A short distance from Historic Guadalajara you’ll find Tlaquepaque an area famous for its pottery and blown glass. Pronounced tlakeˈpake you’ll find many restaurants, bars, street sellers and artisan shops to browse.
If you’re ready for an afternoon of fun and new tastes let’s take a peek at what Tlaquepaque has to offer.
Food
Rumor is some of the best restaurants can be found in Tlaquepaque making it the perfect place to stop for lunch. Casa Fuerte Restaurante was highly recommended, so we had to try it out. You walk through the doors into a quaint courtyard where you’re seated around a fountain and statues. The atmosphere is family friendly, and the staff is bilingual and attentive to your needs.
Make sure you enjoy their signature Tamarind margarita rimmed with chili salt and share a few dishes off the menu with others at the table. They’re known for their Chili Relleno so if you can’t decide what to get that is a solid choice.
Shopping
From high end to inexpensive souvenirs Tlaquepaque has something for everyone. Take a stroll down the pedestrian street and enjoy the colorful architecture while visiting shops and stalls at your leisure.
You’ll be amazed at the unique glass blown art pieces you’ll find in the stores, or if you’re into trinkets, there are many street vendors who have just what you’re looking for.
Unique Beverages
After you’ve done your shopping why not try something new! With all the talk of Tequila and Agave in Mexico, a drink you’ll want to search out is pulque. It is is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the agave plant. It is traditional to central Mexico, has the color of milk and a sour yeast-like taste.
Most people drink Pulque as a flavored slushy beverage. We tried a few flavors with our favorite being mazapan (almond paste) and fresa (strawberry). While you’re being adventurous with your new beverage why not try some deep fried grasshoppers too! Believe it or not with a little fresh lime juice and salt they taste similar to a pumpkin seed once you get over the whole “I’m eating a grasshopper.”
For a truly unique and relaxing experience spending an afternoon in Tlaquepaque is an excellent way to experience the culture, enjoy delicious food and try new things!
When in the area, consider a trip to Casa Herradura
and learn to taste Tequila like a pro!
Read: Tequila Tasting with Herradura
Thank you to Tequila Herradura for providing this trip for the “Road to the Hacienda Challenge”.
All opinions expressed are my own.
