Margarita Grill Puerto Vallarta: A Local’s Guide to the Best Margaritas Puerto Vallarta Has to Offer

If you’re an expat living in Puerto Vallarta or considering making the move to this vibrant Mexican coastal city, finding reliable dining spots becomes essential to your daily life. After living here for several years, I can confidently say that Margarita Grill serves the best margaritas in Puerto Vallarta has to offer, and it’s become my go-to recommendation for newcomers and longtime residents alike.

Located in the heart of Zona Romántica, this restaurant has maintained exceptional consistency that’s rare in tourist-heavy areas. Whether you’re entertaining visiting family, celebrating a milestone, or simply enjoying a night out with fellow expats, Margarita Grill Puerto Vallarta delivers an experience that captures authentic Mexican hospitality without the tourist trap feel.

Why Margarita Grill is My Go-To Spot in Puerto Vallarta

As someone who’s explored countless restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, I’ve learned that consistency is everything. Too many places start strong but decline in quality over time. Margarita Grill breaks this pattern completely. I’ve been visiting for years, and the quality remains remarkably stable whether it’s high season or a quiet Tuesday in September.

What sets this place apart for the expat community is its authentic Mexican atmosphere combined with international service standards. The staff understands that many of us are learning Spanish, and they’re patient and helpful without being condescending.

The Best Margaritas in Puerto Vallarta: A Flavor Journey

Let me be direct: if you’re searching for the best margaritas in Puerto Vallarta has to offer, your quest ends here. Margarita Grill doesn’t just serve margaritas—they’ve elevated this iconic Mexican cocktail to an art form.

During my countless visits, I’ve systematically tried every flavor on their menu. The standouts include their mango margarita, which perfectly balances tropical sweetness with premium tequila, and their unique tamarindo margarita that offers a tangy-sweet profile you won’t find elsewhere in the city.

The strawberry and passion fruit (maracuyá) varieties are equally impressive, made with fresh fruit that tastes authentic rather than artificially flavored. Each margarita is crafted individually, not pre-mixed, which explains the exceptional quality and justifies the pricing.

Pro tip for expats: The double-sized margaritas at 350 pesos might seem expensive, but they’re worth every peso. The quality rivals high-end cocktail bars in major US cities, but at a fraction of the cost you’d pay back home.

Food Quality and Tableside Guacamole Experience

While the margaritas steal the spotlight, the food at Margarita Grill Puerto Vallarta deserves equal attention. The portions are generous by Mexican standards and exceptionally generous compared to North American restaurant portions—a pleasant surprise for expats adjusting to local dining culture.

The signature experience is their tableside guacamole preparation. The server arrives with a traditional molcajete (stone mortar and pestle) and prepares fresh guacamole at your table, adjusting the spice level to your preference. This interactive experience is perfect for entertaining guests or introducing newcomers to authentic Mexican dining traditions.

The food quality remains consistently excellent across multiple visits. Whether you order their fajitas, which arrive sizzling and aromatic, or try their traditional molcajete dishes, the preparation and presentation maintain high standards year-round.

Atmosphere and Service

The atmosphere at Margarita Grill strikes the perfect balance for the expat community. It’s lively enough to feel authentically Mexican but comfortable enough for conversation and relaxation. The music volume is carefully managed—loud enough to create ambiance but not so overwhelming that you can’t have a meaningful conversation.

What impressed me most as a longtime resident is the diverse clientele. You’ll see expat families enjoying dinner with their children, groups of international friends sharing appetizers, and couples on romantic evenings out. This diversity creates a welcoming environment that feels inclusive rather than cliquish.

The service quality is exceptional and consistent. The staff remembers regular customers, speaks excellent English when needed, and provides recommendations that actually enhance your dining experience rather than just pushing expensive items.

Location and Getting There

Margarita Grill sits perfectly positioned on Pino Suárez street in the heart of Zona Romántica. For expats living in this area, it’s an easy walk from most residential streets. The location offers easy access to other attractions, making it perfect for planning an evening that includes dinner and exploring.

Getting there from common expat areas:

• From Marina Vallarta: 15-minute Uber ride ($3-5 USD)
• From Versalles: 10-minute Uber ride ($2-4 USD)
• From Zona Romántica: 2-5 minute walk depending on your street
• From Hotel Zone: 20-minute Uber ride ($5-7 USD)

Nearby attractions perfect for combining your visit:

• Los Muertos Beach: 3-minute walk for sunset cocktails
• Malecón Boardwalk: 5-minute walk for evening strolls
• Cuale Island Market: 2-minute walk for artisan shopping
• Our Lady of Guadalupe Church: 8-minute walk for cultural sightseeing

Frequently Asked Questions About Margarita Grill

Do I need a reservation? Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak expat season (November through April) and on weekends. The restaurant accepts walk-ins, but you may face a 30-45 minute wait during busy periods.

What’s the appropriate dress code? Casual resort wear is perfect. Most diners wear comfortable clothing suitable for Puerto Vallarta’s warm climate. Think nice shorts, sundresses, or casual button-downs—no need for formal attire.

Is it suitable for families with children? Absolutely. Despite being located in Zona Romántica, Margarita Grill welcomes families. The earlier dinner hours (6-8 PM) tend to have more families, while later hours attract more adult groups and couples.

What are their operating hours? The restaurant typically opens at 11:00 AM and serves until midnight. Kitchen hours may vary slightly during low season, so calling ahead is wise if you’re planning a late dinner.

How much should I budget per person? For a complete dining experience including margaritas, appetizers, and entrees, budget $35-50 USD per person. This includes tip, which is customary at 15-20% for good service.

My Final Recommendation

After years of dining throughout Puerto Vallarta and regularly bringing visiting friends and family to various restaurants, Margarita Grill consistently delivers the best margaritas in Puerto Vallarta offers, combined with reliable food quality and excellent service.

For expats, this restaurant represents the perfect balance between authentic Mexican culture and international comfort standards. Whether you’re new to Puerto Vallarta or a longtime resident, Margarita Grill offers an experience that feels both exotic and familiar.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)

Best times to visit: Early evening (5:00-7:00 PM) for a relaxed atmosphere, or weekend nights for a more vibrant experience with occasional live music.

Perfect for: Date nights, entertaining visitors, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying the best margaritas in Puerto Vallarta has to offer while soaking in the authentic Mexican atmosphere that makes this city such an attractive place to call home.