La Palapa History

[Gary R. Beck]

Yesterday, I arranged to have lunch with old amigos visiting on a cruise ship. They requested a nice spot on the beach with a view. I thought of several places and decided upon the beach setting of a Puerto Vallarta landmark. Their first trip would be special. We talked constantly, rested and dined for a couple hours. What a delightful place to take visitors. I had known the lady since we were around five years old.

The food was not only exceptional, the presentation drew the cameras out of purses. Each dish we ordered [finally] were remarkable and delicious. Alberto Perez has maintained his family place in the highest degree. Consider a special day on the playa!

Reprinted from La Palapa website:

http://www.lapalapapv.com/history/

• CUISINE
• PUERTO VALLARTA

     OUR HISTORY

In 1957 my sister, Rodelinda and her husband, Guy Dickey had a dream to open the first restaurant on the beach in Puerto Vallarta. With the help of another investor, La Palapa became their dream come true. It was the last dwelling going south and many of their friends called them “crazy” for building so far out of town.

At the time there was no bridge across the Río Cuale and to travel to this side of town, a jeep or one of the two existing taxis needed to be hired, as long as the river wasn’t too high! The original “palapa,” or “thatched roof” was designed and constructed by Guillermo Wulff and all materials were authentic and very “tropical.” Exotic drinks served in handblown glassware, live music and freshly caught seafood from the bay prepared with local ingredients and recipes were the specialties.

My whole family has participated at some time and in some way in the business. In 1987 La Palapa was redesigned by one of my brothers, Arq. Salvador Pérez. I am the youngest brother of the family, and many of my childhood memories are centered around La Palapa. Continuing with the same traditions I am proud to say that La Palapa Restaurant is still in the family and thanks to your patronage, we look forward to many more years of sharing our tropical paradise with you.

— Alberto Perez Gonzalez 

Gary R.Beck

Puerto Vallarta, JAL.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Puerto_Vallarta_OldTown_SouthSide 

2015 Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Guide Beck's Best:

Kindle e-book: www.amazon.com/dp/B004NEVX7I 

Bound print: www.cafepress.com/vallartaguide