About Coco Cabaret
Coco Cabaret (also billed as “Coco by The Palm”) is a modern live-entertainment venue in Puerto Vallarta’s famed Zona Romántica. Opened in November 2024, it serves as the sister cabaret to the city’s long-running Palm Cabaret & Bar. The owners and creative team (Mark Rome and Sebastian Coronel) have 25 years of local theatre experience, and they poured that heritage into this new space. Located at Francisco I. Madero #289 just a block from Los Muertos Beach, Coco is a sleek, state-of-the-art club. Inside you’ll find soaring ceilings, three large LED video screens, and a high-end sound and light system. A wide mezzanine balcony overlooks the main floor, giving the room an open, airy feel. Guests sit at small tables or at the bar in cabaret-style seating for roughly 120 people. The decor is chic with a blacked-out interior and modern lighting that makes every performance pop. This cutting-edge setup, paired with the Palm’s signature cocktails and friendly service, has quickly made Coco Cabaret a must-see in the Vallarta nightlife scene.
Events and Programming
Coco Cabaret offers a jam-packed lineup of shows every week. Starting when it opened, the venue has scheduled performances seven nights a week (usually with three shows per night at around 6:00, 8:00, and 10:00 PM). The lineup covers a variety of genres: high-energy drag revues, live music tributes to pop icons, comedy cabaret, and even acrobatic circus-style acts. Signature shows have included local favorites and touring stars. For example, the male cabaret troupe Boys on Fire (a sexy burlesque revue created by owner Sebastian Coronel) plays weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, celebrating its five-year anniversary with special "Best Of" performances. Drag legends like Hedda Lettuce, Jackie Cox (“Nurse Jackie”), Ada Vox and Tina Burner have made special appearances or residencies, delighting audiences with live vocals and comedy. Pop tribute shows are common – over the past seasons audiences have seen full concerts honoring stars like Pink, Britney Spears, Sam Smith, Annie Lennox/Eurythmics and others. There’s also lineup variety: pianist and band recitals, mariachi-fusion concerts, and shows like AirOtic (aerial acrobatics). Many acts are locally produced, but the theater also books performers known from TV/LGBT circuits. Most runs are limited engagements (often a few dates or weekly series), so schedules change frequently. The venue’s official calendar (and local press coverage) is the best place to see which shows are playing in any given week. In general, adult cabaret fare is shown in the evening; each program lasts about one hour. Attendees note that show quality is very high for the price – for instance, one reviewer saw a “Boys on Fire” performance (featuring silk aerials and elaborate costumes) for about MXN700 (~$35 USD at 2024 rates) and called it “well worth the price.” Thanks to its technology-rich stage (including giant LED screens) and professional choreographers and musicians, Coco’s events can genuinely compare with top-tier cabaret acts worldwide.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Coco Cabaret shows can be purchased online or in person. The venue partners with ticketing platforms (often Eventbrite) and sells official tickets through its website, but it does not rely on walk-up street sales. Visitors are encouraged to buy seats well in advance, especially for popular shows. Standard prices typically range from roughly MXN 350–800 per ticket (about $18–40 USD, depending on the show and seating). There are no assigned seats – tickets reserve entry but not a specific chair – so arriving early is a good strategy. The venue advises arriving shortly after doors open (about 30 minutes before show time) to choose the best available table or chair. You can pay with major credit cards or pesos in cash. The Palm Cabaret & Bar box office (just a few blocks away) often sells Coco Cabaret tickets too, and local concierge desks or retail outlets sometimes carry them. However, the simplest booking method is via Coco’s official channels or through Travel Vallarta concierges if you’re staying at a hotel. Because the cabaret is intimate, many shows will sell out on peak nights, so management recommends reserve early. A helpful tip: Coco maintains the same “two-drink minimum” that is common at Palm Cabaret. This means that each guest is expected to order at least two drinks (cocktails or non-alcoholic beverages) during the show. This policy effectively means ticket prices should be considered inclusive of about two drinks, and it supports the live entertainment budget. If you encounter any issues buying online (like payment errors), the box office manager suggests emailing them proof of payment or calling ahead. In any case, once you have a ticket, you simply check in at the host stand or box office when you arrive, usually around 15-30 minutes before the show time listed on your ticket.
Seating and Layout
Coco Cabaret’s interior is designed for an up-close, immersive theatre experience. The main floor is laid out with small tables and chairs (cabaret-style), allowing pairs and small parties to sit together. There are also a few bench seats along the walls. Directly above, a large balcony/long mezzanine wraps around the sides and rear of the space, providing additional seating. Between floor and balcony there are roughly 120 seats in total. Because the room is not large, even the backs rows are only a few meters from the stage. Every seat typically has a clear line of sight; there are no pillars to obstruct the view. On the floor, the best seats are center or slightly off-center facing the stage, ideally not too far back. Front-row tables offer the greatest interaction (hosts and performers often engage directly with front-row guests). The balcony offers a great overview – from there you see the entire stage and surrounding screens at once – but everyone agrees that even center-floor feels very intimate. Reviewing trip reports and venue descriptions, listeners frequently note that the space feels “intimate and up-close” no matter where you sit (www.tripadvisor.com ). The long triple LED screens behind the stage and the state-of-art sound system (with crisp acoustics even in the upper mezzanine) mean you don’t “lose” anything hearing or seeing. One thing to note: there is no strict “good/bad” side; the sound and lighting are well-balanced throughout. That said, latecomers may find the only remaining spots are far at the sides or under the balcony where glancing angle is wider. Avoid sitting directly under the balcony overhang (near the back) if possible, as the view of high aerial acts can be slightly low-angle from there. Otherwise, plan to sit wherever is available – some people even line up early to snag the front row before doors open. The seating is general admission, so it’s truly first-come, first-served by ticket-holder arrival. Also keep in mind the “2-drink minimum” connection: at least two drinks are suggested per person at your table, so you’ll want to plan on a beverage order early. Lastly, the warm lighting in seating areas is low to focus attention on the stage; the room is air-conditioned for comfort. All seats are indoors and on one floor level (plus the one mezzanine) – there are no standing-room areas during shows.
Getting There and Parking
Coco Cabaret sits in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica along Francisco I. Madero street. The closest modeled address is #289 Madero, between Calle Corona and Calle Mexico. The easiest access is by taxi, Uber or rideshare, especially on busy nights. Most drop-off points are just blocks away since Madero itself is very narrow. If you do drive, be aware that street parking in Zona Romántica is scarce (and often time-limited or ticketed). The venue does not have its own parking lot. Your best options are to look for paid parking a few blocks away (for example near Calle Basilio Badillo or the free municipal lot by the pier), or park farther out and walk. Expect to pay around MXN50–150 for a night in a private garage near the beach. Many visitors simply park at a downtown garage near Los Muertos Beach (a brief 5–10 minute walk) and stroll over. Public transportation can also get you close: a few city bus routes service Calle Basilio and parallel streets in the Romantic Zone. However, for most tourists the simplest route is by taxi or app. Puerto Vallarta has metered taxis everywhere, or you can use Uber/Cabify which operate around the clock. If you do choose to walk, Coco is only about a 10-minute stroll south from the Malecon (downtown waterfront) or from the northern end of Zona Romántica. The area is safe and walkable, lined with restaurants and boutiques, so many people combine a dinner on Olas Altas or Basilio with a trip to the cabaret. Do note that in this neighborhood the streets are often one-way and busy with foot traffic, so allow an extra few minutes if driving. Overall, arriving either by ride-hail drop-off or street parking a short block away is easiest. Once near, the entrance is on Francisco I. Madero street (opposite a small gym and near a pharmacy). Look for the neon signs of Coco Cabaret on the building’s facade.
Inside the Venue
During your visit to Coco Cabaret you’ll find a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Upon arrival, staff greets you at the door and checks your tickets. Security and bag checks are routine — like any nightclub or theatre, large cameras may not be allowed, and oversized bags may need to be checked or stowed. Inside is a warm, clubby lobby area leading to the main seating room. The space is fully air-conditioned, and the decor is sleek black/glitter with modern lounge furnishings. By the entrance or near the stage there is a bar selling specialty cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages; you can order drinks before the show and during intermission. (Remember that 2-drink minimum.) There is seating at the bar counter and shelves holding glasses and napkins. Restrooms are located on the main level just past the bar. They are usually clean and adequate for a small crowd, though if shows sell out there can be a line at intermission. There is no formal coat check – guests typically keep their jackets or light bags at their table or hanging on chairs. From inside, the stage is clearly visible because of the dramatic lighting and the three giant video screens behind the performers. The seating lighting is dimmed once the show begins, so you’ll be focused on the performance. Note: the venue is smoke-free. If you need to step outside, the doors to the street are usually open before doors or during intermission. Many people use those moments to chat, take photos, or smoke out front. As for dining, Coco Cabaret does not have a kitchen or serve food. While you can enjoy drinks inside, any full meal should be eaten at a nearby restaurant before or after the show. Some patrons order appetizers or small plates in advance at local restaurants on Basilio Badillo or Olas Altas and carry them over, but outside food is generally discouraged. Connectivity-wise, the venue offers free Wi-Fi in the lobby (though it may not be usable during the show since do-not-disturb mode and dim lighting are encouraged). In summary, expect a nightclub-like setup: arrive to a lively bar lobby, get seated at a small table, enjoy the performance with drinks, and mingle with friendly staff who take care of timing and ordering. Embers, cell signal, and phone flash are the main “don’ts” – crowd members say it’s best to roll with the show and leave electronic gadgetry aside once the performance starts.
Nearby Amenities
The Zona Romántica is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most vibrant neighborhoods, and Coco Cabaret is right in the middle of it. Around the corner and up and down adjacent streets you’ll find dozens of eateries and bars ideal for pre-show or post-show visits. For dinner before the show, there are many options on nearby Basilio Badillo and Olas Altas. Quick informal spots include Mexican taquerías (al pastor tacos are popular) and coffee shops. If you want sit-down dining, consider well-known restaurants like La Palapa or Casa Kimberly on the beach, or one of the modern bistros on Calle Gildardo (e.g. The Iguana or Bristol Bar). A short walk east takes you to the Plaza de la Comunidad (lots of Mexican restaurants and a carnival-style fair), or west toward beachfront seafood grills. When the show ends at 10 or 11pm, some guests like to continue the night by hitting the Zona Romántica bars – for example, there are casually chic lounges and gay clubs on Olas Altas, or the lively Joe Jack’s Fish Shack and Late Night Tacos. Discussion forums often recommend the nearby Zoo restaurant/bar (well-known on media listings), Naked Taco, or Cantina Doña Veuve for late-night cocktails. You’ll also see crowded bars like Eureka or Paco’s as popular after-show spots. If you need a caffeine pick-me-up, a Starbucks is a few blocks away on Basilio. In terms of lodging, there are many hotels within a few blocks – from luxury boutique (Casa Cupula, Villa Premiere, Icon Vallarta) to mid-range (Mercurio Hotel, Porto Allegro) to budget inns (Vellmarí, Posada Casa Dona Susana). Guests staying in the Romantic Zone often walk or take a cheap $2–3 taxi rides home after a Coco Cabaret show. Taxis are easily hailed on the street; rideshare apps pick up in the area as well (many say it’s easiest to catch a Didi or Uber on Hotelos or Basilio). Overall, arriving a bit early will let you enjoy one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants for dinner and still make the first act. Similarly, don’t rush out immediately after—take a stroll by the beach promenade or grab a late drink at one of the bustling bars, as the whole area stays lively into the night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Coco Cabaret stands out for bringing world-class production values to a cozy, local stage. It’s Puerto Vallarta’s newest cabaret theater, but it draws on the decades of history behind its sister venue, The Palm. The Palm Cabaret has long been a focal point for LGBTQ and variety entertainment in PV, and Coco extends that tradition into an even more high-tech space. From its very opening night (a glitzy grand ribbon-cutting in November 2024), the venue earned rave buzz for its design. Local press noted the dramatic 6-meter-high stage and darkened interior, ideal for dynamic mysteries on stage (vallartamirror.com ). Artists and audiences alike have praised the theater’s intimate “club” feel – even when packed shoulder-to-shoulder, everyone agreed the experience feels electric and up-close (www.tripadvisor.com ). Architecturally, it was a major remodel of a Zona Romántica building, complete with industrial-chic accents, hidden soundproofing, and that massive balcony. The name “Coco” itself was conceived to emphasize fun nights out: it suggests something a bit cheeky and rhythmic (and casually nods to its neighbor, The Palm). Over just a few months it has already hosted what locals call “legendary nights” – from Christmas-themed burlesque to sold-out New Year’s cabaret shows. The artistic impact is also notable: the venue has become a launchpad for international performers bringing their shows to Mexico. Acts that might once have skipped Vallarta are now booking Coco because it offers club-level acoustics and visuals. Economically, it’s created new jobs for singers, dancers and tech crew in the city’s tourism industry. Culturally, Coco Cabaret is quickly woven into Puerto Vallarta’s ethos as an open, creative city. Its LGBTQ-friendly programming and drag performances tie in with Vallarta’s Pride legacy and the Rainbow community. In fact, gay travel guides and local media have singled out Coco for welcoming mixed audiences — it’s “gay-friendly, hetero-friendly, very welcoming” (www.gayguidevallarta.com ). A unique touch: it wasn’t carved out of a new building but retrofitted from existing space, giving it a cool “attic turn-of-the-century” vibe contrasted with cutting-edge gear. In short, Coco Cabaret matters because it offers visitors and locals alike a production level that few small theaters achieve, while keeping the warmth and flamboyance that Puerto Vallarta audiences expect.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is partially accessible. It has a reserved wheelchair space on the main floor (the door and seating have one step, though staff will assist if needed). Check in advance if you need special accommodation. Arrival: Aim to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before showtime. Doors officially open about half an hour before the performance, and you must be seated promptly (seating is not held after showtime). Lining up early means first choice of seats. If you’re familiar with The Palm, note Coco is just a block south on Madero. Dress Code: There is no strict dress code – casual resort wear or smart-casual is fine. Guests in shorts, jeans or sundresses will fit right in. Flip-flops or beachwear are discouraged since it’s an indoor show club. Food and Drink: Packing lunch or snacks is not allowed; the venue only sells drinks. Plan to have dinner beforehand or buy food elsewhere if needed. Remember the two-drink minimum: each person should be prepared to purchase about two beverages (beer, cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks) during the show. If you have dietary concerns, there are largely vegetarian-friendly menus in the area (see restaurants nearby) but inside the show just the bar is available. What to Bring: Have your printed tickets or mobile confirmation ready (the door staff will scan or check them). Valid ID is a good idea (just in case). Leave large backpacks or bulky items at your hotel; only small purses or light cameras are practical. Phone cameras can be used for pictures, but it’s polite to keep them stowed during performances so you’re not distracted by screen light. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume there’s later late-night seating. The last show usually ends around 10 or 11 pm, after which nearby streets get busy. Don’t forget that because of the drink minimum, you’ll want some cash or card ready for alcohol payments at the bar. Also, lines often form for the restrooms at intermission – you might visit once quickly before the show starts if you’re nervous about that. House Rules: Photography without flash is generally acceptable (many performers encourage audience selfies during numbers), but check with staff if in doubt. Smoking is only allowed outside in front of the venue, never inside. Entry is 18+ unless accompanied by an adult. And yes, friendly tipping to servers and performers on favors (like snapping a photo with the entertainer) is always appreciated in cabaret culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of Coco Cabaret?
Coco Cabaret is an intimate cabaret theatre with roughly 120 seats in total. The space is set up cabaret-style (small tables and chairs on the main floor) plus a mezzanine balcony above. In practice, this means only around a hundred guests can fit per show. It’s much smaller than large concert venues, so almost every seat is quite close to the stage.
What types of shows are held at Coco Cabaret?
Coco Cabaret features a variety of live entertainment. You will see cabaret and drag performances (often featuring well-known local and international drag artists), male burlesque (like the popular “Boys on Fire” show), tribute concerts (to stars like P!nk or Madonna), comedy-cabaret acts, big musical numbers, and even acrobatic aerial shows (such as AirOtic). The schedule typically includes nightly shows that change regularly – so some nights are headline drag stars, other nights are theme nights or tribute extravaganzas. It’s an eclectic lineup designed to appeal to both visitors and locals looking for high-energy nightlife.
How do I buy tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets for Coco Cabaret shows can be purchased online (usually via Eventbrite or the venue’s official site) and also in person at some local vendors. The Palm Cabaret box office often sells Coco Cabaret tickets as well. Pricing varies by show, but expect roughly MXN 350–800 (about $18–40 USD) per ticket for most performances. These prices typically come with the two-drink minimum included. If you missed online booking, a few extra tickets may be sold at the door, but popular shows often sell out. It’s safest to reserve in advance. Payment by credit card or cash (Mexican pesos) is accepted.
Is there assigned seating at Coco Cabaret?
No, seating at Coco Cabaret is generally first-come, first-served. When you enter, you choose any available table or chair. There are no pre-assigned seats. For this reason, arriving early (doors open about 30 minutes before showtime) is recommended to get the best spot. Front-row tables and center tables give the closest stage views, while the balcony offers a full overview. If you arrive late, you might only find side or back seats. The staff will help lead guests to tables once doors open.
What is the dress code at Coco Cabaret?
There is no formal dress code. Guests usually wear smart-casual attire. Many visitors are in tourist-friendly clothes—jeans, nice shorts, dresses, or polos. Since it’s a nightclub-style cabaret, a relaxed yet tidy outfit is perfect. Flip-flops, tank tops, or beachwear are not recommended; opt for something a step above your beach outfit. Many performers dress lavishly, but audience members are generally comfortable in trendy resort wear. Ultimately, comfort is key – it’s more about enjoying the show than showing off your outfit.
Is Coco Cabaret wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Coco Cabaret provides accommodations for guests with mobility needs. The entrance has a few steps, but staff will assist. Inside, there is a reserved wheelchair space on the main floor so you can sit near the stage. Reservations are a good idea if you need that space. The building itself has modern amenities (air conditioning, elevators to the balcony), but keep in mind that restrooms may not be fully wheelchair-compliant due to the building’s retrofit nature. If you require special access, it’s best to call the venue in advance to ensure they can prepare a suitable spot.
What time do the shows start and how long do they last?
Coco Cabaret typically has three separate showtimes each evening (for example, around 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, though some shows may use slightly different times). Each show is about 60 minutes long with no intermission, designed as a tight one-hour performance. Because the venue can host up to three shows nightly, you can pick the time that best fits your evening. Doors usually open 30 minutes before each show, so plan to arrive in time to get seated with your group. The show will start promptly at its scheduled time.
Is there a drink minimum or are food and drinks available inside?
Yes, there is a drink minimum. Guests are asked to purchase at least two beverages (per person) during the show. These can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks from Coco’s bar. The venue does not serve food – just drinks like cocktails, beer and wine at the bar. Plan to have a drink or two with the performance; this policy helps cover production costs. You should be fine ordering your drinks when you sit down or at intermission (vendors will come around with drink menus). Tip: eat dinner before you come, as the theater itself does not offer meals or snacks.
Can I buy tickets at the door if I didn’t reserve in advance?
Possibly, but it’s not guaranteed. If a performance is not sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available at the venue before showtime. However, Coco Cabaret is quite small and popular nights often sell out in advance. The safer plan is to purchase tickets beforehand online or through a concierge. If you do show up, check at the box office panel; sometimes last-minute tickets (or waiting-list options) can open up due to cancellations. Remember that entry is by ticket only – without a ticket in hand you may be turned away once the show is full.
Is Coco Cabaret LGBT-friendly?
Absolutely. Coco Cabaret builds on the LGBT-friendly legacy of The Palm Cabaret. The shows are popular with Puerto Vallarta’s gay and lesbian community, and the venue welcomes a mixed audience. Many performers and staff are part of or allies to the LGBTQ+ community. You will see both straight couples and LGBT visitors in the audience, and the environment is very inclusive. Spanish-language travel guides explicitly note that Coco is “amable con gays, clientela mixta” (gay-friendly, welcoming to all) (
www.gayguidevallarta.com ). So whether you’re part of the LGBTQ community or not, you can feel comfortable attending and joining the fun.
How far is Coco Cabaret from downtown or the beach?
Coco Cabaret is very centrally located in the Zona Romántica (Old Town). It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Puerto Vallarta Malecon (the oceanfront boardwalk) and just a few blocks north of Los Muertos Beach. If you’re staying near the beach or the pier, you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride. Many guests will park near the beach area and stroll a few blocks south on Basilio Badillo or Olas Altas to reach Coco. The neighborhood is safe and lively, even at night, so walking is a common option if the weather is nice.
What languages are the performances in?
Most shows at Coco Cabaret are in English, Spanish, or a mixture of both, depending on the performers. Many headlining acts (especially those brought from the U.S.) entertain primarily in English, often with some audience interaction in Spanish. Local performers sometimes do purely Spanish comedy or songs. However, the music and spectacle themselves are universal, so language is usually not a barrier to enjoyment. In promotional descriptions you’ll see clues: if the artist is known in the English-speaking LGBTQ circuit, expect English; if it’s a local band or cabaret show, expect Spanish or bilingual performance. The staff can usually tell you which language predominates if it’s an important factor for you.
Is there a coat check or storage for belongings?
No, Coco Cabaret does not have a formal coat check. The lobby is not large enough for stored items. Guests typically keep jackets or small bags at their own seats (just ask a server for a place to hang or put your coat). If you have a very large bag, you might call ahead to see if they can accommodate it, but in general it’s easiest to travel light. Security personnel may ask about large packages, and any oversized luggage might be turned away or stored at your own risk under your seat. For peace of mind, leaving bulky items at your hotel or car before entering is best.
Are tips expected at Coco Cabaret?
Like most bars and theatres in Mexico, tipping is customary though not mandatory. There will likely be servers bringing drinks to your table. A small tip (5–10%) is appreciated for good service. Some people also tip performers if you catch them after the show for a selfie or autograph. There is no strict rule, but think of it as part of the entertainment experience. Feel free to tip more if the show is outstanding and you really enjoyed interacting with the staff or artists.
Who runs Coco Cabaret?
Coco Cabaret is owned and operated by The Palm Cabaret’s management team. The creative directors are Sebastian Coronel (who also performs) and Mark Rome. They started The Palm together over two decades ago and have used that experience to launch Coco. The Palm Cabaret brand is well known in Vallarta, and Coco is essentially “Palm Cabaret, Village Remix.” This means the same production quality, staff friendliness and vision, just in a new venue. The official partnership with The Palm means you can trust the same level of professionalism and entertainment value at Coco.
