El Arrayán - Puerto Vallarta

Long story short: I could barely walk when I left this place because I ate everything that was placed in front of me.A friend of mine that had lived in Puerto Vallarta recommended this place. And because I trust him, I had to try it.We arrived right on time for our 7:30pm reservation and took a table close to the window. The place is very open and set up around a central patio. Small colorful tables and Huichol art hanging from the walls. There was a singer in the back corner playing the guitar and he had a great voice! It definitely added to the enjoyment of our meal.We ordered two mezcalitos - cocktails made with fruit and mezcal, a liquor that is produced in Mexico and is the cousin of Tequila. We were also presented with two small tostadas that were compliments from the house/chef and they were so full of flavor! The table also received chips and three different types of salsas.For appetizers we ordered the sopers with chorizo, and the cricket tacos! The sopes were so soft and delicious, with plenty of chorizo on top, shredded lettuce, crema, and queso fresco. I loved them so much I ate them immediately. The cricket tacos were also really good! They were served with a small side of avocado and tomatillo salsa and fresh cut limes. The tacos were made with soft house-made tortillas, black beans, queso fresco, and the crunchy and flavorful crickets. The flavor is hard to describe because I've never had them before but I do recommend them.For our entrees we had the duck carnitas and the grilled steak. The duck was deliciously tender and served on top of a sauce and a side of potatoes. The steak was grilled and served with black beans, grilled onions, and tortillas. By now I was already getting full, but we still had dessert to try, and once I saw they had capirotada (a type of bread pudding) it was settled. I needed one!The capirotada came served with a small side of vanilla ice cream that perfectly complimented the bread pudding. It was crunchy, yet soft, and just thinking about it now my mouth begins to water.We also met one of the owners who was amazing. She came to the table and introduced herself and checked in to see how everything was at our table.Go eat here! The food is authentic and delicious, and the service is attentive yet not intrusive. I want to go back!

One of my all time favorite restaurants in Puerto Vallarta!! Their pork shank and Azteca soup are amazing! So good that we often go twice to this restaurant each visit.

La comida es muy buena con opciones para todos los gustos, comida al 100% Mexicana, la decoración del lugar es bella, y la atención es lo mejor. Totalmente recomedable.

El ambiente es magico, muy mexicano, desde la entrada te recibe una hermosa imagen de la virgen de Guadalupe, decoracion, manteleria, etc... La comida no fue mi parte favorita, aunque si muy recomendable. El servicio me encanto! Gabriela, una mesera fenomenal! Su atencion, dedicacion y sonrisa! Definitivamente en mi lista de favoritos en Vallarta.

Every dish we tried was authentic and delicious. The owners are very passionate about what they do and it's very evident. It's a beautiful courtyard setting and the cocktails are excellent. Be sure to try the cricket tacos!