Puerto Vallarta is renowned not only for its stunning beaches but also for its rich culinary scene. No trip to this beautiful coastal city would be complete without indulging in the local gastronomy and sampling our regional dishes and drinks. From upscale fine dining to charming taco stands and beachfront eateries, Puerto Vallarta has something to tantalize every taste bud.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite regional dishes and drinks that you simply must try during your visit. Don’t forget to explore the best food tours to uncover hidden culinary gems and our list of the BEST restaurants in Puerto Vallarta.
Traditional Food to try in Puerto Vallarta
Here are some of the must-try regional dishes that showcase Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant gastronomy:
Pescado Zarandeado
Pescado Zarandeado is a 500-year-old grilling method originating from Nayarit. The fish is split in half from head to tail, marinated in a chile and achiote paste (each recipe is unique), and grilled over hot coals on a wood-fired oven. This method can also be applied to other proteins like shrimp or octopus.
Birria
Birria is a must-try dish in Puerto Vallarta. This sweet, sour, slightly spicy, and savory breakfast stew is slow-cooked until the meat is tender and juicy. Traditionally made from goat meat, it is now more commonly found with beef. The meat is marinated in an adobo of vinegar, dried chiles, herbs, and spices before being cooked in a broth. It’s served with corn tortillas, onion, cilantro, and lime. You can enjoy it as tacos, crispy tacos with cheese, or just as a stew. Remember, birria is typically served only for breakfast or brunch, so get it before 1 or 2 pm.
Ceviche
Ceviche is a staple in regions with great seafood. Raw fish, shrimp, or octopus is mixed with herbs and citrus juice and served with tostadas. This dish is a must-try at any top-notch seafood restaurant in the area.
Tortas Ahogadas
Originally from Guadalajara, these “drowned sandwiches” have become a local favorite in Puerto Vallarta. The special bread is stuffed with pork meat and smothered in salsa. Be sure to specify your preferred spice level! For the best Tortas Ahogadas, head to Tortalajara.
Puerto Vallarta Drinks & Regional Liquors
No meal is complete without washing it down with one of our local drinks:
Tuba Drink
Tuba is my personal favorite. Tuba is a delightful blend of sweet and sour, and it’s one of the most traditional drinks in Jalisco. Tuberos climb coconut palms to collect the palm’s extract, which is then mixed with water, apple cider vinegar, walnuts, and apple chunks. It’s the perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day.
Coffee
While Puerto Vallarta itself isn’t ideal for coffee growing, the nearby Sierra Madre mountain range offers excellent conditions for coffee plantations. Less than an hour away, you can visit coffee farms and take tours. Here you can find all my favorite coffee shops in Puerto Vallarta.
Raicilla
Tequila may be the most famous liquor from Jalisco, but don’t overlook Raicilla. Made from a different agave species, Raicilla hails from the mountains near Puerto Vallarta, particularly San Sebastian del Oeste. Give it a try for a unique twist on traditional agave spirits.
Tepache
Tepache is a traditional Mexican drink made from fermented pineapple rind, sweetened with piloncillo and flavored with cinnamon and cloves. Lightly fermented and slightly effervescent, it’s a refreshing and mildly tangy beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.
Pacifico Beer
Made in the neighboring state of Sinaloa, it is certainly the most popular beer to enjoy here on the beach. Mexico’s craft beer scene has also been booming over the past few years, and we even have some excellent local craft breweries such as Los Muertos Brewing, Monzon, or Cervecería Buclas in Bucerias.
Tejuino
Tejuino is a non-alcoholic beverage popular in Jalisco. Made from fermented corn masa mixed with water and piloncillo (raw cane sugar), it’s boiled until it thickens and then served cold over ice. Refreshing and delicious!
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