Leaving this review is incredibly difficult, but it’s important to share the experience so others are aware of the shocking service at Serrano’s Grill. My group has visited Puerto Vallarta every year, and for the past two years, we’ve chosen Serrano’s Grill for a special night out. Unfortunately, both years have been marked by significant service issues. Last year, we were left waiting over an hour just to pay, as they were completely unprepared to handle a bill split across 10 individuals using a mix of cash and card.
Despite these challenges, we decided to give them another chance, drawn in by the fantastic food and the beautiful atmosphere. We were told the top dining area would be ready by June 2024 and they would be able to handle larger parties better. However, when we arrived, the server revealed that no work had been done on it since last year, and there was no clear timeline for completion.
This time, the service was even worse. The restaurant was half empty, yet they were clearly overwhelmed by a group of 20. We were seated at two adjacent tables, and sadly, our table was neglected. Water requests were repeatedly ignored, and while we were handed drink menus when seated, we never received food menus until we asked multiple times. When they did bring them, it was only three menus for a table of 10 to share.
The real frustration began when it came time to order. Our server made it clear he was unwilling to engage with us, refusing even to answer basic questions like how the chef defines "medium" for steaks. After waiting a long time for our drinks and appetizers, we noticed the other table in our group was already being served their main courses. We were still sitting there, waiting for anything — no drinks, no appetizers, nothing.
It wasn’t until the other table had finished their meals that we were finally served our appetizers — over 45 minutes late. And even then, we had to endure more delays. The server was nowhere to be found, and the guest of honor had to go in search of the manager. When he returned to tell us, it would be "just a few more minutes," we waited another 10 minutes, only for the guest of honor to have to take matters into his own hands. He walked into the kitchen, collected the bread plates himself, and brought them to the manager, saying he hoped it might expedite the process.
Eventually, an hour after we had sat down, we received our appetizers. A few minutes later, our entrees were delivered — though most dishes were missing sides or other accompaniments. When I brought this up to the manager, he disappeared for another 15 minutes before the missing items were brought out. At that point, much of our table had already finished their main courses, and the sides seemed pointless, arriving too late to complement the meal.
In total, our food arrived a full 30 minutes after the other table had finished, and by that point, several those guests had already left. While the food was delicious, and the restaurant’s ambiance is truly beautiful, the horrific service completely overshadowed the experience.
After two years of disappointing service, we’ve decided we won’t be returning. A single poor experience could be written off, but this level of consistent failure leaves us with no choice but to...
Read moreSerrano’s Grill completely blew us away and ended up being one of the most memorable dining experiences of our entire trip to Puerto Vallarta. From the delicious drinks and jaw-dropping sunset views to the phenomenal food and top-tier service, everything was pure perfection.
Tucked away high up on the hill, this spot is truly a hidden gem—a bit off the beaten path, which only adds to its charm. Because of its elevated location, the views are some of the best in PV, hands down. Watching the sun set while sipping craft cocktails was a full-on main character moment. The space itself is elegantly decorated, cozy yet elevated, and can we talk about the bathrooms? Easily the best in PV—clean, stylish, and yes, complete with a full-length mirror (a must for this stickler).
We kicked off our meal with the Caprese Salad and mussels in a creamy white wine sauce—both were absolutely fantastic. The salad was incredibly fresh, with mozzarella that could rival any we’ve had in Italy. The mussels were tender, flavorful, and the sauce was rich without being heavy—so good we considered licking the bowl.
For mains, I had the Salmon with Creamy Butter and Lemon Sauce, and my partner ordered the flank steak. Let me just say—we were both in awe. The salmon was cooked to buttery perfection, flaky and rich, and coming from the PNW, we know our salmon. This one? Easily top 3 of my life. The flank steak was also tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Not a single bite left behind.
Now for the cocktails—crafted with care, high-quality ingredients, and total finesse. I ordered an espresso martini that was the perfect balance of bold and smooth, and my partner went with a refreshing gin spritz. We were so enchanted by the vibe, the drinks, and that glorious view, we lingered for over an hour and a half after dinner, just soaking it all in.
Our server, Emigdio, was the cherry on top—welcoming, hilarious, and incredibly attentive. He made us feel right at home and added a layer of joy to an already magical evening.
If you’re visiting PV, do not miss this place. Serrano’s Grill is everything you want in a dining experience—elevated but relaxed, romantic but unpretentious, and packed with flavor, warmth, and beauty. We’re already counting down the days until we return. Serrano’s, you’ve got...
Read moreWow. Gorgeous view. Too bad it was utterly destroyed by the service and meal. Took four friends/family for dinner. Got our orders taken fine. I ordered the Cap steak with a side of potatoes and veg. I asked for the salad that came with it first. Salad and potatoes and veg’s all came at same time as everyone’s meals. I knew something was wrong as they delivered my stuff. I was pretty sure they forgot my steak.( no one said anything to me and it seemed they kept away from our table). About 10 mins later I finally was able to flag down a bus boy that I don’t think understood what I was saying.I told him to take away my sides and make sure they are hot when my meal comes. A couple mins later the server came and they finally understood I didn’t get my steak and he was right on it. (It wasn’t very busy so No Reason At All that they avoided our table for 15 mins). I had asked for my Cap steak med. Rare. Girl across from me had already finished over 1/2 of her 14oz Cap steak, medium and it looked cooked good. 10 mins or so later after most everyone had just about finished their meal my steak arrived. I got an apology and I think I was offered a free drink that I didn’t take( was fuming at this point)managed to swallow some of it, was dry and chewy the rest went to my dog. I’d had the same steak at the downtown location a week ago that was phenomenal)It was cooked med well and by the toughness I’m about 90% sure they microwaved to cook it then seared on the grill. Had a bite of friends steak and it was delicious, tender and juicy other than being cooked a little more than I like. I got the 4500 peso bill( nothing at all comp’d paid it and left. Wife left a small tip after I was gone) Service and food at Serranos Meat House which we visited a week ago was all excellent. Because of this experience I will Never...
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