Famished for fine cuisine in Puerto Vallarta, one night we headed for the much-acclaimed Hacienda San Angel, formerly the home of actor Richard Burton, now one of the finest boutique hotels in all of Mexico. Nestled high above the narrow cobblestone streets in the center of town, this is one of the world’s most elegant, luxurious and romantic escapes, a masterpiece combining the genteel charm of Mexican colonial architecture and turn-of-the-century furnishings. The hotel is five star all the way, a dreamy oasis of candles, waterfalls, bougainvillea-strewn pools, fine art, sculpture and gardens. The rooms are each unique, filled with antiques and fine linens.  

Atop the hotel roof is the highly-regarded Hacienda San Angel Gourmet. Here a talented chef creates upscale Mexican and international dishes in an irresistible setting. Offering a superbly elegant and scenic experience, we enjoyed dramatic views of the Sierra Madres, Banderas Bay, and Puerto Vallarta’s evening fireworks display. The world-class menu dazzles with delights we haven’t seen in years: pistachio-encrusted rack of lamb, Cornish hen, Cabreria bone-in filet steak, baked lobster tail plus mouth-watering pan seared wild salmon, fettucine and short ribs. The innovative twists are spectacular: lemon garlic jumbo shrimps come in a watermelon and jalapeno puree, the stuffed chile poblano has a zingy chipotle tomato sauce, lion’s paw sauteed scallops are doused with fine herbs and a green tomato sauce, Baja oysters chill on the half shell, fresh local tuna is bathed in black sesame, cilantro and balsamic soy. The care and presentation of these dishes is world-class. Certainly, the finest cooking in Puerto Vallarta, perhaps in all Mexico.

As bowled over as we were with the cuisine, the Hacienda’s wine list is impressive, too. Selections from France, the U.S, Soth America, and Mexico at every price point are poured.

The evening was a roaring success, thanks to friendly and precise service by Frank who was polite, charming, knowledgeable…and fun.  The dining room hums like a Cartier clock, and we give a great deal of  credit to the gimlet eyes of Emilio, a gem of a quality gentleman who made a point of graciously and gently passing by each table assuring all guests had what they needed.

If all this wasn’t enough to make for a memorable evening, the Hacienda’s terrific mariachi band is considered one of the best for miles around and they joyously play, sing and dance the night away to add to the magic.

All in all, an evening at the Hacienda is a rare experience where tradition meets luxury and elegance. And excellence. We know of few places in the world where the quality of the cooking, ingredients, glassware, napkins, view, music, staff and total attention to detail are all are exceptional like they are here. We can’t wait to go back to slumber in one of their impossibly-fantastical rooms.

For more information: https://haciendasanangel.com; local phone number: 52.322.222.2692; toll free: 1.877.815.6594; United States: 1.415.738.8220; Email: info@haciendasanangel.com; address: Miramar 336, Puerto Vallarta Mexico.

We are honored to present Hacienda San Angel Gourmet with ENTREE’s Golden E of Excellence, our highest award.