Artisan Bakery
We love stopping by Artisan Bakery in the morning for a cup of coffee and some fantastic pastries. You can enjoy them inside, on the bakery’s terrace, or grab them to go. Their pastries are also a perfect treat if you’re looking for something sweet after a meal.
They specialize in handmade breads and pastries baked fresh daily, with sourdough being their signature specialty. They also offer a variety of other breads, including multigrain, whole wheat, rye, pumpernickel, filone, focaccia, and ciabatta, along with daily specials.
Tacos de Birria “Betty”
You know how people always say that if you want to eat well, you should go where the locals go? Well, Tacos de Birria “Betty” is one of those places.
Open for breakfast and lunch, Erika and her mom serve up flavourful tacos made with handmade tortillas and plenty of care. Their birria tacos are the specialty, but there are plenty of other delicious options too, including arrachera, chicharrón, machaca, and more. Their quesadillas are every bit as good.
And if you’re there on the weekend, don’t miss the menudo, a traditional Mexican soup that’s worth making a special trip for.
Charly’s Wok
If you’re looking for great Asian street food, do yourself a favor and check out Charly’s Wok. It’s one of those places that consistently delivers, whether you’re grabbing take-out or sitting down for a meal. Their menu has something for everyone, from Chicken Teriyaki and Pad Thai to Beef Thai, Seafood Stir Fry, Veggie Stir Fry, and plenty more. Honestly, I’ve yet to try something there that wasn’t delicious.
And don’t let the small size of the shop fool you. What Charly’s Wok may lack in square footage, it more than makes up for with big flavors and food that’s clearly made with care.
Mole’s Pizza
Whenever we’re in the mood for a cozy night at home but can’t quite muster the motivation to cook, Mole’s Pizza is one of our go-to choices.
What keeps us coming back to this family-owned business is the combination of fresh ingredients, consistently great pizza, and a menu with enough variety, including vegan options, that everyone can find something they like.
Oh, and if you’ve never done takeout pizza on a West Coast beach at sunset, I’d recommend giving it a try at least once!
Los Muertos Brewing
If you’re a beer lover Los Muertos Brewing is definitely worth a visit. As Puerto Vallarta’s first craft brewery, they’ve been serving locals and visitors alike since opening their doors on November 2, 2012—Día de los Muertos.
It’s the kind of spot where you can settle in with friends and easily lose track of time over a beer or two. If you’re hungry, their wood-fired pizzas are a specialty, and their burgers and sandwiches are excellent as well.
Sushi In House
A good rule of thumb: when a restaurant is always packed, there’s usually a reason. That’s certainly the case at Sushi In House, so you may want to reserve a table before you go.
Run by Ana and her parents, this family-owned restaurant combines warm hospitality with some of the best sushi around. Everything is fresh, flavourful, and made with care. The menu offers a wide variety of rolls and sushi, from simple favourites to spicier creations for those who like a little heat.
Machuk2 Tacos y Mas
With great food, generous portions, and a welcoming vibe, Machuk2 Tacos y Más is one of those places we keep coming back to.
The tacos are generously filled and packed with flavor, whether you go for classics like pastor and sirloin or decide to try something a little different like their Tripa Dorada and Machukado. Their quesadillas are just as impressive. They have a well-stocked salsa bar that allows you to customize every bite exactly the way you like it. And as far as drinks go, make sure you get a taste of their pineapple lemonade.
Churro Guy
One of our favorite things to do is take an after-dinner walk around the Versalles neighborhood. It has such a great vibe—lively enough to feel full of energy, but still peaceful and relaxed.
One of our favorite stops along the way is the Churro Guy’s stand. His churros are so good that it’s honestly hard not to overdo it. If you’ve never had a churro while wandering through Versalles, do yourself a favor and treat yourself. It’s one of those simple pleasures that somehow makes an already great evening even better.
Tacos Capeados Susybel/Vallarta
Although this site is dedicated to the Versalles neighborhood, I’m going to make an exception for Tacos Capeados Susybel in 5 de Diciembre.
First off, if you’ve never had a fish taco, that really should be on your bucket list. And if you’re going to try one, you might as well start with Susybel’s: they are simply heavenly. What was once only available at her taco stand can now also be enjoyed at her restaurant, Tacos Capeados Vallarta. So, if you’re spending the day exploring the Malecón, do yourself a favour and make a quick stop in 5 de Diciembre. Your taste buds will thank you.