Restaurant Salchidogo Serves Gourmet Style Hotdogs and Jean’s Classic Smash Burgers in The Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta

Brian and Phillip, Owners of Salchidogo, a Gourmet Hotdog Restaurant Bring a Favorite Puerto Vallarta Hamburger Stand, Jean’s Classic Burgers to Their Romantic Zone Restaurant

Have Puerto Vallarta’s Best Cinnamon Rolls Delivered to Your Condo, Resort or Hotel by La Sugar Bakery

Listen to The Podcast

Hello fellow travelers, welcome to this episode of the Puerto Vallarta Travel show. I am your host Barry Kessler, and I am just so happy to be introducing you to my favorite vacation destination, in fact my new home, and maybe even yours too and that’s Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Subscribe With Your iPhone or iPad to Apple Podcasts

How To Listen on Your Android Device

Send Barry an Email

That music you were just listening to is performed by Alberto Perez, the owner of the La Palapa Group of Restaurants. Those are The Le Bistro Jazz Café, riverside on The Isla Cuale, and the La Palapa, Puerto Vallarta’s Oldest Restaurant on the famous

Los Muertos Beach, and The El Dorado Restaurant and Beach Club right next door so you can enjoy that fantastic view of the Los Muertos Pier all lit up at night in beautiful colors, or during the day in its grand splendor for breakfast, lunch or dinner,

seated with your toes in the sand right at the water’s edge. Or riverside at Le Bistro, it’s so romantic, it’s so, Puerto Vallarta my friends.

This week we have a sweet story with a happy ending. We are going to be meeting Brian Scott Carey and his partner Phillip Wier—–who are the owners a gourmet hotdog restaurant on Basillio Badillo in Zona Romantica,  Salchidogo. Brian and Phillip just brought one of Vallarta’s favorite hamburgers, Jean’s Classic Burgers from Plaza Marina, to their hotdog restaurant in the Romantic Zone Making it Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Hamburgers. A match made in heaven. We will also be talking with Hal Hilton and his wife, Eneida who were the original owners of Jean’s about how this all transpired and about their new business, baking and delivering cinnamon rolls.

Contact Information For Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Hamburgers in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• Address: 329 Basilio Badillo 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Phone: 322 369 2222
• Salchidogo Website: https://www.salchidogo.com/
• Jean’s Classic Hamburgers Website: Jean’s Website
• Salchidogo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salchidogo
• Jean’s Hamburgers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeansclassichamburgers
• Salchidogo Instagram: Instagram
• Jean’s Classic Hamburgers: Instagram

Contact Information for La Sugar Bakery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

We have Vallarta news and more so let’s get right to it, let’s see what’s happening in Puerto Vallarta this week, the 9^th of June, 2025.

Rain Has Finally Arrived in Puerto Vallarta

Vallarta’s dry season is coming to a close and not too soon, I have to say. We had our first rains of the year last week and again last night. The Cuale had dried all the way up at the Isla Cuale for just a couple of days when Tropical storm, Alvin came in to save the day. Before the storm there were fires burning all over the bay and in the Sierras. There were fires in San Sebastian, Mascota, Chimo, Mayto, El Tuito. You’d wake up every morning here in the hills above Zona Romantica and smell smoke. It made for a little haziness over the bay during the day, and of course, smokey skies always make the sunsets real pretty. Unfortunately.

So, we got our second taste of rain, again last night and we are currently awaiting category 1 hurricane Barbara but that’s supposedly still a few days off, and it’s supposed to head in a northwest direction, so, most likely rain and high surf in a couple of days. And we are still waiting for that first gully washer to roll through town and fill the rivers and green up the hillsides. Maybe the middle or end of this week.

Puerto Vallarta Celebrated Her Anniversary 57 years as a city, 107 as a Municipality on the 31^st of May, a week ago. They had an air show with acrobatic aircraft wowing the spectators. Parachutists, a stage set up on the Malecon with live music, dancing, a

huge party and fireworks at close to midnight, and music till the wee hours of the morning. The city went all out. They really outdid themselves.

Jalisco Celebrates 202 Years as a Free and Sovereign State

And today, June 9^th is The Birthday of the state of Jalisco. That’s right,

From the Banderas News,

Jalisco Celebrates 202 Years as a Free and Sovereign State

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – This Monday, June 9, 2025, Jalisco proudly marks 202 years since it was proclaimed a Free and Sovereign State – an important chapter in Mexico’s federal history. Although the official proclamation took place on June 16, 1823, the holiday is observed on the second Monday of June, as established by state law, to make its commemoration more accessible.

Public schools and government offices will be closed. The private sector is not required to observe the day, though some businesses may choose to give their employees the day off.

Jalisco was officially founded on December 16, 1823, when the Constituent Congress of the State of Jalisco declared its independence from the province of Nueva Galicia. However, the region’s roots stretch back much further.

Long before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, the area was home to thriving indigenous cultures such as the Huichol, Nahua, Caxcan, and Purépecha. The Spanish conquest transformed the region into Nueva Galicia, which once included what are now Jalisco, Nayarit, Colima, and parts of other neighboring states.

Jalisco quickly became one of the first states to embrace Mexican federalism, and since then it has played a key role in the nation’s cultural, political, and economic development. The state has given rise to legendary figures like muralist José Clemente Orozco, poet Juan Rulfo, composer José Alfredo Jiménez, and painter and sculptor Alejandro Colunga.

Today, Jalisco’s 125 municipalities reflect its deep and diverse heritage. From its famous cuisine and world-renowned tequila to mariachi music and the traditional charro culture, Jalisco continues to shape the Mexican identity. Its capital, Guadalajara, often called the “Pearl of the West”, stands out for its stunning architecture, historic plazas, and strong artistic presence.

Institutions like INEGI and the Jalisco Institute of Statistical and Geographic Information (IIEG) help track the state’s growth and needs, supporting smarter public policies for its people. Jalisco’s population structure and municipal organization remain vital areas of research and planning.

As Jalisco celebrates over two centuries of sovereignty, it also honors the many generations who have shaped its past and continue to build its future.

And I have a link to that article from the Banderas News, in the show notes. And Happy Birthday Jalisco!

Jalisco Celebrates 202 Years as a Free and Sovereign State

Mismaloya is Getting a New Pier

Mismaloya is getting a new pier, this is related to a story I talked about a couple of weeks ago.

From The Banderas News

New Pier Coming to Mismaloya to Boost Tourism and Access

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – The iconic beach of Mismaloya in Puerto Vallarta is set to receive a new pier, bringing modern improvements while honoring its rich history and natural beauty. The project, already in its early stages, is part of a broader plan to improve maritime connectivity in the Banderas Bay region through a proposed nautical staircase.

Led by the Secretary of Infrastructure and Public Works (SIOP) of Jalisco, David Zamora Bueno, and Puerto Vallarta Mayor Luis Munguía, the first phase of development includes detailed topographic studies and site preparation. A total of 55 million pesos has been allocated for this stage, with completion expected by the end of 2025.

The new pier will not only replace the old structure but also introduce upgraded features such as beach walkways, lighting, and high-speed internet access through Red Jalisco. These enhancements aim to benefit both residents and the growing number of visitors drawn to this area, just 20 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Governor Pablo Lemus emphasized the pier’s importance to Puerto Vallarta, a city that has become one of Mexico’s leading tourist destinations and a key contributor to the state’s economy. The project aligns with efforts to strengthen tourism and create new economic opportunities along the coast.

Among the long-term goals is the establishment of a continuous ferry and water taxi system connecting key points around Banderas Bay. This would reduce traffic on land, diversify the region’s tourism options, and build a modern logistics hub to support further growth.

The plan also includes the development of a second pier across from Uruguay Street. Currently under review, that project is expected to move forward later this year as part of the region’s larger maritime mobility strategy.

Collaboration between the municipal government, the Navy, SEMARNAT, and SIOP is ensuring that progress is made with care for the environment and the local community. Together, they are working to preserve what makes Mismaloya special while opening new doors for its future.

And I have a link to that article from The Banderas News, in the show notes.

New Pier Coming to Mismaloya to Boost Tourism and Access

The new piers should make it easier to travel by panga from place to place. Although not all are happy about the new piers as I’ve read that some environmental groups have said they are skeptical.

Aquarium Coming to La Isla Shopping Mall in Puerto Vallarta October 2025

Speaking of environmental groups and what they have to say, have you heard that this October there are plans to open an aquarium with over 2,000 organisms 60 species and including an interactive penguin exhibit. That’s right, Antarctic inspired penguin dome to boot.

From Vallarta En Lina…

At a press conference, businessmen from Mazatlán announced the imminent opening of an aquarium with 2,200 square meters in the La Isla shopping center, which both local families and tourists can enjoy.

It will open in the coming months, with an exhibition of about 2,000 varieties of different fish and living things, in fish tanks and ponds, as well as information sheets, virtual reality and interactive areas.

The great novelty is that there will be a pond with 10 penguins with which people can interact. The owners of the future aquarium, who also directed the aquarium in Mazatlán, said they have federal permits to bring species and there will be experts for their well -being. The investment will be around 80 million pesos, within the facilities of the La Isla Shopping Mall, which will add the aquarium to its attractions list.

Abrirá acuario en Centro Comercial La Isla, con 2 mil ejemplares

And I have a link to that story in the show notes at www.puertovallartatravelshow.com

What do you think? Would you go to an aquarium in Puerto Vallarta? What do you think they are going to tell those penguins about the September and October weather in paradise?

Although I do recall going to a resort in Maui where they did have penguins and they seemed happy enough…I guess.

I actually just went to look online at the aquarium this firm built in Mazatlán, and they too have that same penguin habitat they are planning on building in Vallarta, and the information on their website reads;

Penguin Habitat: Come visit the adorable Humboldt Penguins and enjoy a unique chance to interact with them. Feed these fascinating birds and capture the moment with a photo. Remember to dress warmly, it goes on to read, so yeah. Maybe another airconditioned area for the overheated residents of Puerto Vallarta.

Tell me what you think, would ya?

I put a link in the show notes for both the Vallarta En Lina and the article from Mazatlancity.com.

Gran Acuario Mazatlán – Mazatlan Aquarium

 

The US State Department Issues a Kidnapping Warning in Puerto Vallarta Citing Dating Apps

If you are looking for love in paradise online, better be careful. The US State Department put out a warning specifically mentioning Puerto Vallarta, and kidnapping and extortion of American citizens.

From AZ Noticias.mx

US warns of kidnapping of foreigners in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and Nuevo Nayarit

Written by AZNoticias Editorial Team on June 3, 2025. Posted in Jalisco

he United States has issued an alert following reports of several American citizens kidnapped by people the victims met on dating apps.

According to the U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara, the incidents occurred in recent months in the Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Nayarit areas.

They ask for money for the recovery of a person

According to US authorities, the victims and their families have been extorted for large sums of money in order to obtain their release.

“Please note that this type of violence is not limited to one geographic area. Travelers should be cautious when meeting strangers,” they reported.

Classification

The United States reminded that Jalisco is classified as level 3, so it recommends reconsidering travel due to crime and kidnapping.

What are the recommendations when using dating apps?

• Be careful when using online dating apps in Mexico.
• Meet only in public places and avoid isolated locations.
• Tell a friend or family member your plans, including where you’re going, the details of the person you’re meeting, and the app you used to meet them.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to walk away from a situation.
• In case of emergency, call 911.

How to request help?

• From Mexico: (55) 8526 2561
• From the United States: +1-844-528-6611
• Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444

And I have all that information including those emergency help numbers, from AZnoticias.mx  in the show notes.

AZ Noticias Article Regarding Dating Apps

Now the local government is quick to say that this isn’t a widespread issue citing just one incident, but there have been more than one of these kidnappings over the last few months if you follow social media and missing persons reports we see on the Facebag.

But look, it’s pretty sketchy wherever you live using dating apps and meeting total strangers. It’s just hard being single, it’s hard to be fooling around, it’s harder to do both I’d imagine.  Just be very careful. You don’t need to make a late-night call to your spouse or best friend to send you pesos so you don’t get whacked by Juan or Juanita.

Vallarta Ranked 4^th Safest City in Mexico

Now don’t let this distressing news of kidnapping, ransom and extortion get you down…because according to this article in the Banderas News, dated April 23,

Puerto Vallarta is Ranked as the 4^th Safest City in Mexico

From the Banderas News,

INEGI Survey: Vallarta the 4th Safest City in Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta has climbed to fourth place in perceived safety among Mexican cities, and remains the safest in the state of Jalisco, according to the latest results from the National Urban Public Security Survey (ENSU), published on April 22 by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI).

To determine the public’s perception of security in cities throughout Mexico, every year during the first two weeks of March, June, September and December, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) conducts a National Urban Public Security Survey among the population over 18 years of age who reside in the 91 cities considered to be of interest in the national territory.

In the most recent survey, published on Tuesday, April 22, only 23.0% of Puerto Vallarta residents aged 18 and over reported feeling unsafe, a marked improvement from the 30.5% recorded in the previous quarter. This positive shift highlights the city’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for both its residents and the thousands of visitors it welcomes every year.

Compared to other cities in Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta’s safety ratings are exceptional. In Guadalajara, 78.8% of residents reported feeling insecure, while Tlajomulco and Tlaquepaque showed similar concerns, with 71.5% and 61.0% of their populations feeling unsafe, respectively.

On a national level, Puerto Vallarta stands alongside cities like San Pedro Garza García (10.4%), Benito Juárez (20.4%), and Piedras Negras (20.5%), as the cities with the lowest levels of perceived insecurity. On the other end of the spectrum, cities like Villahermosa (90.6%), Culiacán (89.7%), and Fresnillo (89.5%) reported the highest rates of perceived insecurity, with over 89% of respondents expressing concern.

The ENSU also revealed broader trends in perceptions of insecurity across Mexico. Nationwide, 61.9% of the surveyed population aged 18 and over expressed feelings of insecurity in their respective cities. This figure represents a stable trend, showing no statistically significant change from the March 2024 (61.0%) and December 2024 (61.7%) surveys.

The March 2025 ENSU identified 18 urban areas with statistically significant shifts in perceived safety compared to December 2024, with seven cities showing a decrease in insecurity and eleven reporting an increase.

While historical data reveals variations in how safe Puerto Vallarta has been perceived over time, the current survey suggests that ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety have yielded positive results. With continued emphasis on crime prevention and community involvement, both residents and visitors are experiencing an increased sense of security.

Whether it’s a short vacation or a long-term stay, Puerto Vallarta’s appeal continues to grow – thanks not only to its scenic coastline and cultural richness but also to the safety that makes it feel like home.

And I have a link to that article from the Banderas News, in the show notes.

INEGI Survey: Vallarta the 4th Safest City in Mexico

And I can of course concur with this article by saying that in all my years visiting Puerto Vallarta and that’s with my wife, with our kids, on my own recording interviews for the podcast while my wife slaved away at home, I, we, have never once felt in danger, had anything stolen, been intimidated, although I always keep an eye open for the occasional sketchy individual, and make sure the folks I’m with are paying attention. It’s just something everyone should do. Know who’s moving around you. But no, never felt in direct danger. If you’ve been here before, I’m sure you’ll agree.

Thanks to Listeners Who Have Visited Us

Debbie and I have had so much fun meeting listeners who’ve reached out to see if we were up to sharing a drink or a meal.

So many of you I feel like we are friends and have a special bond, and I just want to say we appreciate you all. There’s Eric and his wife Amy from Minnesota. I have Eric coming on an upcoming podcast with my new suggestion for a driver. We.ve been looking for a good one, right? Matt and Jodi from Canada, great times. They told us we needed to go to The Romantic Wok and that they told the owner that he should talk with me, and we did, and I’ve fallen in love with that place so I have an interview coming up really soon with James at The Romantic Wok. So thanks to you both Jodi and Matt. Jose and Cara from Atlanta are architects from Atlanta who built a beautiful home overlooking Downtown Vallarta. We really have had some fun times. Joyce and Bill from Wisconsin. Such a cool couple and I think Bill has been coming to Vallarta for as long as we have. Oh, and Gilbert and Chris from Colorado, these guys are such foodies, and always on the run, and always making great suggestions to me for guests, or what they like to hear. We just had them over to our place for drinks, then they suggested we walk down the street to a lovely restaurant just a block and a half away from us up in Alta Vista called Palmar de Los Gonzalez. What a view, and just classic Vallarta architecture. And the food was delicious. We’re totally going back. So thanks Chris and Gilbert. See you soon, we hope. Um, there’s Marty and his wife Jeanine from Indiana. Marty always has suggestions and ideas for me, and I truly appreciate his friendship and advice. We had a lovely lunch up at The Seahorse Restaurant which overlooks the Plaza de Armas, the Malecon, the Bay, the main church, the Inglesia de Nuestera Senora de Guadalupe.

I did an interview several years ago there, and it’s just beautiful. Great sunset material. And the dish that I recommend there that you can’t miss is called Insalata Rosa. Red Salad, and it has watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes, basil, feta cheese and a reduced

balsamic vinegar dressing. It’s out of this world. I’ll put a picture of one in the show notes. Who else, there’ our friend Brian who stopped by Los Muertos Brewery for their happy hour. A great spot for craft beer and pizza. He introduced me to Don at Casa Cupula up in Colonia Amapas, around the hill from us, so thank you Brian, for the recommendation. We’ll get to Casa Cupula really soon, amigo.

Just so many great moments with listeners over the last 10 months since we moved to Vallarta permanently. We really appreciate your listening, your suggestions and your friendship. It has really meant a lot to us to meet new friends in our new adopted town. Muy chido, Very cool. As long as we are talking about cool things, I have a couple of cool stories to share with you.

Let’s get to our interviews, shall we?

La Sugar Bakery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

A few months ago I noticed that an all time Vallarta favorite hamburger stand, Jean’s Classic Burgers in Plaza Marina, was for sale, and then I noticed they were advertising the date of their last day, kind of a countdown so to speak. And in all this I also noticed them doing a little advertising for a bakery selling cinnamon rolls. So, I found this curious, and being the curious type, I contacted Hal and said hey, are you selling these cinnamon rolls? And he says yes. But you need to wait to talk with me until I

work out these last days at the Hamburger Stand.

So I tell him, cool, I’m patient, I’ll put you on my calendar and get back to you.

So, Jean’s has their last day, and something magical happened. You are going to hear first from Hal and Eneida, his wife from Jean’s Classic Hamburgers, about that day, and then from some of the nicest people you will ever meet, Brian, and Phillip, who brought Jean’s Classic Burgers from the edge of extinction, and into the romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta.

Let’s go to my favorite little restaurant for good seafood and a better margarita, and record a podcast episode. Restaurant San Lucas, and let’s talk with Hal and Eneida Hilton about a little miracle and sweet new business venture baking and delivering cinnamon rolls, La Sugar Bakery, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Contact Information for La Sugar Bakery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Thank you so much Hal and Eneida. What a great story.

Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Hamburgers in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

But what makes this a great story indeed are these two gentlemen you are going to hear from now. Brian Scott Carey and Phillip

Wier, owners of Salchidogo and now the new owners of Jean’s Classic Hamburgers were so kind to allow me to interview them for as the late Paul Harvey used to say, The Rest of The Story. So let’s go right now to Basillio Badillo 329 in the Zona Romantica

and let’s meet Brian Scott Carey and Phillip Wier at their combined restaurants Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Burgers, where it’s burgers and dogos, for the rest of the story, in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Listen to The Podcast

Contact Information For Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Hamburgers in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• Address: 329 Basilio Badillo 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Phone: 322 369 2222
• Salchidogo Website: https://www.salchidogo.com/
• Jean’s Classic Hamburgers Website: Jean’s Website
• Salchidogo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salchidogo
• Jean’s Hamburgers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeansclassichamburgers
• Salchidogo Instagram: Instagram
• Jean’s Classic Hamburgers: Instagram

 

Okay thank you so much Brian and Phillip. I have to say I’d be there every day. I just love their food. And I’m looking forward to adding a shake and even some brisket to my order.

Do give them a try. And it’s an air-conditioned restaurant in Vallarta. A rarity in this town. You have to give them a try I have all the contact information in the shownotes at www.puertovallartatravelshow.com.

Ok, that should do it for this week, next week, stay tuned for more on the ground reports from Puerto Vallarta Mexico, with travel tips, great restaurant and excursion ideas and more.  Until then, remember, this is an interactive show where I depend on your questions and suggestions about all things Puerto Vallarta. If you think of something I should be talking about, please reach out to me by clicking on the Contact us tab and sending us your message.

And remember, if you are considering booking any type of tour while you are in Puerto Vallarta, you must go to Vallartainfo.com, JR’s website and reserve your tour through him, right from his website. Remember the value for value proposition. His

experience and on the ground knowledge of everything Puerto Vallarta in exchange for your making a purchase of a tour that you would do anyway, you’re just doing it through him as a way of saying thank you. It costs no more than if you were to use

someone else so do it. Really. And when you do take one of these tours, email me about your experiences. Maybe you can come on board and share with others what you liked or didn’t like about the tour. Again, contact me by clicking on the Contact us tab and sending off a message. Don’t forget his maps, his DIY tours and I have links to all of those in the show notes.

And once again, if you like this podcast, please take the time and subscribe and follow share with a lover of Puerto Vallarta or give me a good review wherever or however you happen to be listening. That way we can get the word out to more and more

people about the magic of this place. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Remember I made it easy for you to do just that with each episode I create. But if you haven’t been to my website, you really need to have a look there.  I have the links to the places we talk about, interesting pictures and the more all right there in my blogposts and show-notes for each episode of the show so check them out for sure if you haven’t already all-right? All right.

Thanks so much to Eneida and Hal Hilton of La Sugar Bakery in Puerto Vallarta. Order the best cinnamon rolls in paradise to be delivered to your place in paradise. Your condo, your house, your Airbnb your resort hotel, whatever. I have contact information in the show notes. And thank you so much to Brian Scott Carey and Phillip Wier from Salchidogo and Jean’s Classic Hamburgers for joining us to tell their storybook tale of a classic burger and gourmet hotdog stand in paradise. Go visit them in their lovely airconditioned space in Zona Romantica. All the links and maps are in the show notes at www.puertovallartatravelshow.com.

And thanks to all of you for listening all the way through this episode of the Puerto Vallarta Travel Show. This is Barry Kessler signing off with a wish for you all to slow down, be kind and live the Vallarta lifestyle. Nos Vemos amigos.

Listen to The Podcast