Located on the pacific sea side of Mexico, is the picturesque and sunny city of Puerto Vallarta. Voted one of the friendliest cities in the world, PV boasts fantastic beaches, stunning sunsets and is known throughout Mexico as one of the best places to find incredible gastronomy. Within the state of Jalisco, where Vallarta is located, the region is recognized for certain popular items such as the birthplace of Tequila. Made from the juice of the blue agave cactus it is Jalisco’s best known product. A fantastic way to learn about the process and interesting history of the beverage is to organize a Tequila tour.
As Puerto Vallarta is located in one of the largest bays in Mexico (Banderas Bay) it has a wonderful emphasis on fresh seafood. Travelers can feast on octopus, oysters, sea bass, marlin and the local favorite Huanchinango (red snapper). Many restaurants feature these in various salsas and preparation styles or alternatively you can wander the beautiful neighborhoods and purchase them from the local fish markets to creatively prepare yourself.
Throughout Puerto Vallarta are a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. Visitors and groups alike, can soak up the spectacular sunsets and sip fresh fruit margaritas oceanfront as well as dine with their feet in the sand. Experience the romantic zone within old town Vallarta that showcases European style sidewalk seating or wander the mile long, ocean front shopping and dining district also known as the famous Malecon. Vallarta also became well known for its history with film stars staying in the area which allows you to sit high above the terracotta roofs, listen to a live mariachi band and take in the whole expansive view of the Bay. The friendly atmosphere and wide selection of food, make it easy and fun to explore.
One may imagine that Mexican food is the only type of cuisine you can enjoy within the cities and surrounding beach towns, however the reason this area is so popular with tourists is because of the first class chefs that have traveled and began living in Mexico to open their own locally and internationally sourced restaurants. Groups can enjoy an array of superb cuisine from fine Austrian fare at Kaiser Maximilian to the tropical influences at La Palapa or the absolute decadence and skillful art of designing food and flavors at Café Des Artistes. When planning your next visit be sure to remember that Vallarta will surely captivate even the most discerning palate.