Christmas Posada at ABBA Tribute

Even though it was a teeny bit early, Vallarta Mirror and Vallarta Calendar held our Christmas Posada like we did last year, at Il Pesce on Constitucion. The food, as it always is, was flawless in its presentation and the flavors were exceptional. We love the staff and the simple surroundings, with the emphasis on quality food and service rather than fancy accouterments. I cannot say enough about the homemade fettuccini with various mushrooms and truffle oil. It is like eating god’s earth, and I have it every single time I go and enjoy its perfection like the first time I tasted it two years ago.

Zumo was busy when Patrice and I stopped in for dinner after seeing the ABBA Tribute at the The Palm Cabaret. The just-opened Tryst Hotel down the street would be an ongoing supply of diners for Zumo, that is also a new kid on the same block. They share many of the same qualities – minimalism and a sense of fine detail without fluff. With Zumo’s new chef came new menu items, of course. I tried the fettuccine Patrice the risotto, with both of us opting out of the beef and shrimp additions. My pasta came with roasted serrano chiles, which were delightfully tasty; I must admit I was leery until the first crunchy and warm – not tear-inducing- spicy! – bite. Again, no room for dessert. Next time, I will start at the back of the menu and work my way forward.

I was in heaven, sitting riverside at Le Bistro, looking at our new bridge and watching the hustle and bustle of Opening Night. After years of neglect and uneven management, Le Bistro Jazz Cafe was back in her glorious tracks of being the center of attention in the heart of Vallarta. Murals have been painstakingly rejuvenated and brand new ones grace the walls of this famous, fabulous eatery on the Isla Cuale. Once the ONLY place in town where you could buy a real filet mignon that didn’t resemble the bottom of a shoe cooked to death. Where waiters with white towels over one forearm spoke in dulcet tones in two languages and understood terminology like “blue-rare.” Years ago, for special occasions, there was only one place to go; the walls hold thousands of happy birthdays, will you marry me questions, then, thanks for doing that, anniversaries.

Le Bistro has been restored and elevated; Renee Perez, Bistro owner Alberto’s wife, tells me they will be open for three meals daily. The Perez’s remember the deep magic Le Bistro cast decades ago and will do again.