During my recent visit to Puerto Vallarta I was invited to dine at the family owned restaurant, El Palomar de los Gonzales. Although this is not a restaurant review, I have to give the entire experience a 5 star rating.
The restaurant is located on the side of one of the many mountains overlooking old Puerto Vallarta with views of the bay.
My gracious hosts, Juan Gonzales, his mother Senora Gonzales and sister Maripepa Gonzales entertained me the entire evening with fascinating stories about the history of their restaurant. Apparently over forty years ago their father purchased property on the mountain, long before anyone else did. In fact, when he brought his wife to see the land, she shook her head and asked, "what, you buy me air?" The slope is very steep and not friendly to building, but this did not deter Senor Gonzales.
The only request of Senora Gonzales was she wanted a one story home...well forty years later the entire building is home to the restaurant, a jewelry store, banquet facility for up to 100 guests, a bar, two outdoor terraces, swimming pool and the private residence of Juan Gonzales and his family and a separate residence for his mother. All built by hand over the spance of twenty years by Senor Gonzales. Did I mention the structure is seven stories perched high on the side of a mountain? No wonder its views are amazing.
Juan Gonzales did not want to see his boyhood home leave his family, so when his parents were ready to sell, he made arrangements to purchase the home and convert it into the restaurant. Twenty two years later, the restaurant is as popular as ever. I invite visitors to make a special trip to El Palomar for an unforgettable dining experience.
Here are a few photos of the restaurant along with living areas just as they were when the Gonzales children were growing up.
I can't think of a more original form of recycling than this. Oh and did I mention they grow most of their own ingredients on their family farm. The seafood is locally caught and the beef and chicken are raised on another family farm. This is one impressive family. I wonder if they ever fight?
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