Since we moved our base to Puerto Vallarta, I’ve become slightly obsessed with how our dining table looks. There is something about the light here that just makes you want to fill your home with color. We spend so much time eating out at amazing taco stands, but when we stay in, I want that same authentic feeling.
If you are a solo traveler or even down here with your partner, you probably know that feeling of wanting your temporary home to feel special. I found that the easiest way to do that is by picking up some local pottery. It’s not just about having a plate to eat off; it’s about the story behind it.
Our favorite neighborhood to explore is definitely Amapas. We truly believe it is the best place to rent if you want peace while still being close to the action. Whenever we stay in puerto vallarta rental condos, we make sure to head down the hill into Old Town to do some shopping.
Where to Find the Good Stuff
Old Town, which some people call the Zona Romantica, is basically the heart of the artisan scene here. You don’t need to go to ten different places to find something beautiful. We usually start our morning with a coffee and then wander through the cobblestone streets.
One of my absolute favorite stops is Mundo de Azulejos. It is basically a dream for anyone who loves ceramics. They have been around forever and you can actually see the artisans working on the Talavera pieces right there. We picked up a set of deep blue bowls that we use for literally everything now.
If you are looking for glassware to match your new plates, you have to hit up Mundo de Cristal. It’s right nearby and they have every color of hand-blown glass you can imagine. We LOVE the turquoise rimmed glasses for our sunset margaritas.
I really suggest checking out the Olas Altas Farmers Market too. It’s usually held in what people call "Tile Park" in the Romantic Zone. You can find some really unique, small-batch pieces there that aren't in the big shops. It’s a great way to support local artists directly.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Table
When we first started looking at rental condos in puerto vallarta, I noticed how much the decor changed from place to place. Some spots are very modern, while others are more traditional. The great thing about Mexican pottery is that it fits in anywhere.
You have a few main choices when you go shopping. Talavera is the most famous: it’s bright, painted with tiny details, and usually very glossy. It’s perfect if you want your table to pop. We use it when we have friends over because it always gets people talking.
But lately, I’ve been falling in love with "barro" pottery. This is the more earthy, clay-looking stuff. It’s what you see in the more traditional restaurants. It’s simple, rustic, and feels very grounding. If you are a digital nomad like us, having that natural feel in your workspace/dining area is SOOO nice.
We actually wrote our guide to local secrets which talks a bit more about how we set up our life here. It makes such a difference when you surround yourself with things that feel like the local culture.
Making it Work in a Rental
If you’re only here for a week or two, you might think buying pottery is a waste. But I disagree! I love buying a couple of mugs or a nice serving platter and then using it during the stay. It makes our morning coffee feel so much better.
Plus, most of the shops in Old Town are used to tourists. They will wrap your items in so much bubble wrap and paper that they could probably survive a drop from a building. We’ve never had a piece break on the way home yet!
When you are looking for your next stay, I highly recommend checking out the Amapas area. It’s tucked just far enough away to be quiet, but close enough to the shops that you can carry your pottery back without too much trouble. We always look for places with a nice big dining table so we can set up a proper spread.
For those planning a trip with someone special, you might want to check out our list of the most romantic spots in the area. Setting a beautiful table with local ceramics is a great way to have a romantic night in without the noise of the crowds.
The Joy of the Tablescape
Setting the table has become a bit of a ritual for us. We usually head to the Municipal Market first to get some fresh fruit and maybe some local cheese. Then we lay out our ceramic plates and bowls.
The colors of the pottery against the wooden tables you find in many condos here are just AMAZING. It feels like you’ve brought a piece of the city’s soul right into your room. We even use the smaller ceramic bowls for things like keys or jewelry so we can see them all day long.
I’m so grateful for the artists here who keep these traditions alive. Every time I pick up my hand-painted mug in the morning, I feel a connection to the city. It’s those small details that turn a vacation into a real experience.
If you are coming down soon, definitely make some room in your suitcase. You won't regret bringing a little piece of Puerto Vallarta back with you. It is the best way to keep the vacation vibes going even after you leave.
We are always posting photos of our latest finds and table setups on our Facebook page, so come say hi and show us what you've found!
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