If you’re looking for the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta, you’ve come to the right place!
As someone who was raised in this vibrant coastal city, I know the taco scene here like the back of my hand.
Though I no longer live here, I make frequent trips back to visit my family and, of course, indulge in my favorite pastime—eating tacos!
I’ve done extensive research on this delicious topic, not only from my years growing up and visiting, but also because I’m a true taco lover who’s made it a mission to sample as many taco joints as possible.
Join me as I take you on a culinary tour of the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta, sharing the hidden gems and well-loved spots that make this city a taco lover’s paradise.
It has been my absolute pleasure eating, reviewing, and sharing with you the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta!
Understanding Taco Culture: What You Need to Know
You simply can’t come to Mexico and leave without eating some delicious tacos—it’s an absolute must!
You might think all tacos are limited to certain ingredients, but, my friend, let me tell you, we have an endless variety of tacos—some I’m sure you didn’t even know existed!
Tongue tacos, anyone? Okay, don’t freak out! Tongue tacos might not be your thing. But luckily, in this list, you’ll find the best of a little bit of everything.
From breakfast tacos to dinner tacos, from fresh seafood tacos to vegan tacos, and everything in between—street tacos, gourmet tacos, you name it! Trust me, the options are truly limitless.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor or enjoying a gourmet taco at a high-end restaurant, Puerto Vallarta offers it all.
How much are tacos in Puerto Vallarta?
The price of tacos in Puerto Vallarta can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the taqueria, the type of taco, the quality of ingredients used, and the portion size.
Street tacos typically start from $1 USD, while middle-range options go for $2 to $4 USD each.
Gourmet or specialty tacos, served at upscale restaurants, range from $5 to $8 USD or more, depending on the ingredients and presentation.
What is the most popular taco in Puerto Vallarta?
In Puerto Vallarta, the most popular taco is the “taco al pastor”.
What is the ‘al pastor’ taco?
Al pastor consists of thin slices of pork that’s been marinated with various spices, such as chili pepper, paprika, cumin, and achiote paste. The pork is then stacked onto a vertical rotisserie called a trompo and slowly cooked as it rotates.
In addition to tacos, what do taquerías in Puerto Vallarta typically sell?
Quesadillas: Tortillas (corn or flour) filled with cheese and your choice of meats, vegetables, or mushrooms, then grilled or fried until crispy.
Volcanes: a corn tortilla that is toasted over the grill until it becomes hard with cheese, until it melts and starts bubbling away. You can also add the toppings of your liking.
Aguas frescas: Refreshing fruit-based beverages made with water, fruit, and sometimes sugar. Common flavors include horchata (rice), Jamaica (hibiscus), and tamarind.
BEST TACOS IN PUERTO VALLARTA
Best Tacos al Pastor in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s kick things off with the list of the top places to enjoy the best ‘al pastor’ tacos in Puerto Vallarta:
Tacos Sonorita
Specializing in expertly preparing tacos al pastor, ribs, and fundidos with melted cheese and a choice of meats.
Their tacos al pastor are what they are most famous for, but in my humble opinion, their rib tacos are the real standout!
They became so well-known they now have multiple locations all over Puerto Vallarta! However, the Olas Altas restaurant (in la Zona Romantica) stands out as the original and most popular spot.
All their restaurants offer a nice ambiance, with comfortable setting and a welcoming atmosphere.
You can complement your meal with a selection of beverages including margaritas, beer, micheladas, and agua de horchata. And for dessert, try their famous cheesecakes!
They only accept cash and are open only in the evenings and at night.
Website / Locations: Olas altas: Pino Suárez 232, Zona Romántica / Nuevo Vallarta: Blvd. Nuevo Vallarta 62 / Valle Dorado: Valle de los Olivos 100 / Versalles: Hamburgo 155Tacos Huichos
These authentic pastor tacos are located in Aralias, a local neighborhood that is not in the most frequented tourist areas.
They have become the local’s favorite al pastor tacos because of their perfectly marinated meat.
They also offer a variety of other meats like carne asada (steak), arrachera (skirt steak), and “alambres,” a specialty dish consisting of grilled meat, bacon, bell peppers, onions, and cheese served with corn tortillas.
All accompanied by a delicious selection of “salsas” (sauces). Oh and, ask for the horchata fresh water yes or yes, you won’t regret it!
The place is nothing fancy, but they offer both indoor seating with AC and outdoor seating.
The downside of this taco place is that their portions tend to be on the smaller side. But, if you are looking for late-night tacos after a night out or just because you got hungry after hours, Tacos Huichos are a great option as they close at 2 a.m.
Note that they only accept cash and are open only in the evenings and at night.
Location: Av. Las Torres 410, Aralias II, Fovissste 96 / Phone: +52 322 197 0784 / Opening hours: 7:00pm to 2:00amTacos Junior
Only a 20-minute drive from the airport, you’ll find Tacos Junior in Bucerias.
They have an extensive menu with a variety of meats and dishes, but their flavorful al pastor taco with fresh pineapple is the absolute best!
You can expect tender, well-seasoned meat with options ranging from basic tacos to platters with mixed meats and grilled vegetables. You’ll also find spicy salsa and soft drinks, but no alcohol is sold.
They don’t have a beautiful setting, so don’t come for the views, but expect delicious tacos with very generous portions and very reasonable prices.
Location: Avenida Héroe de Nacozari # 5 col. Centro, Bucerías / Phone: +52 322 254 7351 / Opening hours: Only open for dinner / WebsiteBest Breakfast Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
El Taquito Hidalguense
Holy barbacoa taco!
For the best breakfast tacos in Puerto Vallarta (yes, breakfast!), visit this small joint located in “el centro” (downtown). They serve exquisite lamb barbacoa tacos and quesadillas.
These tacos have been locals’ favorites for decades; I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. To this day, no visit to Vallarta is complete without a mandatory stop at El Taquito Hidalguense.
After being in the same spot for many years, they recently moved a couple of blocks up (and the previous place is now a different taco joint—not to be confused!)
The handmade corn tortillas are perfect, and the barbacoa birria tacos and consomé (broth) are to die for. Hands down the best birria tacos in town!
This place may not look like much, but trust me… you want to eat here.
They only take cash and are open only for breakfast and lunch.
Location: Calle Brasil 1179 Colonia 5 de Diciembre / Phone: +52 322 109 3042 / Opening hours: 8:00am to 3:00pm / WebsiteEl Puerco de Oro
Craving a breakfast taco? Then visit El Puerco de Oro, a true gem located in Colonia Versalles, an up-and-coming neighborhood.
Their menu is simple, focusing solely on pork in two delicious presentations: pork belly and pork belly in green sauce.
Additionally, you can enjoy a beans and panela cheese taco. All are served on flavorful blue corn tortillas. Try all of them—they’re absolutely fantastic!
To drink, you can choose from agua fresca (flavored water), coffee, or sodas.
It’s a tiny place with a small menu, but trust me, they have everything you need for an unforgettable meal. If you look them up online, you’ll only find rave reviews.
Location: C. España 325 D, Versalles / Phone: +52 322 596 0089 / Website / Opening hours: 9am to 3pmCarnitas el Sabor Natural Michoacano
The best tacos in Puerto Vallarta list would not be complete without the famous “carnitas”. These delicious tacos are made of pork and accompanied by your favorite salsas.
These authentic Mexican tacos are located within a traditional market in La Aramara, as local as it gets. While the surroundings may lack aesthetic charm, these tacos deliver an authentic taste experience.
Imagine tender, shimmered pork nestled in soft, warm corn tortillas, creating the perfect combination for your taste buds.
The menu boasts multiple meat options, but I recommend you ask for “tacos surtidos”.
And if you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your home, they also offer a home delivery service, so you can wake up to a delicious breakfast without lifting a finger!
They only accept cash.
Location: Mercado Palmar Aramara, Océana Pacífico, Local 24 / Phone: +52 322 264 9822 / Opening hours: 7:30am to 7pm / WebsiteBest Seafood Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
El Camarón Express
When it comes to the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta, fresh seafood tacos are a must-try! After all, Puerto Vallarta is a coastal paradise, and some of the most mouthwatering dishes you’ll savor here feature deliciously fresh seafood.
El Camaron Express has two locations in Vallarta, with the original one located in la Zona Hotelera and another in Fluvial known as “Camaron Select”. They are both known for their great service.
As the name suggests, they specialize in flavorful shrimp tacos, but they also boast a very extensive menu, so be prepared to have plenty of options to choose from.
Other favorites include crispy fish tacos, tuna tostadas (hard shells), and seafood soup—but the options are endless.
The portions are truly very generous, so be sure to come hungry!
There’s also a fantastic assortment of spicy salsas. And to enhance the flavor of the seafood, pair your meal with fresh lime juice, a cold beer, or even better, a michelada!
Camaron Express: Location: Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio, Plaza Genovesa, Zona Hotelera / Phone: +523222241988 / Openinng Hours: 10AM-8PM - closed on Sundays / Website
Camaron Select: Location: Av. Los Tules 176, Díaz Ordaz / Opening Hours: 1-8 PM closed on Mondays / WebsiteCampomar
Campomar isn’t a taco joint—it’s one of the best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta and a very trendy spot with a prime location in Av. Francisco Medina, the main avenue, in front of La Isla shopping center.
They serve Mexican cuisine, specializing in seafood. Their tacos are just a small portion of what they offer, BUT, they have some of the best fish tacos in town!
Starting with their mouthwatering taco gobernador that features grilled shrimp, onions, and cheese, all served on a fried corn tortilla.
The truth is that you won’t came here just for their tacos, but to try a wide selection of seafood dishes.
If you are celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a memorable night out, Campomar is the perfect place.
This place is a high-end sit-down restaurant with generous portions, amazing food quality, and world-class service, so expect the prices to match.
Location: Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2468-LOC / Phone: +52 322 224 0122 / Opening Hours: 12:30 pm - 10:45 pm / Cost: $$$ / Website Best Steak Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
Tacos on the Street
Their delicious handmade tortillas and tender, charcoal-grilled rib-eye meat make these tacos some of the best in town. They specialize in rib-eye tacos and serve only this, but they do it exceptionally well!
Tacos on the Street now has two locations: the original in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and a new spot in Nuevo Vallarta. You won’t meet a local who doesn’t know about these tacos.
Nine out of ten times, I will say ask for corn tortillas, and although the corn tortillas here are spectacular, so are their flour tortillas.
Tacos on the Street is famous for their delicious “tortillas de harina” (flour tortillas). They are buttery delicious, and you most try then when you’re here.
Other favorites include the volcan de maiz con queso y carne (corn hard shell taco with cheese and rib-eye). And for desert, be sure to try their “flan”, it will melt in your mouth!
They are a bit on the pricey side, but they’re worth every penny.
Nuevo Vallarta: Location: Blvd. Nuevo Vallarta 50-Local 4 / phone: +523221827885 / Opening Hours: 11:00am to 11:30pm / Website
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle: Location: Huachinango 9, Mesa Quemada / phone: +523223496136 / Opening Hours: 5:00pm to 10:30pm closed Monday & Tuesday / Website Arrieros Marypaz & Las Marineras
It simply doesn’t get more local than this—these street taco stands are the real tacos on the street!
Technically, these are two different taco stands, but they are right next to each other and both sell what you’re here for: their famous “arrieros.”
You will find a large selection of meats and the typical quesadillas and volcanes, but what makes these tacos special is their famous and unique taco called “arriero.”
And they have been serving it for over two decades, so they know what they’re doing!
An “arriero” consists of a delicious handmade tortilla the size of the plate! You can choose either corn or flour, with melted cheese, a combination of asada (steak), adobada (marinated pork), chorizo (sausage), beans, and a bunch of delicious sauces. Be sure to come hungry because the arriero is BIG!
They are open from 4 PM until 2 AM, so they are a perfect option for a late-night taco feast.
If you want to experience the real deal Mexican tacos on the street, this is where to go! There isn’t anything else to say except: they have been here for this long for a reason.
Location: Universo 2002A, La Aurora / Phone: +523222452363 / Opening Hours: 4:00pm to 2:00am / WebsiteBest Exotic Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
If you’ve had enough traditional tacos and are ready for a taco adventure, this next section is for you!
La Mucca
If you want good tacos that are unlike anything you’ve tried before, a visit to La Mucca Taqueria in the heart of the Romantic Zone is a must!
From the chef of Tintiquete, La Mucca offers high-quality street tacos, but not just any taco, here you can enjoy delicious cabeza tacos (head tacos), tacos de lengua (tongue), tacos de tripa (intestines) and tacos de tuetano (bone marrow).
But if you really can’t bring yourself to try the specialty tacos (which I highly recommend you do!), don’t worry, they also have delicious sirloin, chorizo, and suadero options.
They are all served on regular or blue corn tortilla, and you can pair them with beer or natural wine.
While the tacos may be on the pricier side, you can savor them to the lively tunes of cumbias or regional Mexican music.
Location: Camichin 172, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata / Phone: +52 322 406 6434 / Opening Hours: 4:00pm-11:00pm - closes Monday / Website
Tacos Chava
Located in Valle Dorado, an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood in Nuevo Vallarta, Tacos Chava is an unassuming taco restaurant with outdoor seating.
Their menu offers everything, and I mean everything, from pastor to steak to chicken to seafood. They serve excellent tacos with a wide variety.
But we’re here specifically for their specialty tacos, and let me tell you, the variety is vast. Are you ready? Brains (sesos), cheek (cachete), eyes (ojo), lips (labio), head (cabeza), tongue (lengua)… I think you get the idea.
I haven’t tried them all because, I’ll admit, some are even too much for me, but I do love and recommend their cabeza (head) and lengua (tongue) tacos. They are really tasty!
You can pair your meal with soft drinks, beer, or tequila. Plus, they offer an English menu—pretty cool, right?
Location: C. Valle de Zirahuen 204, Valle Dorado / Phone: +52 322 688 5874 / Opening Hours: 6:00pm-12:00am / WebsiteBest Vegetarian Tacos in Puerto Vallarta
Mezcal y Sal
Mezcal y Sal is one of the best spots in Olas Altas, and one of the best restaurants you’ll visit in Vallarta. It’s that simple.
They don’t just offer amazing cuisine and delicious cocktails; they’re a vibe!
Mezcal y Sal is a colorful restaurant adorned with paintings by an exceptional Mexican artist. The decor, featuring daring pink hues and vibrant lighting, sets the stage for a fun night out.
And when it comes to the food, it’s soulful. All dishes are handmade in an artisanal way, offering Mexican cuisine with plenty of plant-based options as well as choices for meat eaters.
They have a few taco options, but I highly recommend their hibiscus-marinated tacos. Not only are they unique, but they’re also truly delicious. Every dish is cooked to perfection and presented like a work of art.
And as the name suggests, they serve mezcal, and you’ll find some specialty cocktails that are simply to die for, also presented like works of art.
Last but not least, everyone working here is super friendly, so expect top-notch service.
Location: C. Fco. I. Madero 235, Zona Romántica / Phone: +52 322 103 2206 / Opening Hours: 6:00pm-11:30pm / Website
