Tipsy Taco Food and Drink Tour in Puerto Vallarta

Discover Puerto Vallarta’s Flavors with the Tipsy Taco Food and Drink Tour

If you’re seeking a fun, flavorful way to explore Puerto Vallarta beyond the usual tourist spots, the Tipsy Taco Food and Drink Tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally joined this experience, countless travelers rave about its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and immersive local vibe. We love how it combines authentic Mexican cuisine with a relaxed drink focus, all within the charming streets of Old Town.

Three standout features draw our attention: First, the variety of taco tastings—from carne asada to seared Mahi Mahi—ensuring you get a true taste of local street food. Second, the pairing with Mexican cocktails and craft beers elevates the experience, making it more than just a food tour. Lastly, the small group size and knowledgeable bilingual guide promise a personalized, engaging outing that feels more like hanging out with friends than a guided tour.

A possible consideration? The tour is designed exclusively for adults 21 and over, so it’s not suitable for families or those traveling with young children. Also, since it involves walking through backstreets and some uneven terrain, travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a slow pace might want to consider their comfort level.

This tour is ideal for adult travelers who want to sample Puerto Vallarta’s best street foods paired with local drinks while soaking up the city’s vibrant street life. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail lover, or simply looking for a fun way to meet fellow travelers, this experience offers a lively and authentic taste of PV.

Good To Know

• Authentic Food Pairings: Enjoy six different tacos paired with Mexican cocktails and craft beers.
• Local Guide: A bilingual, friendly guide enriches the experience with historical facts and local stories.
• Vibrant Streets: Explore the back alleys of Old Town and Zona Romantica, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Six alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, shots, and local beers, are included.
• Flexible & Small Group: With only up to 10 travelers, it feels intimate and personalized.
• Worth the Price: At $108 per person, it offers a balanced mix of food, drinks, and cultural insights.

A Detailed Look at the Tipsy Taco Food and Drink Tour

Starting Point: A Local’s Gateway in Old Town

The tour kicks off just steps from Vallarta Eats’s office on Independencia Street, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s bustling El Centro. The meeting point, near the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe church, sets a lively tone. The church itself, a symbol of PV, often serves as a visual anchor, reminding visitors of the city’s deep-rooted culture.

First Stop: Riverside Margaritas and Tacos at Puente Río Cuale

Within 45 minutes, you’ll be along the Cuale River, a vital part of PV’s historical development. Here, you can sip refreshing margaritas while munching on tacos that highlight the city’s seafood specialties or classic beef offerings. Reviewers like Gabriel emphasize how the river-side setting makes this initial stop particularly memorable. “Everyone should always ask for Alberto, the tour guide! He’s friendly, funny, shares loads of history, and makes the experience 200% better.” The relaxed riverside vibe makes it easy to settle in and get into the local rhythm.

Exploring Zona Romantica: Hidden Streets and Local Flavors

The second part of the tour spans about two hours, taking you through the back streets of PV’s Romantic Zone. This neighborhood is famed for its vibrant nightlife, colorful architecture, and lively atmosphere. Walking through its quieter alleys, you’ll encounter authentic taco stands and small bars, giving you a real taste of local life.

Here, you’re introduced to a selection of tacos—fish, shrimp, beef, and pork—crafted by local vendors. The guide might point out the differences in ingredients and preparation methods that make each one unique. Alongside, you’ll sample Mexican spirits and craft beers, elevating the tasting experience beyond just food.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

Puente Río Cuale is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a taste of PV’s history and lifestyle. The river-side setting is perfect for relaxing with a drink and soaking in the local scene. The back streets of Zona Romantica offer a more intimate, less touristy perspective of Puerto Vallarta, giving you a chance to see where the city’s residents hang out.

Authentic, fresh ingredients shine at every taco stand, with reviews noting that the tacos are “incomparable” and that the drinks are top-notch. Guests like Gabriel also highlight the knowledgeable guide Alberto, who not only shares historical insights but keeps the group engaged and entertained.

Drinks That Complement the Food

The included six alcoholic beverages range from classic cocktails to craft beers. Expect to sip on Mexican spirits that pair perfectly with your tacos, possibly including margaritas, shots, or local brews. Such pairings really enhance the overall tasting experience, helping you understand the regional nuances of flavor.

The signature Vallarta Eats beer koozie adds a fun souvenir to remember the day, and the photos taken during the tour help capture your favorite moments.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a leisurely yet lively way to spend an afternoon. Starting at 11:30 AM, it’s well-timed to enjoy a midday exploration after a relaxed breakfast. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures plenty of personal attention and interaction with the guide.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven streets and cobblestones typical of PV’s historic areas. Participants should also notify the tour operator of any food allergies beforehand, as the stops involve specific local dishes.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One reviewer, Gabriel, raved about the guide Alberto, calling him “cool, friendly, funny,” and saying he shared a lot of historical facts while fully engaging with the group. They also appreciated that the tacos and drinks were unbeatable. Feedback suggests the experience is both fun and informative, with a local guide who knows how to keep things lively.

While most reviews are positive, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children or those prone to alcohol abuse. It’s geared toward adults who want to enjoy a relaxed, social afternoon.

Ending in the Heart of Zona Romantica

The final stop is Monzón Brewing Co., located near the lively Malecon, making it easy to continue your evening or head back to your accommodation. The tour’s convenient location means you can easily explore more of PV’s nightlife or return to your hotel after a day of tasting and strolling.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy good food and drinks in a casual setting. It’s perfect if you want to explore PV’s streets, savor local flavors, and learn about the city from a knowledgeable guide. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates authentic, laid-back experiences.

If you’re looking for a day with a mix of culinary delights, cultural insights, and lively socializing, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer a slow pace without alcohol, other options might suit you better.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
The tour focuses on tacos with meat and seafood, so if you have specific allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to contact the operator beforehand to see if accommodations can be made.

What is included in the price?
The $108 fee covers six food tastings, six alcoholic beverages (including cocktails, shots, and craft beers), bottled water, a Vallarta Eats beer koozie, and tour photos.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with most of that time spent walking and sampling food and drinks.

Are the stops accessible for people with mobility issues?
Given the nature of the streets and terrain, the tour may not be ideal for slow walkers or those with mobility concerns.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, making it a good fit for midday explorers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Tipsy Taco Food and Drink Tour offers an engaging way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s culinary scene in a relaxed, social setting. It’s a fantastic pick for adult travelers eager to taste authentic tacos, sip on local drinks, and explore PV’s vibrant streets with a friendly guide. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, making it feel more like a fun outing with friends than a typical tour.

For those wanting a lively, flavor-filled afternoon that combines culture, cuisine, and a bit of adventure, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially suited for foodies, drink lovers, and anyone looking to connect more deeply with Puerto Vallarta’s local spirit.

Ready to taste your way through Puerto Vallarta? This tour promises a memorable, flavorful journey you won’t forget—or might not quite remember—depending on how much you indulge!