Discover the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, from beachfront dining to hidden local gems. Here’s your curated guide to the city’s most remarkable dining experiences.
Café des Artistes
**The Ultimate Fine Dining Experience**
Nestled in a romantic colonial mansion, Chef Thierry Blouet’s masterpiece has been delighting diners for over 30 years. The restaurant’s enchanting garden setting, adorned with twinkling lights and artistic sculptures, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. The menu is a celebration of French techniques merged with Mexican ingredients, featuring standout dishes like the duck breast in dark mole sauce and lobster with vanilla-infused butter. Their six-course tasting menu with wine pairings showcases the kitchen’s creativity and precision. The legendary wine cellar houses over 350 labels, carefully curated to complement the sophisticated menu.
🌐 Website
📍 Guadalupe Sánchez 740, Centro
La Palapa
**Beachfront Dining Pioneer**
Since 1957, La Palapa has been defining beachfront dining in Puerto Vallarta. Located on the golden sands of Los Muertos Beach, this restaurant offers more than just meals – it creates memories. The gentle sound of waves provides the perfect backdrop to their contemporary Mexican coastal cuisine. By day, enjoy fresh seafood under the shade of palm trees; by night, dine by candlelight as the sun sets over Banderas Bay. Their seasonal menu emphasizes sustainable seafood and local ingredients, with dishes that blend traditional Mexican flavors with modern presentations.
🌐Website
📍 Púlpito 103, Zona Romántica
Gaby’s Restaurant
**Traditional Mexican Cuisine**
A family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes. Their molcajetes and mole dishes are legendary, and the rooftop dining area offers beautiful city views.
Barcelona Tapas
**Mediterranean Flavors with a View**
Offering stunning bay views, this Spanish-inspired restaurant is famous for its authentic paella and extensive tapas menu. Their sunset happy hour is particularly popular.
🌐 Website
📍 Matamoros 906, Centro
El Arrayán
**Authentic Mexican Heritage**
Hidden in the heart of downtown, El Arrayán is a love letter to traditional Mexican cuisine. Named after a local fruit tree, this charming restaurant occupies a restored historic building with a beautiful courtyard. Chef Carmen Porras crafts dishes that tell the story of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, using recipes passed down through generations. The restaurant’s warm, rustic décor features local art and traditional textiles, creating an authentic atmosphere that matches the food’s authenticity.
🌐 Website
📍 Allende 344, Centro
Mariscos 8 Tostadas
**Seafood Lover’s Paradise**
A local favorite serving fresh seafood tostadas and ceviches. Their signature eight-tostada sampler offers a perfect introduction to local seafood preparations.
🌐 Website
📍 Francia 137, Versalles
Joe Jack’s Fish Shack
**Casual Seafood Done Right**
Popular for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent seafood, their fish and chips and seafood pot pie have achieved legendary status among locals and tourists alike.
🌐 Website
📍 Basilio Badillo 212, Zona Romántica
La Leche
**Modern Mexican Innovation**
A striking all-white interior sets the stage for innovative Mexican cuisine with international influences. Their menu changes daily based on available ingredients.
🌐 Website
📍 Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2500
Remember to check each restaurant’s current hours and reservation policies, as these can vary by season. Most restaurants can be contacted via WhatsApp for easier communication.
*Note: Prices and details are subject to change. Please verify current information before visiting.*