Top 5 things to eat and drink in Guadalajara, Mexico
Ideoli’s cofounders George and Chris spend a great deal of their time travelling around the world to connect with our partners and clients—and they don’t mind it a bit. How else would they be able to do what they enjoy most: get inspired and invigorated by the country and the people around them? Guadalajara is Mexico’s second largest city and the capital of the state of Jalisco. The home of sombreros, rodeos, mariachi music and tequila, it’s one of George and Chris’ favorite stops as they travel the globe.
First settled by the Spanish in 1532, the city has a rich history and diverse culture. Its colonial past is evident in the Centro Histórico (Historic Centre), which is surrounded by fountains, gazebos, churches and markets. Its many historic monuments and statues remind all of those who fought proudly for Mexico’s independence. Distinct regions, from the lively neighborhood of Zona Rosa to the art-filled town of Tlaquepaque to the working-class district of Tonalá, add to Guadalajara’s vibrancy.
The city offers visitors everything they need in a destination, boasting world-class museums, gorgeous colonial architecture and mouth-watering cuisine. Which brings us to what George and Chris love most about traveling…exploring different cultures through food and drinks. For Ideoli’s globe-trotting cofounder’s, there is no better place than Guadalajara to get invigorated by Mexico’s cultural cuisine.
For them, a visit to one of their favorite cities is not complete without experiencing these five favorites:
1. Pozole Rojo
A popular meal choice when going out to dinner in Guadalajara, Pozole Rojo, is one of George’s favorite. The base, either a broth, stew or soup, features pork, lettuce and radish. A typical dish found all over Mexico, in Guadalajara, this meal is combined with the flavors of traditional la cocina tapatía (the cuisine of Jalisco).
2. Torta Ahogada
Invented in Guadalajara in the early 1900s, the Torta Ahogada is a sandwich stuffed with pork and soaked in salsa. Made from the very hot chile de arbol vinegar, cumin, black pepper and other spices, the salsa is spicy but it’s complemented by the addition of a mild, tomato-based sauce. The pork filling is marinated in garlic and citrus, cooked slowly, and then fried up until crisp. From fancy restaurants to neighborhood bars, this long-standing favorite local sandwich can be found throughout the city.
3. Carne en su jugo
This dish literally translates to “meat in its juices.” It is a favorite of the people of Guadalajara and a favorite of George and Chris. Small pieces of flank steak are cooked in their juices, then mixed with whole beans and crispy, crumbled bacon. Corn tortillas, onion and coriander are the sides of choice that accompany this traditional meal.
4. Bionico
For Chris’ sweet tooth, Bionico is a must have when he’s in Guadalajara. This healthy, classic, parfait-like treat features sliced fruits (apples, cantaloupe, strawberries and bananas) and yogurt, topped off with a choice of granola, raisins, coconut, sprinkles or cherries. It’s a great way to stay cool when visiting Mexico in the summer.
5. Tequila
No trip to Guadalajara is complete without one (or several) shots of tequila. In the birthplace of tequila itself it would be a sin against the culture not to and Chris and George are only happy to oblige. Lime and salt please! They also enjoy sharing a cazuela, a local cocktail of citrus fruit, tequila and soda that’s served communal style in a clay pot. Before you sip, though, don’t forget to utter the traditional toast: “Arriba. Abajo. Al centro. Adentro.” (Up. Down. Center. Inside.)
Traveling the globe allows George and Chris to get inspired and be invigorated by the culture and traditions of the places they visit. They never tire of sampling the local food and drink and relish the unlimited opportunities to socialize with their partners and strengthen and build relationships
