Perched along Mexico’s breathtaking Riviera Nayarit, Punta de Mita is a gem of the Pacific coast, renowned for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, vibrant local culture, and fantastic surf. This exclusive peninsula offers a tranquil escape where the beauty of the natural landscape meets the sophistication of world-class amenities.
When discussing the area, you’ll often hear two terms: “Punta de Mita” and “Punta Mita.” While they sound similar, there’s a key difference. “Punta de Mita” refers to the entire peninsula, including its charming local villages, while “Punta Mita” is the name of a private, gated community within the area, known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and luxurious villas. While the two names are sometimes used interchangeably, knowing the difference can help you better navigate this stunning locale and explore the best restaurants Punta de Mita has to offer.
At Lush Palm, we’re really into fantastic food, so our team has the difficult task of tasting our way through many a’ menu to make sure we have the right intel. Our team of foodies was up to the task and we can personally recommend every restaurant on this list.
Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood served with a side of ocean views, innovative Mexican fusion, or the best authentic Mexican food around, Punta de Mita’s dining scene offers something for every palate and occasion. From beachfront fine dining to hidden local gems, here are the nine best restaurants in Punta de Mita.
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Best Restaurants in Punta de Mita
MINA
Perched right on the shoreline, MINA is one of the standout Punta de Mita restaurants, offering a dining experience that blends stunning ocean views, a beautiful ambiance, and delicious food. Specializing in Mexican and Latin cuisine with a focus on seafood, this restaurant is ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or simply enjoying a meal with a scenic sunset backdrop.
Dishes like tuna steak, seafood pozole, and mole poblano are crafted with high-quality ingredients and their margaritas are on point. With its beachfront setting and live music, MINA is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Punta de Mita’s coastal cuisine.
Open daily from 12 pm – 10 pm
Norma’s Tacos
Tucked away in the local neighborhood of Emiliano Zapata near the gates of Punta Mita, Norma’s is a small, family-run taco shop that offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine. This casual outdoor eatery serves up a simple yet amaaaazingly delicious menu featuring tacos, sopes, gringas, and must-try pozole, all prepared right on Norma’s patio.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with Norma herself often chatting with guests while you enjoy your meal. For a genuinely local dining experience, Norma’s is a hidden gem that’s well worth the visit.
Open 6 pm – 12 am | Closed Wednesdays
Tacos & Papas
Tacos & Papas is a casual family-owned restaurant in Punta de Mita, offering a menu of excellent Mexican cuisine. Situated in a quaint, open-air setting with charming stone walls and twinkling lights, this spot is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or family.
The menu features fresh, flavorful tacos, including favorites like fish and Cochinita, along with refreshing margaritas. Don’t miss the unique dessert experience—fruit-flavored ice creams served in their own natural shells, like pineapple and coconut. With its warm atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors, Tacos & Papas is a must in Punta de Mita.
Open 5 pm – 10:30 pm | Closed Mondays
La Rústica Mita
La Rústica Mita Beach Club, located right in front of the surf break El Anclote, offers a vibrant beachside dining experience in Punta de Mita. Known for its wood-fired kitchen and creative drink menu, this spot is perfect for enjoying a delicious Italian-inspired meal with your toes in the sand, whether you’re there for lunch, dinner, or just a sunset cocktail.
The atmosphere is laid-back yet lively, with a prime location that provides stunning ocean views and a front-row seat to the area’s best sunsets. From delicious pizzas to fresh, flavorful pasta dishes, La Rústica Mita combines great food with an unbeatable beach vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Reservations are recommended, especially for the coveted beachfront tables.
Open Thursday to Tuesday: 11 am – 11 pm
Wednesday: 4 pm – 11 pm
NAEF
Nestled in the heart of Emiliano Zapata village, NAEF offers a hidden, enchanting dining experience in Punta de Mita. This cozy and discreet restaurant is set within a beautiful outdoor garden, providing a romantic and magical atmosphere perfect for an evening escape.
Known for its high-quality standards and passionate approach to food, NAEF serves a variety of dishes that cater to all palates, including standout wood-fired Napoletano-style pizzas made from slow-rising sourdough. The menu features mainly Mediterranean dishes such homemade Gnocchis and Grilled Kurobuta Pork Chop. During the day, you can also stop by for their homemade premium ice creams and sorbets.
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Open 6 pm – 10 pm | Closed Sundays
Hector’s Kitchen
Located within the exclusive Kupuri Beach Club in Punta de Mita, Hector’s Kitchen offers a refined dining experience that showcases the best of local produce with a contemporary twist. While the restaurant is set within a private resort, it remains accessible to the public, offering an elegant open-air setting with stunning ocean views of Litibu Bay, particularly breathtaking at sunset. Highlights include the fresh catch of the day, Thai Green Curry, New York Steak, creative appetizers like the root salad and tlacoyos, and a well-curated wine pairing.
Note that access to the restaurant requires passing through Punta Mita’s main gate, so allow 30 minutes prior to your reservation time to check in at the security booth and drive to the beach club. An official photo ID is required for entry.
Open daily from 6 pm – 10:30 pm
Bahía by Richard Sandoval
Located at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, Bahía by Richard Sandoval offers an exceptional beachfront dining experience where you can literally dine with your feet in the sand. Specializing in contemporary seafood dishes with a Spanish influence, this restaurant is renowned for its expertly grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables, with its signature dish—the Zarandeado Fish, all enhanced by the fresh ocean breeze and breathtaking sunset views.
The relaxed yet elegant atmosphere makes it a favorite for both lingering family dinners and romantic evenings. With its prime location right by the water and impeccable service, Bahía promises a dining experience that’s both memorable and quintessentially Punta Mita. Reservations are required.
Open daily from 6 pm – 10:30 pm
Tuna Blanca
Tuna Blanca offers a chic and romantic dining experience right on the beach in Punta de Mita, blending the style and essence of Café des Artistes with a distinctly Mexican flair. With a menu focused on fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local producers and fishermen, the restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood dishes, like the special fish of the day and perfectly prepared shrimp.
The beachfront setting, complemented by elegant décor and attentive service, creates an enchanting atmosphere ideal for a memorable evening. Whether dining on the sea-facing terrace or enjoying live music in the lobby bar, Tuna Blanca is a must-visit for those seeking the finest flavors of the region.
Open 5 pm – 11 pm | Closed Mondays
Casa Milpa at Susurros del Corazón
Casa Milpa, the signature oceanfront restaurant located within Susurros del Corazón, offers a culinary experience that celebrates the rich bounty of the sea and local farms. With a menu inspired by the simplicity of Nayarit cuisine, Chef Tona combines seasonal vegetables, sustainable seafood, and well-sourced animal proteins to create dishes that are both globally influenced and distinctly Mexican.
The restaurant’s setting—breezy indoor and outdoor spaces with sweeping ocean views—complements the farm-to-table approach, making every meal feel like a celebration of the region’s flavors. Guests can book a reservation online to secure their spot at this cornerstone of culinary excellence in Punta de Mita.
Open daily from 7:30 am – 11 pm
Dulce Churros
Dulce Churros is a beloved local spot in Punta de Mita, known for serving the best churros in town with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the authentic neighborhood of Corral del Risco, just a short walk from the restaurants of Anclote, this charming churro cart offers fresh, hot churros made right before your eyes.
You can add fun toppings to customize your treat, making it a must-visit for dessert lovers. The owner, Desire, is known for her kind heart and friendly demeanor, making every visit feel special.
Open Thursday to Sunday: 6 pm – 9:30 pm
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