Puerto Vallarta: Travel Tips and Insights pt. 2

When we planned our trip to Puerto Vallarta, we knew we wanted to go beyond the usual tourist spots and dive deeper into the local culture. Little did we know, we would find the perfect opportunity with Cha Cha’s food tour in Pitillal. This tour is a delightful journey through a working-class neighborhood that offers an authentic taste of Mexico, far from the glitzy resorts and bustling beaches.

From the moment we met Cha Cha, we knew we were in for something special. Fluent in English and brimming with knowledge about Mexican history, Cha Cha is the perfect guide to lead you through this culinary adventure. Her passion for food and storytelling is infectious, making the tour not just a feast for the stomach but also for the soul.

The tour prides itself on intimacy, allowing only six guests at a time. This ensures a personal and engaging experience, where you get to know your fellow foodies and share in the excitement of discovering hidden gems. On our tour, we were joined by one other couple, and Cha Cha’s skillful introductions and friendly demeanor quickly made us feel like a cohesive group of friends.

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to visit family-run joints that have been perfecting their recipes for generations. Each stop offers a unique dish, prepared with love and expertise. The food was impeccable – from savory tacos to sweet treats, every bite was a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. The portions were generous, and by the end of the tour, we were all happily stuffed.

Traveling with a 16-month-old can be challenging, but Cha Cha made the experience seamless. While our stroller didn’t fit into every restaurant, she navigated the situation with ease, ensuring we felt comfortable and included. Her people skills are exceptional, making the tour enjoyable for guests of all ages.

Beyond the food, what sets this tour apart is the chance to witness the daily life of a working-class neighborhood. Pitillal is a vibrant area, different from the touristy parts of Puerto Vallarta, and it offers a glimpse into the real Mexico. Walking through the streets, seeing locals go about their day, and listening to Cha Cha’s stories about the area’s history and culture added a rich layer of context to our culinary adventure.

Cha Cha’s food tour is not just about indulgence; it’s also about sustainability and social responsibility. The company proudly stands as a women-owned, zero-waste, and socially responsible business. Knowing that our tour was supporting a company committed to these values made the experience even more rewarding.

One of the stops on the tour was a local market where we sampled fresh fruit drinks. The vibrant colors and flavors were a refreshing break and a reminder of the incredible produce Mexico has to offer. Cha Cha explained how these family-run vendors source their ingredients locally, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful experience.

Another memorable stop was a small taco stand that has been in the same family for generations. We learned about the history of the recipes, passed down from grandmother to mother to daughter, each generation adding their own touch while preserving the essence of the dish. The tacos were divine, each bite bursting with flavor and tradition.

As we continued our tour, we were treated to a variety of dishes, each more delicious than the last. From handmade tortillas to succulent meats and vibrant salsas, the food was a celebration of Mexican culinary artistry. Cha Cha’s enthusiasm and knowledge made each stop an adventure, and her stories about the people and places we visited added depth to the experience.

One of the final stops was a dessert shop where we indulged in sweet treats that were the perfect end to our culinary journey. The desserts were crafted with the same care and attention to detail as the savory dishes, leaving us with a sweet taste in our mouths and a deeper appreciation for Mexican cuisine.

I want to include the restaurants we went to. These are in order of which we went to:
1. Cenaduría Tía Anita
2. Cenaduría Doña Tere
3. Cenaduría Elizabeth
4. Volver al Taco
5. Paletería Villaseñor

In conclusion, Cha Cha’s food tour in Pitillal is a must-do for anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta. It’s more than just a food tour; it’s an immersive cultural experience that offers a genuine taste of Mexico. Cha Cha’s expertise, combined with the delicious food and the opportunity to see a different side of Mexico, makes this tour a standout. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking for a unique adventure, this tour will exceed your expectations.

So, if you find yourself in Puerto Vallarta, don’t miss the chance to join Cha Cha on this unforgettable journey through Pitillal. It’s a delicious and heartwarming experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound love for Mexican culture and cuisine. And knowing that you’re supporting a women-owned, zero-waste, and socially responsible business makes it all the more special. Bon appétit!