper, octopus, and shrimp are often caught the same day they land on your plate.
• The recipes are real. Many of the best bites come from family-owned kitchens. They have been doing this forever which ensures the unforgettable taste and they do not rush it.
• The world came to Vallarta. Chefs from all over Mexico and beyond now live here. So you get tacos next to Thai noodles, ceviche beside French pastries, all done with local love.

Grilled fish feels special here. The lime adds a fresh kick to the chili. You can hear the waves nearby. Puerto Vallarta Mexico restaurants know how to make you feel at home.

Related: If it is your first time, read my guide on best Mexican food in Mexico.

What to Know Before You Dine Out

Before you grab a table at one of the many nice restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, here are a few things that will help you for a better experience.

1. Meal times are different

Locals do not eat dinner early. Most people go out after 7 PM and some restaurants will not even open before then. Lunch is usually the biggest meal of the day and happens between 2 and 4 PM. If you are hungry earlier then cafés and street food spots can help.

2. Reservations help

Some of the top spots in town fill up fast, especially on weekends. So if you are planning for a popular seafood place or a romantic rooftop with a view, book ahead. Even some small family-run restaurants take reservations through WhatsApp or social media.

3. Prices vary a lot

You can get a delicious taco on the street for less than $1. Or you can sit down at a fine dining place with views of the bay and spend over $50 per person. Many of the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta fall somewhere in the middle. Expect to pay around $10–$25 USD per meal at mid-range places.

4. Tipping is expected

Tips are not always included in the bill. A 10–15% tip is standard, and many servers rely on it. If service was great, feel free to tip more.

5. Service is slower, and that is okay

Dining in Puerto Vallarta is not rushed. Meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly. Do not expect quick check-ins or the bill without asking. Relax, enjoy the moment, and take your time.

Best Puerto Vallarta Restaurants (Top Local Favorites)

1. Tuna Azul

Calle Púlpito 120, Zona Romántica, Puerto Vallarta
+52 322 688 6281
Known for lobster tacos, shrimp tostadas, and strong margaritas

Tuna Azul is one of those places that gets the seafood just right. It is located on the second and third floors of a small corner building in the Zona Romántica. No elevator here, so you will have to take the stairs. But once you are up there, the breeze and view make it worth it.

The lobster tacos are the main highlight. You get a full tail tucked into a warm tortilla. It is perfectly and lightly grilled and topped with creamy chipotle sauce. We also tried the tostadas de pulpo (octopus tostadas). Crispy, fresh, and full of flavor.

The aguachile comes in green or red. You can even ask for it mild or spicy. But, I would suggest you go for something spicy if you want the real thing.

They serve strong margaritas, either frozen or on the rocks. Try the classic lime first. It is perfect with seafood. The place stays cool with ceiling fans even on hot days. Menus are available in Spanish and English, and the staff is super friendly.

No need for a reservation. We walked in both times and got a table right away. Tuna Azul is simple, relaxed, and seriously good.

2. El Andariego

Av. México 1358, 5 de Diciembre, Puerto Vallarta
Traditional Mexican food, home-style service

El Andariego feels like someone invited you into their family kitchen. It is not fancy, but the food speaks for itself.

We went for breakfast first. I had chilaquiles verdes with eggs on top. Crispy, saucy, and spicy. It was just how I liked them. My friend ordered molletes with beans and melted cheese. Big portions, and they brought fresh orange juice that actually tasted like oranges.

Later in the week, we came back for dinner. Their carne en su jugo was packed with flavor. Warm tortillas came on the side, and we did not waste a drop of the broth. The place was filled with locals, which usually tells you the kitchen knows what it is doing.

The service was relaxed, and the owner even walked by to ask if everything was okay. It is a solid spot if you want the best Puerto Vallarta food without any show.

3. La Leche

Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio KM 2.5, Hotel Zone
Modern, playful fine dining — white-themed interior

La Leche is not just a restaurant. Must go there for a wild little food experience. Everything inside is white. White walls, white chairs, even white menus. Sounds weird, but it works.

There is no printed menu. The waiter walks over and explains what the chef made that day. It changes daily, so it keeps things fresh.

We started with crab-stuffed ravioli and a creamy corn soup that had this smoky touch. The main dish was duck breast with tamarind sauce. It was soft and sweet and melted in the mouth.

The staff here was smooth. There was no rush and no pressure. Everything felt relaxed. They explained each dish like they were proud of it. And they should be.

Best places to eat in Puerto Vallarta usually means great food and great views. But here, it is just about food. And honestly, that is enough.

4. El Puerco de Oro

Lázaro Cárdenas 271, Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta
Slow-cooked pork, tacos, local flavors

If you love tacos, do not miss El Puerco de Oro or you will regret it. It is small and easy to miss, but once you try the food, you will come back. That is what happened to me.

I love their carnitas tacos. It is Juicy pork, soft corn tortillas, and a salsa that hits just right. No need to dress it up. Just meat, onions, and green salsa. That is all you need.

Then we tried their torta ahogada, a drowned pork sandwich. It came swimming in red sauce, and we had to ask for extra napkins, totally worth it.

The guy behind the counter moves fast. But he is friendly too. You can watch him chop pork like a machine. Locals kept coming in and out the whole time we sat there.

It is not fancy. There is no tablecloth. But it might just serve the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta if you like them rich and messy.

5. Café des Artistes

Guadalupe Sánchez 740, El Centro, Puerto Vallarta
Elegant dining, French-Mexican fusion

Café des Artistes is where you go if you are dressing up for the night. It is elegant and does not feel stiff. There is a quiet garden in the back with soft lighting and fountains.

We went for a long dinner. They brought small bites between courses, like a little spoon of ceviche before the starter. I had the roasted sea bass with plantain crust, and my wife picked the beef tenderloin with mole sauce. Every bite felt like someone had thought about it for hours.

The dessert? Chocolate tamale with chili. It may sound strange but tasted amazing.

This is not your everyday place. But if you want to celebrate something, or just try one of the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, this is it.

6. Tacos Sahuayo

Calle Honduras 118, 5 de Diciembre
Local taco stand, big flavors

If you ask locals about tacos, many will send you to Tacos Sahuayo. It is not a fancy place. Just a small stand with plastic chairs. But the food? Amazing.

We tried the birria tacos. The meat was soft, juicy, and full of flavor. They serve it with a cup of hot broth that you can dip the taco in. It is messy, but so good.

You will find people here late at night. After the beach or a long day out, this spot hits just right. If you are exploring authentic Puerto Vallarta restaurants, then do not skip this one.

7. Qulture

Calle Allende 124, El Centro
Food, wine, and local art

Qulture is not just a restaurant. It is also an art gallery. There are local paintings on the walls and live music some nights.

We ordered a plate of ahi tuna tartare and a mango shrimp salad. The food was light and fresh. There is also a wine bar inside, so you can also get a glass of red to go with it.

It is a peaceful place. You can sit, eat slowly, and enjoy the vibe. If you like art and want a slower dinner, this is a good pick among Puerto Vallarta Mexico restaurants.

8. Cenaduría Chepina

Francisco I. Madero 470, Emiliano Zapata
Home-style Mexican comfort food

If you want dinner that feels like grandma made it, head to Cenaduría Chepina. This is where locals eat at night. No tourists, no loud music. This is the place where you will get the best food in Puerto Vallarta.

They serve dishes like pozole, enchiladas, and sopes. We had the picadillo tostadas, and they came with fresh salsa and cheese on top.

It is very affordable. You will not spend much, and still you will leave full.

9. Makai Restaurant

Púlpito 109, Zona Romántica
Ocean views and seafood

Makai Restaurant is located right by the water. The view is the first thing you notice and it is a rare one. The sound of waves makes everything more relaxing.

We started with grilled octopus and then tried the mahi mahi tacos. Everything was fresh. You could tell the fish came straight from the ocean.

There is also a great cocktail list. Try the tamarind margarita. It is sweet and a little sour. If you are looking for oceanfront Puerto Vallarta restaurants, this one should be on your list.

10. Gaby’s Restaurant

Mina 252, El Centro
Classic Mexican food in a casual space

Gaby’s Restaurant has been around for a long time. Families and couples both love it. The space is colorful and filled with plants.

We tried the mole poblano chicken and a side of sopa de tortilla. Both were rich in flavor. The mole had a deep, chocolatey taste with spice.

There is also a rooftop with a few tables. At sunset, it feels special. This is one of those nice restaurants in Puerto Vallarta that people return to every trip.

11. La Tienda Grande

Calle Francisco I. Madero 272, Emiliano Zapata
Taco shop with a twist

La Tienda Grande looks like a shop from the outside, but inside, it is all about tacos and mezcal. The place feels young and fun.

We had the lamb barbacoa tacos and grilled cactus salad. The flavors were bold. They also serve mezcal flights if you want to try different types.

If you are hunting for trendy places to eat in Puerto Vallarta, this one should be on your radar. It is stylish but still has great food.

12. Siam Cocina Thai

Calle Francisco I. Madero 271, Zona Romántica
Thai flavors in Mexico

If you need a break from Mexican food, try Siam Cocina Thai. We were surprised by how good it was.

The pad Thai had just the right balance of sweet and salty. We also got the green curry chicken. It came with jasmine rice. Spicy but not too much.

The place is small and cozy. If you are looking to eat in an international restaurant in Puerto Vallarta, this is a solid choice.

13. El Colibrí

Calle Matamoros 433, El Centro
Cocktail lounge and tapas bar

El Colibrí is more of a bar than a full restaurant, but the food is worth mentioning. It is dark, moody, and perfect for late night snacks.

We shared a plate of tuna tostadas and grilled cheese bites with chimichurri. Everything paired well with their mezcal cocktails.

There is live music sometimes. The space is tight, so it gets busy. Among bars with food in Puerto Vallarta, this one stands out for quality.

14. Marisma Fish Taco

Naranjo 320, Zona Romántica
Local fish taco spot

Marisma Fish Taco is a must if you love seafood tacos. It is small, with stools and a counter. They fry the fish fresh right in front of you.

We had shrimp tacos and battered fish tacos. Both were crunchy, hot, and came with toppings you add yourself. There is lime, salsa, and shredded cabbage.

It is quick and cheap. No fancy menu, just good food. It is one of the top local restaurants in Puerto Vallarta for seafood lovers.

15. El Planeta Vegetariano

Calle Iturbide 270, El Centro
Vegetarian buffet

If you are vegetarian or just want a break from meat, go to El Planeta Vegetariano. It is a buffet, but not the boring kind.

The day we went, they had lentil stew, stuffed peppers, and zucchini lasagna. You can go back for seconds, and the food always feels homemade.

They also have agua fresca and vegan desserts. It is cozy and quiet. It is one of the few vegetarian Puerto Vallarta restaurants that has been around for years.

In addition to the restaurants, you must try all-inclusive resorts. Here you do not have to think about recurring expenses, you pay once for everything and then enjoy your days with peace.

Check out my guide on: The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Puerto Vallarta

Local Dishes to Try in Puerto Vallarta

To enjoy a place fully, especially the food, it is best to try what locals love. I love such experiences where I risk my taste buds and try new stuff wherever I get a chance to try. After we have discussed the best places, here are a few local favorites you must try before leaving Puerto Vallarta.

These dishes are made with fresh ingredients and full of real flavor. You can find most of them at street stalls, small cafés, and beachside spots.

• Birria: It is a rich, spicy meat stew. It is usually beef or goat. It is slow-cooked and served in tacos or bowls. Locals top it with onion, cilantro, and lime. It is juicy, hot, and perfect for lunch.
• Ceviche: Raw fish or shrimp cured in lime juice. It is mixed with tomato, chili, onion, and cilantro. Served cold on tostadas. Tastes fresh and light, especially by the beach.
• Molletes: Open bread rolls topped with refried beans and melted cheese. It is often eaten in the morning. Locals like to add salsa or chopped tomatoes.
• Shrimp Tacos: It is a must-try one. For me, it is the best food in Puerto Vallarta. You can get them grilled, fried, or spicy. They come with cabbage, sauce, and lime. Cheap, filling, and full of flavor.
• Tuba Drink: A sweet, cold drink made from coconut tree sap. Vendors walk around with barrels to serve it. It comes with apple slices and peanuts.
• Marlin Tacos: Smoked marlin cooked with tomatoes, onion, and chili. The flavor is strong and smoky. Not every town has this. It is special here.

Do not leave Puerto Vallarta Without Trying This

If you are in town and only have time for one thing, go for the lobster tacos at Tuna Azul. They are rich, and unique. I rarely tried this anywhere else. So do not leave without trying this.

Add a cold margarita to enhance the experience, and you have the perfect meal with a view. This is the kind of food memory that stays with you.

Puerto Vallarta is more than beaches. The real magic is in its local food such as birria, ceviche, shrimp tacos, and small spots where families have cooked for years. Every dish tells a story.

So, if you are wondering what to eat, this guide covers all the best Puerto Vallarta restaurants. From all-inclusive restaurants to street tacos and fresh seafood. Go try them, one plate at a time.

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