13 recommendations in Restaurants & Cafés
Recommendations in Puerto Vallarta
Kaiser Maximilian is a great choice for an upscale meal. It's a favorite among locals, and its beach-free location allows for a more intimate dining experience. The restaurant is open on Christmas Eve, making it an ideal spot for a special birthday dinner. If you're looking for a beachside meal, consider La Palapa or El Dorado instead.
Worth stopping in for a drink to check it out. Located in a suitable area for a group of 45-50 people, Oscar's Restaurant/Event space is a great option for those looking to hang casually and order drinks and food.
La Palapa is a beautiful restaurant with a stunning view of the ocean. Multiple reviewers have praised its lovely view and excellent food and service. It's worth noting that La Palapa has the same owners as El Dorado, another highly-recommended restaurant in the area. If you're looking for a more regional dining experience, La Palapa's menu is a good choice.
Trovasi Cafe is a great breakfast spot in the Romantic Zone, offering an amazing lunch and dinner as well. It's a great place to start your day, especially if you're looking for a local experience.
Food Park PV has a playground surrounded by food stalls, making it an ideal spot for families with young kids. It's a great place to take a break and let the kids burn off some energy while you grab a bite to eat.
One of the best decisions we made was the “Original Downtown Food Tour” from Vallarta Food Tours the first day we visited. Great guides, about 7 stops, a great intro to the ZR, and of course great food.
Yerba Mala is a restaurant owned by a young couple, with the wife creating really awesome food. It's a great place to try, especially since it's unknown to tourists and offers a fair price range of MX$200-300.
A Page in the Sun is a great spot for remote work, with great food and drinks, an art gallery, and a 2nd hand bookstore. Get an iced latte and a slice of carrot cake, and check out the amazing art on display. They have lovely freshly made cakes and muffins, and a nice Jugo Verde. It's a cozy cafe that's perfect for getting some work done while still enjoying a lovely atmosphere.
La Marea is a restaurant that has been a local favorite for years, known for its delicious seafood dishes and its friendly atmosphere. It's worth a visit for the authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta, especially for those looking for a casual dining experience in town. La Marea is located in the Colonia Guzmán area, close to the Puerto Vallarta International Airport and the historic downtown. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The cost for a standard meal ranges from $10 to $20.
The Malecon Café is a gem in Puerto Vallarta, offering a perfect blend of charm and comfort. Located right on the Malecon, it offers a diverse menu with some classic Mexican dishes and coffee options. The café's most notable feature, however, is its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and soak up the waterfront views. The Malecon Café is worth visiting for its laid-back ambiance and convenient location, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It's open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering coffee drinks and meals to suit different occasions.
The Living Room Bookstore is a cozy nook in Puerto Vallarta that has become a beloved spot for both locals and expats. It's tucked away in the charming Old Town, just a stone's throw from the picturesque Malecon. The bookstore offers a wide selection of books and hosts regular events, like this upcoming talk by British author Diane M. Hinds. The store is a perfect place to curl up with a good read or to participate in literary discussions. Visitors can enjoy the bookstore's events for free, though you might want to bring some cash for a coffee or snack at their café. The bookstore is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, making it a convenient stop during your day in town. For a quiet space to read or a lively event, The Living Room Bookstore is well worth a visit.
La Cruz Bakery, a beloved local establishment, recently opened its doors in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Known for its fresh, homemade bread and pastries, this bakery has quickly become a go-to spot for locals and expats alike. The bakery offers many items, from traditional Mexican bread like telera and pan de muerto to European-style croissants and baguettes. Visitors can enjoy their treats in the cozy indoor space or on the charming outdoor seating area, perfect for sipping a café con leche while people-watching. The real draw, however, is the quality of the bread. One can visit the bakery early in the morning and witness the bakers creating their signature loaves, a process that is both fascinating and delightful. The bakery is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it a convenient stop for anyone looking for a taste of home or a delicious start to their day.