Best Restaurants for Lunch Near Nuevo Vallarta

Even if it is not in Nuevo Vallarta (close enough), Sonora Prime in Marina Vallarta is our favorite spot and probably the beast restaurant for meat lovers in the area. We’re regulars almost every week, especially for their spectacular ribeye gourmet tacos, which are to die for. More than just a steakhouse, Sonora Prime is a dining destination that caters to everyone in the family, offering the best steaks around and a variety of fish dishes and options for vegetarians and vegans. One of the standout features of Sonora Prime is the playroom for kids, which a babysitter manages. This allows us to enjoy our meal while our little one is safely entertained upstairs. It’s a thoughtful arrangement that makes each visit relaxing and enjoyable. The Kids’ menu only costs 80 pesos, making our family outings even more convenient. Service is generally very good, and we rarely experience wait times,…

Nicksan is a unique dining destination we love, known for its fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine. Standout dishes include the Tuna Tostada (to die for) Gyozas, and the Camaron Limon – a creative twist on tacos with a salad leaf and shrimp in a zesty lemon sauce. The fried rice, available with chicken, beef, pork, vegetables, or a mix, is another highlight. The sushi rolls, particularly the Limon Sake roll with tempura shrimp, salmon, and a thin slice of yellow lemon, are a major draw, along with the highly recommended fresh and quality sashimi. Conveniently, Nicksan offers both pickup and delivery options. It’s the closest restaurant to Villa Magna, making it an ideal choice for anyone staying in our condo, Titina. The latest menu can be found here: Nicksan Menu  

La Ola de Vallarta is a delightful culinary spot that has earned a special place in our weekly routine, with an exceptional quality-to-price ratio that never disappoints. We can’t get enough of their Grilled or Breaded Shrimps, always cooked to perfection. A must-try is the Coconut La Ola, a tropical feast of coconut prepared with shrimp, mango, and a touch of habanero and chiltepin chilies. The fresh fish filet can be enjoyed in various styles, catering to any palate. For those who adore a burst of flavor, the Aguachiles and Ceviches are a perfect choice, showcasing the freshest ingredients with a zesty twist. While dining in is a treat, we often find ourselves ordering these favorites to take home, ensuring we can savor La Ola’s delights from the comfort of our own space. As they like to describe themselves, La Ola de Vallarta is where the catch is fresh, the…

El Sazon de Ama is a popular restaurant located inside Paradise Plaza Mall in Nuevo Vallarta, catering to a wide range of tastes with its breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings. For breakfast, the restaurant specializes in both American and Mexican classics, featuring a variety of dishes such as eggs, omelets, waffles, crepes, and chilaquiles. The lunch and dinner menu showcases an array of dishes that are prepared with a deep respect for the ingredients and cooked with love. The staff at El Sazon de Ama is known for their kindness, and the service is usually good and efficient, particularly during breakfast, which is when we usually visit.

Our visits to Sabal Playa Beach Club have become a cherished part of our family outings in Nuevo Vallarta. The club offers a wonderful mix of gourmet dining and stunning seaside views that never fail to impress. Their seafood tacos are a personal favorite, and the grilled seafood platter is always a hit with its fresh, vibrant flavors. We particularly appreciate the reasonable prices, excellent service and the good quality of the food, which includes succulent burgers and refreshing beverages. What truly sets Sabal Playa apart for our family is the beautifully maintained garden and the safe, engaging kids’ area. Our son loves playing there, and it gives us the peace of mind to relax and enjoy our meal. The convenience of the day pass, which allows access to both the beach club and the swimming pool for just $500 pesos (not needed if you only want to eat there),…

El Barracuda is a cozy restaurant located near Marina Nuevo Vallarta, known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious food. It’s a favorite spot for those who enjoy good tacos, including a great vegetarian option, and its meat and fish dishes are also highly recommended. The place has a casual vibe, making it perfect for a relaxed meal after a day by the water. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or something from the grill, El Barracuda delivers with quality and flavor. It’s a straightforward, friendly place where every dish comes with a side of welcoming charm.

La Rustica in Punta Mita is a must-visit destination for anyone venturing outside Nuevo Vallarta. This charming restaurant offers direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy stunning ocean views that perfectly complement the relaxing ambiance. The menu is family-friendly and features a variety of delicious options. Additionally, there is a wide selection of beverages. The menu is a celebration of coastal cuisine, with standout dishes that highlight the freshness of the sea. The Tuna Tartare is a must-try. It combines ponzu, red aguachile, avocado, and cucumber for a refreshing starter. Another popular choice is the Calamari, served golden and crispy with arrabbiata sauce. For those seeking a healthier option, the ‘After Surf’ bowl features smoked salmon and tuna over a bed of basmati rice and veggies, providing a nourishing yet delicious meal. Their lunch menu also shines with a variety of tostadas and tacos. The Tuna Tostada is a delightful…

Campomar Restaurant is located in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone, not in Nuevo Vallarta. Situated directly across from the Isla Shopping Mall, Campomar is approximately a 30-minute car journey away but well worth the trip. This establishment is celebrated for its extensive selection of local and imported premium seafood and shellfish, presented on ice for guests to admire before dining. Campomar offers a diverse menu that includes both surf and turf optoins, with generous portions often challenging to finish. The service at Campomar is both attentive and notably quick, enhancing the dining experience. The opulent ambiance ensures everything from the seating to the surroundings is supremely relaxing. Large tables, comfortable chairs, and clean bathrooms contribute to the welcoming environment. Campomar provides an added perk for families—an external playing room with a babysitter. This room is extremely secure, always locked, and requires parents to ring for entry. To pick up a child,…

Pata de Elefante is a new dining spot known for its generous breakfast portions and diverse menu. It features hearty breakfasts, fruit bowls, oatmeal, and fulfilling lunches. The beverage selection includes fresh juices, smoothies, frappes, and a variety of coffee and tea. Its breakfast menu offers a unique fusion, combining modern twists on Mexican classics like Gourmet Chilaquiles served with Chicharron, and North American staples such as pancakes and waffles, appealing to both local and international palates. Pata de Elefante is a good alternative to other crowded breakfast restaurants, offering an inviting atmosphere for both an early start, or a leisurely lunch.

Tintoque, standing out as one of the best gourmet restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, is a culinary gem that’s not in Nuevo Vallarta, but its exceptional quality makes it a must-include on our list. This establishment offers an experience that could easily rival Michelin-starred venues. One of its most enchanting features is the leafy terrace that overlooks the Cuale River, creating a romantic and cozy atmosphere. This delightful outdoor space, enveloped in lush greenery, provides guests with serene river views, adding a touch of tranquility to the dining experience. The menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, with each dish expertly crafted and presented. While everything we tasted was exquisite, some dishes carry a level of spiciness unexpected in fine dining, yet perfectly fitting the local context – after all, we are in Mexico, where spicy cuisine is almost a form of culinary worship. A standout feature is their homemade pita…

La Dolce Vita in Nuevo Vallarta is a decent dining destination for those seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Mexico. La Dolce Vita represents the closest experience to a genuine Italian restaurant in the area. The value for money here is very good, offering reasonably priced quality dishes. Among the favorites are the Spaghetti with Vongole, a classic dish done justice with its fresh flavors, and the Fish Fillet alla Livornese, a savory concoction featuring tomato sauce, olives, and capers. Not to be missed is their wood-oven focaccia, a perfect starter or side dish that showcases their attention to traditional Italian baking. The restaurant’s ambiance adds charm, making it an ideal spot for casual and special occasions. La Dolce Vita delivers a satisfying dining experience where quality and affordability meet in a cozy, inviting setting.