Best Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta to Suit Every Craving

Puerto Vallarta, nestled along Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco, is a tropical escape known for its beaches, art scene, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Zona Romántica, admiring the sculptures along the Malecón, or soaking up the sun at Playa Los Muertos, the city offers something for every traveler.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Puerto Vallarta, covering a wide spectrum of culinary experiences. From wallet-friendly taco joints to vegetarian cafés, romantic restaurants, and fine dining venues that rival Michelin-starred establishments, this article is your go-to roadmap for discovering the city’s diverse flavors.

And while you’re out enjoying the food, you can leave your bags safely with Qeepl, a convenient luggage storage provider with multiple locations across Puerto Vallarta. Drop off your suitcases and explore the city hands-free.

What Should You Know About Food in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is a gastronomic hotspot where the Pacific Ocean meets traditional Mexican flavors and global influences. From rustic street food to upscale international fare, the city’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its visitors.

The best food in Puerto Vallarta draws heavily on its coastal location—expect to see dishes packed with fresh fish, shrimp, and oysters. Signature meals include pescado zarandeado (grilled fish marinated in adobo), ceviche made from local catch, and tacos gobernador (shrimp tacos with melted cheese). Jalisco’s influence is also present in birria, a slow-cooked meat stew traditionally served with tortillas.

In recent years, the food scene has evolved beyond local staples. With the influx of international chefs and digital nomads, Puerto Vallarta now offers a rich mix of Mediterranean, Asian, vegan, and fusion cuisines. This makes it a true culinary playground for all tastes and budgets.

Best Affordable Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

For those looking to savor delicious meals without overspending, Puerto Vallarta has many affordable restaurants that blend quality with value.

1. La Tia Mariscos

Just a few blocks from Playa Camarones, La Tia Mariscos is a modest seafood spot that delivers big flavor. Locals and travelers come here for ceviche tostadas, shrimp tacos, and fish soup, all made fresh and with generous portions.

Expect a casual setup with plastic chairs and shade umbrellas. The atmosphere is informal but the taste is top-tier. Meals cost around $4–$8 USD, making it an ideal lunch stop before or after beach time.

2. Pepe’s Tacos

This taco institution is beloved for its rotating spit of al pastor, a pork-and-pineapple combo packed into small corn tortillas and topped with cilantro and onion. Open late, it attracts a hungry crowd from nearby bars and clubs.

Located near the main hotel strip, it’s perfect for a budget-friendly snack under $2 USD per taco. The fast service and vibrant energy make it one of the city’s most reliable cheap eats.

3. Pipi’s

A few blocks from the Malecón, Pipi’s offers a more festive yet still affordable Mexican dining experience. Colorful interiors, giant margaritas, and sizzling fajitas are its signature draws.

It’s a favorite among families and groups. While slightly pricier than street stalls, you’ll spend about $10–$15 USD per entrée, and portions are huge—often enough to share or take home.

4. Lonchería Don Jorge

This humble eatery near the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe serves traditional home-cooked Mexican meals like mole chicken, carne asada, and enchiladas. The food is prepared daily and served in a friendly, no-frills atmosphere.

With dishes typically under $6 USD, it’s popular with locals on lunch breaks. Don Jorge is a great option if you’re exploring downtown and want a taste of authentic local cooking.

5. La Burrita

Close to the Marina Vallarta district, La Burrita specializes in oversized burritos that you can customize with a range of fillings and toppings. Try the shrimp with chipotle mayo or the steak with guacamole.

Prices range from $5–$7 USD, and the burritos are filling enough to fuel a full day of sightseeing or beach lounging. The quick service makes it a great grab-and-go spot before a whale-watching tour.

Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

Vegetarian and vegan travelers will be delighted by Puerto Vallarta’s commitment to fresh, plant-based fare.

1. The Green Place

Situated in Marina Vallarta, The Green Place serves a 100% plant-based menu using organic and locally sourced ingredients. The dishes range from power bowls with quinoa and grilled veggies to jackfruit tacos and lentil burgers.

The peaceful setting with lush greenery makes it a relaxing retreat. Prices range from $7 to $12 USD, and smoothies and juices are a must-try. It’s a great spot before browsing the Marina art galleries.

2. Salud Super Food

Located in the Romantic Zone, Salud Super Food is ideal for health-conscious travelers. The menu includes wraps, grain bowls, smoothies, and vegan desserts, all made from scratch with no processed ingredients.

The vibe is cozy and artistic, and most items cost between $6–$10 USD. After breakfast or lunch here, you’re just steps away from boutique shopping and the famous Los Muertos Beach pier.

3. Planeta Vegetariano

A stone’s throw from the cathedral, Planeta Vegetariano is a vegetarian buffet with a rotating daily menu of soups, casseroles, fresh salads, and Mexican dishes like tamales and enchiladas.

Buffet entry is under $9 USD, and the all-you-can-eat format makes it a value-packed option. The eclectic décor and calming music also add to the experience.

4. Vegan Ramen Mei

Tucked near the Cuale River, Vegan Ramen Mei delivers big flavors in a small, modern space. The miso ramen with grilled tofu and shiitake is a standout, along with the spicy tan-tan variation.

Ramen bowls cost around $10–$13 USD, and the portions are hearty. A great stop after walking along the Isla Cuale or visiting the nearby flea market.

5. Barra Light

Just off Playa Los Muertos, Barra Light focuses on fresh fruit bowls, salads, wraps, and smoothies—perfect for beachgoers looking to refuel without feeling heavy.

The minimalist interior and casual vibe suit its wellness focus. Meals are priced between $6–$9 USD, and the spot is popular with locals and tourists alike who want a clean, energizing meal.

Romantic Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just treating someone special, Puerto Vallarta has no shortage of romantic dining spots.

1. Café des Artistes

This upscale venue from Chef Thierry Blouet is a romantic dream. Tucked in a secluded garden courtyard, it combines French sophistication with Mexican flair, offering seasonal tasting menus and exceptional service.

The tasting menu starts at $90 USD per person, but the ambiance and attention to detail are priceless. After dinner, take a short walk to the nearby art galleries for an evening stroll.

2. Hacienda San Angel Gourmet

Set within a former mansion turned boutique hotel, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the bay and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Live mariachi or classical music often accompanies dinner.

Dishes like duck breast in mole, lobster tamales, and filet mignon make for a decadent night. Expect to spend $50–$80 USD per person, and dress to impress. Reservations are essential.

3. La Cappella

Overlooking downtown Puerto Vallarta and its famous cathedral, La Cappella offers Italian cuisine in an elegant open-air setting. As the sun sets, live violin music sets the mood.

The menu includes seafood risotto, lamb chops, and fine wines, with average prices around $40–$60 USD. It’s a perfect post-wedding dinner or date night stop after a romantic walk along the Malecón.

4. Trío

Trío is a Mediterranean-inspired fine dining spot nestled in a 19th-century townhouse. Its chef-driven menu includes lamb tagine, wild mushroom risotto, and fresh seafood, all served in an intimate candlelit space.

Dinners range from $35–$65 USD, and the quiet ambiance is ideal for a slow, romantic meal. The location is within walking distance of downtown galleries and artisan shops.

5. El Dorado

Located directly on Los Muertos Beach, El Dorado is ideal for sunset dinners with your toes in the sand. The beachfront setting, string lights, and crashing waves create an idyllic backdrop.

Try the coconut shrimp or grilled mahi-mahi, paired with a mezcal cocktail. Dinner for two typically costs $60–$80 USD, depending on drinks and starters. It’s a top spot for proposals and special moments.

Are There Michelin Star Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta?

According to the Michelin Guide official website, there are currently no Michelin-starred restaurants in Puerto Vallarta. However, that doesn’t mean the city lacks fine dining options. Several venues offer cuisine and service at a level that rivals Michelin establishments.

Here are three top contenders for the city’s finest dining experiences:

• Café des Artistes: With a reputation spanning more than 30 years, this restaurant from Chef Thierry Blouet is a benchmark of fine dining in Puerto Vallarta. Its tasting menu and wine pairings are as refined as any you’d find in a star-rated venue. It’s located close to the Malecón and many boutique art galleries, making it a cultural as well as culinary experience.
• Hacienda San Angel Gourmet: This restaurant offers a unique blend of old-world charm and upscale Mexican cuisine, presented in a setting that feels like a private estate. With sweeping views of the bay and romantic music, it’s an unmatched venue for memorable dining.
• La Cappella: A favorite for couples, this restaurant combines Italian fine dining with spectacular views of the city skyline and cathedral. The ambiance, food quality, and impeccable service make it one of Puerto Vallarta’s most beloved upscale venues.

Each of these restaurants offers not only exceptional cuisine but also an unforgettable setting. While Michelin may not have arrived yet, Puerto Vallarta continues to raise the bar on world-class dining.