If you’re headed to Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, get ready for more than just beach time, golf, and lazy river floats. You’re also stepping into one of the best resort dining scenes in Mexico. With over 40 restaurants and lounges spread across the property, you can go from tacos by the pool to five-star tasting menus without ever leaving the resort. This article is an expansion on the 25 things to do at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta post.
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring the food options here (purely in the name of research, of course), and it’s safe to say there’s something for every craving and mood. Whether you want sushi with a view, a perfect ribeye, or a casual burger in your swimsuit, Vidanta has you covered.
Here are a few of our top picks — places we go back to again and again.
Gong — Elegant Asian Fusion with a Relaxed Vibe
When you’re ready to trade in flip-flops for something a little dressier, Gong is one of the resort’s crown jewels. It’s tucked between the Grand Mayan and the Santuario, urrounded by lush landscaping and tranquil reflecting pools that set the mood before you even sit down.
Inside, the lighting is soft, the décor is modern-Asian chic, and the staff somehow manages to be both attentive and relaxed at the same time. The menu pulls inspiration from all over Asia — think Japanese, Thai, and Chinese — but everything feels cohesive and beautifully presented.
The sushi and sashimi are top-notch, with fresh fish flown in daily. If you’re into rolls, the Dynamite Roll and Rainbow Roll are guest favorites. But don’t stop there. Try the Tempura Shrimp with Mango Sauce. The Crispy Duck with Hoisin Glaze sounds elegant, but we haven’t tried that one yet.
A fun option is the teppanyaki experience. You’ll sit around a sizzling grill while the chef chops, flips, and jokes his way through a multi-course meal that’s equal parts performance and feast. It’s especially fun for families or groups who like a little entertainment with their dinner.
Pair your meal with a lychee martini or a crisp sake, and linger over dessert — the green tea ice cream is a sweet finish to a perfect evening. I often don’t love Asian desserts, but this kitchen often comes up with a new creation that is creative and delicious.
Quinto — Steaks, Views, and a Little Romance
If you only have one “special dinner” at Vidanta, Quinto is the place to make it happen. Perched on the rooftop of the Grand Luxxe Residence Tower, it offers jaw-dropping sunset views over the jungle and the Ameca River. Then Puerto Vallarta lights up in the distance for an after dark bonus. Even before the first bite, the view alone is worth the trip.
The ambiance is upscale but never stuffy. You might see couples celebrating anniversaries or small groups sharing a bottle of wine, but everyone’s relaxed, soaking in the view and the open-air atmosphere.
The menu centers around prime cuts of beef, expertly grilled and presented simply — because when the ingredients are that good, you don’t need to dress them up much. The Ribeye and New York Strip are consistent crowd-pleasers, cooked perfectly to order and paired with sides like truffle mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
If you’re not in the mood for steak, Quinto also does a stellar Lobster Risotto and an unexpectedly good Vegetarian Paella. The grilled octopus appetizer is another standout — tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned.
The wine list is extensive, with great Mexican and international selections. The staff knows their stuff and can help you find a pairing that fits your meal and your budget. Argentine Malbecs are the best bet for reds in Mexico.
And yes, you’ll want to time your reservation for sunset. Watching the sky turn gold and pink from that rooftop terrace while you sip a glass of red? That’s Vidanta magic right there.
La Cantina — Casual Mexican Comfort Food Done Right
When you want something authentically Mexican but easygoing, La Cantina hits the spot. It feels like a lively neighborhood restaurant; colorful décor, traditional music, and friendly servers who treat you like family.
The vibe is festive but not over the corny, and the menu is filled with familiar Mexican favorites that are cooked to perfection. Start with tableside guacamole, because you’re in Mexico and that’s practically required. Add a margarita or a mezcal cocktail, made to order at your tableside from a drink cart, and you’re off to a great start.
For your main course, you can’t go wrong with Tacos al Pastor, Chicken Enchiladas with Mole, or Carnitas — all flavorful, generous, and made with care. The Pozole is a local favorite too, especially if you want something warm and satisfying after a long day in the sun.
One thing we love about La Cantina is that it’s casual enough for families but still feels like a “real” restaurant experience. You will be glad you skipped the all-inclusive buffets for real restaurants at Vidanta. The service is fast, the food is consistently good, and the atmosphere has that welcoming energy that keeps you coming back.
And don’t skip dessert here either. The flan and churros with chocolate sauce are simple, classic, and absolutely worth it.
Burgers Custom Made — Laid-Back and Delicious
Sometimes you just want a great burger, fries, and a cold drink. No fancy clothes, just pure comfort food. That’s where Burgers Custom Made comes in. The sunset view is popular, so you should make reservations.
. You build your burger exactly the way you want it, choosing your patty (beef, chicken, or plant-based), your toppings, sauces, and sides. Everything is made fresh, and the quality really shows . Juicy burgers, crisp lettuce, toasted buns, and hand-cut fries that hit the spot.
The outdoor seating area is relaxed and shaded, with fans and cool breezes off the nearby lagoon. If you don’t get a direct view, be sure to walk out to a spot by the pools to see the sunset.
Pro tip: order one of their milkshakes to go. It’s a sweet, nostalgic treat to sip as you stroll back along the wooden pathways through the resort.
A Few Extras Worth Mentioning
Even with standout restaurants like Gong, Quinto, La Cantina, and Burgers Custom Made, Vidanta’s dining scene has more to explore. You’ll find:
- Del Lago, that we like to call the “Best Breakfast Buffet in the World” , a huge breakfast buffet overlooking the water, famous for fresh tropical fruit and made-to-order omelets.
- Azul, with international comfort food and ocean breezes.
- Sweet Paris, for crepes, coffee, and an afternoon sugar fix.
- Epiro, Vidanta’s newest fine-dining addition, blending modern techniques with local flavors. We haven’t tried it yet, so please leave comment if you do.
And don’t overlook the many poolside eateries scattered around the property. Sometimes the best meal of the day is a simple ceviche and a cold drink under a palapa.
Dining at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta isn’t just about convenience — it’s an experience all its own. Whether you’re dressing up for date night at Quinto, laughing over teppanyaki at Gong, tucking into tacos at La Cantina, or refueling with a burger between pool sessions, you’ll eat well and enjoy every bite.
That’s what makes Vidanta special: it lets you have it both ways. Fine dining when you’re in the mood to indulge, and casual bites when you just want something easy and delicious.
