A tour of Chapalita

If you have ever stayed with us at Barrio México, you know that we have 6 houses located in the Americana neighborhood and one more in the Chapalita neighborhood. This is a beautiful part of the city, with plenty of places nearby to walk, sightsee, and visit, whether you're a tourist or, why not, a local.

The Chapalita neighborhood was one of Guadalajara's first iconic areas, designed with the goal of creating one of the most peaceful residential atmospheres, featuring large green gardens, roundabouts, and very wide streets, which has given its residents a unique style from the very beginning.

Most of its houses feature a Californian architectural style, making the area timeless. Today, many houses have been completely restored or remodeled, turning them into fresh spaces or modern constructions.

This area is characterized by the large gardens in front of the houses, communal parks, and, above all, by having a roundabout as the main square within the neighborhood, which is also surrounded by green areas.

This space is famous on weekends, as it is often visited by residents or locals from surrounding areas. Here you can find the work of many emerging or independent artists who exhibit their paintings or pieces around the roundabout. A strong sense of community has been created, where neighbors organize festivals or fairs on special dates throughout the year, participating in local activities.

The central gazebo is surrounded by renowned restaurants, so you can take the opportunity to check out one from your list of favorites or places to try, and then plan a walk through its promenade or roundabout to explore. The atmosphere is very family-friendly.

You have surely tried the best tacos in Guadalajara more than once, and if you haven't, what are you waiting for? Come by and taste the glory! This place is better known locally as the “tacos parados” or Los Alteños.

No matter when you read this recommendation, they will always be packed with people. It’s a perfect plan, as they are a staple of the area and a great place to take a foreign or out-of-town friend to try the best street food in our country. It is an excellent introduction to this culinary tradition.

If you ask us for our favorites, we love the al pastor or the carnaza, which are a true delight. But there are many more options for every taste, not to mention their delicious salsas and chiles to go with them. Something that really characterizes this place is that, while you are eating at the taquería, you can enjoy all the flavored waters they have to offer, from the classics to the most eccentric blends you can imagine. After your tacos, don't forget to stop by the ice cream shop next door; they have a traditional garrafa ice cream that is the perfect dessert to top off your visit.

Casa Ixaya is one of our most beautiful and popular options in Barrio México. Our guests love it for its location, design, and unique concept, which is full of personality, and above all because it is one of our most spacious houses where you can really breathe in the tranquility of the area.

You can share the kitchen located on the first floor, which is connected to the communal terrace of your accommodation. The rooms have air conditioning, perfect for the heat, and at the entrance in the lobby, you will find our iconic “Barrio México” sign.

It features different spaces, such as a third-floor terrace with a lovely view and a hammock, which is perfect for sunbathing while you have your coffee or read a good book. You can also use any of the living rooms you will find on both the first and second floors. This is the only one of our houses in the Chapalita neighborhood, so book in advance if you want to explore the area or are looking for a place with an excellent location to various points in the city. We would love to host you!

If you are looking for the perfect place to work from home, we have the ideal coffee shop in Chapalita: Ventura Café.  Complement your visit with their delicious specialty coffee, served hot or iced, and pair it with some of their irresistible baked goods. You’ll definitely find it hard to stop at just one.

You can grab a seat on their outdoor terrace to soak up some sun surrounded by plants, or if you prefer, the indoor space is lovely and has become a true cultural hub filled with interesting information. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends, play some board games, and enjoy a sweet treat and a drink.

Ask about their workshop spaces within the café. We think it’s an excellent way to break out of the daily office routine and explore your creativity in a different environment.

This is one of our favorite breakfast spots in the area. Just a few blocks walking from Casa Ixaya, you’ll find Boulangerie Central. Here, you’ll find the perfect combo to start your day with a great breakfast or brunch, whether you’re on your own, with your partner, or with friends.

Their breakfasts are a delight; you’ll love everything you try. From their classic green or red chilaquiles, which you can order with eggs cooked to your liking, to the eggs benedict that will blow your mind with that creamy sauce. Their selection of freshly baked sweet bread is incredible, and once you see the tray, you’ll definitely be tempted by more than one.

We recommend arriving early because it tends to be very popular with locals, but the wait is worth it. Check their hours during the week, as they are only open from the morning until just after midday. Visit them and let us know what you loved most.

We hope you enjoyed this tour of the Chapalita neighborhood as much as we did. This area offers a wide variety of dining options and some laid-back bars, perfect for visiting in the evening to enjoy a drink or a beer. We recommend getting there by Uber or taxi, as parking is limited due to the area being residential and highly commercial.

Let us know on our social media if you have any recommendations for us in the area—we’ll be sure to check them out soon!

See you soon.