There are places that simply serve food--and then there are places that become part of your story. Pepe's Tacos is exactly that for me. Having come here since I was 10 years old, this iconic taquería isn't just a local favorite--it's a timeless institution that continues to define what truly exceptional tacos should be. Since 1987, Pepe's has built a reputation that extends far beyond Puerto Vallarta, and one visit is all it takes to understand why. The star of the show--their legendary tacos al pastor--is nothing short of extraordinary. The pork is expertly marinated and cooked to perfection, resulting in meat that is incredibly juicy, tender, and bursting with deep, savory flavor. Each slice is carved with precision and layered onto warm tortillas, creating a perfect foundation for what comes next. What truly elevates these tacos is the balance of toppings. The sweetness of the pineapple and the sharpness of the fresh onions cut through the richness of the meat beautifully, enhancing every bite with contrast and complexity. It's a masterclass in simplicity done right--every ingredient playing its role to perfection. Beyond the food, the experience itself is just as memorable. The service is impressively fast and efficient, especially considering how popular this spot is, and there's an undeniable energy in the air that makes it feel alive at all hours. It's the kind of place you can count on for a late-night bite, where the atmosphere is casual, vibrant, and always welcoming. Pepe's Tacos isn't about reinvention or trend--it's about consistency, tradition, and delivering excellence time and time again. Decades later, it still holds its place as one of the best taco spots in Puerto Vallarta, and for good reason. Some things never change--and when they're this good, they absolutely shouldn't. read more

Thirty five years in the game and Pepe's runs like a well oiled machine. The dining room is its own ecosystem, a natural choreography of service where everything flows without friction. Out front, the trompo spins over charcoal fire, hand turned, on display to the street. The man at the blade is a performer, part craftsman, part showman. He hones his knife between razor thin shavings of al pastor, then in a reflexive flourish nips the pineapple crowning the meat, sending a sliver flying only to catch it with a tortilla. It is theater, but it is also instinct. Inside, the crowd looks like the United Nations. A tour group from India next to a Dutch family with half a dozen kids in tow, the Canadians eye the Americans with deserved suspicion, and a few locals whose plates are piled high while tourists settle for modest portions. It is the natural order of things, and nobody complains. The charcoal scent in the meat makes clear this is al pastor's intended preparation. I have never had the pleasure of eating from a coal fired trompo before, and it is instantly apparent that this is the way it was meant to be. Someday, somehow, I will rig one of these up, because I need this in my life. Pepe's is not just a taco shop. It is a master class in tradition, theater, and flavor, with a dining room that feels like the world gathered around one spit. read more

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Always a treat. Our Delta pilot asked if we had ever tried Pepe's...lol we assured him we were familiar as it's always a stop at least once or twice when we are in town. PV read more

Pepe's Taco - Al pastor - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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This place is so delicious and well priced. Everything was super cheap. It is cash only, so make sure to bring your pesos. This place gets very busy, but service is super quick! My favorite menu item is the Al pastor tacos. They're so delicious and juicy! I also love the agua de jamaica because it's sweet with some tanginess. read more

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We did a Taco tour and this was stop 2. Their meat to tortilla ratio was less than the other spots we hit while the meat was still really good. Our server was young and nice along with the other gentleman around the restaurant. The establishment itself is a little bland and not 100% inviting. Food was good! read more

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We stumbled on Pepe's while looking for Pipi's and sooooo glad we got our Pi's and Pe's mixed up. Been here twice. A few years back had some outstanding incredibly delicious al pastor tacos with our kids while cruising through PV. Our recent cruise required another stop to refresh ourselves on just how AMAZING pEpE's is. Francisco was expertly slicing pork and flipping pina off the wood fired trompo. These tacos are just soo damn great, the best version of al pastor you will find anywhere, self proclaimed and verified! The tortilla are also elevated, the corn are slightly thick & lightly charred. I tried the harina (flour) this time and highly recommend. A little larger, left room for what I perceived as room for extra meat. Cilantro & Onions of course. Served with 4 tables side sauces, two green two red. The dark one is spicy!! Sooo Satisfying. Service is quick. Order and your tacos are out in like two minutes, despite a completely packed dining room. We had to wait 5 minutes , no problem. They also have the absolute coldest beer, wish I wasnt so full from tacos to jave 5 more. Our lunch was $30 and I couldn't believe how inexpensive it was. read more

Pepe's Taco - Salsas - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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Multiple people recommended this place to us, so we decided to check it out on our last day there. We got the shrimp shish kebab tacos (one person recommended them), the al pastor, and the beef steak. Everything was good, but the star of the show was the al pastor. So flavorful! The service was excellent. It feels a little crowded because they have a lot of tables in the restaurant, but it feels open because the front wall opens up completely. Note: they are open until 6am in case you go out at night and want tacos at the end of your night out. read more

Pepe's Taco - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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The service here was great. The food came out fast and was delicious. Overall clean environment with little to no mess. read more

Pepe's Taco - 1 taco de pastor de maiz 2 tacos de asada y chorizo de harina - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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Great tacos! I liked the large pineapple chunk in each taco and the fact that they were large tacos. Each one felt like a small burrito! I would definitely come back and would recommend if youre looking for a casual sit down spot for tacos. read more

Pepe's Taco - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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The best tacos in Puerto Vallarta! Now they open from 1pm and on,so check their schedule. The alpastor (marinated pork) i would suggest plus their carne asada. If you get lucky if available the tripas, extra crunchy! If you go during August its so dang HOT, but sit on the exterior vs inside. So you can get some type of breeze. As for the service well let's say these folks are friendly minimal English but they try and they take your USA dollar at top rate. I love this spot and recommend to anyone looking for an authentic taco! read more

This place is BOMB!! There's nothing else that needs that be said. If you're in P.V., or going to P.V., eat here. Note hours: 1pm - 6am (seriously). Go!! The charbroiled al pastor tacos are insanely good. The grilled steak/cheese/mushroom was outstanding!! Stop reading and just GO!! read more

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Pepe's Tacos are literally the best in PV. I got the Al Pastor tacos and some carnita taco and they were the best. The smokyness of the taco was very good. This is a must try restaurant if you go around Puerto Vallarta. :) read more

Pepe's Taco - The best taco chef in the world!!! - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Our friends took us here on our first night in Puerto Vallarta for some really good tacos. The place is open to the street with a line that forms every night to get in. We waited about ten minutes for a table. Once seated we ordered beers that came out nice and cold. I ordered the shrimp quesadillas and the others ordered the tacos. My wife enjoyed her steak and cheese tacos. They are known for their tacos Al Pastor which we ordered for the table. The place was really happening for a Monday night. read more

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Quick cheap and good quality meats. Great fast service. We only have the steak and al pastor and both were delicious. Came late night and totally worth it. 8 tacos $8.75USD read more

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Food is five stars. I'm from LA and My family are Mexican nationals who came to visit me in PV. We walked up on a Wednesday evening around 8 pm and waited about 35 Minutes for a table for 11. They waited until 2 tables near each other finished dining to sit us yet it was nice that they lined us up and held the line in order. The place is popping and for good reason! The gringas, quesadillas and Al pastor + pineapple are so scrumptious. Must try and it was worth the wait for all of us. read more

This place is famous. The line started before it opened at 1pm. By 1:05pm all the tables were taken. Some of the best tacos I have ever had and that's a big statement coming from me. read more

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My daughter told me about this place. She said she thought she had gone to heaven when she had her first bite of the Al Pastor taco. I almost had the same experience. Definitely the best taco or close to the best taco I've ever had. The drinks were delicious and served and made by the a young boy that looked at most 15!! We ended up going twice cuz our group loved it so much. There was a line of about 5 tables ahead of us the first time we went but it went very quickly. The service was fantastic!!! read more

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We stopped by here on our way to PV beach area to spending the afternoon and evening. Ordered Alambre de Bistec o Pastor (4), Torta de Pastor con Queso and Veg quesadilla. Tacos were decent, veg quesadilla was okay. Torta on the other hand was hands downs the best we had in a while. Only catch with this place is if you carry dollars, their exchange range is very low. It is 16MXN to 1$ while pharmacies in the area give you 20MXN for the same read more

Pepe's Taco - Al Pastor - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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Finally !! the taco place was found!!! Loved the food here. We were just gulping the tacos , it was so good! The salsas too were amazing. Surprisingly they had so many vegetarian options, and they were yum. It's not a fancy place, Seating is plenty but it gets crowded fast due to its popularity. Most of the guests here were tourists, Chicken and veggie tacos seemed authentic and tasted great. Margarita was okayish but I'm going to discount that thanks to the great food. PS: cash only place. Try to go here for early dinner around 5pm to beat the crowd. read more

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Taste: 5 Value: 5 Service: 4 Amazing charcoal grilled al pastor tacos. Wait times can get long if you go during peak hours such at 1 pm, 6-8 pm, after midnight. If you go at other times, seating is much faster. The al pastor tacos are the best item on the menu. The Hawaina quesadilla is also tasty. Kids like the carne asada with cheese and potatoes. That is enough for 2-3 people, depending on appetite. Definitely worth hitting up when you are in PVR. read more

Get there before 7pm or else you maybe standing in a long line waiting for a table. Prices are reasonable. Service is not bad considering how hectic the place can get when you don't have a dedicated server. We didn't receive our order twice and had to clearly ask for our orders that we already requested. Didn't want to be double charged and luckily counted and didn't. Food was good. Chorizo was a bit greasy but it's sausage so to be expected somewhat. The carne asada was ok. The Al pastor is what to get. Had tacos with and without cheese and both are good. The strawberry margarita wasn't strong. That is an easy fix. There is a clean sink in the back to wash to wash your hands afterwards. Great place, would return if I'm back in the country. read more

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Great al pastor tacos and decent service. The staff was friendly, a bit slow compared to other taco places. Al pastor tacos were delicious. The hours are insane. Pretty much open all day. I did notice that when we got there for lunch when they opened they were missing few items from the menu but when we got there during dinner time we were able to order most of the items from the menu. Come here for the affordable and delicious tacos! They only take cash so be prepared! read more

Pepe's Taco - Al pastor tacos and guacamole - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Noe. they were busy. We arrived just before the line started. We started chatting with the couple behind us and decided to have dinner together. Everyone enjoyed their El Pastore, chicken tacos and other items I don't remember what they were called. I felt the chicken tacos were very dry, but everyone was happy read more

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Busy place and pretty good food. We got ignored for quite a while (15 min between ordering drinks and when we asked someone if we could order food) and everyone seemed annoyed at serving us. Not sure if it was the time of day (there was no line when we arrived but maybe shift change or something?) or what. It was good but we visited other places with better food and better service read more

Pepe's Taco - Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Tacos El Pastor are the best I've ever had. Fun and lively place. . Fun to watch them make the tacos catching the pineapple on the taco. read more

Pepe's Taco - Tacos El Pastor - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Honestly the best taco spot in Puerto Vallarta. This place bodies Panchos Tacos easily. I came here three times and the rest of my group of 20 others also went on their own time several times. A random group sitting next to me the first time told me they went everyday on their trip, which was almost a week lol. Great and fast service and the quality is there. Would definitely recommend if you're visiting! Also what's absolutely clutch of them is that they stay open til 6am!! It's cash only so come prepared. read more

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Sorry but these were the best tacos i consumed during my trip to MX! Was recommended by our cab driver as well as airbnb host. they open at 1 and you'll see a line during peak lunch hours but come around 3-5 and you should easily get a seat. I had these tacos every day I was in PVR lol-- always the al pastor. Seriously incredible flavor of the meat, freshness of toppings, and the tortillas are toasted to a nice crisp. read more

Pepe's Taco - tacos al pastor - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

"WOW!" That's pretty much what we were saying between every bite. Their al pastor had a nice char, but was tender and juicy. Their quesadillas may not be like the kind you are familiar with eating. They are more like a giant taco with hot, melted cheese as the base. I ordered the one with al pastor, pineapple, and bacon on a flour tortilla. I will be dreaming about that damn thing for forever. Also got a taco on corn tortilla that was the best I've ever had. I will admit that we didn't go to Panchos because of the long line, though I'd bet it all that Pepe's is better. If you are in Zona Romantica you will have to Uber here, but no ridiculously long lines. It is so worth it. Next trip back, I will be eating at Pepe's a lot! read more

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The service was great, we went one during a busy time where we waited at least 20 min for a table and another time where we walked up to a table & sat down. Each taco is about 25 pesos or so, my margarita was around 160 pesos if I remember correctly. It wasn't very strong so while it did taste good, I would just grab a beer if you drop by here. I feel conflicted. The tacos we had when they were busy were amazing, but the tacos we had when the place was empty were merely okay. They were tougher and not as tender. I did enjoy the salsas here, though the salsas in PV are generally better than salsas in the US. This was extremely close to where we were staying so I think it's worth the one time visit if you're staying nearby. Otherwise, I would try to find street tacos in Centro/Zona Romantica. Cash only so bring pesos! read more

Pepe's Taco - Mango Margarita & Taco Al Pastor - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Definitely the best tacos al pastor in centro Vallarta. They can get very busy especially during normal lunch and dinner hours, most of the time there is a line up front but they are hustlers turning tables and food over quickly. You can also grab drinks across the street at the gas station to enjoy in line if there is a bit of a wait that they will let you bring in. The only downside to this place i would say is it can get noisy, like i mentioned you sometimes have to wait and sometimes food will come out separately so one person is eating while the other is still waiting for their food or drink. Overall definitely worth the wait and experience. read more

Pepe's Taco - Queso con chorizo - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

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Nothing fancy just great food at a great price. All kinds of Tacos, Quesadillas, etc.

After many trips, we finally made it to Pepe's. It is definitely lived up to the hype. The restaurant is no frills, the food was excellent (especially the pastor) and the service was fast. I won't enter the Panchos vs. Pepe's debate, but Pepe's is excellent. Also, get the Tapatia quesadilla. You won't be disappointed. read more

Pepe's Taco - Tapatia quesadilla and steak taco - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Since 1987 Pepe's Taco has been one of the most popular eateries in Puerto Vallarta, proximity to the beaches in Zona Romantica assuring a steady stream of tourist traffic while hours from 1pm until 6am daily creates an ideal environment for post-party eats. Opened by CDMX native Don Jose "Pepe" Curiel, in part as a reaction to the lack of quality Taqueria back in the 80's, Pepe focuses on traditional proteins at prices only a few pesos more than traditional carts and stands. Cooled by overhead fans, small consolation amidst sweltering heat and humidity, Tortillas come freshly pressed with plenty of Protein and whether one chooses Beef, Chicken or Pork the flavors are bold beneath a generous amount of Cilantro, Onions plus additional condiments on the side. read more

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Some of the best fresh tasting tacos I have ever had! The service was amazing, they were quick with food, and made sure we were taken care of the whole night. If you ever find yourself in Puerto Vallarta, I highly recommend this place! Best part is they close late, you can enjoy a stroll on the amazing beach and come for some late light tacos- the best vibe! read more

Pepe's Taco - Tacos de asada - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

After visiting the near by shopping center I had a taste for some tacos so I looked this place up on yelp. The reviews read well so I decided to give it a try. Its seems to be the neighborhood favorite place to stop and get some good food. I ordered the beef and mushroom tacos with a side of guacamole and a modelo. My meal choice was pretty flavorful and satisfying. I definitely recommend. read more

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Hands down one of the best taco spots in the area. I came here every day during my trip and some of the highlights for me were the Al pastor tacos and arrachera tacos. 10/10!! Shoutout to Hector for the recommendation. Staff is friendly and service is quick. This place is cash only so bring your cash! I also love how they're open until 6 am. So if you're hungry after a night of drinking, this is my go to place. read more

Pepe's Taco - Mexican Near Me - Puerto Vallarta, JAL

Great place. Had the Al pastor, the beef and some guacamole. All great flavors. Was fast service once we got seated. Short line at 4pm in winter for us. Note we have one with a tree nut allergy and the waiter said not to do the al pastor. We could not find anything else online about what nut. But posting here for help others. She had the beef and had no issues. read more

Great food, drinks and staff. Wish that my mice and I were still down in PV Mexico as we would frequent the restaurant again. Wishing I could walk the three blocks from where we stayed to grab some tonight. read more

These are the best tacos in downtown PV by far. Service is efficient and fast, but they get busy so be kind and patient. My favorite part? The MICHELADA - I order these everywhere and this was the best one i've had in my life. Highly recommend come and come hungry! read more

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Pepe's tacos is definitely one of the best Pastor tacos in town. Please note that there is difference between the two types of tacos: CHARBROILED Is the regular tacos that you see everywhere. Tortilla, meat, onions and cilantro. CRISPY Comes with cheese on a crispy tortilla We got Volcan in which the pastor gets additionally sautéed with fresh pineapple and the juices from the pineapple marinated with the pastor is mouth watering and finger licking good. Do not pass on this! This version was definitely the best in town and superior to any other spot. read more

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