Have you ever wondered where chefs eat when they go out to enjoy the city? We asked Xrysw Ruelas and Óscar Segundo, the duo behind Xokol, to share their favorite restaurants in Guadalajara.
The selection ranges from coffee shops and taquerías to contemporary cuisine spots and restaurants perfect for a special occasion. If you’re looking for new dining recommendations in the city, this list is a great place to start.
Mecenas
Recently named to the Best 50 Bars list, this bar stands out for its 100% house-made spirits, but it also offers excellent cuisine. A 360-degree experience.
El Taquito
Tacos featuring beef tongue, barbacoa, carnaza, beef head, and brains—originally sold at Guadalajara’s tianguis —now have locations in Paseos del Sol, Cruz del Sur, and Santa Tere.
Alcalde
The other restaurant in the city to earn a Michelin Star in Guadalajara. Chef Paco Ruano’s cuisine respects the seasons and puts a new spin on Mexican cuisine.
Otto
A recently opened concept that blends the ideas of a deli and a bistro: great sandwiches and comfort food.
Tortas Ahogadas Mr. Paco’s
One of the best “tortas ahogadas” in Guadalajara, with finely chopped meat, fresh ingredients, and a great sauce.
Mauricio
Top chefs present a Mediterranean-inspired menu. You have to try the duck, the meatballs, and the milanesa.
El Desonchadero de Caguamo
A seafood restaurant with top-quality ingredients and exceptional preparation. Try the “Deliciosa” tostada, featuring an avocado base, ground ceviche, cooked shrimp, aguachile oil, and topped with zarandeado shrimp.
Kasuga
A benchmark for Japanese haute cuisine in the city. Kasuga, led by Chef Daisuke Maeda, stands out for its precision and ultra-fresh ingredients.
La Panga del Impostor
The specialty at this seafood spot is the tostadas, though the aguachiles, cocktails, and seafood tacos are also standout choices. Don’t forget to finish off your meal with one of their delicious ice creams.
La Matera
A true Guadalajara institution, perfect for enjoying premium cuts of meat, pizzas, pastas, and a slightly more upscale atmosphere. Fun fact: it has an underground wine cellar with over 200 wine labels.
Tostadas Don Ramón
Santa Tere’s traditional basket-style tostadas, topped with pork rinds and pork snout, served with tomato sauce and red onion.
Tikuun Comedor
This is another option for sampling reinvented, quintessentially Mexican flavors. The result? You’ll most likely be planning your return visit.
Rico Mac Taco
Tacos with a variety of fillings, but the favorite is the tongue taco , with plenty of mild green salsa and a touch of spicy red salsa.
La Docena
A wide selection offresh shellfish, fish, meats, and other dishes prepared in a simple yet incredibly delicious way.
Tacos Don Panela
Tacos famous for their freshly made tortillas and for topping them with a generous slice of panela cheese.
