International gastronomy is back in Puerto Vallarta this year. While visitors are drawn to the destination’s beaches, the peaks of the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains and resorts, the flavors of Mexico and the world will be showcased during Restaurant Week, Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomica, the International Gourmet Festival and at a range of newly opened restaurants.
Guests visiting during fall will have the opportunity to indulge in three-course meals at special prices during restaurant week (September 15 to October 10, 2021). The annual dining event is held over three weeks when over 25 restaurants offer three-course menus priced between $14 and $23 (tips and beverages not included).
Back for its 13th edition, the Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomica 2021 will be held from October 27–31, 2021. The event will convene expert speakers and critically acclaimed chefs, including Michelin-starred Diego Gallegos, Carlos Gaytan, and guest of honor Daniela Soto-Innes. Visitors can expect a lineup of immersive experiences such as cooking demonstrations, tasting sessions, an "Expo Zone," and gourmet workshops each held at venues along Banderas Bay. Highlights include cuisine from the State of Chihuahua at Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, gourmet dinner pairings at Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel and Icu, all in Puerto Vallarta, and an open-air brunch in Jardin Nebulosa in the town of San Sebastian del Oeste. Package rates range from $72 to $545.
From November 12-21, 2021 visitors can explore the flavors of Puerto Vallarta’s gourmet scene at the International Gourmet Festival. This event offers foodies an opportunity to sample dishes from visiting international chefs and participate in workshops and cooking classes. This year’s event will include a special celebratory program of wine, cheese and jazz, concluding with the Wine Festival. Guests who want a taste of it all may book tickets for a Gourmet Safari taking place November 13 at 7 p.m. This progressive dinner features a tasting tour of four restaurants with paired wines and includes transportation for $105. Admission to additional events can be purchased separately, with rates starting around $7.50.
Formerly a quaint fishing village, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is the highlight of most menus. Visitors can savor the local flavors by booking a table at some of the area’s newest restaurants. The Middle Eastern-inspired seared tuna is a specialty at La Tienda Grande. Launched in February 2021 by chef Salvador Carrillo, a Puerto Vallarta native who trained in Dubai, the restaurant offers traditional Mexican dishes that incorporate Carrillo’s international experience with ingredient infusions like hummus, couscous and eggplant.
Originally opened in 2019, D’ Cortés reopened in July 2020 after closing down temporarily. Its menu features cuisine inspired by the sea. Signature dishes include the tagliatelle al dente, with fresh seafood sautéed in white wine, parsley and cherry tomato.
At Mar y Vino (Sea and Wine), guests can relax on the beachside terrace or enjoy dinner from the shallow pool at the rooftop restaurant bar and sip on an artisan cocktail along with light bites, like the crab tacos, or the chef’s special seafood platter for two for dinner. Vegan options are also available.
A local hotspot, Verana mixes traditional Mexican dishes with flavors of the Caribbean. For an island taste adventure, guests can try the enmoladas marinas with stuffed octopus and stir fry fish dipped in a Jamaican mole sauce. Those looking for a bit of variety should try the Five-Stroke Tasting Dinner offered on various nights, featuring some of Verana’s best dishes along with dessert and cocktails.
Just outside of downtown, Marina Vallarta is a modern, planned development known for its hotels and resorts, beaches, and a picturesque marina home to luxury yachts. Restaurants serving global fare line the boardwalk. El Tomatito PV is a traditional Mexican restaurant known for its seafood dishes and lively atmosphere, with local DJs and regular drink specials.
For more information, visit www.visitpuertovallarta.com.
Related Stories
Turtle Release Programs Attract Visitors to Puerto Vallarta
Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun Opens