Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – First off, let me say – I know, I know. It’s been a while. Life (and travel) got in the way, but I’m back! I won’t be reviewing every week, but I’ll be popping in here and there to keep you updated on the best bites in town. And let me tell you, I picked a hell of a night to return.
Last week, my partner and I kicked off Casa Cupula After Dark, the new Thursday night series at Don Pickens’ legendary boutique hotel. Think: a magical night under the stars, filled with incredible food, live music, and just enough tequila to keep things interesting. If you’re looking for something fresh and special in Vallarta’s ever-evolving dining scene, this is it.
Let’s talk food.
We started with a Degustación de Moles – and wow. I’m talking about a full-on flavor parade. Each mole had its own personality, from smoky and sultry to bright and punchy, all silky and complex in their own way. If you’ve never done a proper mole tasting before, this is a must.
Next up: soup. My partner went for the Sopa Azteca, a deep, tomato-rich broth with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and tangy panela cheese. I chose the Crema de Flor de Calabaza, a smooth and dreamy pumpkin blossom cream that felt like a warm hug in a bowl.
For mains, we divided and conquered – one of us tackled the Ribeye, perfectly seared and nestled on a bed of aromatic Mexican herbs, with a roasted sweet potato purée and corn ribs so good they could have been a meal on their own. The other took on the Zarandeado Red Snapper, smoky and tender, paired with mashed potatoes and tequila-flambéed baby veggies (yes, tequila belongs in everything).
Dessert? Oh, we weren’t skipping that. The Perla Negra – a rich, sinful chocolate masterpiece – was the perfect ending.
The experience beyond the food.
And then, the music. Diego Guerrero absolutely owned the stage, backed by his guitarist, Jared. The guy’s voice is pure magic – smooth, powerful, and packed with soul. Their nod to Roberta Flack (who passed away last week) was a standout moment, and I could have listened to them all night.
The staff also deserves a shoutout. They were plentiful, attractive, and incredibly accommodating, ensuring that every guest felt taken care of. Whether it was handling special requests or just being genuinely warm and attentive, they elevated the entire experience.
Beyond the food and music, what really makes Casa Cupula After Dark special is the atmosphere. It’s a one-stop night out – no need to hop in a cab after dinner to catch a show somewhere else. You get the full experience in one beautiful, open-air setting. And considering the price is about the same as doing dinner and a show separately, this is a no-brainer.
If you missed the first night, don’t worry. There are three more Thursdays to go:
- March 6 – Will Walker
- March 13 – Ada Vox
- March 20 – Qua Crystal
Each night promises a fresh lineup of talent, so you can bet every Thursday will feel like a new experience. Bottom line? This is one of the most unique and memorable nights out in Vallarta right now.
Five stars, no question.
Address: Callejón de la Igualdad 129, Amapas, 48399 Puerto Vallarta, Jal.
Phone: 866-352-2511
I welcome your comments or suggestions of restaurants to try at TheHungryCriticPV(at)gmail.com.
Click HERE to read more Puerto Vallarta restaurant reviews.
