The salty breeze rolling off Banderas Bay carries more than just the sound of crashing waves; it brings the unmistakable aroma of grilled seafood, garlic, and fresh lime. In Puerto Vallarta, dining is not merely a necessity but a cultural ritual that bridges the ocean’s bounty with generations of culinary tradition. Whether you are strolling the Malecón or hiding away in the Zona Romántica, the city offers a dizzying array of options for pescatarians and food lovers alike.
From humble beach shacks serving fiery aguachile to upscale terraces plating delicate zarandeado fillets, the spectrum of quality is vast. The key to eating well here is knowing where the locals go and understanding what defines freshness in a coastal paradise. Because tourism is the heartbeat of this region, many restaurants have adapted their menus to international palates, but the soul of the food remains distinctly Mexican.
You might be looking for a romantic sunset dinner with a bottle of cold white wine, or perhaps you want to dig your toes into the sand while cracking open a whole red snapper. Either way, the geography of the city—from the Marina to Conchas Chinas—dictates the vibe of your meal. Understanding the layout of the neighborhoods will help you pair your culinary desires with the right atmosphere.
We have scoured the cobblestone streets, spoken with local fishermen, and tasted our way through the daily specials to compile a definitive guide. This list prioritizes sustainable sourcing, consistency in the kitchen, and that intangible magic that makes a meal memorable. You won’t find tourist traps here; only places where the seafood is treated with the respect it deserves.
Before you make a reservation, consider what kind of experience you are chasing. Are you celebrating a special occasion that requires white tablecloths, or are you searching for the best ceviche tostada you’ve ever had after a morning of swimming? Puerto Vallarta excels at both ends of the spectrum, and everything in between.
Below, you will find our curated selection of the twelve best seafood restaurants in the city, categorized by their unique strengths. Each venue offers a distinct take on the treasures of the Pacific, ensuring that no matter where you go, you are in for an authentic taste of the coast.
The Blue Shrimp Puerto Vallarta
| Address | Olas Altas 336, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48328 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 329 116 7894 |
The food is good here. We had the red chilaquiles, shrimp fajitas, machaca burrito, omlette and a few drinks.
The service is great they are attentive and offered seating with ac, it was very comfortable.
I had a paloma which they hooked it up with a decent amount of tequila.
The view was nice, it's next to the water and convenient parking near by.
Issue I have is the price. I know prices have gone up everywhere but this places has been the most expensive I have taking my family and we didn't event get desert or many drinks. 1-2 per person and 3 were kids. Having said that basic meal and drinks for 5 was $150. Considering it's about what you have in the states, for a Mexican dining experience I thought it was too much. I have ate at other places near by and they have been less with more food.
Excellent experience at The Blue Shrimp in Puerto Vallarta! The service was outstanding—attentive, friendly, and made us feel truly welcomed. The food was just as impressive, with every dish prepared perfectly and full of flavor.
Make sure to try their cocktails—they’re fantastic and really complement the meal. And don’t miss the sunset—timing your visit for it adds something truly special to the whole experience.
Highly recommend!
We had dinner at Blue Shrimp in Puerto Vallarta. It is a very good restaurant with an excellent location, great ambiance, and attentive service.
The food was good and offered a wide variety of options. The service truly stood out and was exceptional throughout the evening.
That said, the prices are noticeably higher compared to other restaurants in the area. We ended up paying approximately 1,500 to 2,000 pesos more than what we paid for dinner at other restaurants during our stay in Puerto Vallarta.
Overall, it is a good dining experience, but the pricing is on the steep side relative to similar nearby options.
We love Blue Shrimp. Food is great. The service is phenomenal. Our waiter on 12/24/2025 was incredible. The view and atmosphere is incredible. Worth the high price. Family of 4 the cost was high but it was the holiday. We get it. What we don't like is the owner giving a ridiculous exchange rate on US dollar to peso. The exchange right now is 18.5 pesos to 1 US dollar. The owner of Blue Shrimp only gives you a 16 peso to 1 US dollar to make more money for himself. It didn't sit right with us. If you go do not use your card. Bring cash!
Tonight was my first time dining at The Blue Shrimp.Our waiter Joaquin was very attentive and friendly. Our food and drinks were delicious . I highly recommend this restaurant for its great view of the beach and its relaxing atmosphere.
El Patron de Vallarta
| Address | Las Americas 315, Lázaro Cárdenas, 48330 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM Thursday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM Friday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM Sunday: 12:30 – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 101 6303 |
Great service, food and drinks. Had the seafood soup which was fresh and loads of shrimp and fish. They even helped us split it into 2 bowls as we were sharing. The shrimp ceviche with green sauce was amazing. Perfect marinated so it wasnt overly cooked by the lime and spiciness was the right amount. Will definitely come back.
This place is absolutely phenomenal. The negative reviews are meaningless because my experience was top notch.
The place is cozy and very welcoming. It almost reminded me of restaurants I’d frequent on holiday in Zanzibar before moving to the US.
The shrimp ceviche is fresh and wonderfully balanced but the star of the evening was the lobster thermidor. I grew up eating lobster thermidor in Tanzania and this is one of the best I have had outside of my home country. Paired with rice and some fresh fries brought back memories. To put it plainly, it is sublime.
Rafael is awesome and his hospitality is an art form.
This is officially my go to spot on every Puerto Vallarta layover.
Wow!! If you want an authentic, fresh and delicious meal, this is your place. It was so good that we came back today, just two days after our first visit as we loved it so much and wanted to eat here again before our vacation ended. I had steak fajitas and my man had coconut shrimp. AMAZING!!This is a MUST!! ❤️❤️❤️
Do not hesitate to eat at this establishment. Food is phenomenal, service is fantastic and good prices. Dined here 4 times in our 2 week holiday, servers remembered our names every time, food and drinks on point. Looking forward to coming back next year for our annual PV holiday.
Amazinggggg food!
I've never experienced customer service like this, we were stranded due to the rain & uber kept delaying the ride and they offered to take us back to our hotel safely. They even walked my sister to go to the ATM since they're cash only.
Anyways regarding the food, drinks were good and the lobster was yummy! Our waiter Jaime was very attentive to our needs. We took awhile to decide on our food options, and he was very patient as well.
Mariscos el Guero
| Address | C. Fco. I. Madero 291, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
If you love seafood and especially love eating whole fish, this is the place for you! My friend and I shared a whole fried snapper and a giant bowl of marisco soup, and they were phenomenal. The red snapper.. omg it was sooooo tasty. It was crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The fish was perfectly cooked. It was paired with just the right amount of rice and veggies(trust me, you don't need more veggies or rice. The whole fish WILL fill you up).
This is a must-go spot in my opinion.
This Mexican seafood restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a wide variety of delicious dishes on the menu. The service is excellent, and the food is cooked to perfection. However, it’s important to note that reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant only accepts cash payments.
Came here as part of a tour group and we had the fish ceviche tostadas and octopus with garlic sauce on bread. The octopus is a main dish but they made it into an appetizer for us. I also got the hibiscus tea.
I really enjoyed the good, the different sauces and the overall atmosphere. Best thing was that the prices were very reasonable!
This place hands down has the best soup I jave eaten! It was SO good. Now ask if I remember the name of it haha! But I have posted a picture to show you all! The fish was really good also though and something id definitely order again! It wasnt dry and had just enough crunch on the outside for my liking. We finished our meal off with some sweet corn ice cream! Haha never heard of it so thought to try it out. It was good. Not my favorite but good.
The staff was very friendly and attentive to everyone around! While we were eating the line got a little busy but the people had to wait maaaybe 10-15 mins. Not too long. Would highly recommend! 👌
I've walked by this restaurant so many times and finally tried it out, it did not disappoint! Love the atmosphere, the staff are all very kind, the seafood was amazing and FRESH most importantly. We had the red snapper (very popular) and the coconut shrimp, there was nothing left on our plates, that says it all.
Campomar Puerto Vallarta
| Address | Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2468-LOC.6, Fluvial Vallarta, 48312 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Friday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:30 – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | 322 224 0122 |
It is a great Mexican seafood restaurant, fresh seafood, great services and even greater ambient. I love the coastal beach side bistro theme. It is definitely upscale and the prices show it, but it's definitely worth it. The flavors are balanced, not overwhelming the fresh seafood taste while staying true to it's Mexican roots. Tender meats, perfectly seasoned. I would definitely recommend this place. Just be careful not to order to much because the entrees portions are huge, and so are the those half gallon drinks!
There is no self park, valet only.
Dining at Campomar is an unforgettable experience. The elegant dining room is perfect for large groups, and the service was so friendly, attentive, and hospitable. As soon as we sat down, the waiters brought out a basket of toasted tortillas, salsas, lime, cucumber, and a complimentary marlin stew as an appetizer, which had a nice meaty texture and sweet/tangy flavor from tomatoes, peppers, and onions. They also served buttery, fluffy brioche dinner rolls, as well as fresh-made tortillas on demand! But we haven’t even gotten to the menu yet. Every dish we ordered came out on absolutely gigantic platters—perfect for sharing family-style!
The Acaponeta Fish Ceviche was made of minced fish, carrots, cucumber, onion, and cilantro. The ceviche was rather mild in flavor, and I was a much bigger fan of the Black Aguachile, raw shrimps marinated in a spicy roasted pepper salsa, served with avocado and cucumber. We also had the grilled sea bass, a super generous portion of fish fillet, served with rice and salad. Finally, our waiter highly recommended the Lo Zarandeado section of the menu, a style of preparation in which seafood was marinated in a spicy red marinade before being grilled to perfection. We tried the Pulpo Zarandeado con Camaron, a half octopus grilled with shrimp, served with grilled cheese tortillas, salad, and vegetables. The spicy, salty flavor of the marinade was simply delightful, and the octopus and shrimp had the perfect smoky char. Overall, the food here was simply delicious, and the service and experience were just unforgettable. The menu prices at first seemed high—until I saw the generous portion sizes! I can’t recommend this restaurant enough!!
Amazing restaurant! Went twice in a week. Fresh and delicious food. Coconut shrimp is a good dish. Even the half portion is a large enough plate. I’ve had my first ever shrimp ceviche here and it was very tasty! Also appreciated the free coconut water they offered on my second visit.
We enjoyed the most amazing dinner together this evening! Sea Bass, Salmon and shrimp was out of this world! The service was phenomenal- everyone was friendly, joyful and most professional. Jorge and Luis made sure that every detail was taken care of at a standard of excellence. We would recommend this restaurant to anyone! Food quality was exceptional!!
Marco our waiter made it really easy for it being our first time. Helped us get exactly what we wanted with his suggestions. Catered to my wife’s taste buds. Food was great, but his service and attention to detail made it even better. Definitely coming back.
Tuna Azul Zona Romantica
| Address | Calle Francisca Rodriguez 155, Altos. Esq. Olas Altas, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 322 178 0657 |
Tuna Azul Restaurant has been one of the most authentic, delicious, and well-prepared seafood experiences we’ve had during our trip to Puerto Vallarta. We originally discovered this place through a TikTok blogger recommendation, but honestly, their words did not fully capture how incredible this restaurant truly is.
Every dish was an explosion of flavours on the palate — fresh, vibrant, perfectly seasoned, and clearly made with care. You can genuinely feel the passion behind the food. From the first bite to the last, everything tasted fresh and authentic.
What we loved the most is that this food simply made us happy. It’s the kind of place that turns a meal into a memorable experience. The service was warm, attentive, and welcoming, and the atmosphere perfectly matched the quality of the food.
If you are visiting Puerto Vallarta and love seafood, Tuna Azul is absolutely worth experiencing.
If you enjoy simple and fresh fish, you’ve got to try this spot. The ahi poke here was incredible. We also got the tamarind margarita and the crispy octopus tacos and those were amazing as well. Enrique was great at making recommendations and provided fantastic service. Highly recommend!
Tuna Azul was one of our favorite spots in Puerto Vallarta! The lobster tacos and ahi guacamole were absolutely amazing, and the bird’s-eye view of the city made every meal even more memorable. But the best part of our experience was the exceptional service, especially from Jonathan. We visited three times during our six-day stay and were lucky enough to have him as our waiter each time, he was sweet, fun, attentive, and truly made us feel like friends. We can’t wait to come back to Tuna Azul and see our friend Jonathan again!
Best dinner we had in Puerto Vallarta, amazing food, we ate here like 3 times. We tried all the seafood tacos and all of them were delicious. Alfredo was the best and very friendly, helpful.
I’ve been coming here since BEFORE I moved to PV years ago- Jesus and his team never disappoint! I’ve been working my way through the menu and never met a dish I didn’t like. I’ve also taken visitors here and they too, all love it. Kind staff, friendly, comfortable, quality dishes, and it’s a nice place to people watch if you get a table near the rails. Highly recommend! They all treat me, and my dog, like their family.
Gracias por todo!
El Coleguita Mariscos Marina Vallarta
| Address | Condominios Marina del Rey, C. Popa s/n-Local 16 y 17, Marina Vallarta, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 8:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 322 276 4676 |
A casual restaurant with many locals . We had a wonderful fish combination plate-grilled fish , shrimp and bean taco with rice and salad. The portions were generous and reasonably priced. An added bonus - free tequila shots, and lovely dessert . Our servers Gloria and Antonio were amazing! We met a lovely local couple that have been dining here every Sunday for the last 16 years!
After a morning fishing charter we brought just caught atún listado. It was still early for "comida" and the restaurant was not full and staff were continuing prep work for the day. The staff happily agreed to prepare our catch. We asked for partly ceviche and the other part grilled with garlic butter. The ceviche was fabulous. The grilled was a bit too well done. Staff was very kind, helpful and attentive. We like to try again for another meal.
Everything was amazing. Food was great and the service was better. My only thing is I would skip the margarita next time. Wasn't a fan of that rocket fuel
Mauricio and Polette were amazing, helping me understand the difference between food items and gave me a pleasant experience here.
Mauricio y Polet were amazing. The food was great, and we had the best service.
The Happy Lobster
| Address | Rep. Dominicana 120, Lázaro Cárdenas, 48330 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 223 1309 |
First off, the service is second to none. Everyone from the host, to the many servers floating between tables were exceptionally attentive, friendly, welcoming, and offered a ton of thoughtful menu recommendations. The food was very fresh - from the shrimp cocktail, to the giant jumbo shrimp to the arrachera flank steak. The restaurant accepts tap to pay, Visa, Mastercard, or cash. Everyone was fluent in Spanish and English. It was our first visit and will not be our last when visiting this area of PV. Enjoy 🙂
Great way to start my PV vacation. Dining on a fantastic lobster seafood feast sitting by open windows, great views of the mountains. Staff was quick courteous and polite (they do speak English). The bring out the raw seafood and explain what all the options and specials are. Of course we had to choose the seafood platter for 2, plus an additional jumbo lobster tail. The chili garlic butter for dipping was amazing and tasty. Not spicy either. Red snapper 5⭐, jumbo shrimp 5⭐, lobster 5⭐. Oh and don't forget the Mariachi players.
This is a must do in PV!
Haven't had frog's legs in decades! It was awesome to see them on the menu in Puerto Vallarta. They were delicious 😋 The lobster was a little bit too well done for me, but everything was delicious.
This place was awesome. We caught fish earlier in the day and our resort couldn't prepare it for us like we planned. We got lucky because the resort would not have been able to offer the tastes or experience we had here. Our concierge called the restaurant and asked if they could prepare it and set up reservation for later that night. They obliged and the fish was taxied on ice to the restaurant for us. When we arrived they asked us how we wanted the fish prepared and offered their best suggestions. We started off with fresh ceviche from the skipjack tuna we caught and it was amazing. Then we got the seafood tray to split between 5 along side our fish. Everything was so fresh and amazing. The bonito we caught lived up to the hype around the area about it tasting the best. Fresh as it gets and they prepared it perfectly. For dessert we had hot sexy fire coffee - which was an amazing show with fire that ended with a delicious liquor coffee that tasted a lot like warm Bailey's. I will definitely come back any time I am in PV
Wonderful service Great views of the mountain range, interesting part of the backside of town.
Good food, nice atmosphere, friendly staff.
Well rounded menu.
Joe Jack's Fish Shack
| Address | Basilio Badillo 212, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 222 2099 |
Absolutely amazing! From the cozy atmosphere to the excellent service, all the way to the impeccably delicious food! I had the Dorado fish and I was stunned with the combination of flavors, everything very fresh, well prepared and nicely presented. It’s not expensive and totally worth your visit. Easily one of the best restaurants I have been to in PV for dinner
We have visited this restaurant a few times. It requires reservations or you will have a lengthy wait, as this place is one of the busiest restaurants in the area.
By chance we have only be seated on the second level.
The atmosphere is more festive and on the louder side and feels busy with the servers moving quickly around you.
We have tried their Fried Chicken, Fish and Chips most recently. Both dishes were delicious and portions were adequate. If this is something that you enjoy, then these would be a good choice. The Fish and Chips do not include coleslaw so we ordered a small portion of coleslaw and it was delicious and perfect to share between two people.
I didn't give this place a 5 star rating because of the noise and getting bumped often as the seating is very tight.
Food and service is good.
I would recommend.
Definitely a great place to get good food. Shrimp tacos, fried sardines, fried chicken , sea bass are the favs for us. And the little dessert on the restaurant week menu that had cardamon creme was delightful.
We visited JoeJacks on a Wed night. Maybe our expectations were too high? We sat on the roof terrace. Atmosphere was "ok". Much older crowd and quite "touristy ". Service was attentive and kind. Food was just "ok". On our way out we noticed a nice bar wirh patrons dining. Maybe dining there would have enhanced our visit. While no major issues, not a top place to dine in PV.
As a Mexican American who thrives to find great food in Mexico this place exceeds my expectations! Great attentiveness (our waiter Victor delivered A1 service), fresh food, and atmosphere was fantastic! Not to mention they had AC and the Mexico game!
El Barracuda
| Address | Paraguay 1290, 5 de Diciembre, 48350 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 1:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 222 4034 |
What a beautiful location!! The food was delicious and our waiter, Milton, was fantastic! He was so on top of things that my chair almost flipped backwards. I was sure I was going over and miraculously there is Milton, standing behind me making sure I didnt fall. Now that is service! He's also super funny and was super efficient. He made sure everything was perfect and saved my life lol!! Great time. Great tacos and the best guacamole that we had while we were in Mexico. Literally could have had that as a meal. So so good!
Great seafood restaurant right on the beach!
The flavors and quality of the food is amazing and with really good prices, the location is beautiful right in front of the beach.
The aguachile is real, spicy and flavorful, the tacos are amazing as well with blue tortillas, we tried the guacamole and French fries and they were really good but the star was my Ojo Rojo which was just perfect.
They are CASH ONLY which is very important, normally you need to wait for a table, usually on weekends, but the waiting time is not really much depending on the size of your group, the service from the waiters is amazing but the hostess really could make a better job welcoming and accommodating the customers.
Definitely 100% recommended, we will be back.
This is our go-to beach restaurant. It’s slightly removed from the more tourist restaurants, and has a great view (especially at sunset). The staff is friendly, delivering food and drinks in a timely manor. We’ve tried many things on their menu, and they have all been wonderful. This time it was the garlic shrimp pan. It came with rice and bread slices to soak up the garlic butter. The rice and sauce were fantastic. The shrimp this time missed their mark and were overcooked. I didn’t take points off because this hasn’t happened before, and the rest of the meal was excellent. We are soo happy they were able to reopen so quickly after all of the storm damage. It’s like it never happened.
Always a great place for seafood, have returned everytime we come to PVR. We had the shrimp pan to start, the grilled octopus and the al ajillo octopus. The latter was the favorite but all was very good. The mezcalitas are a strong drink but the mojito is my easy favorite. Lots more seating on the beach as well.
Cash only. Nice little beach place with enough vegetarian snack options for non fish eaters, like tacos or fries. Lovely guacamole and reasonable drink prices.
Itamar Cocina de Puerto
| Address | Lázaro Cárdenas 542, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 223 5711 |
Itamar has officially made it to the top of our list. The ambiance is amazing right from the moment you walk in, but what really elevated the night was the service. Our waitress, Yesenia, was phenomenal—she gave us some incredible recommendations that completely hit the spot.
We started with an incredibly refreshing cocktail, paired with their delicious house chips and salsas. For the main course, the entrees were absolutely astounding. From the perfectly tender shank swimming in rich sauce to the incredible seafood and creamy risotto, every single bite was a home run.
To top it all off, we ended the night with their chocolate cake and housemade vanilla ice cream. It was absolutely delicious and the perfect balance—not too rich, just pure perfection. Such an amazing experience from start to finish. We will definitely be back!
So where to begin:
I asked ChatGPT for the name of a restaurant near my Airbnb for Oysters Rockefeller and it suggested Itamar. I went over around seven for dinner asked about the oysters and what they had and I was told that they didn’t have any and I was offered clams in sort of a funny way. I then asked what time would be best to come in to have oysters and I was told that they are delivered on Fridays generally and so to come on Friday. Today being Tuesday , they were out. So I wasn’t very happy but I was already there and I ended up ordering just a salad with shrimp. I thought they would be grilled shrimp but I think they were just boiled to be perfectly honest. The salad was OK. The margarita was really good. The chef apologized and said that he found three oysters but again three oysters from last week…and said I’d pass
the people who work there try hard. I just wouldn’t go there in the middle of the week if you’re expecting really nice seafood, I saw they didn’t have much of a steak selection on the menu, but I guess you could have an empanada or something or do the salad as I did.
The margarita was good. It was priced as high as you’d pay out at the beach, but it was still good.
I asked for ice water. I don’t know if it was mistranslated but my waitress offered “natural” or “mineral” I said yes to natural, I did not realize that that was a brand and not “ house”. Water is fine in Puerto Vallarta to drink. All told One Cadillac margarita, A bottle of natural water with ice cubes made from tap, one salad with shrimp came to $40 US with a 20% tip so it’s not an inexpensive place to go.I have attached some pictures.
The food was absolutely delicious, and I genuinely loved this restaurant! Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and we had such a wonderful time.
Omar was especially kind, friendly, and attentive to us. His great attitude and hospitality really made our experience even more enjoyable. It’s always nice when someone makes you feel genuinely welcome and taken care of.
We truly enjoyed the food, the service, and the overall atmosphere. This was such a lovely experience, and I would happily come back again. Highly recommended if you’re looking for great food and excellent hospitality! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We visited Itamar as suggested by a friend. So glad we did! Greeted with a fresh cold towel and artisan water. Menu was filled with adventurous options from fish to steak. We had the surf and turf- octopus was grilled beautifully and the steak was perfect. Our friends ordered a few items from the starter list and all were enjoyable.
The cocktails were well crafted and beautiful as well. There were nice seating options available for various size groups. Clean, bright and nice bathrooms. Located in a fun area with higher end restaurants and dive bars.
Wow!!! Great seafood and guacamole. Great beer, I HATE BEER, this is really good. This is our second day in a row here and We are coming back again!!!! Recommend the snapper, guacamole, buffalo shrimp, muscles and the toastado. From the owner to the whole crew. They made us feel like family. I think it helped that we went 4 days in a row, bajaja.
Tacomar Puerto Vallarta
| Address | Av México 1056, 5 de Diciembre, 48350 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 365 6539 |
We sat outside on the sidewalk with fans cooling us down while we had table side fresh salsa, Molcajete with cactus, pineapple, beef, chicken, shrimp, etc and chicken hurache.
Truthfully it was too much food for us and we couldn’t eat it all. It was delicious and the service was lovely. We can’t wait to come back in the future.
Guacamole and salsa made table side were very flavorful. Colorful place, wonderful service, reggae soundtrack. Maybe not the best tacos Al pastor. Can’t wait to try something Mar like the shrimp.
Reasonable price, full bar, outdoor seating, and they take charge cards. No complaints. Good portions.
Friendly service and delicious food at reasonable prices. They make the salsa and guacamole tableside which was fun. They also have gluten free options clearly marked on the menu and were aware of which items have cross contamination. Will definitely be coming back.
This food was next level, and Fredrico & Jose took great care of us. No one should skip the octopus + shrimp burrito or the octopus tacos on their PV trip, I'll be back for another round before we leave. And the Seafood Molacajete was a seafood lovers dream, everything under the sun in a perfect tomato based sauce. Recommend !!!
Tacomar has quickly become our favorite spot in PV, and for good reason. From perfectly cooked seafood to margaritas the size of your head, they have it all and they do it well. Frederico made the whole experience — attentive, warm, and genuinely fun. If you haven't been yet, you're missing out.
El Dorado Restaurant
| Address | Púlpito 102, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | 322 223 5568 |
This restaurant is an extremely high-end dining experience on the beach. The interior decor is quintessential Mexican design and I wish I had taken pictures of the beautiful tile work.
Although I thought the Shrimp Ceviche was overpriced, it was extremely delicious and the presentation was gorgeous - probably the best Ceviche I have ever had. The passion fruit sauce added just the perfect touch of sweetness. ***please note that I have been making my own Ceviche on a regular basis for decades. I have never paid more than $6.95 usd, but I have never ordered it in a fancy restaurant on a beach in another country. ***
I love this restaurant so much. The food was amazing the service was excellent. It was beach front and the atmosphere was everything with the waves in the background.
We enjoyed some fantastic food, music made a great ambiance with the sun setting. Service was very hospitable and took care of us. Great experience.
This is a great place to have a beautiful evening dinner on the beach. Excellent lighting and smooth music keep the ambience at perfection. Excellent service and delicious well presented food. It's an experience type restaurant perfect for special occasions! Yes, it's a little pricey (especially if you have drinks) but I felt it was worth it.
The food was nothing to write home about, but the service and views were exceptional. I’ll definitely be back for the ambiance. The wait staff was as excellent as usual when I’m in Mexico. 🇲🇽
Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Seafood in Puerto Vallarta
Navigating the culinary landscape of a tourist-heavy city can be tricky, but a little insider knowledge goes a long way in ensuring you eat like a local rather than a visitor. While the restaurants listed above are guaranteed to satisfy, you may find yourself wandering and wondering where to eat next. Here are five crucial tips to keep in mind when selecting seafood in Puerto Vallarta to ensure freshness, safety, and the best possible flavor.
1. Follow the "Distance from the Boat" Rule
The best seafood is almost always found closest to the source. While you don’t need to drive to the marina, you should be wary of restaurants located far inland or in heavily air-conditioned malls. Look for spots where you can see the ocean or where the daily specials are written on a chalkboard based on what was caught that morning. If a menu looks identical in December and July, it is likely relying on frozen imports rather than the local catch.
2. Look for Lime and Salsa, Not Heavy Sauces
Authentic coastal Mexican seafood relies on the acidity of lime, the heat of chilies, and the freshness of herbs. If you see a menu drowning every dish in heavy cream sauces, cheese, or sweet glazes, it is often a sign that the kitchen is catering to a generic tourist palate and masking the natural flavor of the fish. Great seafood should taste like the ocean, brightened by citrus and spice, not hidden by dairy.
3. Timing is Everything for Ceviche
If you are craving ceviche or aguachile, plan to eat it at lunchtime. Traditionally, these raw fish preparations are a daytime food. Locals rarely order ceviche after dark because the fish has been "cooking" in lime juice all day, and the texture and safety are best when it is freshly prepared in the morning. Eating ceviche at 10 PM is a rookie mistake that can lead to a less vibrant dish or an upset stomach.
4. Don’t Judge a Book by Its Plastic Chair
Some of the most transcendent seafood experiences in Puerto Vallarta happen on plastic tables with paper napkins. The presence of luxury decor does not always correlate with the quality of the fish. Look for venues—regardless of their aesthetic—that are busy with Mexican families on a Sunday afternoon. A crowded dining room filled with locals is the most reliable indicator of freshness and value.
5. Ask About the "Pescado del Día"
Always ask your server what the catch of the day is, and more importantly, ask how they recommend preparing it. A knowledgeable server should be able to tell you if the snapper is better grilled "zarandeado" style or fried whole. If the staff cannot describe the texture or taste of the daily fish, it is a red flag that they are disconnected from the kitchen and the product.
Ultimately, dining in Puerto Vallarta is about embracing the pace of coastal life. The best meals are often leisurely, accompanied by the sound of waves and the laughter of friends. Whether you opt for a high-end dining room or a breezy palapa on the sand, the combination of fresh Pacific ingredients and Mexican culinary tradition ensures an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Trust your senses, ask questions, and let the ocean guide your appetite.
