Best Restaurants 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…

Buonissimo, Gelato Italiano is a delightful café nestled in Paradise Plaza Mall, Nuevo Vallarta. Renowned for offering the finest Gelato in the Vallarta area, it also boasts, in my experience as an Italian with high coffee standards, the best coffee in town. Remarkably, it is the only establishment in Mexico that has exceeded my expectations, prompting me to purchase the coffee they serve for daily enjoyment at home. Beyond their exceptional gelato and coffee, the café features an array of culinary delights including waffles, both sweet and savory crepes, sandwiches, focaccias, bagels, and pizzas. They also offer a comprehensive selection of infusions and a variety of beverages commonly found in premier coffee shops. The staff at Buonissimo, Gelato Italiano, are always kind and professional. One of our favorite spot to bring our kid to enjoy Gelato!

Buonissimo Gourmet Restaurant at 3.14 is renowned for its delightful breakfast offerings, including waffles, crepes, and eggs prepared in various styles. It’s also a popular spot to indulge in gelato for children or to savor a coffee for adults. Beyond breakfast, the restaurant serves a wide array of dishes including sandwiches, paninis, and pizza baked in a woodfire oven. A highlight of Buonissimo at 3.14 is their exceptional coffee, Caffé Bacio. This Mexican coffee, originating from Veracruz, is uniquely roasted using Italian techniques, which, in my personal opinion, makes it the best coffee in Mexico.

La Tienda Grande, tucked away in a quaint Mexican pueblo on the outskirts of Vallarta, far from the usual tourist spots, is a restaurant that truly feels like a hidden gem. This charming venue offers a delightful surprise with its traditional yet creatively inspired Mexican cuisine. Recently, we celebrated a friend’s birthday here with a group of ten, enjoying the intimacy and exclusivity of the private dining room. The evening was made exceptional by an eight-course tasting menu showcasing various flavors and culinary ingenuity, making it a fantastic and unexpected dining experience. The mastermind behind La Tienda Grande’s outstanding offerings is Chef Salvador Carrillo, a native of Puerto Vallarta. With over 20 years of experience, Chef Carrillo has perfected the art of traditional Mexican cuisine. His culinary journey began in childhood, and he has since explored various arts, bringing creativity and passion to his cooking. After studying gastronomy and gaining…

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),…

At Mr. Cream Pancakes & Waffles in Nuevo Vallarta, you get a real sense of what a leisurely breakfast can be. It’s the kind of place where both the food and the atmosphere make you want to linger over your coffee. The menu is filled with comfort food classics—think thick pancakes, waffles with just the right amount of crisp, and omelets packed with fresh ingredients. And for something a bit different, try the eggs done Mexican style. For those who lean towards sweeter starts, the pancakes might come with a dollop of Nutella or a bounty of fresh fruits. If savory is more your style, the French toast with bacon or the veggie-packed omelets are sure to satisfy. The Café Meridiano will wake you up with its robust flavor, perfect for those mornings when you need a little extra something. The real charm of Mr. Cream, though, is its genuine,…

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.

YEO in Nuevo Vallarta offers an elevated Japanese culinary experience, blending traditional Robatayaki charcoal grilling with a variety of sushi, including exquisite nigiri and Maki rolls. The menu is curated with high-quality ingredients, such as Wagyu beef and Alaskan King Crab, emphasizing the fusion of classic and contemporary Japanese cuisine. A must-try are their edamame and the salmon, which are particularly noted for their exceptional taste. The restaurant’s ambiance is marked by modern design and a warm atmosphere, with an architectural focus on harmony and creativity, ensuring a refined dining experience that highlights the essence of Japanese gastronomy.

Frida is a standout destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Mexican cuisine, crafted with passion and expertise in a refined setting. Located within the Grand Velas Resort in Nuevo Vallarta, it is a fine example of Mexican dining at its best, celebrating the spirit of the famous painter Frida Kahlo. This restaurant beautifully mixes traditional Mexican culinary traditions with modern elements, offering dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Mexico’s rich gastronomic culture. Each dish crafted by Chef Abigail introduces diners to a world of unique textures and flavors, thanks to her deep connection to the local ingredients and recipes from her childhood. The restaurant’s selection of mezcals and wines perfectly complements the meals, ensuring that each dish is enhanced by the right drink. Chef Abigail grew up in the rural areas of Hidalgo, where she learned to cook using local produce. After her formal…

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,…

Starbucks Paradise Plaza in Nuevo Vallarta is an ideal spot for digital nomads, remote workers, and coffee lovers alike. Known for its consistent quality and inviting atmosphere, the location features an outdoor terrace for cooler days and an indoor loft with air conditioning and reliable Wi-Fi. Visitors can indulge in a variety of treats, including fresh Croissants, Pain au Chocolat, other pastries, savory bagels, and sandwiches, along with expertly crafted coffee drinks like Espresso and Lattes, all customizable with favorite ingredients. This Starbucks provides a comfortable and versatile setting, perfect for both productivity and relaxation.  

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.

Tacos on the Street Nuevo Vallarta is a popular spot that offers a delightful array of charcoal-grilled Rib-Eye tacos, quesadillas, and tostadas. Each dish is enhanced by freshly made salsas and served on homemade tortillas, providing a truly authentic and flavorful experience. This establishment is well-suited for those searching for a quick and tasty meat meal, with both takeout and delivery options available. Although it is conveniently located near the 3.14 plaza, it is a bit of a long walk. We mainly recommend Tacos on the Street for pick up or delivery.

Tacos el Toro offers the quintessential Mexican street food experience right in the heart of Las Jarretaderas, a lively village near Nuevo Vallarta, where the new Vidanta World Theme Park is emerging. This taqueria is celebrated for its authenticity and provides a taste of authentic Mexican flavors that are both high-quality and incredibly affordable (4 Tacos only cost $6 Us Dollars). Situated virtually in the middle of the street by the main square, Tacos el Toro immerses you in the bustling atmosphere of the village. It’s a casual spot where locals and visitors gather to enjoy some of the best meat tacos in the area. Whether you’re there to grab a quick bite or sit down and savor your meal amidst the vibrant street scene, Tacos el Toro caters to all. The menu is straightforward but expertly executed, featuring a variety of tacos that are perfect for a leisurely dinner….