Espresso

This popular eatery is Vallarta's best late-night dining option. The two-level restaurant is on one of the town's busiest streets -- across from El Torito's sports bar, and cater-cornered from the lively Señor Frog's -- meaning that traffic noise is a factor, though not a deterrent. The cuisine is superb, the service attentive, and the prices more than reasonable. Owned by a partnership of lively Italians, it serves food that is authentic in preparation and flavor, from thin-crust, brick-oven pizza to savory homemade pastas and oven-baked breads. My favorite pizza is the Quattro Stagioni, topped with artichokes, black olives, ham, and mushrooms. Excellent calzones and panini (sandwiches) are also options. I prefer the rooftop garden area for dining, but many patrons gravitate to the pool table in the air-conditioned downstairs, which features major sports and entertainment events on satellite TV. Espresso also has full bar service and draft beer.

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