Vibrant streets with hidden culinary gems, artist filled neighborhoods, eclectic galleries and a World Heritage site that will stretch your mind - this is Mexico, but not Mexico City. Guadalajara, México’s second largest metropolitan area, is giving its big sister a run for that coolest city title. Wandering the streets is a lasting feast for the mind, stomach and soul. One can spend days scouring art shops for local beaded finds, getting lost in the city’s massive market hunting for leather sandals, the ripest mangoes and the best tacos, and sipping on a fruity cazuela on a patio in the neighbourhood of Tlaquepaque, made of tequila, lemon, lime, grapefruit, grenadine, salt and lime. When you finish that drink, an exciting thought might cross your mind; the motherland of Tequila is only a two hour train ride away. You’ll want to take that ride.
When you arrive, you’ll find that the dusty streets of Tequila hold more than just famous libations. It’s a colorful town with brightly painted walls, vibrant murals and even more vibrant residents. And yes, much like champagne, to be named ‘tequila’ the product must come exclusively from the region of Tequila, which means the town of Tequila is the holy grail of every amazing margarita you’ve ever had.
Back in Guadalajara, a stroll through the World Heritage site, Hospicio Cabañas, in downtown Guadalajara will tug at your heart strings as you learn the history (it was a very large orphanage in the 19th century) and tickle your art buds with frescoes painted by arguably one of the most famous Mexican painters, José Clemente Orozco. Each mural has a different view depending on where you stand, playing tricks with your perception, but the masterpiece is the Chapel Dome featuring Orozco’s “Man on Fire”. Lift your head, take a spin and prepare to be left in wonder and amazement.
Sip cocktails on the roof in the hotel restaurant, located in the trendy Lafayette neighborhood, just a few blocks away from the lively Av. Chapultepec. The restaurant is helmed by Guadalajara fave Darren Walsh (if his name sounds Irish and not Mexican, it’s because he is in fact from the Green Isle), who is known in the city as an innovative culinary force.
A bright coffee shop and home of stunning desserts with wild and unexpected (and delicious) flavor pairings. While here, get a pastry making lesson from chef Fernanda.
From the sophisticated building to the elevated cocktails and photogenic octopus dishes, this restaurant is fit for a special occasion.
Brothers Alfonso and Ignacio Cadena opened this restaurant in 2015, decorating the interior with bare animal bones (hueso means bone) and dreaming up colorful dishes which stand out against the calm backdrop.
A spacious, stylish hotel in Tequila, adorned with antique furniture and featuring a small but well-appointed swimming pool.
Modern and chic, the Hyatt offers expansive city views and a restaurant serving Jalisco region specialties.
Located in the Lafayette neighborhood, the Casa is thoughtfully designed and provides a welcome refuge from the city’s busy pace. Hang out at the attractive bar, or dip in the outdoor pool on a hot afternoon.
One of the most colorful markets in the city, the Mercado draws residents from neighbouring cities. Park yourself next to a local and eavesdrop on a conversation to see if your Spanish is up to snuff, while eating fresh tacos, or grab them to go, sit on the steps outside and watch the kids play a game of soccer.
Tour the birthplace of Cuervo tequila with a uniform-clad Jimador (harvest man). Watch Agave pineapples being cooked down and visit the distillery.
