Rústico, Grill cocina de mar y brasas. — Restaurant in Jalisco

Absolutely phenomenal! Rústico Cocina de Mar y Brasa in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta is a hidden gem that delivers a truly unforgettable dining experience. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with the warm hospitality and attentive service that made us feel like a valued guest rather than just another table.

Their menu is a celebration of the best of land and sea — the seafood is incredibly fresh, and the steak is cooked to absolute perfection, tender and bursting with flavor. We shared the filet mignon and lobster tail combination, and couldn’t have been happier. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing a balance of rustic charm and culinary finesse.

Dining outdoors at Rústico is a real treat. The cozy, intimate atmosphere — with soft lighting and a relaxed yet elegant setting — creates the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a special night out with friends. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and every bite feels like a celebration.

If you’re in Puerto Vallarta and looking for exceptional food, outstanding service, and a magical atmosphere, Rústico is a must-visit. This restaurant hit all the right notes for my husband and I, and then some — an absolute...

A local friend recommended this place and I am so happy he did. This place is amazing! A little off the beaten path but well worth the trek. It’s one of those places that is tougher and tougher to find, the true hidden gem. Don’t be discouraged by the nondescript street that leads you to this quaint wonder, it will reward with outstanding service, great ambiance, creative drinks, and rich indulgent twist on traditional food. The enchiladas mariscos I ordered were filled with shrimp, pulpo, and fish and lathered in this rich creamy sauce that is to die for. She had perfectly cooked shrimp tacos, amazingly seasoned. The drinks!! I had a pineapple Serrano margarita freshly squeezed mashed she had a some purple martini I never heard the end of. Max is the owner of this incredible establishment and his pride or ownership shows. He greeted us at the table and made us feel very welcome. Though it is a bit further out of Romantica and near the airport, it will be a regular for us because it is worth returning...

Octopus tacos Staying at the nearby Container Hotel came here and boy are we glad we did! First off don’t let the off-the-beaten path, somewhat middle-of-nowhere location deter you as the restaurant will arise like a gem in the night at the end of a dirt street. This is where you will be treated to award-winning meals and amazing service (in our case from the owner/chef) with quite a good wine/cocktail selection. The octopus tacos are simply to die for which makes sense when you look to the wall and see all the awards. I highly recommend making a trip out to this restaurant to have a relaxed evening with amazing food. The restaurant is near the airport and features mainly seafood but with other selections where you dine in a covered, jungle, alfresco setting. Relaxed and fun at the same time, it is upper mid priced, in a beautiful setting and an owner who really cares about his food. Vale la pena!

Thanks Chef Max for coming to sit with us and for sharing your passion-wish you all...