Food and booze: it's the Puerto Vallarta experience! Mexico is a country known for its flavors.
My trip to PV wouldn't be complete without delving into the local gastronomic scene. And what better way to do that than by joining a specialized food tour? That's precisely why I booked the "Taco and Tequila" tour with Vallarta Food Tours, and let me tell you, it was an experience that exceeded every expectation.
From the moment I arrived at the designated meeting point, I felt a buzz of anticipation. Our friendly and incredibly knowledgeable guide, Ricardo, greeted us with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm for his city's culinary heritage. He quickly set the tone, explaining that this wasn't just about eating; it was about understanding the culture, the history and the passion that goes into every dish. His insights immediately assured me that I was in for more than just a series of tastings.
Our first stop was a humble, unassuming taqueria, tucked away on a side street – the kind of place I would have surely walked past on my own. Ricardo explained that these are the true gems, where local families have perfected their craft over generations.
Here, I sampled my first taco al pastor, a quintessential Mexican street food. The vertical spit, layered with marinated pork and pineapple, rotated slowly, promising juicy, flavorful bites. The meat, shaved directly onto a warm, handmade tortilla, was tender and savory, perfectly complemented by a sprinkle of cilantro, onion and a squeeze of lime. Ricardo encouraged us to try the house salsas, guiding us through their heat levels and flavor profiles. It was an immediate revelation – a taste of true, unadulterated Mexican flavor.
As we walked to our next destination, Ricardo pointed out landmarks, shared anecdotes about local life and explained the significance of the various ingredients we'd be encountering. I learned about the importance of fresh, locally sourced (tariff-free!) produce, the art of making the perfect tortilla and the regional variations of common dishes. It was a walking encyclopedia of Mexican cuisine, delivered with passion and humor.
The next few stops brought an incredible diversity of tacos. I savored a taco de carne asada, grilled to perfection with a smoky char, and a taco de pescado (fish taco), light and crispy, brightened by a vibrant cabbage slaw and a creamy chipotle sauce.
Each stop had its own unique atmosphere, from bustling street carts where the aroma of grilled meat filled the air, to small, family-run eateries where the warmth of hospitality was as rich as the food itself. I particularly enjoyed a taco de birria, a rich, slow-cooked goat stew, served with its consommé for dipping – a deeply comforting and authentic experience that truly showcased the depth of Mexican culinary tradition.
Just when I thought my taste buds couldn't handle any more deliciousness, it was time for the "tequila" part of the tour.
We arrived at a charming, traditional cantina, where Ricardo transitioned into his role as a tequila connoisseur. He demystified the spirit, explaining the strict regulations that govern its production, the different types (Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo), and how to properly taste and appreciate each one. I learned to identify the subtle notes – the earthy agave, the hints of vanilla and caramel from barrel aging – and how to truly savor the experience, rather than simply shooting it down. (OK, maybe I shot one.)
It was an enlightening session that transformed my perception of tequila from a party drink into a sophisticated spirit to be respected and enjoyed.
Before the tour concluded, we made one final savory stop, often a surprise like a sopes or a regional specialty, followed by a delightful sweet treat. On my tour, it was a stop for fresh, hot churros, dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce – a perfect end to a perfect culinary journey.
Walking away from the tour, my stomach was full, but more importantly, my mind was buzzing with new knowledge and a profound appreciation for Puerto Vallarta's food scene. This wasn't just a meal; it was an immersive cultural experience.
Vallarta Food Tours provided access to authentic, off-the-beaten-path establishments that I would never have discovered on my own. Ricardo, our guide, was more than just a navigator; he was a storyteller, an educator, and a passionate ambassador for his city.