Esta publicación también está disponible en:
The spring of 2026 saw a wave of LGBTQ+ bar openings in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica, expanding the nightlife options in the district. In addition to new ventures, established venues are undergoing renovations under new ownership to foster more inclusive environments.
Among them is El Soñador, a bar at the corner of Ignacio L. Vallarta and Francisco I. Madero streets. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, rooftop DJ sets, and pool table, the venue will celebrate its 10th anniversary this October.
On May 1, 2026, El Soñador began operating under new owners John Guerrini and Nicholas Robles, a gay couple from Palm Springs, California, who work as an attorney and an independent communications consultant, respectively. For the past four years, Guerrini and Robles have divided their time between California and Puerto Vallarta.
“We fell in love with Puerto Vallarta on our first visit, and four years ago we bought a property here,” Guerrini said. “I still work remotely for my law firm, but I wanted to do something fun and different here, so I persuaded Nicholas to buy a bar.”
Working with a real estate agent, the couple reviewed several options before choosing El Soñador. They purchased it from previous owner Travis Warren, a Canadian national who ran the bar for five years and now operates La Mariposa Social near Lázaro Cárdenas Park.
While they never intended to completely overhaul the concept of El Soñador, the new owners felt it was important to make the bar more explicitly LGBTQ+-friendly by adding rainbow flags and introducing gradual upgrades.
“At first I didn’t want to change anything; I wanted to make changes little by little,” Guerrini said. “After a month, we started doing more: we painted the exterior, installed new lighting, and updated the menus to make them more exciting. More renovations are coming soon, including air conditioning and new flooring. The vision is to solidify it as a comfortable sports bar that welcomes everyone.”
Guerrini added that the changes have resonated with patrons.
“What many people from the community have told me is that they feel more comfortable coming in because they know the owners are gay, and even though that shouldn’t make a difference, it does,” he explained.
Opening just ahead of Puerto Vallarta Pride month, El Soñador capitalized on the festivities.
“The Pride Parade was a lot of fun—we hosted local drag queens, and it was incredibly fun,” Guerrini said.
Regulars and newcomers alike have also gathered at the bar to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches and play on the classic pool table located in front of the main bar, which the owners say is a hit with both locals and tourists.
“We are a family bar, because we are all family,” Guerrini said, describing the concept.
With a refreshed look, an inclusive atmosphere, and a prime location, El Soñador enters its second decade as a bridge between Puerto Vallarta’s long-standing nightlife tradition and its evolving LGBTQ+ scene.
Signature Cocktails
El Soñador’s updated menu features nine signature craft cocktails. According to the owners, guest favorites include:
- Daddy Issues: The top seller, made with mezcal and guava.
- Blue Death: Features raspberry vodka, blue curacao, grenadine, and lime.
- 36,000 Feet Above Sea Level: Named by a flight attendant friend of the owners, this drink features tequila, passion fruit, orange, lime, and rosemary.
Happy Hour and Industry Tuesdays
El Soñador offers Happy Hour specials from Sunday to Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., including Margaritas for $75 pesos, 5 beers for $200 pesos and options to upgrade house spirits to premium liquor for classic drinks like the Negroni.
On Tuesdays, the bar also hosts an “Industry Night” promotion for local hospitality, restaurant, and bar workers, offering 2-for-1 drinks all day with proof of employment or a uniform. The initiative aims to provide a welcoming space for local workers to unwind after their shifts.
Live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays
El Soñador remains well-known for its second-level open-air terrace, which offers a festive and social atmosphere. This vibe continues under the new management, with live DJs performing every Friday and Saturday night, when the bar extends its hours.
El Soñador is located at 229 Ignacio L. Vallarta St. in the Zona Romántica. It is open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. For more information on events and promotions, follow their Facebook or Instagram profiles.
Esta publicación también está disponible en:
