The markets: true gastronomic gems of the city.

Today we have a topic for you that, just thinking about it, makes ourmouths water. We all know how well you can eat in Guadalajara, especially in its classic markets, where you can find the best local culinary experiences, full of flavor and secret family recipes passed down from generation to generation. That special touch from Mexican grandmothers is something you can only find if you dive into this delicious adventure.

The full experience begins the moment you arrive and discover which stalls are the most recommended. You get swept up in the authentic flavors, surround yourself with the locals, take a look at the dishes that catch your eye, and once you’ve chosen your favorite, as they say: "Dig in!" and enjoy one of the most traditional meals around.

We’ll start with the famous Santa Tere Market, located in the neighborhood of the same name. For as long as we can remember, it has been one of the most talked-about and visited spots by locals, thanks to its excellent location within the city and its relative proximity to downtown.

Come here hungry, because there is no shortage of places to satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican food. You can't miss the delicious fried quesadillas at "Fonda Mariquita", filled with various options, like mushrooms—a local favorite—or, if you prefer, potato, poblano strips, beef, or chicken. They’re all topped with green salsa and a good kick of chili. They’re finger-licking good!

Plus, you can find a huge variety of dishes, from stuffed poblano peppers that look spectacular, to beef stews, fluffy rice, meatballs, moles, and breaded cutlets. You can visit the market Monday through Sunday, from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm. What are you waiting for to take a food tour here? Let us know which dishes were your favorites.

For our second spot, we’re sharing a fabulous little secret hidden away in the IV Centenario Market, perfect for those weekends when you don't know where to go for breakfast or brunch.

Inside the market, you'll find one of the best spots for traditional Mexican food we've tried in the city: Yunaites. A unique stall/restaurant filled with local flavors, located in the La Capilla neighborhood, very close to downtown Guadalajara.

If you want to secure your spot, we recommend arriving early and being patient, as there is only one main communal table for all guests. But believe me, the wait is worth it to enjoy the explosion of unique flavors this place offers. In the meantime, you can enjoy the view, watching the open kitchen and the artistry with which they prepare each dish.

You absolutely have to try their delicious café de olla to start, followed by some red chilaquiles, one of their iconic encotijadas—which will blow your mind—drenched in sauce and topped with plenty of cheese, just how we like it, or their classic fresh-made sweet mole gorditas. In short, everything here is spectacular, and we’re sure you’ll want to come back.

Oh, but keep this completely local experience a secret.

And to wrap up our local market tour on a high note, in third place we have the Mercado del Mar de la 34, located in the city center.

It is known for its wide variety of fresh products and is famous and highly recommended among locals. It’s the ideal place to satisfy your seafood cravings on the weekend after a late night out, as you can find everything you need here, whether to cook at home or to enjoy directly at the stalls inside the market.

Stop by and try a little bit of everything they have to offer. As they say, "love at first sight," and walking through the aisles you'll find fish, shrimp, octopus, oysters, and more. To satisfy your cravings, we recommend visiting “Mariscos El Cocodrilo,” which offers a wide variety of seafood dishes.

Their specialty is the zarandeado fish, served with vegetables and rice, but you must also try their shrimp cocktails with amazing sauces, the marlin empanadas, and the spicy camarones a la diabla, which are a real treat for the palate. And why not pair these dishes with a cold beer or a special michelada? Doesn't that sound good? Don't wait any longer—go and enjoy!

These recommendations don't mean some are better than others, but we selected a few options that are very close to our homes in Barrio México. If you are planning your next visit to the city and want to eat like a true local, these markets will offer you an authentic culinary experience in Guadalajara.

See you soon.