2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards: Puerto Vallarta Nominees Celebrate Outstanding!

Puerto Vallarta is making waves as a leading destination for travel, wellness, and culinary excellence.  Solidifying its place as a must-visit Mexican gem, the Friendliest City in the World has received four prestigious nominations for the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.

Here are some of the reasons why this vibrant city is still a destination of choice for travelers from around the world.

Puerto Vallarta – Best Destination in Mexico 

Escape to Puerto Vallarta, where stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and a rich culture all come together.  This coastal paradise offers the complete travel experience, from the iconic Malecón boardwalk to exciting outdoor adventures and world-class dining.

Nestled along the picturesque Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is once again in the spotlight as a top contender for the Best Destination in Mexico in the prestigious 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.  Here are some of the reasons why this vibrant city is such a draw for travelers from all over the world:

• A Paradise on the Coast. From lively Los Muertos Beach to the serene shores of Palmares Beach, Puerto Vallarta boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Mexico.  Puerto Vallarta's coastline offers something for every traveler, whether you're looking for water sports, sunset strolls or simply soaking up the sun.
• A Cultural Oasis. The rich history and artistic atmosphere of the city is everywhere.  Sculptures and live performers make the iconic Malecón boardwalk a cultural hotspot.  Don't miss the vibrant murals and colonial architecture that tell a story of tradition and creativity in the charming streets of El Centro, Gringo Gulch and Romantic Zone.
• A Culinary Journey. Puerto Vallarta is a foodie's dream.  The city offers an unparalleled culinary scene.  From gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants to authentic street tacos that capture the heart of Mexican cuisine.  Puerto Vallarta has been recognized as a premier culinary destination for its thriving food culture.
• Adventure and Nature. Puerto Vallarta is an adventurer's playground for the thrill seeker.  The natural beauty of Banderas Bay invites endless exploration, from zip-lining through lush jungles to exploring hidden beaches by boat.  Whale watching, snorkeling, and hiking are just a few of the activities that bring the traveler closer to the spectacular biodiversity of the area.
• Wellness and Relaxation. Puerto Vallarta is also a haven for those who love wellness. Its luxurious spas and holistic retreats offer rejuvenating experiences in stunning natural settings, making it an ideal destination for resting and relaxing.

Maiavé Spa – Best Spa in Mexico 

The Maiavé Spa at Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's stunning North Hotel Zone, is a new definition of luxury and relaxation.  Its commitment to wellness and excellence is underscored by its recent nomination as the Best Spa in Mexico at the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.

The Maiavé Spa offers a harmonious blend of traditional Mexican healing practices and the latest in modern wellness techniques.  Each treatment has been carefully designed to provide a deep sense of relaxation, rejuvenation, and balance.  Each experience is a step toward physical and emotional renewal, from aromatherapy rituals to personalized massages.

The Maiavé Spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide the ultimate in relaxation services.  Its serene treatment rooms, hydrotherapy circuit, and tranquil lounges are designed to soothe and calm the senses.  The spa's ambiance is characterized by soft lighting and gentle aromas. It is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Trio – Best Consolidated Restaurant in Mexico

For those looking to dine out, Trio Restaurant delivers culinary mastery.  With a European-inspired menu and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients, this downtown Puerto Vallarta restaurant, under the direction of esteemed chef Bernhard Güth, has earned a prestigious nomination as the Best Consolidated Restaurant in Mexico in the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.

Trio has been a cornerstone of Puerto Vallarta's culinary landscape for more than two decades.  It has become a favorite among locals and international visitors alike for its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.

Every dish at Trio is a reflection of Chef Güth's passion for the fusion of Mediterranean influences with the freshest local ingredients.  From perfectly grilled seafood and tender cuts of meat to vegetarian delights and homemade pasta, every plate tells a story of taste and artistry.  Signature dishes, such as the rack of lamb and seafood risotto, keep guests coming back for more memorable meals.   

Trio exudes warmth and sophistication, housed in a beautiful colonial-style two-stories casa.  The restaurant provides the perfect setting for romantic evenings, celebrations and gatherings with friends in its intimate dining rooms and private inner terrace.

Chef Salvador Carrillo – Breakthrough Chef in Mexico 

Chef Salvador Carrillo, the creative force behind La Tienda Grande, has emerged as a trailblazer in Mexico's culinary scene, having been nominated for Breakthrough Chef in Mexico in the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.

Chef Salvador Carrillo has captured the attention of food lovers and critics with his extraordinary creativity and dedication to the preservation of Mexican traditions while pushing culinary boundaries.  His work at La Tienda Grande in Ixtapa, one of the most populous suburbs north of Puerto Vallarta, blends local ingredients with traditional Carillo family recipes.  The result is dishes that are both innovative and rooted in cultural heritage.

Carrillo's ability to transform traditional recipes into elevated culinary experiences is evident on the menu at La Tienda Grande.  Paired with fresh perspectives that delight the palate, each dish tells a story of his own family's rich culinary heritage.   

Chef Salvador Carrillo is recognized as a pioneer in the evolving landscape of Mexican cuisine with his nomination for the 2024 Food and Travel Reader Awards.  He has solidified his place among the country's most exciting young chefs with his passion, talent, and originality. 

You can help Puerto Vallarta and its amazing candidates to get their deserved attention.  Every vote counts.  We want to showcase the city's excellence in travel, wellness and cuisine.  Celebrate the best of Puerto Vallarta by voting here today!