Mexico’s Puerto Vallarta serves up some of the best food tours on the Pacific Coast, with several standout experiences. I’m especially impressed by the Versalles After Dark tour, which takes you through local neighborhoods for authentic street food and family recipes. The Seafood Lovers tour is another winner, featuring the freshest catch at both upscale restaurants and casual seaside stands.
For taco enthusiasts (and who isn’t?), you can’t go wrong with either the Dinner Tacos tour or Taco Adventure Evening – both showcase the city’s best tortilla-wrapped treasures. The Food and Mixology tour combines traditional dishes with craft cocktails, while the Market Visit and Cooking Lesson lets you learn directly from local cooks.
My favorite hidden gem is the Pitillal neighborhood tour, where you’ll eat alongside locals at family-run establishments far from the tourist zones.
These are our top food tour picks in Puerto Vallarta…
Key Points
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The Versalles After Dark Food Tour offers an authentic Mexican dining experience with a focus on dishes like pozole, tacos al pastor, and frozen “pies”.
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The Dinner Tacos Food Tour provides an intimate 3-hour exploration of Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica, highlighting local taco stands and hidden foodie favorites.
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The Puerta Vallarta: Seafood Lovers Food Tour features 7 distinct seafood tastings, including seafood stuffed jalapeno tacos, fresh ceviche, and grilled calamari.
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The Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails combines a food and drink experience with educational insights on Mexican spirits like mezcal, tequila, pulque, and raicilla.
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The Off The Beaten Path Food Tour – Dinner offers a personal, evening culinary exploration in Pitillal, showcasing family-run food businesses.
Versalles After Dark Food Tour
The Versalles After Dark Food Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culinary scene. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars and recommended by 97% of travelers, this small-group tour takes guests on a journey through the district’s decades-old eateries and trendy spots.
Participants can expect to sample authentic Mexican dishes like pozole, tacos al pastor, and frozen “pies.” With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
While the tour includes vegetarian options, it may not accommodate vegan diets. The Versalles After Dark Food Tour promises a delightful and informative exploration of Puerto Vallarta’s diverse flavors.
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Puerta Vallarta: Seafood Lovers Food Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive seafood experience in Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town will delight in the Puerta Vallarta Seafood Lovers Food Tour.
Over 3 hours, guests will embark on a culinary journey, discovering top local seafood spots and savoring 7 distinct tastings. These include seafood stuffed jalapeno tacos, fresh ceviche, grilled calamari, and more.
An expert guide provides insights into the area’s history and culture. The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles with at least 2 stops for sitting.
Priced at $59 per person, the tour has earned a 5/5 rating from 22 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and generous portions.
Guests should note the tour’s unsuitable for certain dietary restrictions.
Read our full review: Puerta Vallarta: Seafood Lovers Food Tour Review
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Dinner Tacos Food Tour
Foodies seeking a delectable evening in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica won’t want to miss the Dinner Tacos Food Tour.
This 3-hour excursion takes travelers on a culinary adventure, exploring local taco stands and hidden foodie favorites. With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience guided by a knowledgeable host.
Dinner includes all tacos and fruit drinks, ensuring a satisfying meal. The tour departs from the Iglesia de la Santa Cruz and returns to the same location, making it easily accessible.
While not suitable for vegans or vegetarians, the Dinner Tacos Food Tour comes highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing the experience.
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Puerto Vallarta 3-Hour Food Tour of Authentic Local Cuisine
For travelers eager to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food scene, the 3-Hour Food Tour of Authentic Local Cuisine provides an unparalleled opportunity.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour weaves through the city’s bustling streets, introducing participants to a tantalizing array of traditional dishes.
From savory tacos and tamales to fresh seafood specialties, each stop offers a chance to savor the unique flavors that define Puerto Vallarta’s culinary heritage.
With ample time for interaction with vendors and chefs, the tour grants an insider’s perspective on the city’s thriving food culture.
Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this 3-hour adventure promises to leave lasting impressions and a deeper appreciation for Puerto Vallarta’s rich gastronomic traditions.
Read our full review: Puerto Vallarta 3-Hour Food Tour of Authentic Local Cuisine Review
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Taste of Pitillal Food Tour by Vallarta Food Tours
Those seeking an immersive culinary adventure in Puerto Vallarta won’t want to miss the Taste of Pitillal Food Tour by Vallarta Food Tours.
This 3.5-hour experience takes travelers through the Pitillal neighborhood, offering tastings at eight different locations. Guests can savor authentic Mexican street food, including tacos, tortas, churros, and popsicles.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share stories about the local food, families, and cultural significance. With a maximum group size of eight, the experience provides personalized attention.
Vegetarian options are available, and the tour operates in all weather conditions. Highly recommended for those wanting to explore Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food scene beyond the typical tourist areas.
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Signature Taco and Street Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta
Travelers eager to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culinary scene can embark on the Signature Taco and Street Food Tour with Vallarta Eats.
This highly-rated 3-hour walking tour covers 1.5 miles, allowing guests to sample a variety of regional specialties like chilaquiles, birria, and fish tacos.
Led by expert foodie guides, the small-group experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at local food production and the opportunity to explore markets, taco stands, and eateries.
Though not wheelchair-accessible and with limited vegetarian options, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and authentic cultural insights, making it a memorable way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s beloved taco and street food scene.
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Breakfast Taco Tour With a Local Foodie
Visitors to Puerto Vallarta can often experience the Breakfast Taco Tour with a Local Foodie, a highly-rated 5-star activity with over 100 reviews.
This small-group tour, limited to seven participants, offers a personalized exploration of the local taco culture. Travelers can savor a variety of tacos, from crunchy carnitas to savory birria, while learning about the history and significance of these iconic Mexican dishes.
The tour also includes other local specialties like quesadillas and huaraches, as well as agave spirit tastings and homemade desserts.
With free cancellation and accessibility for most travelers, this tour is an ideal way to take in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Breakfast Taco Tour With a Local Foodie Review
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Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails
Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food and drink scene, the Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails offers an immersive experience for discerning travelers.
With a 5.0 rating from over 1,500 reviews, this small-group tour takes guests on a journey through six local eateries and bars.
Highlights include sampling tacos, desserts, and six Mexican cocktails while learning about mezcal, tequila, pulque, and raicilla.
The tour supports family-owned businesses and provides cultural insights from knowledgeable guides.
Praised for its excellent food and drink quality, the experience is a must for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s culinary landscape.
Read our full review: Food and Mixology Tour: Tequila, Tacos, and Mexican Cocktails Review
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Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour With Vallarta Food Tours
This 3.5-hour walking food tour in the heart of Puerto Vallarta offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
With over 2,700 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours promises an authentic taste of local cuisine, from tacos to sweet treats.
Guests will stroll through the city’s charming streets, learning about its history while sampling diverse dishes from well-known local spots.
Led by knowledgeable guides in a small-group format, the tour provides personalized attention and insider tips.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, this excursion is a must-do experience for those seeking to enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food culture.
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Vallarta by Road Food Tour With Vallarta Food Tours
The Vallarta by Road Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours offers travelers an immersive culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Puerto Vallarta.
This highly-rated 5-hour experience takes guests to sample traditional dishes from the Jalisco region, including barbacoa tacos, tortas ahogadas, and birria tacos.
The tour includes 7 tastings and bottled water, with vegetarian options available.
Knowledgeable local guides provide insights into the history and culture of the area as travelers are transported in an air-conditioned van.
With a maximum of 18 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour is a convenient and authentic way to discover Puerto Vallarta’s renowned cuisine.
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Market Visit and Cooking Lesson: Cook Authentic Mexican Food in Puerto Vallarta
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Puerto Vallarta, the Market Visit and Cooking Lesson with Chef Manuel offers an authentic opportunity to learn the intricacies of Mexican cuisine.
With over 200 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this personalized tour combines a private market visit with a hands-on cooking class. Guests can choose between morning or afternoon sessions and customize their meal based on dietary preferences.
The menu showcases local specialties like ceviche, panela enchiladas, and seafood or mushroom al ajillo. Included are hotel pickup, bottled water, and local beer.
Praised for Manuel’s culinary expertise and cultural insights, this experience provides a delectable and enriching glimpse into Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Market Visit and Cooking Lesson: Cook Authentic Mexican Food in Puerto Vallarta Review
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Best Tacos After Dark Food Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta
Vallarta Eats’ Best Tacos After Dark Food Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers evening explorers a delectable immersion into the city’s vibrant street food scene.
The 3-hour tour takes participants through the charming Old Town, where they’ll sample an array of tacos, from fish to al pastor, and traditional specialties like quesadillas and churros.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides who share historical context and local insights.
Reviewers praise the tour for its delicious food, safe locations, and opportunities to discover hidden gems.
While vegetarian options are limited, the tour is stroller-accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Best Tacos After Dark Food Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta Review
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Off The Beaten Path Food Tour, Breakfast in Pitillal
Exploring the vibrant Pitillal neighborhood, the Off The Beaten Path Food Tour offers travelers an authentic Mexican breakfast and lunch experience.
This 100% recommended tour takes guests on a culinary journey, featuring a menu focused on local specialties like beef, goat, shrimp, and dairy.
With a maximum of 7 travelers, the intimate group size ensures a personalized experience.
While vegetarian options are limited, the tour accommodates dietary restrictions.
Lasting about 3-4 hours, the walk between the meeting and end points is short, making it accessible for most.
With knowledgeable and personable guides, the tour provides cultural insights and photo opportunities, earning it a 5.0 average rating from 34 reviews.
Read our full review: Off The Beaten Path Food Tour, Breakfast in Pitillal Review
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Off The Beaten Path Food Tour. Dinner in Pitillal
The Off The Beaten Path Food Tour – Dinner in Pitillal offers travelers an evening of authentic culinary exploration in the vibrant Pitillal neighborhood.
With a maximum group size of 8 guests, the 4.5-star rated tour provides a personal experience to discover family-run food businesses and savor a full dinner of street snacks and celebration dishes.
The knowledgeable guide shares insights into the local food culture, though the tour isn’t recommended for vegans or vegetarians.
Priced at $55 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this dinner tour is a 95% recommended Puerto Vallarta experience, conveniently located near public transportation.
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Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour With Vallarta Food Tours
Although Vallarta Food Tours offers a variety of culinary experiences in Puerto Vallarta, the Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour stands out as a must-try for travelers seeking an immersive exploration of the city’s taco culture.
The tour takes guests on a walking and eating journey through the Emiliano Zapata and 5 de Diciembre neighborhoods, where they’ll sample full-portion local dishes like tacos, quesadillas, and pozole.
Highlights include stops at up to four taco carts featuring al pastor and fresh seafood, as well as insights into the gastronomic history from a knowledgeable local guide.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized and enjoyable atmosphere, as evidenced by its 725 reviews and 99% recommendation rate.
Read our full review: Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour With Vallarta Food Tours Review
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Seafood Lovers Tour With Vallarta Food Tours
Vallarta Food Tours’ Seafood Lovers Tour offers a captivating culinary journey through Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant old town, bustling market, and picturesque beaches.
Featuring a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the 5-star rated tour showcases the region’s seafood specialties, including grilled calamari, fried octopus, aguachile, and ceviche.
With a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, guests gain unique insights into the local culinary history and culture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals.
Participants should come prepared with sturdy shoes and an empty stomach, as the tour includes six food tastings and stops for ice cream and chocolates.
Read our full review: Seafood Lovers Tour With Vallarta Food Tours Review
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Sayulita Cultural and Food Tour
What sets the Sayulita Cultural and Food Tour apart is its immersive exploration of the vibrant town’s local cuisine and rich heritage.
Operated by Luna Tours & Hiking, this highly-rated tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a guided walking tour, cacao tasting, and a delectable food sampling.
Travelers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the excellent local food selections, and the personalized attention to their interests.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour provides an intimate culture, avoiding tourist traps.
Starting at $110 per person, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Sayulita’s vibrant culinary and cultural landscape.
Read our full review: Sayulita Cultural and Food Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take a Food Tour?
The best time of year to take a food tour depends on the local food scene and seasonal offerings. Many tours are year-round, though some may have peak seasons when certain dishes or ingredients are at their freshest.
Do Food Tours Cater to Dietary Restrictions?
Many food tours do cater to dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs. Tourists should inquire about accommodating their dietary preferences when booking a tour to ensure a satisfying experience.
How Do I Choose the Right Food Tour for My Interests?
When choosing a food tour, consider your dietary needs and culinary interests. Opt for a tour that offers flexibility and caters to your preferences, whether you’re looking for vegetarian, gluten-free, or a specific cuisine. Research reviews to find the right fit.
Are Food Tours Suitable for Children?
Food tours can be suitable for children, but it depends on the specific tour and the child’s age and interests. Some tours may feature spicy or adventurous foods that aren’t ideal for young kids. It’s best to research tour options carefully.
Can I Request a Private or Customized Food Tour?
Yes, you can request a private or customized food tour. Many tour companies offer this option, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule. This can be especially convenient for families with children or those with specific dietary needs.
The Sum Up
Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of food tours to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seafood lover, taco enthusiast, or eager to explore local cuisine, there’s a tour that’ll provide an authentic culinary experience. These tours allow you to explore the city’s vibrant food scene, discover hidden gems, and savor the flavors that make Puerto Vallarta a beloved destination for food-focused travelers.