The best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a Mexican city and port located on the Pacific coast, in the state of Jalisco. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and rich culinary scene.
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History and cuisine of Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta was founded in 1851 and became a prominent tourist destination after the release of the movie The Night of the Iguana in the 1960s. Since then, it has remained one of Mexico’s most popular vacation spots.
Cuisine: Puerto Vallarta’s food scene is a flavorful blend of Spanish, Indigenous, and regional Mexican influences. Some of the most popular local dishes include:
- Fish tacos – made with fresh fish and served with salsa and guacamole.
- Ceviche – a light and refreshing dish made with seafood and vegetables marinated in lime juice.
- Pozole – a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy, meat, and spices.
- Tamales – corn dough filled with meat, chili, and other ingredients, steamed in corn husks.
- Enchiladas – tortillas stuffed with meat, cheese, or beans, topped with sauce and served with cream and cheese.
In addition to these dishes, Puerto Vallarta is also known for its traditional drinks like tequila and mezcal, as well as desserts such as churros and flan. The city offers a wide range of restaurants serving both traditional and contemporary cuisine, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.
Top 5 restaurants in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to high-end gourmet restaurants. Here’s our top 5 picks.
La Leche
This restaurant specializes in contemporary cuisine. It offers both tasting menus and à la carte dishes, and its elegant, sophisticated atmosphere makes it a popular spot for those who enjoy fine dining experiences.
The multi-course tasting menu changes regularly to showcase seasonal ingredients and the latest culinary trends. There are also à la carte options, including dishes like beef tenderloin, salmon, lobster, and duck.
Average price: $500 – $1000 MXN
Location: Km 2.5, Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Las Glorias, 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
El Panorama Vallarta
El Panorama Vallarta is an international cuisine restaurant that has earned its place as a classic in Puerto Vallarta, especially when what you’re looking for is an unhurried evening with a view. Located inside Hotel Suites La Siesta, perched on a hillside, its biggest draw is right in the name: sweeping views over the bay, a sunset that shifts colors as the evening unfolds, and the city lights slowly coming to life below.
The restaurant sits in the Centro neighborhood, just a few blocks from the Malecón and the beach, making it easy to include in your plans while exploring the area. The space is spread across multiple levels, each offering a different feel. There are two open-air terraces for those who want fresh air and direct views, along with two indoor dining rooms for a more intimate setting. Live music, often piano, adds a romantic touch without overpowering the experience.
Thanks to its evening schedule, it’s an ideal choice for dinner, particularly if you arrive in time for sunset and stay on into the night. The menu features a mix of seafood, poultry, and cuts of meat, designed with special occasions in mind. The pace here feels celebratory—dishes prepared to order, time to sip your drink, and an atmosphere that encourages lingering at the table without being rushed.
It’s also a great option for couples, as the setting is naturally romantic with its panoramic views, terraces, and attentive service. The average price range is MXN $500–$800 per person. For added convenience, the restaurant accepts credit and debit cards and offers parking, live music, a private dining room, a terrace or garden area, and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to enjoy the full experience from start to finish.
Mesón Ibérico Puerto Vallarta
Mesón Ibérico Puerto Vallarta is a restaurant that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Spain without leaving the city. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with an elegant touch and a welcoming energy that naturally encourages you to stay longer than planned. It’s located in the Marina Vallarta area, a convenient spot whether you’re visiting on vacation or living locally and looking for a proper night out with good food and great company.
It’s an ideal choice for dinner, especially if you enjoy taking your time and turning a meal into a full experience. The focus is on Spanish cuisine, with a menu built around well-executed classics like Iberian ham, ham croquettes, and Galician-style octopus. Desserts also shine, particularly the cheesecake, which makes for a strong finish. This is the kind of place that works best when you order for the table, sample a bit of everything, and pair your dishes without rushing.
In terms of atmosphere and service, it’s especially well suited for couples. Live music adds a romantic note without feeling over the top, and the restaurant strikes a comfortable balance between casual and refined. It’s also easy to plan ahead, as reservations are accepted and both credit and debit cards are welcome. Extras like live music, free Wi-Fi, events, and entertainment screens add flexibility if your evening includes more than just dinner.
The average price range is MXN $800–$1,200 per person, making it a solid option for a special occasion or a well-deserved treat. And if you’re traveling with your four-legged companion, you’ll be happy to know the restaurant is pet-friendly. Overall, it’s an Iberian-inspired spot with a Vallarta vibe, perfect for toasting, enjoying great food, and leaving with a smile.
Porto Bello Marina
Porto Bello Marina is an Italian restaurant that instantly feels like a vacation plan—even if you already live in Vallarta. A romantic terrace, light-toned décor, and a view that steals the spotlight between the marina and the surrounding mountains set the tone. Located in the Marina Vallarta area, it’s perfectly positioned for a leisurely walk after exploring the neighborhood or as a relaxed way to end the day with a beautiful table and no rush.
It’s an ideal choice for dinner, as the entire experience is designed to be enjoyed slowly. A glass of wine, Italian music playing softly in the background, and an atmosphere that invites you to linger all come together naturally. You can choose to dine outdoors on the terrace, where the fresh and laid-back vibe shines, or opt for the indoor dining room, which feels more intimate with subtle lighting and a modern style that’s elegant without being stiff.
The kitchen stands out for its consistency and long-standing experience. The restaurant has spent years refining its Italian concept, focusing on fresh ingredients and precise execution—yes, properly cooked al dente pasta and clearly defined flavors. Its history also includes the continued involvement of chef Ricardo García Alba since the opening, bringing an approach centered on innovation and constant updates so each visit feels special.
For couples, this spot fits perfectly, combining views, atmosphere, and that “let’s treat ourselves tonight” kind of energy. The average price range is MXN $600–$800 per person. Planning is easy as well, since the restaurant accepts credit and debit cards and offers amenities like background music, a terrace or garden area, on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi—everything you need for a well-rounded evening in Marina Vallarta.
Amá 1944
This restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a wide range of options—from classic street-style snacks to more elaborate dishes—each prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, with an outdoor terrace and a stylish indoor dining area.
If you’re planning to visit AMÁ 1944, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot. This restaurant is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a refined yet relaxed setting.
Average price: $300 – $500 MXN
Location: Av. Paseo de la Marina Sur s/n L1, EN, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
