Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, and Tepic will welcome the 31st International Gourmet Festival from November 12–22, 2026, bringing together more than 50 chefs, 25 host restaurants, and 10 days of special culinary experiences celebrating the flavors of the Mexican Pacific.
The annual event has become a major date on Mexico’s culinary calendar, attracting chefs, food lovers, and visitors eager to explore the region through its restaurants and local ingredients. This year’s festival will feature more than 50 chefs, including culinary talents recognized by the prestigious Michelin Guide and the influential World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Throughout the festival, some of Puerto Vallarta’s most celebrated restaurants, including Café des Artistes, Amixtli, El Dorado, Elena 1927, Le Kliff, River Café, and Hiroshi, will welcome acclaimed guest chefs into their kitchens. Working alongside local culinary teams, these visiting talents will create exclusive menus and gourmet pairings available only during the festival, giving diners a chance to experience special collaborations they won’t find at other times of the year.
Across 10 days, the program will offer 15 special events highlighting different cuisines, cooking styles, and dining settings. The festivities begin November 12 with the Grand Opening in the Tierra Luna Gardens at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, setting the stage for a packed schedule of memorable meals and chef-driven experiences.
Among the festival’s signature attractions are the Gourmet Safaris in Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita, and Costa Sur. These culinary journeys give guests the opportunity to visit several leading restaurants in a single evening, sampling different menus and discovering the individual styles of participating chefs.
In Punta de Mita, Mesas Marinas Baja-Mita will bring the flavors of Baja California’s celebrated wine country to the coast for a distinctive dining experience. Other highlights include the elegant Night of Stars at Café des Artistes in Puerto Vallarta and the Sky Drag Brunch at Almar Resort, offering a different take on the region’s dining and entertainment scene.
The festival will conclude on November 22 with the traditional Picnic Bajo las Parotas, an outdoor gathering in the Nayarit countryside. The event combines grilled specialties and fresh seafood with fine wines, creative cocktails, and tequila, all served in a relaxed setting that takes advantage of the region’s pleasant November weather.
With participating chefs, exclusive menus, and limited seating at many events, advance planning is recommended. Some experiences are expected to sell out quickly, making early reservations the best way to secure a place at the table.
For residents and visitors alike, the International Gourmet Festival offers an opportunity to experience the culinary talent that has helped establish Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding region as a destination for food enthusiasts. From intimate chef-led dinners to outdoor feasts, the 31st edition promises a variety of ways to savor the Mexican Pacific.
The complete event schedule, participating chefs, and additional information are available at festivalgourmet.com.mx. https://banderasnews.com/
For over 25 years, Banderas News has been the pulse of Puerto Vallarta, bringing you stories that matter most to residents and visitors alike. From breaking news to exciting events and cultural features, we’ve been dedicated to keeping you informed and connected – free of charge. Your contribution helps us maintain this commitment and continue serving our community.
Casa Bay Villas is a leading rental agent representing villa vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
We offer the largest selection of privately owned Mexican vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, Mexico. Choose from charming two-bedroom villas, beachfront villas, or condos to breathtaking multi-level luxury villas.
Many of our Mexico vacation rentals are directly on the shoreline of Banderas Bay, including beachfront villas. All our properties feature magnificent views of the bay and the Puerto Vallarta coastline, with the Sierra Madre Mountains in the background.
Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches, embraced by the Sierra Madre Mountains; the essence of its culture, food, and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit.
Whether exploring steep rivers in the jungle or a relaxing pampering trip, Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of activities and experiences waiting for you.
Our trained staff has personally inspected all our Puerto Vallarta, Mexico villa rentals to ensure you have the finest accommodations, staff services, and amenities. We will provide up-to-date information on the Best Restaurants, Activities, Golfing, Beaches, and Shopping during your Puerto Vallarta, Mexico vacation.
Our Puerto Vallarta villas offer a wide range of staff services, including a chef who will prepare two meals a day (food and beverages are extra) for you and your guests. We, along with your Mexico vacation rental staff, will be happy to organize Day Tours, private golf courses, and any activities. We can also arrange private Spa Services right in your Puerto Vallarta villa rental.
Casa Bay Villas has been in the vacation rental business for over 20 years, and we will provide you with the best luxury villa vacation rental in Mexico. For more information on our Mexico villas, email me at info@casabayvillas.com or call me at 203-386-8022.
It will be our pleasure to assist you and answer any questions you have regarding our Puerto Vallarta, Mexico villa vacation rental.