6 restaurants to enjoy during Lent in Puerto Vallarta
In Puerto Vallarta, Lent is not just a time for spiritual reflection, it is also the perfect excuse to rediscover seafood flavors that can win over even the most devoted meat lovers. If you are someone who uses this season to explore meat free options without giving up great food, you are in the right place. From ceviches with a tropical twist to seafood tacos worthy of a standing ovation, Vallarta’s culinary scene truly shines this time of year. Here, tradition and creativity go hand in hand to deliver memorable dining experiences.
In this article, we will take you on a tour of 6 must visit restaurants where eating during Lent is a true treat. Whether you are looking for a beachfront spot for a laid back Sunday brunch or a hidden gem with homemade flavors, this list has something for every craving. So get ready to work up an appetite, because what follows is not just a guide, it is an invitation to savor the season with the best that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
1. 116 Pulpito
Nestled in the vibrant Emiliano Zapata neighborhood, right in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone, 116 Pulpito is one of those places that effortlessly blends charm, flavor, and a laid back vibe you fall in love with from the very first visit. Specializing in Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine with a local twist, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to step away from the ordinary without losing touch with authentic flavors. Its intimate atmosphere, featuring soft lighting, terrace tables, and music that enhances the mood without stealing the spotlight, makes it an ideal spot for a dinner filled with conversation, laughter, and great food.
During the Lent season, 116 Pulpito truly shines with dishes like coconut shrimp, salmon pizza, and fresh tuna prepared with impeccable technique. Each plate comes with that homemade touch that makes every bite feel comforting and satisfying. To wrap things up on a sweet note, desserts like coconut cake and house made flan ensure the ending is just as memorable as the beginning.
If you are a fan of well crafted drinks, this place delivers. Refreshing sangrias, mango mojitos, and margaritas worthy of special mention are all served by a team that clearly knows what they are doing. Tapas nights and weekday 2 for 1 drink specials make stopping by even more tempting during this time of year, with plenty of options to match whatever you are in the mood for.
With average prices ranging from 200 to 400 Mexican pesos per person and a pet friendly policy, 116 Pulpito brings together great flavor and an easygoing, authentic vibe. Pets are welcome, so you do not have to leave your furry companion at home. It is an ideal plan for enjoying delicious food, honoring Lent traditions, and soaking up the charm of Puerto Vallarta.
2. Elixir Spot Vegan
Located in the heart of the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, Elixir Spot Vegan is much more than a restaurant, it is a true oasis of healthy, mindful eating. With a relaxed vibe and an atmosphere that immediately feels calming, this spot is perfect for starting the day with energy and a positive mindset. It is an excellent choice for a nourishing and flavorful breakfast, especially for families looking for vegan, gluten free options that do not compromise on taste. The menu is designed for everyone, from wellness focused foodies to curious diners wanting to try something different while still honoring Lent traditions.
During Lent, Elixir Spot Vegan becomes an ideal ally, as every dish is completely free of animal based ingredients, aligning perfectly with the spirit of the season. The Poke Life Bowl is a must try: fresh, colorful, and packed with ingredients that nourish both body and soul. You can also go for the Beyond Burger or the vegan birria tacos, so satisfying you will not miss the meat at all.
Beyond the food, Elixir’s charm lies in the small details: warm service, a laid back ambiance, lush green terraces, and the feeling that every dish is prepared with genuine care. Everything feels familiar and welcoming, like a homemade meal, but with that special touch only a thoughtfully curated space can offer. It is the perfect place for slow mornings, long conversations, and a breakfast that turns into a full experience.
With accessible prices ranging from 150 to 250 Mexican pesos per person, this restaurant delivers quality without breaking the bank. Best of all, Elixir Spot Vegan is pet friendly, so you can bring along your furry best friend and enjoy a delicious morning together. To round things out, nothing pairs better than a house made kombucha or a bold cold brew.
3. Ah Caramba!
Located in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, Ah Caramba! is a true Puerto Vallarta classic with over 30 years of tradition, best known for its stunning terrace with panoramic views of the bay. This restaurant is the perfect setting for an unforgettable dinner as the sky lights up with color at sunset. Its casual atmosphere, paired with a naturally elegant touch, makes it an ideal spot for couples looking for a romantic escape and a dining experience that feels truly special.
During Lent, Ah Caramba! becomes a seafood lover’s paradise, as grilled seafood is the heart of its menu. Dishes like the Lobster and Shrimp Special or the iconic Camarones Caramba, shrimp stuffed with ham and cheese and wrapped in bacon, prove that tradition can be honored without sacrificing bold, memorable flavors.
The drink menu deserves its own round of applause. From their famous flavored margaritas to carajillos enjoyed with an ocean view, every sip perfectly complements the moment. The relaxed ambiance, soft music, and personalized service turn any evening into a special occasion. It is the kind of place that makes you want to come back, whether to celebrate something important or simply enjoy great food with great company.
With prices ranging from 350 to 1,900 Mexican pesos per person, Ah Caramba! delivers a high end experience in every sense. This restaurant is not pet friendly, so it is best to plan your visit without your furry companion. Ideal for experiencing Lent with outstanding flavor and postcard worthy views, the menu also features options like the Ah Caramba filet or the Marco y Betty, combinations that elevate every bite. Without a doubt, this is the kind of place where a dish can turn into a lasting memory.
4. Mariscos El Coleguita Marina Vallarta
With more than three decades of history, Mariscos El Coleguita Marina Vallarta has earned its place as a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for fresh seafood and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the Marina Vallarta neighborhood, this restaurant is ideal for enjoying a family meal in a setting that blends tradition, bold flavors, and service that makes you feel right at home.
During Lent, El Coleguita becomes the perfect spot for those who want to honor tradition without giving up great taste. The menu shines with classic options like zarandeado-style grilled fish, shrimp prepared to your liking, and seafood cocktails packed with freshness. Every dish comes with thoughtful extras that elevate the experience: a complimentary shot of tequila, shrimp broth, and fried plantains with coffee liqueur for dessert, a courtesy that is becoming rare these days and turns lunch into a truly complete experience.
The vibe is casual and lively, with breezy terraces and spacious tables that make it ideal for laid back gatherings. Here, eating is a ritual: arrive hungry, order seafood to share, toast, go back for seconds, and leave already planning your next visit. The generous portions and easygoing energy make it an excellent choice for celebrating Lent without fuss or pretension.
With prices ranging from 250 to 350 Mexican pesos per person, El Coleguita delivers flavor, tradition, and great value for money. This restaurant is not pet friendly, so it is best to leave furry companions at home and focus on enjoying every bite with views of the marina. A classic that never disappoints and a perfect choice for sharing seafood cravings with your favorite people during Lent.
5. Henshin Sushi
Located in the elegant Centro neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta, Henshin Sushi is a true gem for sushi lovers and fans of refined Japanese cuisine. This is far more than just a meal, it is a sensory experience that transports you straight to Japan from the heart of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Ideal for a special dinner, Henshin is perfect for sharing an unforgettable evening with your partner, whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourselves on a weekday.
During Lent, Henshin becomes a standout choice for those who want to honor tradition without giving up style or flavor. With a menu focused on fresh fish and thoughtfully crafted creations, every dish fits perfectly within Lenten guidelines while delivering exceptional taste. The Classic Omakase and Premium Omakase are must try experiences, where the chef takes the lead and surprises you with seasonal sashimi, nigiri, and rolls. For something more relaxed, the yakimeshi and bluefin tuna temakis are excellent options.
The restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance, paired with spectacular bay views and minimalist, elegant décor, makes it the ideal place to unwind and indulge. The beverage menu, featuring fine wines, sake, and signature cocktails like the Akai Niwa, elevates the experience even further and turns every visit into a memorable occasion.
With an average price of around 1,100 Mexican pesos per person, Henshin Sushi reflects the quality and attention to detail poured into every aspect of the experience. While it is a stunning destination for food lovers, the restaurant is not pet friendly, so be sure to plan your visit with fellow diners who appreciate exceptional cuisine as much as you do.
6. Sky Garden 180
Located on the fourth floor of Plaza Punto Banderas, in the Centro neighborhood, Sky Garden 180 offers one of the most spectacular views in all of Puerto Vallarta. This open air restaurant is ideal for enjoying a magical sunset dinner as the sky fills with color over the Pacific. With a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, it is perfect for couples looking to enjoy great food, creative cocktails, and a setting that works just as well for a romantic date as it does for celebrating a special occasion.
During Lent, Sky Garden 180 stands out thanks to its culinary proposal, which blends Mexican cuisine with Mediterranean influences. While the restaurant is well known for its meat cuts, it also offers excellent options for the season, including fresh carpaccios, grilled fish, and salads made with local ingredients. The magic lies in the balance of flavors and the impeccable presentation, turning each dish into a visual and culinary delight.
One of the restaurant’s biggest highlights is its signature mixology. Cocktails like the Tucán or handcrafted margaritas pair beautifully with the menu and elevate the overall experience. On Friday nights, live troubadour music adds an extra layer of charm, creating the perfect atmosphere to wrap up the week with a relaxed dinner under the stars.
With an average cost of 350 to 400 Mexican pesos per person, Sky Garden 180 delivers an accessible luxury experience. And if you prefer not to leave your furry companion at home, you are in luck: the restaurant is pet friendly, so you can share this unforgettable experience with them as well. An ideal choice for enjoying Lent from above, with great flavor and even better views.
Discover what you did not know you needed to try
Lent is more than just a season of abstinence, it is an opportunity to reconnect with the flavors of the sea, with recipes passed down through generations, and with creative proposals that elevate tradition into a gourmet experience. Puerto Vallarta, with its vibrant culinary scene and close connection to the freshest ingredients, becomes a must visit destination for anyone who truly enjoys good food. As you saw throughout this guide, the city offers everything from restaurants with breathtaking terraces to vegan hidden gems full of creativity.
And if this article sparked your appetite, we invite you to keep exploring new flavors with us. On the blog, you will find curated food routes, seasonal recommendations, secret spots, and local favorites that only insiders know about. Looking for brunch with a view, chef driven cuisine, or the perfect taco at 2 a.m.? We have you covered. Every piece is an invitation to step outside the familiar and experience the city one plate at a time. The table is set, the craving is real, and we are already planning the next culinary adventure. Care to join us?