Visiting the Malecon is practically the activity that ranks first on the to-do lists of thousands of families and travelers when they visit Puerto Vallarta. This tourist boardwalk is iconic in the city, and you can enjoy its shops, ocean views, hypnotic sunsets, and art —including famous sculptures and artists selling their work— as well as multiple dining options.
At Club Velas Magazine, we made this restaurant Top 10 to satisfy a craving or quench your hunger and thirst after having visited Malecon’s stores and attractions.
1. La Chata
This restaurant is ideal to start the day with breakfasts that range from Mexican-style eggs or chilaquiles to pork rinds in red sauce or steak with potatoes. They also have options for sweet lovers, such as hot cakes and sweet bread.
22. La Dolce Vita
An Italian favorite. Besides their authentic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, salads, and cuts, they also have a menu for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets. Start with an appetizer like mushrooms in white wine, and continue with a pizza to share; the San Daniele and the Frutti di Mare are outstanding. Finish with an exquisite dessert, such as an apple pie with vanilla ice cream, all while enjoying the ocean view and a warm atmosphere.
3. La Bodeguita del Medio
A place for lovers of a good atmosphere, especially at night. You can order a variety of Cuban, Caribbean, and Central American cuisine during the day; at night, we recommend you to have their delicious cocktails —including mojitos— and dance to the rhythm of live salsa music. You will have great fun!
4. Oyster Grill de La Docena
If you want to pamper yourself with the freshness of the seafood or enjoy a good cut, this restaurant is the option. Oyster Grill is distinguished by having its bar of fresh oysters in its shell and by other sea specialties. The ocean view is one-of-a-kind!
5. Mi Querencia
This restaurant is located between the sculptures ‘The child on the sea horse’ and ‘Triton and Mermaid’. It has a vast menu of Mexican specialties. You will find appetizers such as pork ‘carnitas’ or the classic tortilla soup, even Mexican ‘antojitos’ and barbecues for the entire family.
6. La Posta
Another great option for Italian delicacies. Due to its location in front of the “Triton and Mermaid” sculpture, it is an easily located restaurant with privileged views. Enjoy all kinds of specialties by chef Salvatore Domanti; the pasta and pizzas are spectacular.
7. Oscar’s
Oscar’s is a restaurant located on Cuale Island and has a lunch and dinner menu. You’ll enjoy international cuisine and high-demand sea specialties such as garlic lobster. It has a wide variety of dishes, including those for vegetarians!
8. River Café
The Cuale Island or Isla Cuale is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas on Puerto Vallarta Malecon as it is surrounded by nature and the river that bears the same name. River Café is an international restaurant on this island that offers an extensive menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoying your food on the terrace with the sound of birds is a delight for all the senses.
9. Serrano’s Meat House
Passing the Cuale Island, you will find this restaurant specializing in cuts. Just thinking about a tomahawk, a New York, a rib eye, or a picanha with grilled shrimp makes our mouths water.
10. Buonissimo
This is one of the most beloved coffee shops in Puerto and Nuevo Vallarta. Although it stands out for its wide variety of Italian gelatos, you will also find salads, paninis, sandwiches, crêpes, and a variety of coffee or tea-based drinks. The gelatos are ideal for a refreshing craving but if you want something more consistent but healthy and light, we recommend the Caprina salad. Simply exquisite!
Here is a small list of all the incredible culinary experiences you can have on the Malecon, so venture out and discover unique flavors. Tell us, which of these restaurants would you like to visit on your next trip to Puerto Vallarta?
A full belly makes a happy heart!
