A Cultural Fusion of Japanese and Mexican Cuisine
Nestled in the heart of Roma Norte, Gin Chan is redefining the izakaya experience in Mexico City since 2019. This isn’t a formal restaurant or a rigid space; it’s a Japanese tapas bar where the focus is on enjoying good food and savoring the moment, whether you’re seated at a table or standing at the open bar.
An Izakaya with a Mexican Twist
Inspired by traditional Japanese izakayas, Gin Chan maintains the essence of these gathering places where people come to eat, drink, and converse without rush. However, Gin Chan adds its own unique touch: the music varies and surprises, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere that invites guests to linger. The bar is the heart of the place, designed for socializing and observing the chef’s skill.
Silverio Cervantes Leads the Culinary Journey
Chef Silverio Cervantes spearheads this proposal, a result of his travels to Japan and his desire to share Japanese culinary culture in Mexico City. The name isn’t a coincidence; “Gin” is an abbreviation of the chef’s name, inspired by how Japanese people pronounced it, and “Chan” is a term of endearment used in Japan to refer to friends. Thus, Gin Chan was born.
The menu offers diverse experiences:
- Omakase: a seven-course tasting menu created with the freshest ingredients of the day, including fish that arrives from Ensenada, Zihuatanejo, and Japan.
- Open Menu: featuring classics like sushi, sashimi, ramen, donburis, fried rice, and okonomiyaki.
- Daily Menu: designed for those seeking a more casual option, with bento boxes and traditional Japanese-style dishes.
Beverages and Design Enhance the Experience
Gin Chan complements its offerings with sakes, calpis, Japanese beers, and simple cocktails, perfect for pairing with every bite. The design, led by architect José Antonio Albarrán, reinforces the idea of the bar as a gathering point. Open spaces, warm materials, and an atmosphere that balances modernity with tradition create a welcoming ambiance.
A Cultural Hub in Mexico City
Gin Chan is a meeting point for those seeking quality, authenticity, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place where one can experience Japan without formalities, amidst memorable flavors and engaging conversation.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Silverio Cervantes? Silverio Cervantes is the chef behind Gin Chan, who aims to share Japanese culinary culture in Mexico City.
- What makes Gin Chan unique? Gin Chan combines traditional Japanese izakaya elements with a Mexican twist, offering diverse menus and an inviting atmosphere.
- What beverages does Gin Chan serve? In addition to sakes, Gin Chan offers calpis, Japanese beers, and simple cocktails.
- What is the atmosphere like at Gin Chan? The design, led by José Antonio Albarrán, creates a warm and welcoming ambiance that balances modernity with tradition.
Address: Córdoba 132, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc, CDMX
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 1 PM – 5 PM and 7 PM – 10 PM | Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM
Instagram: @ginchanmx