January 29, 2026
Jalisco's premier beach destination is Puerto Vallarta, where the state's defining elements are proudly showcased to the world: mariachi, charrería, and, of course, outstanding cuisine.
The city's vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape, boasting over 2,000 restaurants and an array of over 40 international cuisines, is a testament to its youthful energy and boundless creativity.

Drawing from time-honored Jalisco recipes and the culinary creations of a fresh generation of chefs, it pushes the boundaries of the local fine dining scene.
Puerto Vallarta is the talk of the town, and for good reason. The city offers a variety of unique experiences: from seafood cuisine to contemporary recipes inspired by classic Hollywood, there's something for everyone. Read on for a brief guide to the top five experiences that have everyone talking.
The 2019 Food and Travel Reader Awards named icú Cocina de México the Best New Restaurant in Mexico, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the Puerto Vallarta dining scene. The restaurant's owner, the young chef Mauricio Leal, has elevated traditional Mexican cuisine by incorporating his own creative influences, resulting in a haute cuisine experience where each dish is a unique narrative. The restaurant's tasting menu, which features five, seven, and nine-course options, reflects the dialogue between tradition and contemporary cuisine. In addition, an à la carte menu offers more flexibility for those preferring a more customized dining experience. Located in a spacious, cool, and comfortable space in the Romantic Zone, icú (which means "corn" in the Wixárika language) will always be a great choice, whether you are planning a romantic dinner or a special celebration with your group of best friends.

For nearly a decade, Vallarta culinary expert Joel Ornelas has been presenting a highly intimate reimagining of Bay of Banderas culinary creations at his restaurant Tintoque. It is the only restaurant in Puerto Vallarta that proactively pursues sustainable fishing, and it is located in an old mansion on the banks of the Cuale River. Chef Ornelas also uses Japanese fishing and product preservation techniques, called ike-jime and kombu-jime, in his cooking. The result is a fresh, constantly evolving cuisine that highlights seasonal ingredients and local flavors based on seafood and crops from the coastal areas of Puerto Vallarta. Tintoque stands as a distinguished culinary gem, proudly featured in the esteemed MB100 2026 Guide, a hallmark of excellence crafted by the revered Mexican food critic Marco Beteta. Tintoque has also been honored with the accolade of Best Nighttime Dining Experience in the 2025 Premios al Mérito Restaurantero (Restaurant Merit Awards,) a testament to its unparalleled excellence. Absolutely unmissable.

Experience one of Puerto Vallarta's most renowned love stories at Casa Kimberly, the estate that was once the private retreat of Hollywood icons Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Today, Casa Kimberly is home to a charming boutique hotel, and its restaurant, The Iguana Restaurant & Tequila Bar, is a favorite choice for a romantic dinner with panoramic views of the Historic Center and Old Town Vallarta. Executive chef Jesús Suastegui's menu is notable for its blend of Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques. Its wide-ranging selection of spirits features some of the finest tequilas and mezcals in the area. Romantic evenings become lively with live mariachi music every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the season from November to April.

Flavorful Mexican Pacific cuisine with a Mediterranean flair. Azul Botanas del Mar has become one of Puerto Vallarta's most highly regarded culinary destinations over the past four years, thanks to the ingenious creations of chef Hugo Chávez. His approach is a creative fusion of Mexican flavors and Italian techniques, perfected during his time in Europe. Chef Chávez’s "botanas del mar" (sea snacks) offer a feast of flavors and textures. The menu is dominated by unique and unexpected dishes, including sashimi, carpaccio, and signature tostadas made with fresh seafood and a playful twist (i.e. seared tuna on a bed of mac and cheese). The house mixology is outstanding; be sure to try the raicilla from the coast of Jalisco from the award-winning local label Hacienda El Divisadero.

The omakase experience with a view of Puerto Vallarta's Malecon boardwalk. Sendo, a traditional Japanese restaurant, dazzles with its personalized, high-quality offerings. In a cozy setting with natural materials like wood and bamboo, natural light, and neutral colors, the bar becomes lively. You can choose from omakase menus of up to 17 courses, carefully prepared by chef Guillermo Butrón right in front of you. Prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors and textures, showcasing the finest fresh produce from Japan and Ensenada. An informal and very peaceful setting awaits, where you can enjoy sushi, fresh seafood, Japanese whiskey, and a comprehensive variety of sake (perfect for conversation!) Just make sure to save a seat at 6:00 pm to see the beautiful sunsets of this part of the Mexican Pacific from the bar.

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