If you are coming to Puerto Vallarta, you are in for a real treat.
I have lived here and explored every corner of this city for years now.
One of the biggest questions I get from people staying in our condos is: "Jeff, where should we eat?"
Staying in a condo is the absolute best way to experience the local life.
You get your own kitchen, you get more space, and you get to feel like a local instead of just another tourist in a big hotel.
But even with a kitchen, you want to get out and taste the real Puerto Vallarta.
The food here is so much more than just chips and salsa.
It is vibrant, it is spicy, and it is full of heart.
I want to share some of my personal favorite spots that are right around the corner from where you'll be staying.
Why Location Matters for Foodies
When you rent apartments in puerto vallarta, you want to be close to the action.
The Old Town area (which is also called the Zona Romantica) is the heart of the food scene.
Everything is walkable, which is great because you’ll probably be eating a lot!
But if you want the absolute best experience, I always tell people to look at the Amapas neighborhood.
Amapas is nestled just above the Zona Romantica.
It is the best place to rent because you get these incredible views and a little bit of peace and quiet.
But the best part? You are just a five-minute walk down the hill to the best tacos of your life.
If you are looking for the perfect spot, check out our condos for rent in puerto vallarta to find your home base.
The Morning Routine: Markets and Fresh Starts
If you love to cook or just want the freshest fruit for breakfast, you have to hit the markets.
One of my favorite things to do on a Saturday morning is head to the Olas Altas Farmers Market.
It is located in Lázaro Cárdenas Park right in the middle of Old Town.
You will find everything from organic kale to homemade artisan bread.
The vibe there is AMAZING!
There is usually live music, and you can grab a fresh coffee while you browse.
But for a real local experience, you have to go to Mercado Emiliano Zapata.
This is where the local chefs shop.
It is open every day from early morning until about 3 PM.
The smells of fresh cilantro, ripe mangoes, and grilled meats are everywhere.
I highly recommend buying a stack of fresh tortillas, they are usually still warm when they hand them to you.
If you want to know more about the cool local spots, you should read about Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Charms: 5 Local Secrets You Can't Miss.
The Best Tacos in the World (No Exaggeration!)
You cannot come to Puerto Vallarta and not eat street tacos.
It is practically a law here!
My absolute favorite spot is Pancho’s Takos on Basilio Badillo.
Yes, there is usually a line, but trust me, it is worth every minute.
The Tacos al Pastor are legendary.
They shave the marinated pork right off the spinning trompo and top it with a slice of pineapple.
I LOVE the way they do it: it’s like a little performance every time.
If the line at Pancho's is too long, just walk a block over to Sonorita Olas Altas.
Their tacos are just as good, and the vibe is very casual and fun.
I often find myself grabbing a few tacos and then walking back up to my place in Amapas to enjoy them on the balcony.
There is nothing better than tacos and a sunset view.
You can find more of my favorite taco spots in our guide on Local Discovery: 5 Hidden Taco Stands.
Casual Beachfront Dining
Sometimes you just want to keep your toes in the sand while you eat.
The beach in the Zona Romantica is lined with great spots.
La Palapa is a classic. It has been around forever and the service is always top-notch.
It is a bit more of an "experience," but still very relaxed.
For something even more casual, I love El Dorado.
The ceviche there is so fresh it tastes like they just pulled it out of the water.
And if you are a solo traveler, these beach spots are great because you can just sit at the bar and meet people from all over the world.
The best part about being in Amapas is that you are just a staircase away from these beach clubs.
You get the privacy of the hillside and the fun of the beach all in one.
The Amapas Advantage
I can't stress this enough: Amapas is where you want to be.
When I stay in Sueño or Casa CC, I feel like I have the best of both worlds.
I can walk down for a late-night taco run or a morning coffee.
But when I want to relax, I am away from the loud music of the bars in the center of town.
The views from the balconies in Amapas are just SOOO incredible.
You can see the whole bay and watch the pirate ship fireworks every night.
It makes every meal you eat at home feel like a special occasion.
I am so grateful to live in a place with such amazing food and people.
The local vendors are always so friendly and happy to help you find what you need.
A Few More Local Secrets
If you want something healthy, go to Salud Super Food.
It is right on the edge of Amapas and Zona Romantica.
Their smoothie bowls and wraps are the best way to recover after a night of margaritas!
And for a hidden gem, look for Marisma Fish Taco.
It is a tiny little stand that serves the most AMAZING fried shrimp tacos.
It is simple, it is fast, and it is delicious.
Puerto Vallarta is a place that feeds your soul as much as your stomach.
Whether you are eating at a fancy beachfront spot or a plastic table on a street corner, you are going to LOVE it here.
If you are planning your trip, I highly recommend staying in the Amapas area.
It really is the best way to see the city.
We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of paradise!
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