Taco 'Bout Tasty: Savoring Puerto Vallarta’s Foodie Gems
Exploring the food scene in Puerto Vallarta is a delightful adventure, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of it:
- Price Differences: Food on the Malecón can be much more expensive than if you venture a block or two inward. A little walk can save you a lot of money!
- Safe Refreshments: There are plenty of street vendors selling drinks (aguas frescas) on the sidewalks. These drinks are safe to drink as Mexicans only drink bottled water.
- Follow the Locals: If you’re unsure where to eat, watch where the locals go. They know the best spots!
- Variable Hours: Be aware that each place might have different and sometimes inconsistent hours. Don’t be surprised if a restaurant you wanted to visit is closed. Flexibility is key.
Pancho's Takos
This place immediately caught our eye due to the long line outside. As we strolled down the street, we saw a diverse crowd waiting patiently for their turn. The line wasn’t just filled with tourists but a mix of people speaking various languages. The food was absolutely delicious and the portions were generous. One thing I loved about Pancho's Takos was their order system – they provide a paper to place your order on, available in both English and Spanish.Pancho's Takos
Tacos El Cuñado
What a gem this food cart is! We stumbled upon it by chance and ended up going back many times. It’s incredibly affordable and has plenty of seating in a covered area, which even had enough space for our stroller (win!). The tacos are fantastic, and the setting is perfect for a casual meal.
City Center Food Tents
Located near the Monumento Ignacio L. Vallarta in the Plaza Principal de las Armas, these food tents spring to life around 6:00 PM, right by the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The square is lined with tents offering a variety of food and drinks. You really can’t go wrong with anything you choose here. However, be prepared to know your meat options, as many vendors don’t speak English. Pointing or using a translator app can be very helpful.
Big Tacos Moy
The restaurant offers a variety of delicious food, we had an asada quesadilla and chorizo tacos. Each was bursting with flavor and made with fresh ingredients. The casual, vibrant atmosphere adds to the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists. The service is friendly and efficient, ensuring a pleasant visit. We ate here 3-4 times, and it was excellent every single time.
Casita Garden
Casita Garden is a hidden gem in Puerto Vallarta that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Larry and I stumbled upon this charming spot while walking around, and we were captivated by its immaculate vibe. The garden's serene ambiance, lush greenery, and cozy seating create a perfect relaxation and reflection setting. We tasted many wines, enjoyed delicious tapas, and found the charcuterie board to be perfect. It's an ideal place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. However, the best part of this is that there is a sushi restaurant connected. All of the ingredients, except the rice, are imported from Japan. Yes- the fish comes from Japan! It was the best sushi I've ever had! They even had real Wasabi and the taste was light-years different! What an experience this was. We went back 4 times.
Top Drink Places
- Casita Garden: As mentioned before, they have a great selection of drinks, including various sakes.
- Bonito Lounge: This place blew us away! It is pricey, but they offer unique drinks made with exotic fruits. It was a true experience.
- Monzón Brewing Company: Monzon was a late find for us, but it did not disappoint. They had a great variety of beers, all with imported hops. The atmosphere was chill, and the staff was always welcoming. Plus, they serve the best ranch dressing that is homemade.
- Los Muertos Brewing Company: We visited here often because they had happy hour beer from 4-6 PM, which was half off. They don’t have a wide variety of styles, but if you find one you like, it's worth going back during happy hour.
Exploring the food and drink scene in Puerto Vallarta was an incredible experience, filled with delicious discoveries and memorable moments.
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