Top Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta You Should Try

11 Feb, 2026

Category: Restaurants

Visiting Puerto Vallarta is about much more than beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets...Exploring the local food scene is an absolute must. The city has earned a well‑deserved reputation as one of Mexico’s top culinary destinations, offering everything from refined fine dining to creative, globally inspired concepts.

What many travelers don’t realize is that just a short drive away, Nuevo Vallarta and Punta de Mita also boast outstanding restaurants that are well worth adding to your itinerary. Located only 20 to 30 minutes from Puerto Vallarta by car, these nearby destinations expand your dining options even further. That’s why this guide includes standout restaurants not only in Puerto Vallarta, but also in Nuevo Vallarta and Punta de Mita, perfect for travelers looking to experience the region through its flavors.

Best Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the most recognized and celebrated restaurants on Mexico’s Pacific coast. These establishments are known for their quality, creativity, and consistency, making them favorites among both locals and visitors.

Café des Artistes

Located in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Café des Artistes is an iconic fine dining restaurant led by renowned chef Thierry Blouet. The menu blends French techniques with Mexican ingredients, resulting in elegant, artistic dishes that change with the seasons. Its romantic garden setting and impeccable service make it a top choice for special occasions and memorable dinners.

Address: C. Guadalupe Sánchez 740, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.

TORIO – Handroll Bar & Japanese Taquería

TORIO brings a fresh and modern take on Japanese street food to the trendy Versalles neighborhood. Known for its hand rolls and Japanese‑inspired tacos, this concept focuses on high‑quality ingredients, bold flavors, and a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere. It’s an excellent option for travelers looking to try something innovative while exploring one of Puerto Vallarta’s fastest‑growing culinary areas.

Address: España 306, Col. Versalles, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Mar y Vino

With one of the most picturesque settings in Puerto Vallarta, Mar y Vino is located directly on Los Muertos Beach. This oceanfront restaurant is known for its Mediterranean‑inspired cuisine, fresh seafood, and beautifully presented cocktails. Dining here is as much about the experience as it is about the food, making it a favorite spot for sunset dinners with a view.

Address: Calle Olas Altas 380, Puerto Vallarta, 48380 Mexico.

Best Restaurants in Nuevo Vallarta

Nuevo Vallarta has established itself as a refined dining destination, offering high‑quality restaurants in a more relaxed, resort‑style setting. Many of the area’s standout concepts can be found at Residences Plaza, a well‑known gastronomic spot located next to Marival Distinct.

Residences Plaza is a small open‑air culinary plaza that brings together two restaurants and a cocktail bar, allowing guests to enjoy different flavors in one convenient location.

Taormina Restaurant

Taormina Restaurant specializes in Italian‑Mediterranean cuisine, with a menu inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations. Many of the dishes are based on the owners’ Nonna’s recipes, giving the restaurant a warm, authentic feel. From handmade pastas to classic sauces and carefully selected wines, Taormina offers comfort, tradition, and refined flavors in every dish.

Nicksan

Widely considered one of the best Japanese restaurants in the region, Nicksan is known for its exceptional sushi and innovative fusion of Japanese techniques with Mexican influences. The restaurant’s commitment to premium ingredients and precise execution has earned it a loyal following and an outstanding reputation throughout Banderas Bay.

Fonsini Cocktail Bar

Fonsini Cocktail Bar is an open‑air bar located within Residences Plaza, making it the perfect complement to both Taormina and Nicksan. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails before or after dinner, or even pair drinks with dishes from the neighboring restaurants. Its relaxed atmosphere and creative mixology make it a popular gathering spot in the evenings.

Best Restaurant in Punta de Mita

Punta de Mita is a bit farther from Puerto Vallarta, but for travelers willing to make the drive, the culinary rewards are well worth it. This exclusive beach destination is home to unique dining concepts that stand out for their quality and creativity.

ParrotFish

ParrotFish is a sushi restaurant that has become a must‑visit for food lovers exploring Punta de Mita. Known for its fresh ingredients, inventive rolls, and laid‑back yet stylish atmosphere, it offers a dining experience that feels both elevated and approachable. If your itinerary allows, ParrotFish is definitely worth checking out while visiting the area.

The region offers an impressive variety of restaurants for every type of traveler. Whether you’re staying in the heart of the city or venturing just a short drive away, exploring the local gastronomy is one of the best ways to truly experience the destination. Make room in your itinerary, and your appetite, to discover the flavors that make Puerto Vallarta and its surroundings unforgettable.

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