Puerto Vallarta Named Finalist in Condé Nast Traveler Spain’s 2026 Hotel&Mantel Awards

Some world-class vacation destinations linger in your memory through scenic landscapes, but Puerto Vallarta captivates through authentic regional flavor.

Here on Mexico's Pacific coast, a casual stroll along the iconic Malecón boardwalk leads to savory lengua tacos, an afternoon exploring the vibrant Romantic Zone opens the door to fresh Pacific ceviche, and a picturesque sunset dinner overlooking Banderas Bay closes with a smooth pour of artisanal raicilla.

That irresistible epicurean allure has put Puerto Vallarta firmly on the global culinary radar, securing a coveted spot as a top contender for Best International Table ("Mejor Mantel Internacional") in the prestigious 2026 Hotel&Mantel Awards presented by Condé Nast Traveler Spain.

Now in its fourth annual edition, these distinguished travel awards celebrate world-class dining experiences intimately linked to premier luxury hotels and top-tier travel destinations.

As one of just ten international finalists handpicked worldwide, Puerto Vallarta was evaluated directly by the expert editorial team at Condé Nast Traveler Spain. The official award winners will be honored during an exclusive gala event on November 4, 2026.

A Front-Row Seat to Oceanfront Pacific Dining

Condé Nast Traveler Spain spotlights Puerto Vallarta's vibrant culinary identity, highlighting native ingredients and coastal staples: zesty citrus ceviches, fiery aguachiles, fresh catch-of-the-day fish tacos, ocean-to-table seafood sourced directly from Banderas Bay, time-honored Jalisco recipes, tropical coastal fruits, and raicilla—Jalisco's celebrated artisanal agave spirit.

The takeaway for jet-setters is unmistakable: the Pacific waters define every element of Puerto Vallarta's food culture. For discerning culinary travelers seeking rich Mexican cuisine, Jalisco’s premier beach destination delivers an unrivaled dining landscape where local ingredients, cultural heritage, and modern culinary innovation harmoniously collide.

Three Must-Visit Culinary Destinations

ita Restaurant

• Address: 159 Viena St., Versalles
• Reservations: +52 (322) 291-7717 | ita Restaurant

ita Restaurant brings creative signature cuisine to the trendy Versalles foodie district. Helmed by acclaimed Chef Salvador Carrillo, this culinary hotspot crafts seasonal, contemporary Mexican creations that evolve throughout the year.

Standouts on the current menu include zarandeado grilled octopus, balsamic-pickled peppers, and crisp fennel salad—masterfully pairing heritage Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques. ita also serves a popular seasonal weekend brunch, making it a must-visit destination well beyond dinnertime.

Café des Artistes

• Address: 740 Guadalupe Sánchez St., El Centro
• Reservations: +52 (322) 226-7200 | OpenTable

Nestled in Historic Downtown Puerto Vallarta, Café des Artistes stands as a legendary fine-dining cornerstone. Orchestrated by celebrated Chef Thierry Blouet, the menu offers sophisticated French cuisine infused with bold Mexican culinary traditions.

Signature dishes feature octopus marinated in chicatana ant reduction, tender suckling lamb, and crisp roasted pork belly. The iconic establishment is equally celebrated for its magical open-air garden courtyards and art-curated indoor dining rooms.

Mar y Vino

• Address: 385 Olas Altas, Romantic Zone
• Reservations: +52 (322) 121-8852 | OpenTable

Oceanfront dining reaches new heights at Mar y Vino. Set atop the rooftop of Hotel Playa Los Arcos in the heart of the lively Romantic Zone, this unique restaurant delivers an unforgettable beachfront dining experience paired with signature mixology and curated wines.

Its distinctive venue design features shallow, crystal-clear water pools with tables submerged right in the water, giving guests front-row seats to spectacular Pacific sunsets. Executive Chef Adrián Sánchez curates fresh seasonal seafood, while resident mixologist Mario Mendoza crafts custom cocktails highlighting indigenous Mexican botanicals.

Culinary Travel Beyond the Plate

This prestige recognition from Condé Nast Traveler Spain emphasizes how essential cuisine is to the travel experience in Puerto Vallarta. A single day's itinerary can effortlessly span bustling neighborhood markets, iconic street taco stands, award-winning fine dining, rooftop sunset lounges, and fresh beachfront seafood along the shores of Banderas Bay.

Puerto Vallarta’s regional pantry is anchored by the rich biodiversity of Jalisco and the Pacific coastline. Fresh-caught seafood flourishes alongside vibrant native spices, sun-ripened tropical fruits, and small-batch spirits.

Raicilla, a protected artisanal agave spirit indigenous to the state of Jalisco, takes center stage across the city's cutting-edge craft cocktail bars.

Puerto Vallarta invites culture-seeking travelers to savor the destination through its food. Being named a global finalist for Best International Table in the 2026 Hotel&Mantel Awards solidifies its status as a world-class getaway where culinary excellence and coastal beauty go hand in hand.

With the official award winners set to be revealed this November, there’s no better time to embark on a gourmet journey to Puerto Vallarta.