What Food To Try in Guadalajara and Food Prices
How much does lunch and dinner cost
Examples of food prices, cafes, street food and other dining options in Guadalajara for 2024.
National currency: Mexican Peso, symbol — M$ (international currency code MXN).
General Cafe Price Guide
Average prices in Guadalajara cafes and restaurants
$8.8
Quick Lunch for One
Starting from $5.86
$46.9
Dinner for Two
to celebrate your trip
Starting from $23.46
$7.5
Combo Meal
Starting from $6.74
What to Try in Guadalajara
Must-try Dishes
Chilaquiles - Chilaquiles (breakfast tortilla dish) - Crispy tortilla chips smothered in green or red salsa, topped with cheese, crema, and sometimes a fried egg. Locals often enjoy this hearty meal at breakfast, especially when recovering from the night before.Tacos al Pastor - Al Pastor Tacos (street food) - Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served in corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. You'll find these tasty tacos in the streets, where locals gather for late-night snacks or quick lunches.
Birria - Birria (spiced meat stew) - A savory stew made with goat or beef, infused with various spices and herbs, served with tender meat and rich broth. This dish is popular during family gatherings or special occasions, making it a communal dining experience.
Tortas Ahogadas - Drenched Sandwiches - A bolillo bread filled with carnitas, then smothered in a spicy tomato sauce. They're typically eaten for lunch, and be careful; locals usually eat them fast to avoid sogginess!
Tejuino - Tejuino (fermented corn drink) - A surprising combination of fermented corn, served with lime and salt, often enjoyed on hot days. While not a meal, locals love it as a refreshing treat during the summer months, especially at fairs and street stalls.
Sopes - Sopes (thick corn tortillas) - Thick corn tortillas topped with beans, meat, lettuce, and salsa, offering a delightful crunch. These are a favorite snack during fiestas or family gatherings and often enjoyed as a filling dinner.
Jocoque - Jocoque (fermented yogurt-like dish) - A creamy and tangy dish made from fermented milk, often served with fresh herbs and tortillas. Popular in cooler months, locals appreciate it with a warm tortilla at home during family dinners.
Enchiladas - Enchiladas (stuffed tortillas) - Corn tortillas filled with chicken or cheese, rolled and soaked in chili sauce, then topped with fresh cheese and onions. A common dinner choice, they're often enjoyed at popular family restaurants on weekends.
Desserts & Drinks
Fruit Water - Agua Fresca (refreshing fruit drink) - A light, natural beverage made by blending fresh fruits like watermelon or hibiscus with water and a bit of sugar. Locals love to sip this on hot afternoons, often enjoyed at family gatherings or picnics in the park to cool down.Cold Brew Coffee - Café de Olla (traditional spiced coffee) - This aromatic coffee is brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (raw sugar), served hot in a clay mug. You'll find it at any time of the day, especially during breakfast, and it's a great pick-me-up when paired with a sweet roll.
Tequila - Tequila (agave spirit) - A bold spirit made from the blue agave plant, typically enjoyed neat with salt and lime. Locals often savor it during celebratory moments or at family gatherings—it’s common to take a shot together while sharing stories about the day.
Concha - Concha (sweet bread) - This soft, shell-shaped bread, lightly sweetened and topped with a crunchy crust, is a favorite for breakfast or an afternoon snack. It's often paired with a hot drink, and trying it fresh from the oven at a local bakery is a must!
Paleta - Paleta (frozen fruit popsicle) - Made with fresh fruits or creamy bases, these colorful popsicles are a must-have during the sweltering summer months. You’ll find vendors on nearly every corner, and locals usually enjoy them as a mid-afternoon treat—just be ready to choose from dozens of flavors!
By the way, locals usually order agua fresca by specifying the fruit, so you might hear "agua de sandía" for watermelon water—a common mistake is just asking for "aguas."
Food and Groceries in Guadalajara
Vegetables, Fruits and Bread
| Bread | $2.37 |
| Bananas | $1.53 |
| Oranges | $1.46 |
| Potatoes | $1.92 |
| Apples | $2.84 |
Beverages
| Water 1.5L | $1.14 |
| 0.5L Local Beer | $1.59 |
| Imported Beer | $3.5 |
| Wine Rating >4.0 | $12.9 |
| Milk 1L | $1.39 |
Various Groceries
| Meat (Beef or Pork) | $12.29 |
| Chicken | $8.93 |
| Cigarettes | $4.1 |
| Rice | $1.85 |
| Local Cheese | $8.27 |
Overview of Cuisine and Specialties
Strolling through the bustling markets of Guadalajara, a vivid scene unfolds as locals gather for their midday meals around 2 p.m. (cultivating that energizing afternoon vibe). Street vendors decoratively display their mouth-watering tacos, while families settle into taquerías, filling up on hearty caldos. This ritual showcases the importance of communal eating in our culture—it's not just about the food but also the connections forged around the table.
In terms of meal prices, you can easily find street food like tacos for as little as 15 MXN each, while a full traditional meal at a quieter eatery could set you back around 150 MXN. It’s fascinating to note the price disparity you encounter. In the lively downtown (Centro Histórico), expect higher prices due to foot traffic and tourist demand, where lunch for two can go up to 300-400 MXN. Compare that to Tlaquepaque, just a short ride away, where the same meal (if you know where to look) might only cost you about 200 MXN—and possibly come with a drink.
As for payment customs, cash is still king in most places, especially street stalls. I’ve learned the hard way to always carry some pesos. While many larger restaurants might accept cards, it’s always best to check beforehand. Oh, and don't forget to factor in a small tip (around 10-15%) if the service was good. A common mistake visitors make is to assume tipping is unnecessary here; trust me, it’s appreciated!
Another local habit to note is the “taco de perro,” where some places allow patrons to bring their dogs along for a meal. It's all about sharing that experience, even with your four-legged friends! However, if you plan to eat at popular spots, it's ideal to arrive before 1 p.m.—after that, places can get crowded and you may find waiting for a table frustrating, especially during weekends.
Culinary trends have also been shifting lately. Younger locals are leaning towards healthier options, implying a potential rise in plant-based offerings (which certainly adds an exciting twist). Despite being known for our meat-heavy dishes, it seems there's room for unexpected flavors on the horizon.
With the ever-changing food scene and climbing prices in more tourist-heavy areas, budgeting wisely is key. Explore the quiet neighborhoods if you want to get more bang for your buck, and don’t shy away from the local favorites—those hole-in-the-wall spots often conceal delightful treasures.
In terms of meal prices, you can easily find street food like tacos for as little as 15 MXN each, while a full traditional meal at a quieter eatery could set you back around 150 MXN. It’s fascinating to note the price disparity you encounter. In the lively downtown (Centro Histórico), expect higher prices due to foot traffic and tourist demand, where lunch for two can go up to 300-400 MXN. Compare that to Tlaquepaque, just a short ride away, where the same meal (if you know where to look) might only cost you about 200 MXN—and possibly come with a drink.
As for payment customs, cash is still king in most places, especially street stalls. I’ve learned the hard way to always carry some pesos. While many larger restaurants might accept cards, it’s always best to check beforehand. Oh, and don't forget to factor in a small tip (around 10-15%) if the service was good. A common mistake visitors make is to assume tipping is unnecessary here; trust me, it’s appreciated!
Another local habit to note is the “taco de perro,” where some places allow patrons to bring their dogs along for a meal. It's all about sharing that experience, even with your four-legged friends! However, if you plan to eat at popular spots, it's ideal to arrive before 1 p.m.—after that, places can get crowded and you may find waiting for a table frustrating, especially during weekends.
Culinary trends have also been shifting lately. Younger locals are leaning towards healthier options, implying a potential rise in plant-based offerings (which certainly adds an exciting twist). Despite being known for our meat-heavy dishes, it seems there's room for unexpected flavors on the horizon.
With the ever-changing food scene and climbing prices in more tourist-heavy areas, budgeting wisely is key. Explore the quiet neighborhoods if you want to get more bang for your buck, and don’t shy away from the local favorites—those hole-in-the-wall spots often conceal delightful treasures.