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
Mykonos
This restaurant is located in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone and offers a wide selection of Greek dishes, including tzatziki, moussaka, gyros, souvlaki, and more. We recommend trying some of their traditional Greek specialties like tzatziki (a yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip), moussaka (a layered dish with eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce), gyros (pork or chicken cooked on a vertical rotisserie), and souvlaki (grilled meat skewers).
Average price: $300 – $500 MXN
Location: Francia 199b, Versalles, 48310 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Sana Acción
This spot features an interesting concept focused on alkaline vegetarian and vegan cuisine. It also serves a variety of artisanal drinks like ginger beer, tepache, probiotic beverages, detox juices, and gluten-free options.
Alkaline food emphasizes ingredients that help balance the body’s pH levels and may offer health benefits, while vegetarian and vegan dishes provide meat-free, plant-based options suited to different diets and preferences.
Average price: $300 – $500 MXN
Location: Lucerna 123, Versalles, 48310 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
Tarraya
This place offers a wide variety of aguachiles and fresh ceviches with citrusy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Some of the most popular dishes include shrimp aguachile, octopus aguachile, and fish aguachile, all made with fresh ingredients and a mix of bold flavors. They also offer different spice levels to suit every taste.
For those looking for vegetarian or vegan options, Tarraya has several choices on the menu, including fresh salads, vegetarian ceviches, and grilled vegetable dishes. You can always ask your server for specific recommendations based on your dietary preferences.
Average price: $300 – $500 MXN
Location: Salvador 329, 5 de Diciembre, 48330 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
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
