Living here in Puerto Vallarta, I’ve realized one thing very quickly: our neighborhood of Amapas is a total dream for anyone who loves to eat. We are so lucky because we sit right on the edge of the hill, looking down at the sparkling bay, but just a short stroll away is the heart of the culinary scene in Old Town.
I spend so much of my time exploring these streets, and I can tell you that you don't need a car or a long taxi ride to find the best flavors in the city. Everything is right here! Whether you are a solo traveler looking for a quick bite at a street stand or a couple searching for that perfect candlelit corner, the options are endless.
Our family has been here for generations, and we at The PVGirl love sharing our favorite "off-the-beaten-path" spots. When you stay in one of our puerto vallarta rentals old town, you aren't just getting a room; you're getting a front-row seat to the best food in Mexico. Let me take you on a little walking tour of what a perfect foodie day looks like from our doorstep.
Morning Rituals and Fresh Finds
My favorite way to start any day in Amapas is with a walk down the hill. The morning air is still fresh, and the city is just starting to wake up. I usually head straight for the local fruit vendors. You will see them setting up their colorful stalls along the side streets of Old Town.
There is nothing quite like a massive cup of fresh mango with lime and a sprinkle of tajin. It’s simple, it’s local, and it’s the best way to wake up your taste buds! If you prefer a sit-down breakfast, I cannot recommend Café San Angel enough. It is so close to our properties and has that perfect "neighborhood" feel. I love sitting outside with a strong Mexican coffee, watching the locals head to work and the early birds heading to the beach.
The walk back up to Amapas after a big breakfast is exactly what you need to feel a little less guilty about those extra tortillas. If you are staying at Casa CC, which is one of the premier puerto vallarta mexico condo rentals, you’ll appreciate that built-in morning workout! The views from the balcony when you get back are just the cherry on top.
Street Food Staples
As the day turns into evening, the energy in Old Town shifts. This is when the real magic happens. The smell of grilled meats and sizzling onions starts to drift through the air. For me, no visit to Puerto Vallarta is complete without a stop at Pancho’s Takos. Yes, there is often a line, but trust me, it is worth every second of the wait.
Watching the "al pastor" meat spin on the trompo is like watching a performance. It’s loud, it’s busy, and it’s completely authentic. If you are traveling solo, this is a great place to just grab a stool, order three or four tacos, and soak in the vibe. Nobody cares if you're alone because everyone is too busy enjoying their food!
Another absolute must-try is Tuna Azul. It’s just a short walk from our rentals and offers some of the freshest seafood tacos I’ve ever had. Their shrimp tacos are legendary. It’s a bit more "sit-down" than a street stand but still has that casual, friendly atmosphere we love. For those looking for more authentic escapes, finding these smaller, family-run gems is what makes a trip truly special.
Romantic Dinners for Two
If you are here with your partner, Amapas and Old Town offer some of the most romantic settings you could imagine. You don’t need to spend a fortune to have an unforgettable evening. One of my favorite things to do is head down to the beachfront restaurants in the evening.
While we usually avoid the sunset rush to keep things low-key, sitting with your toes in the sand under the bright moonlight is magical. Places like La Palapa offer that classic Puerto Vallarta elegance, but if you want something a bit more tucked away, Gaby’s Restaurant in the historic center is a dream. It feels like you are dining in someone’s beautiful private garden.
For couples staying at Casa Opportunity, one of our favorite puerto vallarta rentals by owner, you have the luxury of choice. You can head out for a fancy meal or bring back some local ingredients to cook in your own modern kitchen. Sometimes, a bottle of wine and a spread of local cheeses on your private terrace is the most romantic meal of all.
If you're looking for more ways to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank, check out our guide on romance on a budget. It’s full of tips for making the most of your time here together.
Tips for the Amapas Foodie
After years of "research" (it’s a hard job, but someone has to do it!), I’ve gathered a few tips to help you navigate the food scene here:
- Carry Cash: While the bigger restaurants take cards, the best taco stands and fruit vendors are strictly cash only. Make sure you have some pesos on hand!
- Walk Everywhere: Amapas is hilly, but that’s part of the charm. Walking between the restaurants in Old Town is the best way to discover hidden spots you’d never see from a car.
- Eat Early or Late: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds at popular spots like Pancho's, try going for a late lunch or a very early dinner.
- Ask Us!: We live here. We know which stands have the best salsas and which cafes have the fastest Wi-Fi for our digital nomad friends. Don't be shy to ask for a recommendation.
Why We Love This Neighborhood
At the end of the day, what makes Amapas so special for foodies isn't just the quality of the food: it's the heart behind it. Most of the places I’ve mentioned are family-owned businesses, just like ours. When you eat at these spots, you are supporting the local community and getting a taste of the real Puerto Vallarta.
We take so much pride in our rentals and in our city. We want every guest who stays with us to leave feeling like they’ve experienced something truly authentic. From the first bite of a street taco to the last sip of a tequila cocktail at a beachfront bar, the flavors of this neighborhood stay with you long after you leave.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the true soul of Mexico through their stomach! We can't wait to welcome you to our little corner of paradise.
For more updates and local tips, make sure to follow us on Instagram and X. We are always sharing our latest food finds and property updates there!
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