Makal image

Makal

Restaurant Mexican restaurant

😐 We have done many tasting menus so this comes from experience. All things considered, this was overpriced and underwhelming. Food tasted good, but not great. First 3 couses (amuse buche, Cauliflower, beet salad = undersalted. Mushroom course, which is a very popular dish was way oversalted. Too... People often mention menu, tasting, good, restaurant, meal, service, great, dishes, recommend, experience,


Address

Lázaro Cárdenas 311, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48330 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

Website

www.makalgastronomia.com

Contact

+52 322 354 9878

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (209 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 6 to 11 pm
  • Saturday: 6 to 11 pm
  • Sunday: (Christmas Eve), 6 to 11 pm, Hours might differ
  • Monday: (Christmas Day), Closed, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 6 to 11 pm
  • Wednesday: 6 to 11 pm
  • Thursday: 6 to 11 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: menu (26) tasting (19) good (15) restaurant (11) meal (10) service (10) great (9) dishes (9) recommend (9) experience (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 K M. 1 year ago on Google
    We have done many tasting menus so this comes from experience. All things considered, this was overpriced and underwhelming. Food tasted good, but not great. First 3 couses (amuse buche, Cauliflower, beet salad = undersalted. Mushroom course, which is a very popular dish was way oversalted. Too mnay "vegan dishes", not enough protein. Main courses were Pibil and a Catch of the day. Catch was very good, Pibil so so. We enjoyed most of the wine pairing (separate from $1400MXN per person). Service was very nice, atmosphere nice as well but the hole in the wall place we visit are doing as well if not better. We want to be honest so the expectation is set for anyone cconsidering this place.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Craig M. 2 years ago on Google
    Phenomenal! I just tried a couple apps as I wasn’t hungry enough for a 10 course meal. I had the mushroom ceviche and the lamb taco, both were amazing. I should also mention the warm bread/roll with sun dried tomato butter was also delicious. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. I will definitely return to work my way through the rest of menu. Don’t be scared off by the high price of the 10 course. You can easily share a couple apps and main and enjoy some truly wonderful dishes for a fraction of the price.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Don L. 2 years ago on Google
    A relatively new place (10 months old as of this writing) that definitely has a unique product in the PV restaurant scene. The atmosphere is chic but relaxed with nice music in the background, but not so loud that you can't have a conversation. The waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu. We did a la cart rather than thy tasting menu (mostly because it was rather late and we didn't want to be stuffed before going to bed). Each dish was presented beautifully and had a great flavor profile. The oxtail was excellent! Prices are on the high end for PV, but I think the unique food justifies that. The only minor downside was a rather small and eclectic wine list, but the bottle we had turned out to be quite good. I will definitely go back and try the tasting menu.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Megan D. 3 years ago on Google
    The definition of a hidden gem. Came here with a friend for our thanksgiving dinner and had the most amazing experience. The food was insanely delicious, cocktails were fun and unique, and the staff were so friendly! I was shocked how quiet the restaurant was. If you’re looking for more of an unassuming fine dining experience, this is the place. I can’t imagine not getting the 5 course meal - do it do it do it!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Tai Skadegård T. 1 year ago on Google
    Disappointed food extremely overpriced.. We got the tasting menu with 10 Courses. It started out well with a pretty cerviche dish and delicious bread with whipped butter. Then followed by several dishes which were either too sour, too salty or too bitter, disproportionately assembled and some of it undercooked some of it overcooked. The fifth course was another cherviche course, it was better than the first. This was well balanced delicious and beautifully prepared. After this we went straight to an over salted mahi mahi fish with a salty “salad” on the side which included canned olives. The desserts were ok but not at all what you would expect from the price. The service was good and the waiter very sweet and very attentive. In our opinion Makal should drop the ten courses menu and just do a simple menu of the few dishes they know how to make and they should definitely charge a third of the price. This was the most expensive meal and definitely the worst tasting we've had in Puerto Vallarta. Even the obvious tourist trap we tried on the beach were cheaper and better tasting. If you go, which you should not, see if you can order just their cerviche and some drinks.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Kyle G. 2 years ago on Google
    NYE 2022 dinner was ok. White bread with special butter isn't a course though. Also, listening to Lady Gaga being played on a violin with a 7 course meal is.... Interesting.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tim T. 2 years ago on Google
    Crazy good. Not just for PV, but on the global stage. Cocktails are unbelievably creative (grasshopper salt anyone?) And whether you go ala carte or tasting menu there are unexpected surprises with every course. Nothing taken for granted, and pushing the creative edge with every turn. The music is great, and keeps it from feeling Michelin stuffy. Carla was funny, clever, and engaging. Chef Daniel is a rising star, and is destined for continued greatness.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tina M. 8 months ago on Google
    This is an upscale place, so be sure to understand that the portion sizes are smaller to display the dish artistry. Drinks -- A full page of cocktails and creative pairings makes for a great selection. Most important to me is having mocktail options, and here they can make any of the cocktails as a mocktail. My favorite is the passionfruit mocktail. Food - we chose to go with a selection of food from their regular menu (not the tasting menu) since we wanted to try a variety of vegetarian and meat options. I liked the appetizers the most. The apps were full of flavor and were much more visually appealing. The (main) vegetarian plantain mole was just okay, I would skip that next time. The churros were plated so nicely, and the taste was good enough to get your churro fix. Atmosphere - the inside is small yet accommodating, with texture from the brick walls. My opinion is that it could use a bit more elevated interior design elements to call to its Mexican influence. Accept cash and credit cards.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Micolucci R. 2 years ago on Google
    I discovered this small restaurant by accident. It’s not elegant but clean , nice relaxing vibe, excellent service (Lorena was my server) , and incredible food. I had the short rib mole were the best I’ve tasted. I also recommend the quetzal cocktail if you’re looking for a refreshing delicious cocktail. I highly recommend this restaurant for its food , service, very reasonable prices.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Konstantin T. 1 year ago on Google
    The BEST tasting menu in PVR. Hands down. Why? Read on: FOOD This place specializes on Mexican food, but elevates it to the next level. We have tried the 10 course, including great appetizers starting with freshly baked bread, followed by a mushroom tostada, and mahi mahi beets tartar, and a chicharron arancino! Woah! That is not it! We had after a zucchini grill with some of the most interesting mole, made out of pistachio. Then, followed by an al pastor taco on the tortilla made in house! Next come the main courses with the local catch of the day, an octopus, paired with mole and succulent. Then, my fave of the night, oxtail, soft and punchy with flavor. Just gorgeous! Finally, desert with milk pudding, a churro, and a brownie with a marshmallow on top. All of this, is paired with local Mexican wines, allowing you to try interesting dishes from Mexico with the best ingredients out there. This was my #1 dinner in PVR. SERVICE Antonio and Carla were amazing. Please ask for them and they will make sure to take care of you! Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Warner M. 1 year ago on Google
    Truly outstanding meal here. So much casual good food in PV, but this place is upscale with food that rivals any big city restaurant scene, but very reasonable prices. Super friendly service and great cocktails rounded out a wonderful evening.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Michael A (. 10 months ago on Google
    We enjoyed the 7 course tasting menu and our server Carla was fantastic. Portions are small, but we were sufficiently full. The high price point (for PV), is the main reason we would not return.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Martin D. 10 months ago on Google
    7 out of 10. You can choose the seven course or ten course tasting menu . Portions were a little on the small side, but the food was good and the server did a good job at explaining the dishes. Overall, I think this place is expensive just for the sake of being expensive. The wine is definitely over priced with no options cheaper than $1200 pesos. Dinner for two with three drinks after tip was $4500 pesos. For this price, there are many other options in PV with better value and ambiance.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thomas “Tom” L. 1 year ago on Google
    The very best restaurant experiences I’ve ever had in PV and one of my most memorable meals I’ve ever eaten. I had the 10 course meal which was, in all honestly, was too much for me but I couldn’t stop! The fish was cooked perfectly, the Cochinita Pibil was to die for, and the cocktails were all original and I had three of them. I’ll never come to PV again without visiting.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patrick B. 11 months ago on Google
    *** MANDATORY*** A true dining experience not to be missed. One of our favorite restaurants in PV that never disappoints. Great atmosphere with vibrant setting and music. Attentive, knowledgeable wait staff that really know the menu. Choose between the 10 course tasting menu, the pre-fixe, or the ala carte options; you won't be disappointed. Try the chicharron bites for a starter! The organic chicken breast a clear winner as was the catch of the day. For dessert you can go wrong with their churros and chocolate mousse.

  • 5/5 Rosie D. 8 months ago on Google
    Just finished eating here and the food was comparable to any Michelin star place I have experienced in the past. Service is amazing and you get to watch the chefs garnish your food at the pick-up window. Definitely plan on coming back here again and will recommend this place to family and friends visiting PV.

  • 5/5 Patrick H. 8 months ago on Google
    Enjoyed a very nice tasting menu at Makal. I'd say the highlight was the service, the two guys who waited on us were extremely courteous and very knowledgeable about the food and clearly took a lot of pride in the drinks and cuisine, above and beyond service I've had at similar tasting meals especially giving my inexperience with the regional cuisine. The food was very good as well. We got the 10 course and while a couple courses were just okay, most were excellent and a few were incredible, which is usually the case on a dinner like this. Standouts were all of the seafood dishes (catch of the day was incredible) along with a chicaron arancini, a duck taco, and the oxtail. We also got one wine pairing and one cocktail pairing. I'd say the wine pairing was too pricey, but the cocktail pairing had some really cool unique stuff I'd never experienced before and the bartender who mixed the drinks explained them all. The drinks were large enough a table of two could order one cocktail pairing and share throughout the meal. Ambiance was pleasant (chairs were super comfortable!). It was definitely pricey, but overall worth it for the experience.

  • 5/5 Jake W. 6 months ago on Google
    Fair warning, we only dropped in for a smaller meal so not the full tasting menu. With that said, amazingly delicious! We ordered 1 appetizer, Confit Duck Quesotaco, 1 entree Cochinita Pibil and 2 drinks. They accommodated us for a mocktail but both drinks were a show to watch. The food was amazing, the meat was juicy and flavorful. The blue masa tortillas were honestly the best corn tortillas I had ever had (I live in the US so manage your opinions) and have shamed every corn tortilla before. The staff were beyond friendly and insightful. The ingredients appeared to be locally and ethically sources. I can't wait to come back and try their full tasting menu.

  • 5/5 David A. 9 months ago on Google
    I was looking for options to eat around PV, and I found this restaurant while walking around town. It's high-cuisine, so expect to spend more money than usual. Their staff is bilingual, very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The atmosphere of this restaurant exceeds expectations. The full course meal they had during my visit was very good. The plates were well presented. My favorites courses were the crudo and the catch of the day. Their other courses were good but not flavorful for the expectation it creates. I would still recommend it, though.

  • 5/5 Cindy G. 9 months ago on Google
    The bread is served right out of the oven. The chili is fresh, and what’s more fresh?! The drinks! They have a fabulous cocktail list. No wine by the glass but the Mexican wine list is pretty large. Love this place!

  • 5/5 Hollis M. 1 year ago on Google
    Malala is such a treat!! I’ve enjoyed both their tasting and a la cart menus and everything has been delicious. The menu changes but I can tell you they do all their salads, cauliflower dishes, and seafood exceptionally well. The flavors that they pair are always unique and creative, and you truly feel like you’re having a high quality experience. I also have to say that Carla is one of the sweetest servers ever, and has helped me curate a wonderful birthday experience for my mom and accommodate the food preferences of many friends. Highly recommend this wonderful restaurant!

  • 5/5 Carly H. 1 year ago on Google
    First of all, this location, although in the middle of a very busy section of town, is blessedly serene due to the full glass doors fronting the restaurant, allowing diners to see the action but eat in peace. The ambiance is upscale but casual, with a tiny bar and a lovely mural. Makal not only specializes in a very creative and flavorful locally-sourced menu, but one of the best selections of superior Mexican wines in the city. (I'm a local.) The service was friendly, English speaking and superb in every way. A great place for a sophisticated evening meal or a special occasion.

  • 4/5 Mike N. 1 year ago on Google
    Great food and service. Note that you don’t have to take the 10 course menu. They are not upfront about but INSIST for the regular menu . Also the wine pairing will cost as much as the food and that wasn’t told either . It’s good for a special occasion

  • 5/5 Tony Fantis, R. 1 year ago on Google
    I love, love, love this place. The food is excellent, always fresh, and stretches my comfort zone without disappointing, every time. The cocktails are the best quality/taste I've had in PV. The service is excellent. The music is pleasant and they keep the volume at a nice level instead of blasting it. It's not a huge menu and it's not particularly great for children. For me, it's like a little sanctuary where I can get know that everything is taken care of and all the details are tended to. And for summer visits, I really appreciate their air conditioning. Rare, 5 star rating from this critic. =)

  • 5/5 Adrian A. 1 year ago on Google
    My partner and I shared the 10 part tasting menu. It was such a wonderfully varied selection of elevated Mexican cuisine, with new and old flavours, textures, colours and plating. The servers were wonderful and explained everything in great detail. The ambience could be a little better perhaps, dimmer lighting would be nice. But overall this was the best dining experience we had during our stay in Puerto Vallarta. Highly recommend.

  • 5/5 Gina M. 1 year ago on Google
    We stumbled upon this lovely gem of a restaurant while exploring Zona LA Romantica. The ambience was elegant and interior very modern. My friend and I ordered a speciality cocktail, Tubal Makal which was a perfect blend of tropical flavors and tequila. She being vegan, the chef and servers were very accommodating to dietary restrictions. We ordered the mushroom ceviche and the sikil, prepared simply and with the freshest possible ingredients.

  • 4/5 Amanda K. 2 years ago on Google
    A unique and contemporary take on Mexican cuisine in Zona Romantica. Service was amazing without being pretentious. They were very good about accommodating a guest that couldn't have alcohol in the dishes. The cocktails are so unique and love that they use everything from Mexico. I didn't know that Mexico made gin until I tried the Quetzal and loved it! Would also recommend the Sin Vergüenza, very distinct and tasty. I ordered the 10 course which left me stuffed at the end (you can also do 7). Some favourites from the tasting menu are the fish tostada (amuse bouche), mushroom ceviche, lamb barbacoa taco and mole. I would recommend to anyone visiting PV!

  • 5/5 Aimee C. 2 years ago on Google
    My friend and I ate here in November. We loved the creative cocktails, and my oxtail mole was fantastic. The manager came by to chat for a while. The service was excellent - attentive but not intrusive. We'll definitely come back when we're next in town!

  • 4/5 Savannah V. 2 years ago on Google
    Ordered the vegan options off their regular menu. Tasty, beautifully plated and good portions. Would recommend to any vegan for an upscale dinner in Vallarta.


Call +52 322 354 9878 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Salad bar
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeaway

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Restaurants nearby

La Bodeguita del Medio Vallarta image
1
La Bodeguita del Medio Vallarta
Cuban restaurant
Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
$$ $$
4.60 (6.6K reviews)
Outback Puerto Vallarta image
2
Outback Puerto Vallarta
Family restaurant
Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.
$$ $$
4.50 (4.7K reviews)
La Palapa Restaurant image
3
La Palapa Restaurant
Mexican restaurant
Elegant venue on the beach serving lobster tacos & ceviche accompanied by traditional live music.
$$ $$
4.50 (4K reviews)
Restaurante Fredys Tucan Zona Romántica image
4
Restaurante Fredys Tucan Zona Romántica
Breakfast restaurant
Stylish, pastel-painted stopover for hearty breakfast standards like omelets, pancakes & waffles.
$$ $$
4.70 (4K reviews)
Pancho's Takos image
5
Pancho's Takos
Taco restaurant
Popular haunt for traditional Mexican dishes, plus outdoor seating & a down-to-earth vibe.
$ $$$
4.60 (3.9K reviews)
Last updated:
()