Every city is home to restaurants that have stood the test of time. My hometown is no exception, which is famous for its extraordinary culinary delights. The problem with culinary wonders like this is that you never really know where the best restaurants in Guadalajara will be found, or what they will be like when you arrive.
From traditional Taqueria to fine dining, international cuisine and even a Guinness World Record holder, the restaurants listed below have earned a special place in the hearts of diners. tapatios (Guadalajaran) everywhere. Despite new culinary trends and competing openings, these places have managed to not only survive but thrive in the cosmopolitan city of Guadalajara.
Taco Providencia
If you ask locals if they’ve ever been to Tacos Providencia, the answer might be an affirmative Yes.
From delicious tacos al pastor — which have a reputation as some of the best in town — to tacos de lengua, baitasada, dorados, grindas, quesadillas (What’s in a quesadilla?) and more, Tacos Providencia has managed to retain its customers for generations.
Pro tip: if you don’t want to queue for lunch, make sure to arrive before 14.00
Best for: A pick-me-up lunch after school, or a quick dinner after a movie.
Atmosphere: Lhelp back and familiar.
Price: $ – $$
Where? Justo Sierra and Rubén Dario.
La Squina Burgers
What comes to mind when you think of burgers? Whatever you think, it probably doesn’t include fruit or shrimp.
Well, La Squina serves just that — a shrimp burger with fried cheese and bacon. They are a veritable feast of flavors. Once served, guests can choose a variety of toppings, from strawberries and jalapeños to tomatoes, onions, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise and lettuce.
Located on the corner (corner) in the Monraz neighborhood, the restaurant’s name is a nod to its location — “La Squina.”
Best for: A casual midweek dinner or a family outing on the weekend.
Atmosphere: RRelax.
Price: $$ – $$$
Where? C. Cortes Bay 4186.
Kamilos 333
If you are looking for the best meat in its juices (“beef in its juices”) at Guadalajara, Kamilos 333 will not disappoint. As the only dish on the menu, the restaurant holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest service in the world, with food appearing seconds after you sit down.
Carne en su jugo is a traditional dish from northern Jalisco, made from tender beef cut into thin strips and cooked in a broth of tomatoes, chilies and cilantro. Served with refried beans and tortillas.
Best for: Breakfast, dinner or lunch.
Atmosphere: Cnormal and fonda style
Price: $ – $$
Where? C. Jose Clemente Orozco
La Docena Oyster Bar & Grill
Inspired by oyster bars in New Orleans, La Docena opened in 2012 to great success. It introduced po’boys – seafood sandwiches served on a baguette – to Guadalajara. But it was the juicy Rockefeller oysters that turned this restaurant into a local sensation. Other popular dishes include aguachile tatemado and tuna toast bread. Think of it as the Jaliscan version of Contramar Mexico City.
Best for: Dinner with friends or family lunch.
Atmosphere: Iindustrial aesthetic, jovial vibes and lively atmosphere.
Price: $$ – $$$
Where? Plaza Andares and Punto Sao Paulo.
El Italia
Who doesn’t love a good Italian restaurant? If so, head to El Italiano, a restaurant that remains a favorite family Tapatias for more than three decades. With a variety of delicious homemade pastas, the menu also offers diners the chance to try authentic Italian pizza and seafood.
Founded by Paolo Pernazza in 1986, El Italiano remains the top choice for a true Italian experience.
Best for: A first date, a business lunch, or a weekend family outing.
Atmosphere: Rromantic and elegant, with interiors reminiscent of an Italian village.
Price: $$$ – $$$$
Where? Diagonal Cortez Bay.
Gaucha Farm
As one of Guadalajara’s fine dining establishments, la Estancia Gaucha is an Argentinian restaurant with a touch of Mexican style. This restaurant serves traditional Argentinian cuts accompanied by freshly made tortillas, Mexican salsa, and chimichurri sauce.
Founded by Argentinian Roberto Masciarelli in 1978, La Estancia Gaucha’s signature dishes are Provoleta, Queso Fundido con Chorizo and of course, Bife de Chorizo.
Best for: Business lunch, special event or family outing.
Atmosphere: Sstylish, classic and elegant.
Price: $$$$
Where? Av. Niños Héroes and Punto Sao Paulo.
Argentinian Cow
Mexicans love a good slice of Argentina, proven by the second Patagonian entry on this list. La Vaca Argentina, which translates as “The Cow of Argentina,” is a good example of why. After opening in 2005, the restaurant expanded rapidly across the country.
By displaying an extensive menu chistorra, provolettapasta, carpaccio and of course, beef, La Vaca Argentina has earned its place as a true classic and one of the best restaurants in Guadalajara.
Best for: Business lunch, special event or family outing.
Atmosphere: Lavish and elegant.
Price: $$$$
Where? Six locations in Guadalajara, including Colonia Americana and Andares.
Tequila
With a major focus on Mexican food, La Tequila is considered one of the best restaurants in town. Combining traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, La Tequila prides itself on local, regional and national products. It includes a large collection of Mexican spirits — more than 200 types of tequila and 25 types of mezcal.
Best for: Business lunch, special event or family outing.
Atmosphere: Rustic interiors are combined with modern features to create a stylish and sleek atmosphere.
Price: $$$$
Where? Av. México and The Landmark.
If you think another place deserves to be on our list of the best restaurants in Guadalajara, why not let us know in the comments?
Gabriela Solis is a Mexican lawyer turned full-time writer. She was born and raised in Guadalajara and covers business, culture, lifestyle and travel for Mexico News Daily. You can follow her lifestyle blog Dunas y Palmeras.