The 11 best cantinas in Guadalajara: classic and modern

“Between snacks and spirits, you get stuck in your chair,” they say about their place… and it’s true. De la O is a modern cantina for drinking and eating well.

The cocktails are inspired by local drinks, although you can also enjoy a good mezcal. Don’t miss the dobladas with panela, plantain, guajillo sauce, and cream, the house specialty. Arrive early as there are no reservations.

A legendary spot in the Historic Center where you’ll be greeted by a rusty bicycle, an old cash register, and , and a bar that transports you back in time.

A spot in the city that brings together politicians, journalists, artists, and anyone looking to enjoy a beer or spirit.

A veritable institution (it’s even on our list of places we think should have a Michelin star), the great flavor of this cantina is a secret known only to connoisseurs.

Simple dishes such as shrimp pancakes with nopalesor espinazo with verdolagas, but taken to another level. Of course, everything is accompanied by a good mint drink.

Although it has several branches run by different family members, the most classic is the one located in the heart of San Juan de Dios, which in the past was called Bar Oriental.

You’ll find a good variety of traditional dishes ranging from tortas ahogadas to caldo de espinazo, but their most iconic dish is El Viril: bull’s penis cooked until tender.

Located in Las Nueve Esquinas, this is one of the few places that preserves the tradition of bringing you a complimentary snack as you order drinks.

The most iconic drink of the place is the Occipitayas. They are served only in season (from April to June) with fresh pitaya.

A more modern alternative, here they boast of having the best Yerbabuenas in the city. You’ll have to check it out for yourself!

The snacks are also free and change regularly, as in the cantinas of yesteryear, “but with less mustache and more style,” they say.

The oldest cantina in all of Guadalajara, it is said that celebrities such as Pedro Infante and José Alfredo Jimenez, among other personalities, have walked through its doors.

Although the place has undergone several transformations, the doors and wooden bar have remained the same since its founding.

Homemade menu during the week, delicious snacks, and traditional drinks, from Batangas to Yerbabuenas.

It’s also a good option for watching games in Guadalajara, and some days they have live music.

With more than 105 years of history, Los Famosos Equipales is one of the most legendary and beloved cantinas in Guadalajara.

Their signature drink is called “Las Nalgas Alegres” (The Happy Buttocks), which contains gin, rum, red wine, lemon, and the key ingredient, Orange Crush soda.

A place to enjoy aguachiles, tacos, and ice-cold beer, they have a jukebox so you can play your favorite music.

They also organize parties to listen to music by iconic artists and special events.

A contemporary cantina with a great vibe, where you’ll find delicious, well-served dishes, cantina drinks, house cocktails, and a good variety of agave spirits. It’s a spacious place, ideal for celebrating a birthday or getting together with large groups.