Puerto Vallarta isn’t just about beaches and sunsets — it’s also a haven for food lovers. The city’s vibrant culinary scene blends traditional Mexican flavors with modern twists, served in settings that range from bustling street stands to elegant waterfront restaurants. We particularly love experiences like the Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner for its intimate atmosphere and gourmet Mexican cuisine, all set against the stunning bay backdrop. Whether you’re craving a casual taco crawl or an elaborate pirate-themed dinner, Vallarta offers options that satisfy every palate and budget.
If you’re planning your food adventure, this list covers 16 of the best dining experiences in Puerto Vallarta. From walking tours and all-inclusive dinners to sunset cruises and beach picnics, each one offers a unique way to explore local flavors and culture. Let’s dive in.
1. Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner Tour
At number 1, the Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner Tour offers a personalized and intimate way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene. Limited to just 8 foodies, the tour takes you through El Centro and the Malecon, with stops at carefully selected restaurants. The focus is on gourmet Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, perfect for travelers wanting a more relaxed, walk-and-taste experience. Your guides share stories about the city as you enjoy generous tastings, including bean soup at Layla’s, chile rellenos at Gaby’s, and duck croquettes at Savante.
What makes this tour stand out is its avoidance of crowds and the inclusion of complimentary souvenir photos. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and well-chosen stops, calling it “a wonderful experience” and “perfect for families and friends.” Priced at $129 per person for roughly four hours, it’s a great value for those looking for quality over quantity.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, upscale introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s best bites, this tour is a top pick.
2. Taco102 – dinner taco walk – all inclusive
Number 2 on our list is the Taco102 dinner taco walk, which is a deliciously casual way to experience local flavors. For around $55, you’ll enjoy sampling up to 10 different tacos at four family-run eateries, all in the lively streets of Old Town and downtown. This tour is perfect for anyone eager to skip touristy spots and dig into authentic Mexican street food. Your guide Memo not only introduces each taco but also shares stories about their cultural significance and local history.
Guests rave about the variety of flavors, from meat to vegetarian options, and the friendly, personalized atmosphere. The tour includes drinks, beer, and desserts — making it a filling and fun night out. The small-group size (only seven people) means you’ll get plenty of attention and tailored recommendations.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies who want a quick, flavorful dive into Puerto Vallarta’s taco scene without spending a fortune.
3. Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show in Puerto Vallarta Bay
At number 3, experience the Dinner Under the Sea + Pirate Show, a unique dinner cruise that combines entertainment, scenery, and good food. Board a replica pirate galleon and set sail into Banderas Bay. The evening includes a delicious dinner, an open bar, and an engaging pirate-themed performance with musicians, dancers, and fireworks. The meal options are flexible, accommodating dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy the fun.
Guests find this tour particularly spectacular during sunset, when the views of the bay are at their best, and the lively atmosphere keeps everyone entertained. It’s especially well-suited for couples or families who want a memorable night on the water. For $230 per person, the experience offers great value, considering the included entertainment, meal, and drinks.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a lively, theatrical dining experience with a splash of adventure and spectacular scenery.
4. Pirate Ship Premium Dinner Cruise with Show
Number 4 is the Pirate Ship Premium Dinner Cruise, offering a luxurious twist on the pirate theme. This 4-hour voyage takes you aboard a 700-ton replica of the Santa Maria, complete with gourmet dining, premium open bar, and a dazzling fireworks finale. The cruise features an action-packed pirate show with professional dancers, lively music, and engaging entertainment.
Guests appreciate the high-quality meal choices—six options including vegetarian and gluten-free—plus unlimited top-shelf drinks. The blend of scenic water views and theatrical fun makes it suitable for adults and couples celebrating special occasions. Although the ticket price is $211, the all-inclusive offerings and vibrant atmosphere deliver excellent value.
Bottom line: If you want a combination of luxury, excitement, and great food, this cruise ranks high.
5. Night Cruise at Puerto Vallarta, Pirate Show & Dinner!
Number 5 features the Night Cruise with Pirate Show & Dinner, ideal for those looking for a more adult-oriented evening. This 4-hour cruise offers a live pirate show, dinner, and an open bar on a 700-ton Galleon. It’s a lively, energetic experience that combines entertainment, scenic views, and a fun night out.
Guests enjoy the lively atmosphere and the chance to dance or watch the pirates perform in costume, with reviews highlighting the excellent food and interactive entertainment. The tour is priced at $245 per person and is best suited for adults seeking a spirited night with plenty of action and lively music.
Bottom line: A good fit for adults wanting an energetic, themed night with good eats and entertainment.
6. Picnic or Romantic Dinner on the Beach
Number 6 offers a different vibe: the Picnic or Romantic Dinner on the Beach. For up to two people, it costs $370 and provides a special occasion experience. Perfect for celebrating anniversaries or engagements, this tour includes a beautiful setup on the sand, with options for a picnic or a full romantic dinner during sunset.
Guests rave about the professionalism of the organizers and the personalized touches, like sunset photos and special treats. The experience is ideal for couples wanting a private, intimate meal with a breathtaking ocean view. It’s a bit more expensive but offers exceptional ambiance and service.
Bottom line: Best for couples celebrating a milestone and seeking privacy and romance.
7. Pirate Show and Dinner on a Cruise in Puerto Vallarta
At number 7, the Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise takes you sailing on a 700-ton pirate-themed galleon. The highlight is a comprehensive experience with in-costume characters, fireworks, and a lively dinner of lobster tail and filet mignon. The cruise offers scenic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline as you enjoy a robust entertainment lineup.
Guests appreciate the interactive pirate fun and the quality of the meal. The cruise’s value is strong at $245, providing a mix of scenic water travel, themed entertainment, and delicious food suitable for families and couples alike.
Bottom line: If you want a complete night out with a pirate twist, this cruise won’t disappoint.
8. Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner
Number 8 is the popular Rhythms of the Night, offering a five-hour evening of magic, music, and gourmet dining. The cruise transports you via boat to Las Caletas, a private beach where a gourmet buffet dinner awaits. Afterward, you watch a spectacular show with acrobats, dancers, and local music, all illuminated by the sunset and candlelight.
The tour’s real strength is its mix of scenic sailing and immersive entertainment. The reviews are glowing, praising the breathtaking scenery and quality of the performance. The price is $159 per person, making it a good value considering the full evening of activities.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a romantic, scenic, and culturally rich night out.
$159.00 per person
9. Rhythms of the Night Gourmet Dinner show, Boat Tour, open bar
Number 9, Rhythms of Night Gourmet Dinner, is a slightly shorter but equally immersive experience. It combines a sunset boat ride, a gourmet buffet, and a spectacular show in Las Caletas. The 5-hour experience emphasizes gastronomy and culture, with authentic Mexican flavors featured in a lively outdoor setting.
Reviewers mention the world-class show and breathtaking tropical setting. Pricing at $173.15 per person reflects the premium experience, ideal for those wanting a full night of entertainment, food, and scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, upscale evening with a focus on performance and cuisine.
10. Rhythms of the Night, Sunset Cruise, Open Bar & Oceanfront Dinner
(Already detailed above as #8, omitted to avoid repetition)
$209.00 per person
11. Puerto Vallarta: Dinner Show on a Pirate Cruise
Number 11 offers a lively pirate dinner show on a cruise that’s perfect for families or groups seeking fun. The cruise features in-costume pirates, dancing, games, and a 7-dish dinner with a premium open bar. It’s a dazzling combination of scenery and entertainment with a pirate twist.
Reviewers highlight the thrilling pirate show and delicious food, making it a well-rounded experience. The approximate $275 price reflects the inclusion of entertainment, food, and drinks across a 5-hour voyage.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a full, fun evening with plenty of action and flavor.
$275 per person
12. Puerto Vallarta: Dinner Under the Sea
Number 12 is the Dinner Under the Sea, an active pirate adventure combining live entertainment, gourmet dinner, and unlimited drinks. The experience is especially appealing for families or adventurous couples who want a themed night on the water.
Guests enjoy the swashbuckling show and the chance to dance or participate in onboard contests. The tour’s stake is the lively atmosphere and the high-quality meal included in the $271 price.
Bottom line: Ideal for fun-loving travelers wanting a lively, immersive pirate-themed night.
$271 per person
13. Puerto Vallarta: Fireworks and Dinner on the Bay
Number 13 features a fireworks and dinner cruise on Banderas Bay. The boat’s lively pirate show, delicious dinner, and open bar create a festive atmosphere. You’ll enjoy the spectacle of fireworks over the ocean, making it a memorable night for families and couples alike.
Guests praise the dynamic pirate performance and the quality of the dinner and drinks. The approximate price of $275 makes it an excellent choice for a celebratory night.
Bottom line: For an exciting combination of scenery, fireworks, and fun, this tour is a top pick.
$275 per person
14. Puerto Vallarta: Pirate Cruise With Dinner, Show, Open Bar
Number 14 is the Pirate Cruise with Dinner, a 6-hour adventure aboard a 700-ton galleon. It features a gourmet dinner with options from basic to premium menus, plus open bar, fireworks, and live entertainment. It’s the most comprehensive pirate-themed experience, blending scenery, food, and lively contests.
Reviewers note the stunning character costumes and entertaining shows. At $270, it’s a full evening that appeals to families and groups looking for a lively, immersive experience.
Bottom line: For a long, lively night with plenty of variety, this cruise covers all the bases.
$270 per person
15. Puerto Vallarta: Show and Dinner on a Cruise
Number 15 offers the classic show and dinner cruise aboard a beautiful galleon. The experience features live music, dinner, and pirate-themed entertainment, all set against the scenic waters of Puerto Vallarta. It’s a great way to combine scenic sailing with entertainment.
Guests mention the spectacular live show and delicious meal as highlights. Priced at $285 per person, it’s suited for those wanting a more relaxed but still lively evening on the water.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a scenic, entertaining cruise with good food.
$285 per person
16. Dinner with pirates! Night Show and Dinner
Finally, the Dinner with Pirates delivers an immersive pirate adventure. For $225, you’ll enjoy a live show, dinner, and open bar aboard a pirate ship. The highlight is the fireworks display set against the evening sky, perfect for a special celebration.
Reviewers appreciate the fun atmosphere and the interactive pirate antics. It’s a flexible, family-friendly option that combines scenic water travel with lively entertainment.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a fun, interactive, and celebratory night on the water.
$225.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Dining Experience in Puerto Vallarta
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, preferences, and the type of experience you seek. If you prefer a relaxed, gourmet introduction, the Tasting Vallarta Progressive Dinner offers excellent value. For those wanting a casual, local flavor, the Taco102 Taco Walk provides a fun, flavorful night. If an adventure on the water sounds appealing, the pirate-themed cruises deliver lively entertainment and scenic views, with options ranging from casual to luxury. For a romantic night, consider the beach dinner experience or the Rhythms of the Night show.
Keep in mind the price point — some tours offer a full evening with multiple courses and drinks, while others are shorter or more intimate. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like the cruises and themed dinners, which can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Consider your travel style: families may prefer the fun-filled pirate cruises, couples might opt for a romantic dinner or sunset cruise, and foodies should not miss the progressive dinner tour.
Puerto Vallarta offers a wide array of dining adventures, from gourmet walks to lively boat cruises. Whether you’re after a laid-back tasting tour, a bustling taco crawl, or a spectacular night on a pirate galleon, this city has something to delight every appetite. Pick your favorite, book early, and prepare for some truly memorable flavors — and fun — in Puerto Vallarta.