Essentials of Our Destination: Typical Food on the Beaches

In addition to getting a perfect tan, enjoying exciting activities and/or relaxing to the rhythm of the waves, on the coasts of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit you can discover the folklore and variety of the local gastronomy, especially through some meals with unique presentations. Although they are not complex dishes, they are part of the Vallarta experience and the flavors of everyday life.

Fish and Shrimp “Embarazados” (“Pregnant”)
This is our destination’s most emblematic snack. Its name is a modification of the phrase “en vara asado” (“grilled on a stick”), and its preparation consists of marinating the meat of the fish or shrimp with a sauce of guajillo chile, garlic, butter and achiote, and then grilling it, to be eaten directly from the stick.

Oysters
Throughout Banderas Bay there is a special devotion to this mollusk. The oyster is similar to the clam, but it has a very distinct flavor and texture. Generally, it is eaten directly from the shell, accompanied by lime and hot sauce.

Ceviche Tostadas
There are several types of ceviche, but the most common is made with ground fish (marinated with lime juice), coriander, salt to taste, oregano, lime, cucumber, tomato, carrot, onion and serrano chile. It is served with avocado and a variety of sauces.

Corn and/or Banana Bread
Due to their sweet flavor and tender texture, homemade corn and/or banana bread are a temptation to the palate. This dessert is one of the most traditional in Vallarta · Nayarit, as well as the different flavors of pies that can be found on the South Shore.

Popsicles
These refreshing desserts are made from water or milk and are available in a wide variety of flavors. Their fun colors have captured the attention of local foodies, who, in addition to savoring them, take the opportunity for a picture of them with the scenery in the background.