When Saul Perez and his wife, Laura, embarked on their journey as restaurant owners of Puerto Vallarta on the Lake, they knew it would be an adventure. Nestled within the scenic Pretty Lake Golf Club at 10055 Pretty Lake Trail in Plymouth, this lakeside gem offers a welcoming atmosphere, stunning views and a menu that blends authentic Mexican dishes with crowd-pleasing favorites. Open to the public, Puerto Vallarta on the Lake invites everyone to enjoy its vibrant flavors, lively events and family-friendly charm.
Reflecting on their decision to open the restaurant, Saul said “it took me a while to convince myself to do it. We’ve never owned a restaurant before, but thanks to my brother-in-law Francisco Rivera’s partnership and support, we’re on this new journey.”
Previously an industrial sandblaster, Saul traded his tools for a spatula, embracing the challenges of restaurant ownership with his wife by his side. Laura also continues her role as a radio host for a Latino-Hispanic station. The restaurant’s story is deeply rooted in family. Laura’s brother, Francisco, owns three other Puerto Vallarta restaurants – one in South Bend and two in Mishawaka. While these establishments have made a name for themselves, Plymouth’s Puerto Vallarta stands out for its scenic lakeside setting, offering diners not only the bold, authentic tastes of Mexico, but also a variety of other flavorful dishes, all paired with the calming beauty of waterfront views.
Saul and Laura’s journey began with a shared dream: to bring the rich, culinary traditions of their heritage to their community. Inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations, they envisioned a restaurant where people could come together to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment. The involvement of Saul’s brother-in-law has been instrumental. His experience running both a large and a small-scale restaurant provided valuable insights and guidance, as Saul and Laura built their unique establishment in Plymouth.
“What makes me proud is that we’re able to maintain this restaurant without having any prior experience in the industry,” Saul said. “It’s a testament to hard work and the support of our family.”
The name “Puerto Vallarta” is a tribute to the iconic coastal city of Jalisco, Mexico, known for its lively culture and rich culinary traditions. For Saul, Laura and their family, the restaurant is more than just a business; it’s a reflection of their pride in their roots and a celebration of family collaboration.
Saul and Laura strive to create an inclusive and family-friendly environment. Laura described the restaurant’s atmosphere as “very family friendly. We have a dining room area for families and a bar area where they can still feel comfortable bringing their kids. We even have a playroom so parents can relax while their children have fun.”
The restaurant is more than just a dining spot; it’s a community hub. During the holidays they hosted a Christmas Dinner Giveaway, providing meals to three deserving families. “It’s a simple way to give back,” Saul said. “We also brought a buffet to the sheriff’s office on Thanksgiving and we’re planning to do more for the community.” For Saul and Laura, Puerto Vallarta is a reflection of their values and passion. They take pride in supporting the community, whether through local events, partnerships, or simply being a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy delicious meals and a wonderful atmosphere.
Laura emphasized the restaurant’s flexibility in hosting special occasions, saying “we have the Vista Room for private events, and we’ve even closed the restaurant for larger groups of up to 200 people. There’s also a beautiful outdoor area by the lake for weddings or parties.”
At the heart of Puerto Vallarta on the Lake is its menu – a vibrant celebration of Mexican culinary traditions. From sizzling fajitas to tangy ceviche and rich parrillada, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity. Known for its authentic Mexican dishes, Puerto Vallarta also offers a range of options to cater to diverse tastes, including burgers, chicken tenders and wings. “We’re a Mexican restaurant, but we wanted to include items like burgers and hot dogs for golfers and families who might want something different,” Laura said.
While Puerto Vallarta offers variety, its commitment to quality is unwavering. Every dish is made with fresh ingredients, prepared with care and presented with pride. Traditional recipes remain an integral part of the menu, but the restaurant team isn’t afraid to innovate, offering specials and seasonal dishes that keep the dining experience exciting.
The team’s dedication extends to the beverages, where handcrafted margaritas, refreshing mocktails and a curated selection of drinks complement the meal perfectly. Specialty drinks are a highlight, with options like piña coladas served in pineapples and seasonal creations for holidays.
“We’re here to make every visit memorable,” Laura said. “From the lake views to the food, we want you to feel like family.”
Call 574-540-2682 or email puerto@vallartaonthelake.com for more info.
