A weekend guide to Puerto Vallarta for the Foodie!

Amidst the boat memes, and contreversial activities highlighting Mexico during the holidays I made the choice to travel for the New Year on a solo trip. Let it be known I rang in the new year in bed by 11:30pm after tacos, fresh baked goods, and binging The Queens Gambit. Honestly, the trip was very much needed, and the locals were so kind and welcoming. The weather also permits to spend most time outside, with plenty of vitamin D and UV rays. If your spirit needs to get away there is a safe way to do it. I recommend solo traveling, or planning something with your small quarantine group. However, I respect and understand the concerns, so for now let’s call this a future guide in the era after Covid. A weekend guide to Puerto Vallarta for the foodie!

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Tortilla Soup for the adult soul... and carbs.

Upon my arrival I headed to the local grocery store down the street, and grabbed plenty Topo Chico for the week. I had an old grocery bag that broke soaked in grapefruit juice, of course this happened while I was leaving, and the weather was gearing up to pour. The kind lady at the mercantile gave me a new bag, and I picked up my stuff and headed to my airbnb. On the way home I was craving soup and came upon “Souper Sopa” by La Fonda. The Tortilla Soup became my new obsession so rich in flavor! I also passed by a bakery off the main street in Zona Romantica called “Yarita Panaderia and Pasteleria” which had the most delicious morning pastries, breads, and empanadas.

Casa Nicole

My absolute favorite breakfast was at “Casa Nicole.” I had a delicious almond croissant, fruit bowl, and once again the restaurant’s named dish the “Nicole.” Two Eggs scrambled with chorizo over a corn tortilla topped with green salsa and melted panela cheese.

Tacos Revolución

For New Years I ended up at Taco Revolución grabbing food to go. Upon further discussion I found out where the famous taco places in the area were, and unfortunately when I tried to go it was the day they weren’t open. If you get a chance though apparently Pancho’s Takos and Pepe’s (my taxi drivers recommendation) are the moment. But if you wind up at Taco Revolución the menu item, “Taco Revolución is mind blowing. it’s one taco (corn or flour) with roast beef, marinated meat, chorizo, cheese crust and pork rinds DROWNED in a three-chili sauce. That and their guac paired with Netflix in my own little airbnb cocoon was pure heaven.

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Il Pesce

My good friend @michaellucasnyc, who lives locally (and Airbnb’s 5 rooms!), gave me all the recommendations midway through my visit, and I was on a quest. I took his advice and had a wonderful dinner at a new Italian restaurant that opened two weeks prior to my arrival, “Il Pesce.” This should be at the top of everyones list. The eggplant salad served with warm bread for the table was mind blowing. And that was just the beginning. Salmon Carpaccio, Capresé, and Octopus Ragu. From the food, to the service you could feel such a welcoming bright energy. Truly some of the best Italian I’ve ever had!
@ilpesce285b

The Secret Garden at Cafe des Artistes

Finally, for the final night in paradise I booked a table at Cafe des Artistes by Thierry Blouet. This happens to be THE spot for honeymooners and guest celebrating romantic special events. Funny enough, I often wind up solo dining at these restaurants on my vacations. I started off with “Cream of Prawn and Pumpkin Soup.” artfully presented and poured our of a carved pumpkin while a harpist was playing Marc Anthony to literally just me. The kitchen presented a delicious small bite between courses, and a bread basket with savory creme puffs that I could not get enough of. I had the Lobster for my main course with coconut foam, and for desert the seasonal fruit sorbet. The Ambiance was magical. The garden seating is half the reason to book a table here. Lush green foliage covers the outskirts, with local artist sculptures, and hanging lights from the ceiling. It feels like a fairly tale land complete with divine service, and live music. @cafedeartistes

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Incanto Vallarta

After dinner I ran to see my friend Seth in his cabaret show singing Judy Garland. It was incredible witnessing live theater with some of my favorite songs. The establishment also insured proper social distancing and health measures. To wrap up an incredible week I even ended up singing a couple show-tunes at the piano bar afterwards. So there you have it. In addition to beautiful beaches, rooftop infinity pools, and so much rich culture there is plenty foodie adventures to be had. If you find it difficult to hang in there during winter, and need to get away I totally understand. Again there is a safe way to enjoy time and reset. Solo travel while following safety guidelines is doable. Of course if traveling isn’t comfortable for you now put this in your back pocket for your next great adventure!