Healthy Eats in Sayulita: “O” Restaurant

Sayulita could quite possibly be considered a haven for coastal Mexican food. We’re extremely lucky to have such an abundance of fresh marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, red snapper… the list goes on. The owners and head chef at “O” Restaurant definitely take advantage of the amount of locally caught fish in Sayulita and surrounding towns.

“O” Restaurant is located on the south end of town and is connected to the Villa Amor. Head chef Bianca Becerra-Botello has been with the restaurant for over the past five years. Sayulita brings in such diverse groups of people from yoga retreats, tourists, surfers, and families a like, that the menu reflects a variety of meals that will please all. Bianca and the kitchen staff make it a priority to accommodate everyone dining at their restaurant, and serve vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options as well. 

After glancing at the menu, there is a strong sense of international flavors along with several options highlighting the local and fresh ingredients of Nayarit. One of the most popular salads at “O” Restaurant is the Villa Amor salad, and the entree, the tropical tuna. The salad is a mixed bed of lettuce and greens, with apples, candied pecans, goat cheese, dried red fruits, and a light vinaigrette. Attention to detail is important when any plate is sent out from the kitchen and this dish is of no exception; a beautiful tower of lettuce and a generous slice of goat cheese and tomato is set for the perfect presentation. The tropical tuna is an outstanding colorful plate of grilled vegetables and deep purple hibiscus-infused rice with a slice of yellow fried plantain on top. There is a drizzle of light sauce that is reminiscent of a primavera sauce. Savory, light, filling, and delicious- all the while sitting with the perfect ocean view of Sayulita. It doesn’t get much better.

When dining at “O” Restaurant, one thing is for certain- Bianca is passionate about the food she creates. When asked about the sourcing of local fish and produce, she was happy to share her resources. Every morning someone will go to the fish market in La Cruz and buy the freshest catch. They also utilize the local fisherman in Sayulita and work with them on a regular basis. Fresh vegetables and fruit are sourced from local fruterias in Sayulita, Bucerias, and Puerto Vallarta.

If you’ve never been to “O” Restaurant, definitely put this on your list for dining out. Prices reflect a comfortable and moderate price range for what the restaurant has to offer – ocean front dining, delicious and fresh ingredients, romantic ambience, and a menu that will please any palate.