Taste of Pitillal Food Tour by Vallarta Food Tours

Puerto Vallarta , Mexico

Taste of Pitillal Food Tour by Vallarta Food Tours

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About this experience

Discover Puerto Vallarta's hidden culinary gem, the authentic neighboring town of Pitillal, a working class neighborhood with delightful shops, restaurants and stands. This is a is a small group, 3.5-hour food tasting and cultural walking tour exploring the charming Pitillal neighborhood. Explore Mexico’s sophisticated flavors and vast spectrum of regional cooking styles in a town untouched by tourism. Go beyond the language and cultural barriers and join us on a behind-the-scenes tour into the heart of Vallarta’s most undiscovered food destination. We'll stop at 8 carefully-chosen Pitillal eateries where you will taste delicious food (included) and experience life as a local! This tour is limited to 10 people, ensuring personal attention from your expert "foodie" guide.

Available options

Taste of Pitillal Food Tour

What's included

Guided walking tour

Tastings at 8 different locations

What you'll see

Your 3.5-hour tour starts in the quintessentially Mexican Pitillal community (pronounced “pee-tee-yall”). You will visit eight authentic tasting locations and receive a behind-the-scenes look at the Pitillal neighborhood, with visits to important landmarks.

Your informative and professional guide will share his knowledge of the local customs, eclectic folklore and authentic Mexican specialty stores. As you visit each location, you will uncover the life in a typical Mexican town. You'll experience what it is to be a local as you walk down the streets of this unique neighborhood.

You will be provided with full portion samples which are enough for lunch. Some of the stops include:
• Tacos Neto: Neto's famous recipe for mouth watering carnitas.
• Mariscos Pichi: a fresh-from-the-bay seafood tostada from one of Pitillal's oldest restaurants.
• Birria Robles: a local dish, Robles is famous for their delicious slow cooked meat.
• La Tianita: This tamal making family turned restaurateurs, churns out the best tamales in the bay!
• Paleteria: the oldest popsicle shop in town, each one still made by hand!
• Churros: a traditional Mexican favorite! Churros, similiar to a donut, are made fresh right in front of your eyes.
• Ernestos fruit stand: Ernesto mixes up the best selection of local fruit complete with home made seasonings.
• No Name Taco Stand: no tour is complete without a local taco stand. No Name serves up delicious carne asada!

After this tour, you will leave with a new-found appreciation for Mexican cuisine and culture.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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264 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Moderate amount of walking is involved. Not wheelchair accessible

There are enough food tastings that, for most people, lunch afterwards is not needed

Please advise any specific dietary requirements or allergies at time of booking by filling out the 'Special Requirements' box

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Meeting point

Google Maps Link:
https://goo.gl/maps/jS4bZDQH38e51ph56

Important notes

Vallarta Food Tours email: vallartafoodtours@gmail.com

• Please advise any specific dietary requirements or allergies at time of booking. If you haven't done it, please contact the local tour operator at vallartafoodtours@gmail.com to advise of these changes.

• Local number is 322 222 6117 or you can text +52 322 237 8480
Note* When using the text option, please indicate Name and date of the tour, along with the name under your reservation for quicker assistance. Thank you.

About Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, it offers a unique blend of traditional Mexican charm and modern resort amenities, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Malecón

A scenic boardwalk stretching along the beach, lined with sculptures, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place for a stroll, especially at sunset.

Historical/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free

Zona Romántica

A charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. It's home to many bars, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Cultural/Entertainment Half day Free to explore

Playa Los Muertos

One of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, known for its beautiful sandy shore and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day Free, with rental costs for activities

Marietas Islands

A group of small islands known for their stunning beaches, snorkeling, and the famous Hidden Beach (Playa del Amor). Access is by boat tour.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate to expensive

Rhythms of the Night

An evening cruise and dinner show that takes you to a secluded beach for a night of dining, dancing, and cultural performances.

Entertainment/Cultural Evening Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Birria

A spicy stew made with goat or beef, slow-cooked with a blend of chili peppers and spices. Often served with tortillas for dipping.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy

Pescado a la Talla

Grilled fish marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices. A popular seafood dish in Puerto Vallarta.

Main Course Contains fish, gluten-free

Chilaquiles

A traditional breakfast dish made with fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa, topped with cheese, cream, and sometimes eggs or chicken.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available, can be spicy

Popular Activities

Surfing Ziplining Hiking Snorkeling Diving Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Tourist crowds are at their peak during this period.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in local areas

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

CST (GMT-6) or CDT (GMT-5) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, exercise caution in certain areas

Puerto Vallarta is generally safe for tourists, with a strong police presence in tourist areas. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, prefer those inside banks or shopping malls

Getting there

By air

Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport • 6 km from city center

By bus

Central Camionera de Puerto Vallarta

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes connecting major attractions, beaches, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona Romántica Marina Vallarta Old Vallarta

Day trips

Sayulita

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A charming beach town known for its bohemian vibe, surfing, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the bustle of Puerto Vallarta and enjoy a more laid-back beach experience.

San Sebastián del Oeste

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A historic silver mining town nestled in the mountains, offering a glimpse into Mexico's past. It's known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.

Talpa de Allende

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A small town known for its basilica, which is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics. The town offers a mix of religious and cultural experiences, as well as beautiful natural surroundings.

Festivals

Carnaval de Puerto Vallarta • February or March (dates vary) Festival Vallarta de la Cerveza • April Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • November 1-2

Pro tips

Visit the Malecón at sunset for stunning views and live performances
Try local street food from vendors with high turnover for the freshest and safest options
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and support local artisans
Be cautious when using ATMs, prefer those inside banks or shopping malls