Festival Gourmet International Celebrates Three Decades of Haute Cuisine in Puerto Vallarta

Three chefs had a dream thirty years ago. They wanted to transform Puerto Vallarta into the epicenter of Mexican haute cuisine. Today, that dream celebrates thirty years of history, talent, and flavor.

The 30th annual edition of the Festival Gourmet International will take place from November 13 to 23, featuring over 60 guest chefs, exclusive dinners, and unique experiences that will transform Banderas Bay.

Every dish is a story, every glass celebrates a time-honored tradition that has made Puerto Vallarta a star in the world of fine dining. Get ready to experience history at its finest.

Events Not to Be Missed

Every November, Puerto Vallarta undergoes a metamorphosis, becoming a true haven for the senses. A symphony of aromas, textures, wines, and culinary creativity converge to create the most eagerly awaited culinary event of the year.

Now in its 30th anniversary, the Festival Gourmet International will take place from November 13 to 23, in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, and Tepic. Here are the most anticipated moments based in the Friendliest City in the World: 

• Grand Opening at Tierra Luna Gardens. The festival will kick off with a festive atmosphere of flavors, music, and wine, featuring more than 60 guest chefs. 

• Gourmet Safaris. Indulge in exclusive tours of Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita, or the South Coast, where each stop unveils a unique culinary adventure, from the fresh catch of the day to signature dishes. 

• The Great Wine Festival. This edition's program includes tastings and pairings with more than 20 Mexican and international wineries.

• Chef's Talk Show. Guests chefs share their techniques, inspiration, and stories behind their dishes in intimate conversations. 

Night of Stars at Café des Artistes: This unique event brings together gourmet dining and the artistic and laid-back vibe of one of Puerto Vallarta's most popular spots, making it perfect for a romantic evening for two or a fun night out with friends.

The Three Musketeers...and Amigos

The 30th anniversary of the Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallartais set to feature over 60 guest chefs, from both within Mexico and abroad. These chefs will team up with host restaurants to create unique menus for the festival.

Among the names that have left their mark on previous editions are the founders: Thierry Blouet, Heinz Reize, and Roland Menetrey are the "Three Musketeers" of haute cuisine in Puerto Vallarta. 

The final guest list for 2025 hasn't been published yet, but we know that guest chefs will collaborate with local chefs to create unique menus at about 30 participating restaurants. 

These types of collaborations generate synergies, with the guest chef bringing their international vision and the local restaurant contributing its identity, resulting in a menu for a single week that is unlikely to be repeated outside the festival. 

The Gourmet Tradition in Puerto Vallarta

The International Gourmet Festival has become a true tradition in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding region, drawing visitors from all over to experience the finest culinary offerings the region has to offer. The festival has celebrated the bay's cuisine with admirable continuity since its first edition in 1995. 

This 30th edition is significant because the organizers highlight that each edition has been enriched by dedication, stories, and the unique energy brought by each kitchen. 

The festival's arrival transforms the city during its ten-day run. The most iconic hotels and high-end restaurants participate, the local gastronomic community gathers for the event, and visitors from Mexico and around the world arrive with a desire for unique flavors and experiences.

The Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta is an opportunity for travelers to become familiar with the region's exceptional fishing, locally grown produce, and vibrant culinary culture, all of which are showcased in the festival's dishes. The festival is an unmissable event on the tourist calendar, and year after year, it is eagerly awaited.

Three Decades of Artistry and Haute Cuisine

For three decades, from 1995 to 2025, the Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta has been a staple in the culinary world, attracting chefs and food enthusiasts from all over. The festival has weathered trends, crises, and culinary fads, and now arrives solidly at its 30th anniversary.

The International Gourmet Festival in Puerto Vallarta is a guarantee of quality for the foodie traveler, as demonstrated by the numerous participating restaurants (30 in this edition), guest chefs (60+), special events (15+), and wineries (20+).

Puerto Vallarta is the place to be during these days, as every dinner you have there will be better than the last. And if you are a resident or frequent visitor, attending becomes part of a tradition that you will return to year after year.

This fall, we invite you to experience Puerto Vallarta in a new way. Mark your calendar for November 13-23, 2025. The 30th edition of the International Gourmet Festival awaits you with exclusive menus, themed dinners, wine experiences, and, above all, a city that vibrates to the rhythm of haute cuisine. 

Make your reservations early, pick your favorite place to eat, and get ready to try new combinations and special celebrations of food. After all, a 30-year tradition is not one to be celebrated every day.