Mexican

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),…

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.

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,…

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…