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Puerto Vallarta has some of the best restaurants in Mexico. There are so many local fine dining venues, with more than four dozen in the South Side/Zona Romantica alone, that it's hard to find a bad meal in the whole town. Restaurant Row on Basilio Badillo street in the heart of the South Side has some twenty or more gay-friendly eateries in seven blocks, from Coco Tropical on Los Muertos beach to the La Tia Catrina and beyond, including those that serve German (Hacienda Alemana), Mexican (Cafe de Olla, El Mole de Jovita, Fajita Republic, Margarita Grill and Paco's Tacos), Italian (Boccon di Vino), international cuisine (Zanate), steak and seafood (La Fonda), American (The Pitt and Wing's Army), seafood fare (Joe Jack's and others), and breakfast (Fredy's Tucan, Johnny's Diner, and Memo's Pancake House). Most of these have extensive menus with a wide and rich variety of delicious dishes to choose from. The downtown malecon boardwalk area is not only the center of straight nightlife but also has many restaurants, with a number of them serving food and providing some musical entertainment such as La Bodeguita del Medio (Cuban music, salsa), La Chata and El Andariego (both with mariachi), La Dolce Vita (jazz), and rock 'n roll at Hard Rock Cafe and Paradise Burger. PV as a great gay travel destination has become a major attraction for people who enjoy cuisine and fine dining, winning more gastronomic awards and praise than any place in the country other than Mexico City. Since Puerto Vallarta has some of the best gourmet restaurants in the country, you can be pretty confident that you'll not only have lots of great food while you're here but good service as well. Most of the major hotels also have their own specialty eating places serving their own tasty cuisines. 'Casual but elegant' or 'casually elegant dining' seems to be the phrase in common use these days to describe going out to dinner. For dessert or coffee after a good meal, check out the cafes & bakeries page. Puerto Vallarta Restaurants Listed here are all of the gay-owned or gay-managed (**) restaurants that I know of, and a good number of other popular, friendly, and fine ones as well. Some of these have live music during the winter months so you may wish to call for further details. Many will accept only cash. All Puerto Vallarta restaurants and cafes use purified ice and water. Please note that it is customary in Mexico for you to have to ask for the bill at the end of your meal. Tipping is the same as in the States, 15-20%, depending on the quality of service. A number of dining spots close for a few weeks or more during the low season summer months, usually in September or early October. Apaches Bistro - South Side/Old Town - 443 Olas Altas.  Telephone: 222-4004  ** Steaks, seafood and continental prepared by chef Andre from Europe. Delicious fare served until midnight at reasonable prices. A favored Puerto Vallarta gay restaurant. Next door to Apaches martini bar. Happy hour, 5pm-7pm.  Daily, 5pm-2am. Archie's Wok - South Side/Zona Romantica - 130 Francisca Rodríguez.  Tel: 222-0411 Archie Alpenia was film director John Huston's personal chef for years and now the restaurant is run by his wife Cindy and their daughter Kyoki. Combines Chinese, Thai and Filipino food and the place has its own oriental garden in the back. Tranquil atmosphere often with music on the harp by D'Rachel, Fri and Sat evenings. Menu includes Filipino egg rolls, calamari, garlic shrimp and a variety of tasty vegetarian dishes. Archie's Wok is always voted best Asian restaurant in Pto. Vallarta year after year. An old fave since 1986.  Mon-Sat, 2pm-11pm. Barcelona Tapas - Central - Matamoros & 31 de Octubre.  Tel: 223-0831, 222-0510 Spanish restaurant and tapas bar with mixed seafood grill, charcoal grilled lamb, duck and vegetarian dishes, paella, gazpacho soup, as well a selection of cold and hot tapas galore. Restaurant with panoramic views of Banderas bay and Puerto Vallarta.  Daily, Noon-11:30pm Blue Chairs Beach/Blue Sunset Rooftop Bar and Restaurant - Los Muertos Beach - Calle Malecon y Almendro #4.  Telefono: 222-5040   ** There is the Blue Chairs restaurant on the gay beach itself, and another on the rooftop at the Blue Chairs Resort, the later having a wading pool and lovely views of Banderas Bay from the two open top levels. Menus include Mexican, steaks, chicken dishes, pasta and seafood. Please call for details on entertainment. The Blue Chairs on the beach is open daily, 8am-Sunset. Blue Sunset rooftop bar and restaurant, Daily 3pm-11pm

Boccon di Vino Italian Trattoria - South Side - 317-A Basilio Badillo.  Cell: 044-322-102-8557
New Vallarta Italian restaurant that comes well recommended from several friends. With an outdoor dining area in the back and a new wood burning pizza oven. Home-made pasta, seafood, lasagna. Good to excellent reviews. Chef Gaetano Fernandez from Naples.  Mon-Sat, 5pm-10:30pm
 

Cafe de Olla - South Side/Romantic Zone - 168 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 223-1626
Very good restaurant for Mexican food with reasonable prices and friendly service. The Mexican plate is probably the best in town and the ribs are delicious. Cafe de Olla menu also includes chicken, beef, shrimp and traditional national dishes. Quite popular, so be prepared to stand in line during the winter months. One of my favorite places to go out to eat for years. Closes Sept 15-Oct 15.  Weds-Mon, 10am-11pm.

Cafe des Artistes - el Centro - 740 Guadalupe Sanchez.  Tel: 222-3228
Cafe des Artistes blends provincial Mexican with classical French cuisine under chef-owner Theirry Blouet. Live piano music, original works of art and lush gardens enhance the tropical romantic effect. Restaurant menu includes stuffed crab, roasted sea bass, marinated salmon and roasted duck. Cafe des Artistes is one of most well-known and first-rate Puerto Vallarta restaurants, winner of several awards for cooking and according to a local poll voted the overall favorite in town, as well as for best service, most romantic, and best atmosphere. The Gourmand Magazine 2011 Guide to restaurants and fine dining recently named Chef Thierry Blouet as one of the ten most influential chefs in the world and named Cafe des Artistes as the best restaurant in all of Mexico. A restaurant-connoisseurfriend says, "Best restaurant in Vallarta. We ate on the high level terrace in Cocina de Autor Thierry Blouet. Very expensive but great and memorable." Full info at Cafe des Artistes.  Daily, 6pm-11:30pm.

Cafe Roma - Downtown/Central - 287 Encino at Matamoros, upstairs.  Tel: 222-7378
Italian restaurant/pizzeria and bar near the municipal flea market and across from the Cuale River so some nice views. Noted for its home-style environment and friendly service since 2006. Karaoke on Mon, Weds and Fri, 6pm-9pm. Rating as #6 out of some 340 restaurants in Puerto Vallarta at TripAdvisor.  Mon-Sat, 11am-10pm

Casa Naranjo - South Side/Zona Romantica - 263 Naranjo at Lazaro Cardenas.  Tel: 222-3518
International cuisine with an accent on flavors of oranges. Ranked on TripAdvisor as #20 of 446 Puerto Vallarta restaurants so it gets many pretty good reviews, including by gay food-writer Gary Beck, but some gourmet friends of mine did not enjoy the meal that night.  Daily, 5pm-11pm

Coco's Kitchen - South Side/Romantic Zone - 122 Pulpito.  Tel: 223-0373
Coco has taken over the old Barrio Sur restaurant and is now serving three meals a day. Cocos is especially noted for a good breakfast on the South Side-Old Town, and for the romantic garden setting. Some friends report "the best chile rellenos in Vallarta". Early bird daily dinner special Tues-Sat, 5pm-7pm.  Daily for breakfast and lunch, 8am-4pm; Dinner, 5pm-11pm

Daiquiri Dick's - South Side/Old Town - 314 Olas Altas.  Tel: 222-0566
California cuisine blended with traditional Mexican flavors at this fine Puerto Vallarta gourmet restaurant on Los Muertos beach. The Daiquiri Dick menu includes filet of fish "Zarandeado", BBQ spareribs, butter fried prawns and chicken in Oaxacan mole. Highly rated and one of the overall favorite restaurants in town year after year according to local polls, and noted for its fine service. Some of the best food in Puerto Vallarta. Owners Peter and Tari Bowman of Puerto Vallarta's Daiquiri Dick's (photo left) recently celebrated 40 years in November 2011 and have a cookbook of their recipes out, Sand in Your Shoes.  Weds-Mon, 9am-11pm.

de Santos - Hotel Zone/Plaza Peninsula - 2485 Blvd. Fco Medina Ascencio, Local 35-36.  Tel: 221-3090
Mediterranean international cuisine from Italy and Spain in a chic environment. The restaurant-bar-nightclub relocated in 2011 from downtown and opened in the Peninsula Plaza. After dinner this Puerto Vallarta restaurant becomes a discoteca/disco nightclub scene. House DJ spins a combo of flamenco, lounge, mood and jazz music for meals and later. De Santos also has locations in Guadalajara and NYC. One of the owners of De Santos is a member of Mexico’s most famous rock group, Mana.  Food daily, 12:30pm-2am; Music begins around 10pm until 3-4am.

Derby City Burgers - South Side - 356 Olas Altas.  Tel: 223-3323  **
Hamburgers, salads and fries....Reportedly some of the best in town. Street-side seating.  Mon-Sat, Noon-10pm

D'Z Route 66 Rock N Roll Diner - Marina Vallarta - Paseo de la Marina 3,  Locale #6.  Tel: 209-0760
Diner in the Marina which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with milkshakes, burgers, pizza, ribs, fries, etc. Based on '60s rock music, style, memories and colors. D'z Route 66 Diner open at their new location on Basilio Badillo street where Roberto's Puerto Nuevo used to be, but closed within a few months - said to be looking for another spot in this area of town. Owners Michelle and Armando Jimenez.  Daily, 8am-10pm

El Arrayan - Downtown - 344 Allende.  Tel: 222-7195  **
Locally voted "Best Mexican" in Puerto Vallarta for 5 years in a row, El Arrayan restaurant offers old family traditional recipes from different parts of Mexico. The restaurant (photo at left) has a welcoming atmosphere with a courtyard and arrayan tree growing there and plenty of Huichol art. Menu includes shrimp pozole, fish filet, ceviche, empanadas, duck "camitas" and "Chiquis" chicken breast. Frommer's Mexico 2007 included El Arrayan in the chapter on the best of Mexico. Live music with "Los Frijoleros" on Sat, 7pm-10pm. Gay-owned and operated by Carmen Porras, with head chef Mariano Valdez. Casual ambiance.  Weds-Mon, 5:30pm-11pm

El Brujo - South Side - 510 Venustiano Carranza at Naranjo.  Tel: 223-2036
Mexican, seafood and beef dishes. El Brujo has become popular for its reasonable prices and ample servings of good food. Expect to wait in line during the winter high season. Location also in Bucerias, Nayarit on the Avenida Pacifico with Tel: 329-298-0406.  Tues-Sun, 1pm-10:30pm

El Dorado - Los Muertos Beach/South Side - 102 Pulpito.  Tel: 222-4124, 222-1511
Seafood, international and Mexican specialties in one of oldest restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, since 1961. During the '60s and '70s when this part of Old Town was mostly fields and woodlands, it was one of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's hangouts for meeting friends and drinking. Nowadays it's a favorite among locals and tourist gringos, especially for lunch. The El Dorado restaurant, beach club and bar has been under new management since March 2010 and was completely remodeled-renovated in autumn 2010. Sculptor Ramiz Barquet's bronze sculpture "Sharks in Spiral" graces the little square at Pulpito and Los Muertos beach between the El Dorado and La Palapa restaurants, which unfortunately the El Dorado has encroached on with its bar area - hey folks, this is public space.  Daily, 8am-2am.

El Mole de Jovita - South Side - 220 Basilio Badillo.  Telefono: 223-3065  **
Breakfast, lunch and dinner at this relatively new Puerto Vallarta gay-owned and operated restaurant. Mexican dishes and the house specialty of chicken mole. Good quality food at reasonable prices, and I'm hearing good reviews and word of mouth. Inside or street-side seating. Friendly service at El Mole de Jovita with owner Sergio and Lalo.  Mon-Sat, 8am-11pm

Encuentros - South Side - 308 Lazaro Cardenas.  Tel: 224-1777  **
Recently reopened and gay-owned upscale pizza pasta bar lounge, nicely decorated. Encuentros is a lovely place for drinks, conversation and a snack, with such appetizers as tuna, chicken, cold crab, beef and guacamole. Sometimes with live music. Mixed clientele, wireless internet, a/c; will host private events. Happy hour, 6pm-8pm.  Daily, 6pm-2am

Fajita Republic - South Side - 188 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-3131
Beef, chicken, shrimp, combo and vegetarian fajitas are the specialty of the house, with BBQ ribs and traditional Mexican plates as well. Ample delish portions and moderate prices make Fajita Republic popular for dining. One of my favorites. Also with a new location in Nuevo Vallarta, Tel: 297-2277.  Daily, 5pm-11:30pm

Figueroa's Burritos - Romantic Zone - 300 Carranza at Constitucion street.  Cell: 044-322-148-5450  **
A recently established gay-owned breakfast and brunch spot, Figueroa's (photo left) is "just a fun little local hang out with fresh California style Mexican food, good service and great prices." With burritos, chicken mole, tacos dorados and many others. Vegetarian, take out and delivery available; does a good business. Ranked #38 of 601 restaurants in Vallarta.  Mon-Sat, 9am-7pm

Fredy's Tucan - South Side - 245 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 223-0778
This restaurant-bar is popular with locals and tourists alike mainly for its breakfast (no dinner) in the open interior patio and street-side seating area. Waffles, french toast, crepes, omelettes, pancakes and some Mexican specialty dishes. Lunch available from noon. Fredy's Tucan often wins Virtual Vallarta on-line voting as the best breakfast in Puerto Vallarta. Since 1981 with the family Garcia Acevedo.  Daily, 8am-2:30pm

Fusion Gourmet - Romantic Zone/Zona Romantic - 156 Pilitas.  Tel: 223-1177
Breakfast, lunch and dinner in the outdoor garden seating area, inside, or on the rooftop with some city and mountain views. With chef Andres Garcia, and live music. Happy hour, Noon-5pm.  Weds-Mon, 8am-11pm

Hacienda Alemana - South Side - 378 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-2071
Good German and international food prepared by chef-owner Mike Pohl from Bonn. Lunch and dinner, served in an open garden restaurant, with a menu that includes several varieties of schnitzel and sausage, fish filet, sauerbraten and veal bratwurst. On Weds and Sat, 6pm-11pm, Hacienda Alemana offers a German buffet with all you can eat including draft beer; Friday it's all you can eat BBQ ribs.  Daily, 11:30am-11:30pm

India Gate - Downtown/el Centro - 124 Allende.  Tel: 223-2424
New Indian restaurant downtown just a short walk up from the Malecon boardwalk and La Bodeguita del Medio. Serving such dishes as butter, mango and curry chicken, lamb tikka and curry, plus vegetarian fare as well.  Tues-Sat, 3pm-11pm; Sun, 2pm-8pm

JB's on Olas Altas - South Side - 155 Francisca Rodriguez, upstairs.  Cell: 044-322-178-5424  **
Recently opened gay-owned restaurant and bar with soups, salads, quesadillas, burgers, sandwiches, seafood dinner, burritos, drinks and more. Located where Hot Frida's was for several years, 2nd floor with street-side views. Their slogan is "Mi Casa es Su Casa" or my house is your house. Info for JB's. Happy hour, 3pm-7pm.  Daily, 11am-2am

Joe Jack's Fish Shack - Romantic Zone - 212 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-2099, 223-9752
Fish and chips, fish tacos, burgers, seafood dishes. Joe Jack's serves tasty dishes and is a personal favorite, on two levels with outside seating on the rooftop terrace. Has been voted best inexpensive restaurant and best burger in town; since 2005. Home delivery.  Daily, Noon-11pm

Jorge's Hideaway Shrimp Shack - South Side - 206 Pilitas.  Cell: 044-333-889-6928  **
A newly established gay-owned spot with Mexican and seafood for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday.  Tues-Sun, 3pm-11pm

Kabuki Sushi Bar - South Side - 414 Olas Altas. Tel: 222-1069 and Tsunami - Hotel Zone - Centro Commercial Villas Vallarta Local A-32. Tel: 224-0105
Japanese food and sushi. Catering and events; home delivery. Good sushi since 1988. Kabuki on Olas Altas street (change of name from Tsunami), Daily, 1:30pm-11pm, has an all you can eat on Tues for 199 pesos; Tsunami in the Villas Vallarta Center/Plaza Las Glorias, Mon-Sat, 2pm-11pm

Kaiser Maximilian - South Side - 380-B Olas Altas.  Tel: 223-0760
Combination of old and new world cuisine with a specialty of traditional Austrian and European dishes. Kaiser Maximilian serves delicious fare such as braised baby lamb strips, mahi-mahi, sautéed squid and San Blas shrimp. Inside dining with a/c or outside on Olas Altas street. The Maximilian Espresso cafe, open 8am-Midnight, serves 20 different coffees as well as Austrian pastries and ice cream.  Mon-Sat, 6pm-11pm
 

La Hacienda - South Side - 388 Cardenas.  Tel: 222-4931
One of traditional Vallarta's oldest family restaurants, since 1978. Breakfast and lunch only.  Tues-Sun, 8am-2pm

La Palapa - Los Muertos Beach - 103 Pulpito.  Tel: 222-5225
One of loveliest and best beachfront restaurants in Puerto Vallarta. Mexican and international cuisine with candlelight beachfront fine dining. La Palapa has had a great romantic setting and been a tourist favorite since Dec 31, 1958. A restaurant connoisseur friend of mine notes: "Hands down the best restaurant South Side and one of the best city wide. The setting may be the best....Great breakfast and good lunch and dinner". Casually elegant; expensive. Acoustic guitar accompaniment or light Latin jazz music by Alberto Perez or Raul Simetal, 8pm-11pm. La Palapa restaurant - Puerto Vallarta.  Daily, 8am-11:30pm

La Piazzetta - South Side - 143 Rodolfo Gomez at Olas Altas.  Tel: 222-0650
Over 20 kinds of delicious Southern Italian style pizza as well as pastas and traditional Italian plates by owner Mimmo. La Piazzetta is often voted the best pizza and best Italian restaurant in the city. Excellent service and very popular year round; since October 1995. Another locale at 219 Ave. Fluvial Vallarta, Daily 1pm-12am, Tel: 224-7288. In Old Town, Mon-Sat, 4pm-Midnight

Langostinos - Playa Los Muertos Beach - 109 Manuel Dieguez.  Tel: 222-0894  **
Breakfast, lunch and dinner in the same block as the new Los Muertos pier. Service, food, atmosphere and the views of oftentimes spectacular sunsets are generally above average quality. Inside seating or on the beach with salads, soups, seafood and Mexican specialties. Reasonable prices and location make this dining spot popular with locals and tourists alike; ex-pats have regular get-togethers here. Owners Javier and Collet, and a friendly staff. Langostinos frequently has live music. Next door to Cuates y Cuetes.  Daily, 8am-11pm

Lido Beach Club - South Side/Los Muertos beach - #1 Calle Malecon.  Tel: 044-322-170-4984 **
Michel Ferrari, the owner of the fine Olas Altas restaurant Trattoria Michel, has just opened the new name of Lido Beach Club located at the Blue Seas/Playa del Sol resort. This restaurant-bar offers breakfast, 9am-2pm, and lunch 11:30am-4:30pm, with a menu that includes soup, sandwiches, homemade pasta, salads, ceviche, and a variety of meat, fish and seafood dishes. The Puerto Vallarta beachfront Lido Beach Club offers chaise lounges and recliners with sun shades on Los Muertos beach, plus an open-air dining area for its gay-friendly clientele. Stylish. A friend writes, "Great waiters. 80/20 gay/straight. Older wealthier crowd....No tortilla chips, no papas fritas. But the lounge chairs, cute and super-friendly beach guys, and real wine glasses makes it all worthwhile." The Lido Beach Club is practically adjacent to the traditional Blue and Green chairs of the Puerto Vallarta gay beach.  Restaurant open daily, 9am-4pm; Bar daily, 9am-6pm

Mariscos El Coleguita - Marina Vallarta - Popa street at Condominiums Marina del Rey, Local 17. Tel: 108-9726
One of the most popular restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta Marina. Reasonably priced seafood, shrimp, scallop, lobster, fish and Mexican dishes. Some two dozen tables on the covered patio. Locations also in Ixtapa, Jalisco and La Cruz de Huanaclaxte in Nayarit.  Weds-Mon, 1pm-8pm

Memo's Pancake House - South Side - 289 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-6272
Memo's breakfast place is popular, so you may have to wait in line. Pancakes, omelets, waffles, eggs and Mexican dishes. Pleasant open interior patio. In June 2003 the Pancake House was rated "the best place in the world to go for breakfast" by International Living.  Daily, 8am-2pm

Michel - South Side/Romantic Zone - 507 Olas Altas.  Tel: 223-2060, 223-2088  **
Italian cuisine at this trattoria with owner Michel Pascal Ferrari, who also operates El Lido Beach Club on Los Muertos. Appetizers, pastas, risotto, meat and fish dishes, all prepared à la minute. Rather on the expensive side, but good reports of fine cuisine. Over six years at this gay-owned location, and with inside or outside seating.  Daily, 6pm-11:30pm

Nacho Daddy - South Side - 180 Basilio Badillo street.  Tel: 223-0838
An original concept in "Mex-Tex" cuisine with a large dining area, a popular sports bar area with 42" TVs, billiards and all with a lively atmosphere at night. Newest addition to the growing number of restaurants on Puerto Vallarta's famed Restaurant Row. Live music, Thurs through Sat, featuring Joe King Carrasco or special guests. Also hosts Charity Bingo through the season every other Tuesday night at 6:30pm.  Daily, Noon to Midnight

No Way Jose - South Side - 5 de Febrero #260 at Ignacio Vallarta.  Tel: 223-2853
One of the newer restaurant-bars in the Zona Romantica. Mexican and international cuisine with beef, seafood and chicken dishes. Very good reviews and word of mouth, with friends telling me the filet mignon is especially excellent. No Way Jose was voted the best new Puerto Vallarta restaurant in 2010, and in both 2011 and 2012 was voted best moderate priced dining in the city. Serving in the main street level dining room and on the newly expanded rooftop terrace for dining under the stars.  Tues-Sun, 3pm-12 Midnight

Nu Tapas Bar - South Side - 115 Pulpito at Amapas street.  Telephone: 222-2114  **
A new global tapas bar open since autumn 2012 with street-side and upstairs indoor seating (formerly known as Fuego and before that The Banana Cantina). Nu (facebook) serves salads, soups and a tapas menu including asparagus and red bell pepper frittata, cauliflower ceviche, eggplant albondigas, scallop carpaccio, seared tuna and other fine dishes. A nice wine list. Good reviews from a gourmet friend.  Tues-Sun, 3pm-2am

Planeta Vegetariano - Central - 270 Iturbide.  Tel: 222-3073
A wonderful little place with an all-you-can-eat vegetarian lunch buffet for only 85 pesos, including drink and dessert. A la carte menu for dinner, 7pm-10pm. Colorfully decorated with a tranquil atmosphere to compliment the good food. Planeta Vegetariano receives most excellent reviews.  Mon-Sat, 8am-11:30am for breakfast and 11:30am-10pm for lunch and dinner.

Porto Bello - Marina Vallarta - Marina Sol Local #7.  Tel: 221-0003
Canadian owners Mario Nunes and Maurizio Pelligrini have a fine Italian restaurant here with pleasant views of Marina Vallarta and the harbor where the large outdoor patio overlooks the sailboats and Sierra Madre mountains. Inside seating with a/c. Restaurant menu includes cannelloni, fusilli Porto Bello, veal scaloppine with white wine cream sauce, sautéed fish fillet and tasty deserts. Popular since 1989.  Daily, Noon-11pm.

Red Cabbage Cafe - Remance - 204-A Rivera del Rio.  Tel: 223-0411 **
This charming out of the way place along the Cuale River in a typical Puerto Vallarta neighborhood is filled with movie photos and posters. Regional Mexican food with specialties from all over the country including divine chiles en nogada, chicken mole from Puebla, and hearty carne en su jugo (steak in its juice). In addition, the vegetarian menu is diverse and tasty. Frommer's rated the Red Cabbage restaurant as "exceptional traditional Mexican cuisine". Woman owned and operated.  Mon-Sat, 5pm-11pm.

Taste - Amapas - 129 Callejon de la Igualidad.  Phone: 223-2484 ext. 151  **
Taste (photo left) is the new Puerto Vallarta gay restaurant at the luxurious Casa Cupula gay guesthouse. Menu with a taste of four different cuisines: Mexican, Asian, US and South American, with all dishes available in half and full portions. In only months, Taste restaurant has risen to the top 10 of all Puerto Vallarta restaurants on Trip Advisor. Full bar and with a romantic secluded tropical atmosphere. Voted best new Puerto Vallarta restaurant in 2011. Under the direction of Erick Martinez and Chef Jose Luis Ponce. Sunday with mimosa brunch, 10am-1pm. Daily for breakfast, 9am-Noon; and lunch with fresh salads, sandwiches and light affaires; Dinner, Mon-Sat, 6pm-11pm

The River Cafe - River Cuale Island, local #4, West Bridge.  Tel: 223-0788  **
International cuisine such as diver scallops, rainbow shrimp, rack of lamb, soups and salads. Seating on the terraces along the banks of the Cuale River with a pleasant natural setting. "Casual but elegant dining." The River Cafe - Puerto Vallarta restaurant has live harp music with Adriano and Ricardo for breakfast daily from 8am-Noon, and then dinner music with Don and Rhonda, Thurs-Sun, 8pm-10:30pm. Head chefs Benjamin Sanchez and Karla Morales. Reservations recommended. Margaritas 2x1, 12pm-6pm.  Daily, 8am-11:30pm

The Swedes Bistro & Bar - South Side - 154 Pulpito at Olas Altas street.  Tel: 223-2353  **
The Swedes gay bar and bistro serving food from Weds-Mon, 6pm-11pm. Bistro menu includes Swedish meatballs, pasta tagliatelle, filet mignon, traditional Swedish hash and other North America & European cuisine. The Crow's Nest Bar is on the 2nd floor of the bistro, with nice views and serving drinks until late. Gay bar and bistro with Rikard and Morgan. Good reports-reviews on The Swedes Bistro & Bar with an eclectic food selection that is well-presented and prepared.  Weds-Mon, 6pm-2am

Trio - Centro/Downtown - 264 Guerrero.  Tel: 222-2196
"Casually elegant", featuring international gourmet food that combines Mediterranean cuisine with the traditional flavors of Mexico. Stylish decor with art work by local artists and a patio in the back open during the winter season. Many reports indicate that Trio restaurant prepares one of the better meals in Puerto Vallarta though some have demurred and clearly prefer the sister-restaurant Vitea hands down. Upscale.  Dinner, 6pm-11:30pm.

Uncommon Grounds Chill Out Lounge - South Side - 625 Lazaro Cardenas.  Tel: 223-3834  **
Restaurant, lounge, cafe, aromatherapy bar, boutique. Unique in Puerto Vallarta, "a multi-sensory experience". Reservations recommended Fri and Sat evenings. Uncommon Grounds restaurant menu includes shrimp nirvana salad, Bleeker street BLT, Casablanca and Mediterranean wrap, and other savory dishes. Near the Cuale River. Uncommon Grounds is lesbian owned with Lydia and Anne. Oct-Jun: Weds-Sun, Noon until closing; food until 11:30pm.

Vista Grill - Alta Vista - 377 Pulpito.  Tel: 222-3570
Romantic mood, excellent cuisine and stunning views of the town and Banderas Bay make Vista Grill restaurant a Puerto Vallarta fine dining experience. Main courses include grilled salmon, braised short rib, duck confit and five-spice shrimp. Expensive.  Daily, 5:30pm-11:30pm

Vitea - Downtown/el Centro - 2 Libertad on the New Malecon.  Tel: 222-8703
Ocean-front bistro located along the stretch of the New Malecon extension between Los Arcos Amphitheater and the pedestrian bridge over the Cuale River. Vitea has a pleasing casual sidewalk atmosphere, modern eclectic decor and an excellent selection of wines. Menu includes quiche, salads, sandwiches, filet mignon and seafood. Voted best moderate priced Puerto Vallarta restaurant in 2010. Operated by the owners/chefs of Trio restaurant Bernhard Güth and Ulf Henriksson. Popular.  Daily, 8am-Midnight

Z'Tai - Central - 737 Morelos.  Tel: 222-0306
Restaurant, lounge and garden that spans 1/4 a city block from front to back. Three different concepts combine a stylish Pacific Rim International restaurant, a Zen like garden, and an oceanfront 2nd floor bar overlooking Banderas Bay. Entering from the malecón is the Wing's Army-Z'Bar, an 2nd floor lounge with music, bay views and comfy banquettes to relax on. Inside is an open air garden area that serves cocktails as well as an array of Asian-inspired dining and snacking options, accompanied by electronic music at a level still open to conversation. Seating is casual and spans several elevations, overlooking Zen gardens and flowing ponds. At the other end, the Morelos street entrance, there's a dining area with air conditioning.  Daily for food, 6pm to 2am; bar service until 4am
 

Briefly, here are a few other popular/well known Puerto Vallarta restaurants that may well be worth checking out:

100% Natural - North Side/Hotel Zone - 1630 Ave. Francisco Medina Ascencio.  Tel: 223-2974
Veg-friendly restaurant with a buffet that features hot foods, salad bar, some raw food and soup; with fresh juices. Two levels with views of the avenue decorated in bright colors and with artwork. Across from the Sheraton Hotel and with home delivery.  Mon-Sat, 8am-10pm

Andale - South Side/Zona Romantica - 425 Olas Altas.  Tel:  222-1054
Andale's bar is on the first floor, which can be quite crowded and loud during the winter months with music and dancing. The sidewalk restaurant has seating as well up on the 2nd and 3rd floors overlooking Olas Altas street, 8am-11pm.  Daily, 8am until 2-3am

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company - Downtown - 674 Paseo Diaz Ordaz.  Tel: 222-9380, 222-9447
American chain and one of more popular Puerto Vallarta downtown restaurants. Plenty of shrimp & seafood dishes; rather pricey. Daily, 10am-12am

Chez Elena - Central - 520 Matamoros at Galeana.  Tel: 222-0161
Romantic garden restaurant known for its diversity of Mexican dishes and international specialties (photo left). The rooftop terrace bar El Nido has panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. The Chez Elena menu includes grilled catch of the day, chicken mole, several vegetarian choices and a savory Mayan pork dish. Opened in 1955 by the original "Elena" and operated since 1980 by Gloria Whiting. Caters to small and large groups and private dinner parties.  Dinner, 6pm-11pm

Cuates y Cuetes - South Side - 101 Francisca Rodríguez at pier Los Muertos.  Tel: 223-2724
A restaurant-bar on Los Muertos beach that often has good live jazz-salsa-light rock-reggae music in the evenings from the happy hour sunset until around 11pm. Specialty of seafood; food is reportedly so-so. Cuates and Cuetes is popular for happy hour 6pm-8pm.  Daily, 8am-11:30pm

El Coleguita - Marina Vallarta - Popa s/n Local 27 at Condominio Marina del Rey.  Tel: 044-333-111-5040, 044-322-108-9726
Popular seafood restaurant in Marina Vallarta for some 5 years, and over 19 years in its Ixtapa location on the La Palmas highway. Generous portions of fish and shellfish selections.  Weds-Mon, 11am-8pm

El Colera - South Side - 542 Lazaro Cardenas.  Tel: 223-0769
Popular with the Mexican locals for all kinds of fish and seafood coctels, tostadas and empanadas.  Daily, 11am-7pm

El Panorama - Central - Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez and Miramar.  Tel: 222-1818, 222-1824
The top 4 floors of the Hotel La Siesta make this restaurant famous for its incredible panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta downtown and Banderas Bay. Two open-air rooftop terraces. Seafood and international cuisine with violin, guitar and grand piano accompaniment. Puerto Vallarta sunset restaurant El Panorama has dressy attire; handicap accessible. Serving since 1973.  Daily, 5:30pm-Midnight

Johnny's Diner - Old Town - 336 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-5679
Breakfast at Johnny's diner, South Dakota style, starting at 59 pesos. Variety of plates, seating out back too, wifi.  Weds-Mon, 8am-6pm

Kit Kat - South Side - 120-A Pulpito.
Closed for some time, but people sometimes inquire. In its day, upscale and extremely popular.

La Chata - Centro/Downtown - 710 Paseo Diaz Ordaz, upstairs.  Tel: 222-5530, 222-5529
Mexican restaurant on the malecon serving seafood, chicken and beef dishes. One of the more moderately priced Puerto Vallarta downtown restaurants. Second level up, so good views of the boardwalk and Banderas Bay from the balcony seating. Live music with Mariachi group Nuevo Imperial every night, 9pm-10:30pm. Family owned business with locations in Guadalajara since 1942.  Daily, 8am-Midnight

La Dolce Vita - Central - 674 Paseo Diaz Ordaz.  Tel: 222-3852
Serving great northern Italian food. Located on the malecon with ocean views upstairs (picture of staff at left). I'd call La Dulce Vita the most popular restaurant in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Also in Nuevo Vallarta, #2 Ave Paseo de Las Palmas, Tel: 297-0403. Downtown with live light jazz music 11pm-2am, Weds and Fri only.  Mon-Sat, Noon-2am; Sun, 6pm-Midnight

La Terraza di Roma - Marina Vallarta - Condominium Puesta del Sol, Local 2.  Tel: 221-0560
The pier of the Italian restaurant La Terraza along the Marina walkway or boardwalk has a pleasant relaxed atmosphere for dining or drinks, day or night.  Daily, 8am-11pm

Mariscos Tino's - Downtown - 920 Paseo Diaz Ordaz, upstairs.  Tel: 223-2803, 223-2808
Seafood and fish restaurant bar with a great location just past the north end the Malecon across from Hidalgo Park; with seating inside and along the 2nd floor balcony. Mariscos Tino's menu includes marlin and crab tacos, seafood cocktails, many varieties of shrimp dishes, lobster and filet mignon. Locations also in Nuevo Vallarta and Punta de Mita, Nayarit. Locally since 1990.  Daily, 10:30am-Midnight.

Marisma Fish Taco - South Side - 320 Naranjo at V. Carranza.
Reportedly the best fish tacos in Puerto Vallarta, with hand made tortillas. Marisma has locations also in the Marina at Popa and Quilla just behind Plaza Neptune at the Condos Marina del Rey, and also in Fluvial Vallarta at Carlos Barrios and Lake Michigan street. Menu includes tacos, guisados, shrimp, smoked marlin or fish burritos, quesadillas and hamburgers. Since 1990.  Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm.

Mediterranean Cafe and Reposteria/Bakery - Centro - 449 Miramar.  Tel: 113-0134, Cell: 044-322-172-2221
Serves Greek and Mediterranean specialties such as chicken, beef and lamb souvlaki or kebabs, hummus, soups, salads, and cakes for dessert baked on the premises. Recently reopened downtown. Owner Patty Saxonis also does catering. Dinner, coffee, drinks.  Daily, 5pm-9:30pm.

Oscar's - Central - Cuale River Island, Local #1, West Bridge.  Tel: 223-0789
Located at the west end of the Cuale River island, Oscar's restaurant offers dining under a large thatched palapa with views of the Cuale river as it enters Banderas Bay. Menu includes lobster bisque and traditional Mexican, American and international dishes.  Daily, 10am-11pm.

Paradise Burger - Downtown - 740 Paseo Diaz Ordaz, upstairs.  Tel: 223-2328
All American fare with some Mexican specialties to spice things up, and a good location ocean-front in the middle of the downtown Malecon boardwalk. They sometimes have live rock and roll music in the evening.  Daily, 10:30am-Midnight

Peking Restaurant - South Side - 136 Francisca Rodriguez.  Tel: 222-8609
Outdoor dining with good flavors from Chinese chef Xu Ji Feng. Deserves more business than it gets. Next to Archie's Wok.  Weds-Mon, 1pm-11pm

Pipi's - Central - 807 Guadalupe Sanchez at Pipila.  Tel:  223-2767
Tex-Mex specialties include steak, chicken, shrimp and fish fajitas. Often crowded with tourists; serving traditional Mexican food since 1986. Pipi's is noted for its large drinks and plentiful servings.  Daily, 11am-11pm

Steve's Sports Bar - South Side - 286 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 222-0256
Proto-typical Puerto Vallarta sports bar with American food and drink, Steve's has lots of TVs to watch your favorite game.  Daily, 11am-10pm

The Blue Shrimp - Central - 366 Olas Altas on Los Muertos beach.  Tel: 222-4246, 223-1840
Now located on Los Muertos beach next door to Daiquiri Dick's under the giant palapa. Shrimp prepared a dozen different ways, lobster, fish filet and rib-eye cuts. A good meal, great views and popular. Often with live music by Graham Cook.  Daily, 9am-12am

The Dog House - South Side/Old Town - 237 Ignacio Vallarta.  Tel: 044-322-136-0400  **
Need a quick bite while out dancing the night away? Check out the new gay-owned Dog House take out hot dog stand - hotdogs and sausages (Italian, chicken, chorizo, bratwurst, Polish), located in front of Paco's Ranch gay nightclub and next door to Club Roxy.  Tues-Sun, 10pm-6am

Zanate - Romantic Zone - 219 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 223-4290
New restaurant bar serving new age, Mexican, seafood and American dishes, with a beautiful open space ideal for dining and cocktails under the stars.

Puerto Vallarta restaurant reviews and ratings
The Puerto Vallarta Restaurants & Dining Guide has a fairly comprehensive lists of restaurants, cafes and bars in the city, ranging from budget selections and hamburger stands to exquisitely delicious gourmet French food and popular Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. Much more can be found online here at TripAdvisor where there currently 610 restaurants and over 27,000 reviews by travelers; or at Virtual Vallarta with paid listings, another one of the best sources, by location, type and price; or at the All Vallarta Message Board. Gay guys might also be interested in Gary Beck's Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Guide as his book has updated reviews of over 375 eateries, and covers just about everything from taco stands to upscale dining throughout Banderas Bay. And of course there's JR's usual reliable round up and ratings of anything local, go here for his Restaurant list by type of food, and for something authentically unique and useful for those on a modest budget or who like to eat out and around at the various tacos stands, there's his Street Food - Taco Stands webpage. Gary Beck, JR and their friends certainly do get around.

Bakeries

Los Chatos, Pastelería - North Side - 359 Ave. Francisco Villa  Tel: 223-0485
Specialty is cakes. Most clients request the delicious blackberry cheesecake or the mouth-water "tres leches". Single slices at only 30 pesos.  Daily, 7am-10pm

Pie in the Sky - South Side - 242 Aquiles Serdan.  Tel: 223-8183
Famous in the Banderas Bay area for their fine pastries, cakes and chocolates. Also serving a full range of hot and cold coffees. Delish cheese, spinach and chicken empanadas, scones and muffins and chicken pies. They deliver. The main bakery and cafe has been in Bucerias for some 25 years now, on the coastal highway to Punta de Mita at 202 Hero de Narcozari. Website for Pie in the Sky Coffee and Pastry shop.  Daily, 9am-10pm

Yarita, Panderia y Pasteleria - South Side - 244 Basilio Badillo.  Tel: 223-2987
The South Side's main bakery and pastry shop with fresh breads, pies, muffins, tarts, empanadas/turnovers, sweet rolls and other treats. Baked before your eyes and at reasonable prices. A personal favorite.  Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm

Natural Foods Store

Don Fresco at Los Mercados - South Side - 265 Aquiles Serdan.  Tel: 222-0383
Los Mercados is a newly remodeled market located in Zona Romantica which offers a variety of shops including Don Fresco which offers fresh produce including locally grown heirloom tomatoes, sweet white corn, a selection of lettuces and every sort of fruit and vegetable. Located 1/2 block from the Gutierrez Rizo supermarket.

Special Notes

Virtual Vallarta Readers' Choice Awards 2012 for the best in local dining are here. Once again the winners are selected by visitors and residents alike who filled out the on-line voting form between Feb 1 and June 15. Some 11,000+ votes were submitted in 44 categories. Everyone has their favorites but this list will perhaps help you to decide where to find something special for eating out. I consider it somewhat difficult to find a bad meal in all of Puerto Vallarta, though going out has gotten a bit pricey in many of the restaurants that cater to tourists.

Puerto Vallarta Festival Gourmet - November 14-23, 2013
The annual Puerto Vallarta Festival Gourmet or Restaurant Week in November features the culinary talents of local chefs of Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit state, as well as some guest chefs from internationally acclaimed restaurants and hotels. Highlights of the Festival include cooking classes, cheese seminars, Tequila Madness Night and the exceptional Gourmet Brunch at Cafe des Artistes. Participants have included Blanca Blue, Cafe des Artistes, Coco Tropical, de Santos, El Arrayan, Kaiser Maximilian, La Palapa, Porto Bello Bistro, the River Cafe, Thierry's Prime Steak House, Trio, Vista Grill and some 15-18 or so other restaurants and Puerto Vallarta hotels including Andrea at Hotel Velas Vallarta, El Patio at Dreams Villamagna, Gaviotas at Sheraton Buganvilias, Insu Sky Lounge at Marival Residences and World Spa Nayarit, La Casona at Villa Las Estancia, Las Casitas at CasaMagna Marriott, L'isola at Fiesta Americana Hotel, Luxury Resort in Riviera Nayarit.  Tel: 222-2247

Travel note: The information on this and other pages of the Gay Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide were deemed accurate when posted, but things can change without notice. You may wish to confirm dining details directly with the PV restaurants in question before planning your day or night out.