The beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta has been a favorite destination spot for years. The scenery, the culture, the food, the weather… the list could go on and on. When I visit with my family, we have our favorite restaurants we’ve collected over the years, but we found a few new ones this last trip.
Here are my updated must-try restaurants in Puerto Vallarta!
1. Dolce Vita – Italian Food
Ok, so I know it may seem strange to go to Mexico for Italian food, but there may be a day you want a break from tacos and quesadillas. There are 3 locations around the city, so you have plenty of options depending on where you want to spend your night. The food is delicious – I recommend trying their seafood pasta dishes.
Locations:
La Dolce Vita Malecon
Paseo Diaz Ordax 674
La Dolce Vita Zona Romantica
Basilio Badillo 206
La Dolce
Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2468-Interior 6
2. Fat Boy Seafood – Mexican/Seafood
This was a new find this trip and is in the small town of Bucerias. I recommend sitting on the outside patio, which is in the sand. During the day there’s also seating right by the water on the beach. This is more of a fun, casual dining experience. They had a gentleman playing the guitar/singing – he was adorable, and we all sang Sweet Caroline with him.
The margaritas are strong and they give you a free shot after dinner. It’s a fun, delicious spot to grab lunch or dinner!
Av. del Pacifico #6, Downtown, Bucerias
3. Karen’s Place – Mexican/Seafood
Another great Mexican/Seafood restaurant in Bucerias. They also have inside and beach seating. This spot is a little less casual than Fat Boy’s, but still not super fancy. We’ve been here multiple times and always have a good time!
Avenida Lazaro Cardenas 156 Suites Costa Dorada, Bucerias
4. The Blue Shrimp – Seafood
This restaurant has been around for years, although they moved to their current Old Town location after the last devastating hurricane. My mom loves getting their jumbo coconut shrimp! The dining room is covered but is open-air. If you come around sunset, you’ll see a beautiful view! They also have a piano player on certain nights.
Olas Altas 366 Col. Emiliano Zapata, Zona Romantica
5. Dacquiri Dick’s On The Beach – American/Latin
This spot was a new find this trip and it’s located next door to The Blue Shrimp. We sat out on the beach and it had lovely lantern lighting. The special watermelon/lychee margarita was SO delicious and refreshing! The ambience was great and we all loved our food. We ordered the pesto goat cheese ravioli, Caesar salad, and grilled corn ribs to start – all were delicious! The corn was pretty spicy, but so good! I got the braised Birria Beef Short Rib… and you guys, I’m still thinking about it. It was that delicious!
I posted a video along with some pictures from Zona Romantica on my Instagram if you want to check out the vibes! –> here
Olas Altas 314
6. Pepe’s Tacos – Mexican
This is definitely more casual and higher energy. If you’re not into loud atmospheres, I’d suggest skipping this spot. Their margaritas are huge – beware! They’ve got pretty traditional dishes, but it’s delicious. Try the El Pastor tacos – so yummy! This spot has indoor seating only and is a few streets back from the main Malecon area.
Honduras 145 C Col. cinco de Diciembre
7. El Panorama – Seafood/International
We’ve been coming to Panorama for 10+ years and always have a lovely experience! It’s on the 7th floor of an old hotel with one small elevator. Just a warning – this building is old, but the restaurant has a certain charm. It has a panoramic view (hence the name). Try to time your dinner with the sunset for the most magical experience!
Disclaimer – I see there have been quite a few bad reviews from 2023 on TripAdvisor. We’ve never had anything less than wonderful service during our dinners. All of the wait staff are super kind and attentive. I’m not sure if maybe the restaurant went through a few bad months when the ownership was transferred over, but our recent experience in March 2024 was wonderful!
This is also located in Downtown Vallarts, so after dinner, we take a cab back down to the Malecon and walk the streets. There are performers and great shops located along the Malecon along with some bars if you want an after-dinner drink.
689 Miramar Downtown center
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these spots or have more recommendations!
xoxo,
Katelynn Ann
