Puerto Vallarta is an excellent place to enjoy dinner because it offers a wide variety of ways to dine that go well beyond just sitting in a restaurant. Whether you want a lively pirate-themed cruise, a gourmet tasting tour, or a romantic beach picnic, the city’s diverse options make it easy to craft a memorable evening. We particularly like the Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner Tour for its combination of gourmet Mexican cuisine and intimate walking experience — it’s a cozy way to explore the city’s culinary scene while soaking in the beautiful bay views.
For those seeking a more casual, fun night, the Taco102 dinner taco walk offers an authentic taste of local flavors with up to ten different tacos from family-run eateries. If you’re after a spectacular show combined with dinner, the Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show delivers a fun-filled night on a pirate ship with fireworks. This list covers a broad spectrum of experiences, catering to different tastes, budgets, and occasions.
1. Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner Tour
At number 1, the Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner Tour offers an intimate and gourmet way to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene. This tour is limited to just 8 food lovers, making it perfect for those who want a personal experience without the crowd. Over approximately four hours, you’ll visit several top restaurants, sampling traditional Mexican dishes with a gourmet twist while walking through El Centro and the Malecon. The backdrop of Puerto Vallarta’s bay makes each stop even more picturesque.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on avoidings crowds and sharing stories about the city’s history and food culture. Reviewers mention the excellent guide, well-chosen restaurants, and generous tastings. It’s great for anyone who wants a relaxed yet immersive way to taste local flavors. The added bonus of complimentary souvenir photos makes it a keepsake as well.
Bottom line: If you love culinary exploration with a personal touch, this tour balances quality, comfort, and insight beautifully.
2. Taco102 – dinner taco walk – all inclusive
Next on our list is the Taco102 dinner taco walk, which is all about tacos — a true Mexican staple. For about two and a half hours, you’ll enjoy up to 10 different tacos at four different family-run eateries, all selected by your guide Memo, who has a knack for revealing local secrets. This tour takes you through Old Town and downtown, avoiding tourist traps in favor of authentic, local favorites.
The experience emphasizes variety and culture, with each stand offering unique flavors, from traditional meats to vegetarian options, complemented by fresh salsas, drinks, and beer. The reviews praise Memo’s knowledge and personable manner, with one saying, “Memo is the best! He explained the history and culture behind each taco,” which adds depth to the tasting. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters or those wanting to try a range of Mexican street food.
Bottom line: For a casual, flavorful, and authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s street food, this taco walk offers excellent value and a fun night out.
3. Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show in Puerto Vallarta Bay
At number 3, the Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show takes dinner on the water to a whole new level. Board a 700-ton Galleon and enjoy an evening filled with live entertainment, fireworks, and pirate-themed fun. This experience combines a delicious dinner with a vibrant show and activities suitable for the whole family.
The tour features multiple meal options, including vegetarian choices, and includes a premium open bar. During the cruise, you’ll catch views of Puerto Vallarta’s landmarks from the water. The highlight is the interactive pirate show with music, dancing, and storytelling, making it an immersive experience. Reviewers commend the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the food, emphasizing the engaging atmosphere.
Bottom line: This adventure is ideal for families or anyone looking for a lively, themed dinner with spectacular views.
4. Pirate Ship Premium Dinner Cruise with Show
Number 4, the Pirate Ship Premium Dinner Cruise, offers a luxurious pirate adventure aboard a 700-ton replica of the Santa Maria. This cruise blends gourmet cuisine, lively entertainment, and fireworks into a four-hour voyage around Banderas Bay. The cruise features six different dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and unlimited top-shelf drinks.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on upscale dining and entertainment. You’ll enjoy professional dancers, a fireworks display, and a pirate show that includes music, dancing, and games. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the “amazing service,” making it a good choice for couples or groups celebrating special occasions.
Bottom line: If you’re after an elegant yet fun evening, this cruise combines gourmet dining with entertainment in a memorable setting.
5. Night Cruise at Puerto Vallarta, Pirate Show & Dinner!
The Night Cruise with Pirate Show & Dinner offers a stunning evening on the water. For about four hours, you’ll cruise Puerto Vallarta’s bay on a majestic 700-ton Galleon while enjoying a delicious dinner, live music, and a lively pirate show. The atmosphere is energetic, and the crew tries to make every moment fun, with fireworks at the end creating a spectacular finale.
This tour is perfect for those who want a combination of entertainment, scenic views, and good food, all with a lively party vibe. The reviews note the entertaining pirate characters and tasty meals, making it an enjoyable option especially for couples and groups seeking a vibrant night.
Bottom line: For a fun, evening water adventure with great food and lively entertainment, this cruise hits the mark.
6. Picnic or Romantic Dinner on the Beach
If your idea of the perfect evening is more intimate and scenic, the Picnic or Romantic Dinner on the Beach offers a personalized experience. Catered for up to two people, this option is ideal for a special occasion like a birthday or engagement. The organizers will set up a beautiful beachfront table, complete with a sushi platter, birthday cake, and sunset views.
Reviews mention how Vicente, the host, makes the experience seamless and memorable, emphasizing the professional setup and beautiful photos. It’s perfect for couples who want privacy, romance, and a magical sunset moment. The price reflects the exclusive and tailored nature of this tour, making it better suited for those celebrating something special.
Bottom line: For a private, romantic evening with stunning sunset views, this beach dinner is hard to beat, especially for lovers of quiet intimacy.
7. Pirate Show and Dinner on a Cruise in Puerto Vallarta
Number 7, the Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise, takes you sailing on a 700-ton pirate-themed Galleon with dinner, live entertainment, and fireworks. The experience features lobster tail and filet mignon as part of the meal, along with a lively pirate show with theme music, dancing, and characters in full costume.
This tour is best suited for families or groups wanting a themed evening filled with action and fun. The reviews praise the quality of the food and the interactive show that keeps everyone engaged. The combination of gourmet food and a pirate adventure makes this a memorable night.
Bottom line: If your family or friends enjoy themed entertainment and seafood, this cruise is a lively option.
8. Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner
The Rhythms of the Night is a highly acclaimed experience, often called one of the most magical evenings in Puerto Vallarta. It combines a sunset cruise in Banderas Bay with a gourmet buffet dinner at a remote, oceanfront amphitheater. The show features Mexican music, dance, and acrobatics, immersing you in local culture.
During the approximately five-hour journey, you’ll enjoy an open bar, scenic views, and a spectacular show that transports you to a different time. Reviewers love the breathtaking setting and well-organized event, and it’s perfect for couples or those seeking a more dignified, cultural experience.
Bottom line: For an elegant, scenic, and culturally rich evening, this tour offers a perfect blend of scenery, food, and entertainment.
$159.00 per person
9. Rhythms of the Night Gourmet Dinner show, Boat Tour, open bar
Number 9, the Rhythms of the Night Gourmet Dinner, offers a luxurious outdoor dining experience in the Las Caletas reserve. This five-hour tour combines a sunset boat ride, a gourmet buffet dinner, and an outdoor stage show with dance and live music.
The event is ideal for those who want a premium experience that includes authentic Mexican flavors and cultural entertainment. Reviewers note the world-class show and breathtaking tropical setting. Its longer duration and high-end feel make it suitable for special celebrations or those wanting an immersive, upscale evening.
Bottom line: For a combination of luxury, culture, and scenery, this tour provides a memorable night out.
10. Night Rhythms – Alma – Show and Dinner in Puerto Vallarta
The Night Rhythms – Alma provides a more exclusive, artistic experience. Designed by Gilles Ste Croix of Cirque du Soleil fame, the show offers impressive set design and storytelling. Starting with a sunset catamaran trip, you arrive at Las Caletas for an evening of dancing, gourmet food, and a spectacular show.
This experience suits travelers interested in art, performance, and a high-end ambiance. Although the reviews are limited, the focus on top-tier production and natural beauty makes it a unique option for those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom line: For lovers of theatrical shows and artistic performances, this tour promises a sophisticated, unforgettable night.
$209.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Dinner Experience
Selecting the right dinner experience depends on your budget, timing, interests, and who you’re traveling with. For a casual, authentic night, the Taco102 taco walk offers excellent value and local flavor. If you prefer a scenic, luxury cruise, the Rhythms of the Night or gourmet dinner show are ideal for special occasions or romantic nights.
Families or groups looking for more lively entertainment might enjoy the Pirate Ship Premium Dinner Cruise, while couples wanting a private, romantic dinner should consider the Beach Picnic or Romantic Dinner. For those wanting a combination of culture and scenery, the Rhythms of the Night and Alma Show are top choices.
When booking, consider seasonal availability and early reservations, especially for popular cruises, to secure your preferred date and experience.
In The Sum Up
Puerto Vallarta offers a diverse array of dinner experiences that can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable event. For a gourmet, laid-back tasting, the Tasting Vallarta tour is hard to beat. If you’re seeking a fun, casual night with local flavor, the Taco102 taco walk delivers. For an adventure on the water, the Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show and similar cruises provide lively entertainment and scenic views.
No matter your style or budget, Puerto Vallarta’s dinner options promise delicious food, lively entertainment, and unforgettable memories. Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak season — and get ready to enjoy an evening that’s as flavorful and colorful as the city itself.