PUERTO VALLARTA

"The Finest Mexican Food In Illinois"

About Us

Since 2002, Puerto Vallarta has been a local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine, proudly serving Effingham and nearby communities including Farina, Flora, Newton, Olney, Casey, Mattoon, Shelbyville, and Vandalia. Our menu features a variety of flavorful dishes—from sizzling fajitas and savory tacos to homemade desserts—all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Guests enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere with the option of outdoor seating and a selection of refreshing margaritas. Whether you're dining in or picking up takeout, Puerto Vallarta is your trusted destination for a genuine taste of Mexico.

Our Story

Since 2002, Puerto Vallarta has been proudly serving Effingham, IL, and surrounding communities including Farina, Flora, Newton, Olney, Casey, Mattoon, Shelbyville, and Vandalia with authentic Mexican cuisine and exceptional hospitality. Over the years, we have become a local favorite by combining traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps families, friends, and visitors coming back for more.

At Puerto Vallarta, our mission is simple: provide guests with a genuine taste of Mexico while creating a dining experience that feels warm, comfortable, and memorable. Every dish is prepared with care using quality ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques that showcase the rich flavors and traditions of Mexican cuisine. From sizzling fajitas and flavorful tacos to hearty combination plates and homemade desserts, our menu offers something for every appetite.

What sets Puerto Vallarta apart is our commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction. We believe great food should be paired with outstanding service, and our team works hard to ensure every guest feels welcome from the moment they walk through the door. Whether you're joining us for a casual lunch, a family dinner, a special celebration, or a quick meal on the go, we strive to make every visit enjoyable and stress-free.

Our restaurant features a comfortable and family-friendly atmosphere designed for guests of all ages. Families appreciate our children's menu filled with kid-friendly favorites, while sports fans enjoy watching games on our TVs throughout the restaurant. We also offer free Wi-Fi, making Puerto Vallarta a convenient place to relax, meet with friends, or enjoy a meal while staying connected.

For guests who prefer dining outdoors, our patio seating provides the perfect setting to enjoy fresh air alongside your favorite Mexican dishes and refreshing margaritas. Whether you're stopping in for lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends, our outdoor dining area offers a comfortable space to unwind and enjoy the experience.

In addition to our dine-in service, Puerto Vallarta offers convenient takeout options for customers who want to enjoy their favorite meals at home, at work, or wherever their day takes them. We also provide catering services for parties, business meetings, family gatherings, and special events, bringing the authentic flavors of Mexico directly to your guests.

For more than two decades, Puerto Vallarta has remained dedicated to serving delicious food, providing exceptional service, and creating lasting memories for our customers. We are honored to be a trusted dining destination in the Effingham area and look forward to continuing to share our passion for authentic Mexican cuisine with the communities we proudly serve.

Visit us at 3005 S Banker St, Effingham, IL 62401 or call us at 217-342-3177 to learn more about our menu, catering services, and dining options.

Areas Served

Languages Spoken

English
Spanish

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

At Puerto Vallarta, we’re known for more than just delicious Mexican cuisine—we’re celebrated for our exceptional service and unbeatable daily specials. From the moment you walk in, our friendly staff is dedicated to making you feel at home, ensuring every visit is welcoming and memorable. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a family dinner, our rotating lunch and dinner specials offer great value without compromising on flavor. At Puerto Vallarta, great food and great service always go hand in hand.

Our Services include:

Dining Options: Enjoy your meal your way with flexible dining options. Whether you prefer the comfort of dine-in service, the convenience of takeout, or the fresh air on our patio and outdoor seating, we’ve got the perfect spot for every appetite and occasion.
Menu Highlights: Savor the flavors of Mexico with our delicious lunch and dinner specials, crafted daily for great taste and value. Need something quick? Our express lunch is perfect for busy days. We also offer a children’s menu with kid-friendly favorites the whole family will love.
Family & Guest Experience: We’re proud to be a family-friendly restaurant where everyone feels welcome. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with free Wi-Fi and TVs showing your favorite sports, making it a great place to gather with friends or bring the whole family.
Event & Group Services: Planning a party or special event? Let us bring the flavor to you with our catering services, perfect for birthdays, office lunches, and celebrations of all kinds.

Our Products include:

Mexican Food
Combination Platters
Desserts
Margaritas
Liquor
Cocktails
Beer on Tap
Domestic and Imported Beer
Wine
Daiquiris

Testimonials

On 4/10/2026 Susan Evans had this to say:
Comfortable place. Huge menu. Food was fresh and well-seasoned. I had the new Michoacana Salad (amazing!) and a side order of sauteed veggies (perfectly cooked and delicious).

On 3/7/2026 Ben Ruholl had this to say:
Everything on the menu is great. Service in a busy Friday night was lightning fast.

On 1/11/2026 Deb Holmes had this to say:
Really enjoyed the food and the friendly staff.

On 1/8/2026 Natasha Smith had this to say:
We had excellent service and the food came out quicker than I expected.

On 12/15/2025 Andy Hogle had this to say:
Food was fantastic, service great, and we enjoyed the football games. Can't beat it we will be back.

Contact Us

PUERTO VALLARTA
3005 S Banker St Effingham, IL 62401
Phone: (217) 342-3177

Located on South 45 Across from South Side Auto Credit

Where To Find Us

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, Debit Cards, Apple Pay

Our Hours

Monday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

News

Nothing says summer like enjoying authentic Mexican food and refreshing margaritas on the patio. Join us at Puerto Vallarta for your favorite fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, and more while soaking up the beautiful weather.

Whether you're meeting friends for happy hour, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving a taste of Mexico, our outdoor seating is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Stop by and make the most of patio season with great food, great drinks, and great company. We look forward to serving you!

📍 Proudly serving Effingham and surrounding communities since 2002.

Your New Favorite Mexican Spot! 🌯❤️
Looking for a fun, delicious place to dine? Puerto Vallarta Restaurant – Effingham is serving up bold Mexican flavors the whole family will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or grabbing a quick bite, we’ve got something for everyone.
🌟 Customer Favorites:
✔ Burritos loaded with flavor
✔ Perfectly seasoned enchiladas
✔ Classic combo plates
✔ Family‑friendly atmosphere & fast service
Stop by, relax, and let us treat you to an unforgettable Mexican dining experience!
📍 Explore our menu: https://puertovallartarestauranteffingham.com/
🌮 Great Food. Great Atmosphere. Great Memories.

On 3/2/2026 this was posted:
Fresh Flavors of Mexico 🌮✨
Craving authentic Mexican cuisine?
At Puerto Vallarta Restaurant – Effingham, every dish is made with vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and the warm hospitality you’ll love. From sizzling fajitas to refreshing margaritas, we bring the taste of Jalisco right to your table!
🍽️ What to Try This Week:
✔ Our famous fajita platters
✔ Hand‑crafted tacos
✔ House‑made salsa & fresh chips
✔ Ice‑cold margaritas in your favorite flavors
Bring your appetite and enjoy a delicious escape—right here in Effingham!
📍 Visit us today: https://puertovallartarestauranteffingham.com/
🌶️ Authentic • Fresh • Flavorful

Authentic Mexican Flavors Await at Puerto Vallarta!
Looking for bold, fresh, and authentic Mexican cuisine? Puerto Vallarta Mexican Restaurant in Effingham is your go-to spot for flavorful dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
From sizzling fajitas and street-style tacos to refreshing margaritas, every meal is crafted with care and tradition. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or casual get-togethers!
📍 Visit us at 1204 Avenue of Mid-America, Effingham, IL
🕒 Open daily for lunch and dinner
📞 Call (217) 347-0817 to reserve your table or order to-go!
Come taste the difference—your fiesta starts here!

Info

FAQ

Is Puerto Vallarta family-friendly?

Absolutely! We pride ourselves on being a welcoming, family-friendly restaurant. Guests enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with free Wi-Fi, TVs showing sports, and a menu that includes kid-friendly options.

What beverages are available?

We offer a wide selection of drinks including margaritas, cocktails, daiquiris, domestic and imported beer (on tap), wine, and liquor—perfect for pairing with your meal or enjoying on the patio.

Do you offer catering or event services?

Yes! We provide catering services for birthdays, office lunches, and other celebrations. Let us bring the flavor of Mexico to your next event with our delicious food and exceptional service.

Does Puerto Vallarta offer dine‑in and takeout options?

Yes. Puerto Vallarta offers dine‑in, curbside pickup, and takeout to fit your schedule and preferences. Guests can enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere inside the restaurant or place an order to enjoy their favorite Mexican dishes at home. [zmenu.com], [restaurantguru.com]

Do you have vegetarian or lighter menu options?

Absolutely. Puerto Vallarta offers vegetarian dishes and lighter options, including veggie fajitas, veggie chimichangas, salads, and customizable menu items. These options allow guests with dietary preferences or restrictions to enjoy the same great flavors as the rest of the menu.

Do you accept reservations or accommodate large groups?

Yes. Puerto Vallarta is happy to accommodate large groups and special gatherings, making it a great choice for family dinners, celebrations, and group outings. While reservations are not always required, calling ahead is encouraged for larger parties to ensure seating availability and the best possible dining experience. Our staff is experienced in providing attentive service for both small and large groups.

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