Pull out the guidebooks. Most of the established restaurants have been included in books like Fodor's and Zagat. You can always find a large selection of restaurants in Lonely Planet and other Puerto Vallarta specific books.
Go online. Visit the Puerto Vallarta bulletin boards and websites for local recommendations and updates. You can also find coupons on many of the restaurant web sites. Puerto Vallarta loves food, so the websites are updated as new restaurants make the scene and others close or are bought.
Visit during one of the two major food events. Puerto Vallarta hosts two annual events, the Gourmet Festival week, where chefs from all over the world come and guest chef at local restaurants, and Restaurant Week, where all the restaurants have prix-fixe menus for $24 or less.
Check the local papers. Once you get into town, pick up a copy of one of the English language papers. They have articles on what's new and any special events happening.
Don't be afraid to try something new or not listed. If a restaurant looks clean and inviting, don't be afraid to pop in and try it. Some of the best gems in Puerto Vallarta aren't listed in guidebooks because they aren't big and they don't have marketing staff.
