If you have ever spent more than five minutes walking through the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta, you know that the air here has a very specific, mouth-watering scent. It is the smell of marinated pork, fresh pineapple, and corn tortillas hitting a hot grill.
We are absolutely obsessed with Al Pastor tacos. There is something about watching a master taquero shave thin ribbons of meat off a glowing red trompo that feels like a performance art piece.
For us, every single day is Taco Tuesday. We have spent countless nights exploring the stalls and stands of Old Town, which some people call the Zona Romantica. Whatever you call it, it is the undisputed capital of the late-night taco crawl.
If you are a solo traveler or even part of a big group, you need a plan. You cannot just walk into any stand and expect the best. You have to know where the locals go.
The Legend of the Trompo
Before we dive into my favorite spots, we should talk about what makes a great Al Pastor taco. It is all about the balance.
You need that smoky, slightly spicy marinade on the pork. You need the meat to be crisp on the edges but juicy in the middle. And of course, you need that perfect slice of pineapple caught mid-air as it falls from the top of the spit.
If you want to know more about the broader scene, you should definitely check out the absolute best street tacos in town for a deeper dive into the varieties you can find here.
But today, we are focusing on the king: the Pastor.
Pancho’s Takos: The Famous One
You cannot talk about Al Pastor in Old Town without mentioning Pancho’s. It is located on Basilio Badillo and you will see the line before you see the sign.
We honestly LOVE the vibe here. Even though there is almost always a wait, it moves fast. Watching the taqueros work is AMAZING. They have a rhythm that is hypnotic.
The tacos here are consistently great. The meat is sliced very thin, and they do not skimp on the pineapple. It is a sit-down experience, but it still feels fast and local.
El Carboncito: The Local Favorite
If the line at Pancho's is too long, or if you just want a slightly more "local" feel, we highly recommend walking a few blocks over to El Carboncito.
This place is a staple for those of us who live here. The Al Pastor is just as good, maybe even a little more charred, which I personally prefer.
The salsas here are no joke, either. They have a creamy green sauce that is deceptively spicy. We suggest grabbing a plastic stool on the sidewalk and just soaking in the energy of the street. It is the best way to experience the city.
The Late Night Hero: Taqueria La Hormiga
Sometimes you find yourself hungry at 1:00 AM after a few drinks at the local bars. That is when Taqueria La Hormiga by the Farmacia Guadalajara becomes your best friend.
This is a classic street stand. No frills, just incredible food. They serve some of the best puerto vallarta old town condo rentals guests every night.
The service is lightning fast. You order, you eat standing up or on a tiny stool, and you leave happy. It is simple, honest, and sooooo delicious.
Where to Stay for Your Taco Adventures
When we are planning a trip for friends, we always tell them the same thing: stay in Amapas.
Amapas is, in our opinion, the absolute best place to rent a condo. It sits just on the hill above the noise of the main streets in Old Town. You get these incredible bay views and a much quieter environment to sleep off your taco coma.
Plus, it is only a five-minute walk down to all these taco stands. You get the best of both worlds: peace and quiet at home, and the best food in Mexico just down the stairs.
If you are looking for apartments for rent in puerto vallarta, you really should start your search in the Amapas area. The modern buildings there have everything you need, and the views are just unbeatable.
We have a lot of tips on how to find the right spot, so take a look at our ultimate guide to your next rental before you book anything.
Making the Most of Your Tacos
Our biggest tip for a successful taco night? Do not fill up at the first stop.
Puerto Vallarta is a city meant for walking. Start with two tacos at one stand, then move to the next. This way you can compare the marinades and the salsas.
Also, do not be afraid of the "con todo" (with everything) option. That means onions, cilantro, and pineapple. It is the way the chef intended it to be eaten.
We are so grateful for the hard-working taqueros who stay up all night to make sure we are fed. They are the heartbeat of this city.
A Quick Word on Salsas
Every stand has its own secret recipe. Usually, the red salsa is the hottest, while the green can vary.
We always test a tiny drop on the back of our hand before dousing our taco. Trust me, your morning self will thank you.
But best of all, the atmosphere at these stands is what makes the experience. You will find people from all walks of life huddled around a trompo at 2:00 AM. It is a beautiful thing.
Why We Love Old Town
Old Town is just so vibrant. The architecture, the colors, and the people make it special.
We love the traditional Mexican motifs you see on every corner. The wrought iron balconies and the colorful tiles are just beautiful. It feels like the real Mexico.
If you are coming for a vacation, you want to be where the action is. And in Puerto Vallarta, the action is always near a taco stand.
Whether you are staying in a cozy studio or a larger space in Amapas, make sure you take the time to explore. There is always a new "best" taco stand waiting to be discovered.
We hope you have an AMAZING time on your next visit. Bring your appetite!
Follow us on Facebook for more local tips and tricks for your next Puerto Vallarta getaway.
About the Author
