We have spent sooo much time exploring every corner of Puerto Vallarta, and if there is one thing we have learned, it is that breakfast is the most important meal of the day!
When you are looking for the absolute best start to your morning, nothing beats a plate of authentic chilaquiles.
We LOVE the way the crunchy tortilla chips soak up that spicy, flavorful salsa!
If you are a solo traveler or visiting with your favorite person, finding the secret spots for these breakfast gems is a total game changer.
The Morning Magic of Old Town
Old Town, which everyone also calls Zona Romantica, is the heart of the food scene here.
But the real secrets aren't always where the crowds are standing in line for hours.
One of our absolute favorite hidden spots is actually hiding in plain sight during the day!
Have you ever heard of La Chilaquería?
It actually operates right out of the famous Pancho’s Takos location, but only in the morning hours from about 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Most people only know Pancho's for their late-night al pastor, but their morning chilaquiles are AMAZING and maybe even better than the tacos!!
They serve them up fresh and fast, and the red salsa they use has just the right amount of kick to wake you up.
Local Flavors at Mercado Emiliano Zapata
If you want to eat like a local, you have to head to the markets.
Mercado Emiliano Zapata is right in the middle of the neighborhood and it is such a cool place to explore.
Inside, you will find small food stalls called fondas that have been serving the same families for years.
We highly recommend walking the aisles until you smell the fresh corn and roasted chilies.
The chilaquiles here are usually served with a side of creamy beans and a big piece of salty cheese.
It is so satisfying and traditional!
While you are exploring these local haunts, you might be thinking about staying a bit longer in paradise.
If you are looking to rent apartments in puerto vallarta, you really need to look at the different vibes each neighborhood offers.
Why Amapas is Our Top Choice
While we love the energy of Old Town, we truly believe that Amapas is the best place to stay.
It is just up the hill from the main action, which means you get more peace and quiet but you are still seconds away from the best breakfast spots.
Amapas has this incredible mix of jungle vibes and modern living that we just adore.
If you want to know more about why this area is so special, check out our guide to local secrets for some deep dives into the neighborhood.
The views from the hillside are just spectacular, but best of all, the walking distance to the beach and the food is perfect.
The Secret to the Perfect Chilaquiles
So, what makes a chilaquile truly "secret" level good?
It is all about the texture of the chips!
Some places let them get too soggy, but the best spots keep a little bit of that crunch even under all that sauce.
We always ask for ours "con un huevo estrellado" (with a sunny-side-up egg).
When that yolk breaks and mixes with the spicy green or red salsa… WOW! It is the best thing ever.
If you are staying in one of the many puerto vallarta condo rentals, you might even want to try making them yourself.
Most of our kitchens in the Amapas area are fully equipped for a morning cooking session.
But honestly, with so many great stalls nearby, why would you want to cook?
Saturday Morning Vibes
If you happen to be here on a Saturday, you absolutely must visit the Olas Altas Farmers Market at Plaza Lázaro Cárdenas.
It is right in the heart of Zona Romantica and it is packed with local vendors.
Sometimes you can find artisan stalls making gourmet versions of chilaquiles with unique salsas like mole or almond-based sauces.
It is such a fun way to spend a morning, just wandering through the stalls and grabbing a plate of food.
For more ideas on where to grab a bite while you are here, take a look at where to eat in Amapas for our favorite local picks.
Practical Tips for Your Breakfast Run
First of all, bring cash!
Most of these small stalls and market fondas do not take credit cards.
Second, go early!
The best chilaquiles are usually gone by noon because that is when the locals shift over to lunch menus.
Third, don't be afraid to ask for "media orden" (half order) if you want to try multiple spots in one morning.
We love doing a "chilaquiles crawl" through the neighborhood!
Final Recommendation
Puerto Vallarta is a food lover's paradise, and starting your day with chilaquiles is the only way to go.
Whether you are hitting up the "secret" morning stand at Pancho's or wandering the aisles of Mercado Emiliano Zapata, you are going to have a fantastic time.
We highly recommend staying in the Amapas area to get the best of both worlds: peaceful mornings and easy access to these delicious local secrets!
It really is the best place to rent if you want a true PV experience.
We are so grateful that we get to share these tips with you, and we hope your next breakfast in PV is absolutely life-changing!
Make sure to follow our adventures and see more tasty photos on our Facebook page!
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