I have spent a lot of time living in different rental properties throughout this beautiful city.
One of my favorite things to do is wake up, grab a coffee, and head out to find the freshest ingredients for a homemade dinner.
There is something so special about cooking in your own space while on vacation.
It makes the whole experience feel much more like home.
When you stay in a condo, you get a kitchen that actually works for you, and honestly, that is one of the best parts of avoiding a standard hotel.
We always find that the kitchens in the Amapas area are some of the most beautiful and well-equipped ones in town.
If you are looking for the absolute best place to stay, I think Amapas is the winner for anyone who loves a modern vibe and amazing views.
Starting Your Flavor Journey at the Markets
Before you can start cooking, you need to know where the locals go.
I LOVE the energy of a Mexican market in the morning!!
Our first stop is usually the Lázaro Cárdenas market.
It is right in the heart of Old Town, which some people call the Zona Romantica: they are exactly the same neighborhood, so don’t let the different names confuse you.
This market is where you find the most AMAZING produce.
The tomatoes are actually red and juicy, not those hard pink things you find in the states.
We always stock up on white onions, fresh cilantro, and as many limes as we can carry.
Limes are the secret to almost everything you will cook here.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple, buying small amounts of spices at these markets is sooo much better than buying a giant jar at a big grocery store.
You can get just a few pesos worth of dried oregano or cumin, and it smells incredible.
The Best Seafood in Town
If you want to make a real Vallarta meal, you have to get some fresh shrimp or fish.
For the best selection, we head over to the Aramara Market.
It is a bit of a trek from the main tourist area, but it is totally worth it.
The seafood is caught that morning, and the variety is just staggering.
We usually grab a kilo of shrimp and maybe some fresh red snapper if they have it.
The sellers are so friendly and will even help you clean the shrimp if you ask nicely.
I am so grateful for the hard-working people at these markets who make our meals possible.
Setting the Scene in Amapas
Once you have your bags full of food, heading back to a rental in Amapas is the best feeling.
Amapas is tucked just above the south end of Old Town, giving you a little bit of peace while still being close to all the action.
The condos there usually have these wide-open living areas that let the breeze in while you prep your meal.
We found that having a nice dining area makes the meal taste even better.
It is the perfect place to sit down with a cold drink and enjoy the results of your market run.
If you are still trying to decide which area is right for you, you should check out Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner to see what is available in the best parts of town.
A Simple Recipe: Fresh Shrimp Tacos
You don't need a lot of fancy equipment to make a world-class meal in your rental.
One of our go-to dinners is simple shrimp tacos.
First, we make a fresh pico de gallo using those tomatoes, onions, and cilantro from the market.
Add a big squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt, and you are halfway there.
Then, we sauté the shrimp in a little bit of butter or oil with some chopped garlic.
It only takes a few minutes until they turn that perfect shade of pink.
Warm up some corn tortillas directly on the stove burner: just for a few seconds on each side until they get those little charred spots.
Pile the shrimp into the tortillas, top with the salsa and some sliced avocado.
It is simple, fresh, and honestly better than many of the restaurants in the tourist zones!
Creating a Dream Atmosphere
There is a certain magic in the air when you are cooking with the sounds of the city in the background.
Whether it is the sound of a distant co-worker at a nearby condo or the faint music from a beach club, it feels alive.
If you have more time, I highly recommend trying your hand at ceviche.
You just need to "cook" the raw fish or shrimp in plenty of lime juice for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Then you mix in your chopped veggies and serve it on crunchy tostadas.
It is the ultimate light lunch for a hot afternoon.
For those who are planning their first trip and want to get the layout of the city right, I suggest looking at our guide to local secrets to help you find the perfect spot.
Practical Tips for the Kitchen
Cooking in a different country can be a little intimidating at first, but it shouldn't be.
One thing to remember is to always wash your produce with the microdyn drops you will find in most rental kitchens.
It is just a safety precaution that everyone here takes.
Also, make sure you have enough pesos on hand for the markets.
Most of the small stalls don't take credit cards, and you will get a much better deal if you pay in local currency.
If you are worried about what else you might need for your stay, take a look at how to pack for PV so you don't forget the essentials.
Why We Love Amapas Rentals
I know I keep mentioning it, but staying in Amapas really does change the vibe of your trip.
It feels more residential and established.
The kitchens in these rentals are usually designed for people who actually want to live there, not just spend a weekend.
This means better knives, bigger fridges, and plenty of counter space for all your market finds.
If you are dreaming of your next trip, you can find the apartaento de mi sueno and start planning your own kitchen inspiration.
Final Thoughts
Bringing the flavors of Puerto Vallarta into your own kitchen is a way to connect with the culture that you just can't get by eating out every single night.
The colors of the produce, the smell of the fresh seafood, and the heat of the local salsas are things you will remember long after you head home.
I highly recommended spending at least one morning at the markets and one evening cooking at home.
It is the best way to experience the real Vallarta!
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