Introduction to the Project and its Significance
Guadalajara, Jalisco. Investment projects in the hospitality sector with a focus on the 2026 FIFA World Cup are becoming a reality in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara.
During the inauguration of Alma Jalisco restaurant, Michelle Fridman Hirsch, the Secretary of Tourism for Jalisco (Secturjal), stated, “We have been discussing for several months how to continue positioning this great city that combines the contemporary and traditional aspects, with its tradition being at the heart of the city. We have talked a lot about rescuing markets and revitalizing the tourism offerings in the center.”
Alma Jalisco: A Unique Concept in the Heart of Guadalajara
Located on the fifth floor of Mercado Corona, in the historic center of Guadalajara, Alma Jalisco is just the first of four worlds that make up the concept, according to its general manager, Karla Irlette Castro.
“We want it to be an emblematic place where visitors can take a piece of Jalisco, its traditions, folklore, and crafts, as well as innovation and technology,” Castro expressed.
A Culinary Experience
With a unique view of Guadalajara’s metropolitan cathedral, the restaurant accommodates up to 300 people and offers a menu centered around Mexican cuisine with significant Jalisco gastronomic influences.
- Traditional dishes like tortas ahogadas, carne en su jugo, and birria
- A tequila, mezcal, sotol, charanda, and other important Jalisco fermented beverages like tejuino, pulque, and tepache bar
- Artisanal beers
“We want all Jalisco residents who visit to feel proud of belonging and being in Jalisco, and for all the out-of-town visitors who come to fall in love with Jalisco,” Castro emphasized.
Four Worlds Under One Roof
According to Castro, the project led by footballer José Juan (JJ) Macías aims to bring together four distinct worlds in one location. The restaurant is the first to open, with the remaining three expected to be operational by March of the following year, before the World Cup.
- Mundo Chivas (already partially open with a store and FIFA-certified venue)
- Mundo del Tequila (an immersive, interactive experience with giant tequila barrels)
- Mundo de la Charrería (a dedicated space for charro culture and events)
“In the first phase, which is the restaurant we are inaugurating today, we host events, have a terrace for 120 people, a private room with independent audio and video for up to 50 people, and a cantina that will be transformed into a speakeasy for special events with a capacity of 100 people,” Castro added.
Job Creation and Unique Experience
The restaurant, featuring ballet folklórico and mariachi performances, will initially create 75 direct jobs. Once fully operational, it is expected to provide 110 job opportunities.
“We are like a speakeasy; there’s no big sign inviting people in. You need to know about the place to visit, and destination places always have a learning curve of three to six months,” Castro Reynoso noted.
