Best Places to Try Local Mexican Cuisine in Puerto Vallarta
As you’d expect of a coastal city with a large tourist and expat population, Puerto Vallarta has hundreds of dining options, from Mexican, International, to fusion and more.
But the local food scene remains strong and authentic. If you’re after Mexican food, these are spots you’ll want to know.
El Repollo Rojo (Red Cabbage Café)
Tucked away in Emiliano Zapata, this cafe offers a menu that rotates through regional Mexican dishes and an atmosphere that feels like home. The mole Oaxaqueño is the standout that keeps people coming. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the colorful decor adds to its homey vibes.
Panchos Takos
One of the most popular taco spots in Puerto Vallarta. Panchos Takos is busy, tiny, and best visited early. They open at 4 PM, but get there 30 minutes early if you want to skip the line. The menu is straightforward, tacos, quesadillas, guacamole, but the al pastor steals the show: marinated grilled pork served with fresh pineapple, onions, cilantro, and house-made salsas.
Restaurante Oscars
For fine dining with oceanfront views, Restaurante Oscars on Isla Río Cuale is a must. A Puerto Vallarta favorite since 1997, it offers traditional Mexican and cosmopolitan dishes, including grilled octopus with black garlic mole and filet mignon. Oscars is also home to Puerto Vallarta’s best tequila distillery, with guided tastings explaining production methods and regional variations.
Julio’s Churros
If you’re in Mexico, you need to try churros; sweet fried dough fritters that are crispy outside, soft inside, and rolled in cinnamon sugar. Julio’s Churros, a family-run street stand, serves them fresh and hot.
El Campanario
Across from the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, El Campanario is where locals go for traditional Mexican comfort food. This family-run spot has been serving neighborhood regulars for years and is known for home-style Mexican dishes in a casual setting. Menu highlights include grilled meats, pozole, enchiladas, and tamales, and prices remain very reasonable. It’s a great choice after exploring the church or Plaza de Armas.
Lamara
Located in the Versailles neighborhood, Lamara specializes in ceviche and aguachile. The Vallarta ceviche features tilapia with cucumber, onion, cilantro, carrot, serrano pepper, and citrus marinade. The aguachile swaps shrimp for fish with a spicier marinade
The Green Place
This is easily one of the best vegan restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, with menu options like brekkis burritos, pancakes, chilaquiles, and iced matcha with oat milk. All served under colorful murals and sunny patios.
Marisma Fish Taco
In the Romantic Zone, Marisma Fish Taco is known for its fresh fish and shrimp tacos served on large tortillas. Choose from three house salsas (or all three), best enjoyed with aqua like hibiscus, tamarind, or horchata. Besides tacos, spicy tostadas and quesadillas are also worth trying.
Gaby’s Restaurant Bar
This family-run restaurant in Centro is the perfect place for lunch or dinner. Signature dishes include enchiladas with mole sauces, coconut shrimp, and chile relleno. They also offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes
Vallarta Chocolate Factory
Not a restaurant, but a must-visit. Vallarta Chocolate Factory is a great place to sample all kinds of flavored chocolates, from classic bitter cacao to milk chocolates and flavored varieties infused with ingredients like tequila, fruits, spices, and coffee. They also offer hot chocolate, chocolate-covered nuts, and truffles, all made on site.
Bottom Line
These restaurants offer authentic Mexican cuisine, from street tacos and family-run kitchens to fine dining with tequila tastings. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full culinary experience, these spots showcase Puerto Vallarta’s rich food culture.
