Birria is one of the most traditional dishes of Jalisco, sharing the top spot in the local food scene with tortas ahogadas. The word “birria” comes from colloquial Spanish, where it was used to describe something of poor quality, messy or in bad taste. When the dish first appeared, it was made mainly with goat meat (cabrito), which at the time was not considered a premium product, so it picked up that unflattering name. Over the years, birria earned recognition and prestige and became an icon of Jalisco cooking. The name remains as a reminder of its humble origins, but today it is one of the most prized food experiences in the region. If you visit Guadalajara, known as the Perla Tapatía, make time to try this signature dish at one of the best places to eat birria in Guadalajara. If you want it in a classic fonda (small family-run eatery) setting, Mercado San Juan de Dios is a traditional stop for birria, and the Tonalá tianguis (open-air street market) claims one of the best in the state.
📖 Related article: Mercado San Juan de Dios: a practical guide to its levels, what to eat, what to buy and how to get there.
El Chololo
This is probably the favorite birria spot among locals (tapatíos), and its four locations around the city prove it. Its birria is tatemada: once the meat is plated, it is coated with the house adobo (a chile-based marinade) and placed in the oven. By the time it comes out, the liquid has cooked off and all the flavor stays in the meat. The broth is served on the side, so each diner can decide whether to pour it over the meat, as is customary elsewhere, or enjoy it separately. The restaurant has become so well known that many Mexican entertainers, politicians and athletes have eaten here, and their photos hang on the walls. Order your Chololo birria with handmade tortillas and a side of refried beans, the ideal match for a memorable meal.
Calle, San Antonio 288, Las Juntas, 45590 San Pedro Tlaquepaque, Jal.
Carr. Guadalajara – Chapala Km 17, 45675 El Capulín, Jal.
Av. Patria 1100, Lomas del Nilo, 44820 Guadalajara, Jal.
Discover the Pueblos Mágicos of Jalisco 🌄, towns with official “magical town” status for their history, traditions and scenery. A trip worth taking! 🌟
Las 9 Esquinas
Birriería Las 9 Esquinas, at the well-known intersection of the same name in downtown Guadalajara, has been one of the city’s classic places for birria since 1986. Its traditional Mexican decor mixes bright colors with handcrafted details. Beyond its excellent lamb or goat birria, served in clay dishes, the restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere that has made it a local landmark. It is so well known that it was even a filming location for the movie “El Mariachi Gringo”, adding a touch of film history to its long culinary tradition. A must for an authentic Guadalajara experience.
C. Colón 384, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal.
Instagram
Find out what to do in Guadalajara, from exploring the historic center 🏙️ to its food 🌮, colorful markets and lively nightlife 🎶. Fun guaranteed!
See the best restaurants in Guadalajara 🍽️, with local and international flavors, from traditional cooking to creative new menus. A great food experience! 🌟
El Güero Plus
El Güero Plus is not exactly in Guadalajara but in Acatlán. Even so, it is an excellent option if you are on the south side of the city or driving to Colima and want to stop for this Jalisco specialty. Early visitors can pair their birria with café de olla (coffee brewed in a clay pot with cinnamon and piloncillo sugar), while afternoon visitors can go for a cold beer. The place has a relaxed countryside feel, and the attentive service rounds out the experience.
Carretera GDL, Autopista Guadalajara – Colima Km 40, 45700 Acatlán de Juárez, Jal.
Discover the best seafood restaurants in Guadalajara 🦞, from fresh ceviches to hearty seafood plates 🌊. A treat for seafood lovers! 🌟
Birriería El Paisano
Birriería El Paisano, on the well-known Las 9 Esquinas plaza in the heart of Guadalajara, is a traditional spot founded in 1930. It gets mentioned less often than other places in the area, but locals value it for its authentic birria and rustic setting. With almost a century of history, El Paisano remains a reference for anyone who wants birria in a setting full of Guadalajara tradition. Thanks to its classic flavor, it has been counted among the best places for birria in Guadalajara for nearly 100 years.
C. Leandro Valle 889, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal.
See the best breakfast restaurants in Guadalajara 🍳, from classic Mexican breakfasts to creative and healthy options 🥐. Start your day well! 🌟
La Ley del Monte
Located near Parque Metropolitano, La Ley del Monte stands out for its goat and beef birria made Mazamitla style. This traditional style has a robust, slightly spicy and smoky flavor, with a good balance of salty and tangy notes. The restaurant has a pleasant, rustic country setting that recalls the mountain town of Mazamitla and makes the whole meal feel complete. Besides the classic birria orders, one of the most requested dishes is the quesabirria (a cheese-filled birria taco), made with handmade tortillas.
Independencia 264B, Sta María del Pueblito, 45018 Zapopan, Jal.
Instagram
Explore the Tequila Route in Jalisco 🍹, with distillery visits, guided tours and tastings. An authentic and tasty experience! 🌟
Birriería El Chino
Birriería El Chino is a go-to for birria lovers in Guadalajara. With a tradition going back more than three decades, it has won over locals and visitors with its beef and goat birria, prepared with a distinctive, home-style seasoning. Its consomé (the birria broth), aromatic and full of flavor, is the perfect partner for the juicy cuts of meat. The dining room is simple, but El Chino is without a doubt one of the best places for birria in Guadalajara.
Cardenal 1370, Morelos, 44910 Guadalajara, Jal.
Visit IKEA Guadalajara 🏢 for stylish, practical furniture and home goods 🛋️. Modern, affordable design ideas for your space! 🌟
La Victoria
La Victoria is a true neighborhood birriería in the traditional, picturesque Santa Teresita district. Known for its classic flavor, generous portions and good prices, it offers both quality and warmth. Fresh handmade tortillas add a homemade touch to every bite, and the friendly service makes La Victoria an ideal choice for authentic Guadalajara birria.
C. Manuel Acuña 1511, Villaseñor, 44200 Guadalajara, Jal.
Find the best pet-friendly hotels in Guadalajara, comfortable options for you and your pet with all the services you need 🐾🏨.
Pepe el Torito
For many people, Pepe el Torito is one of the best places for birria in Guadalajara. Located in the Santa Teresita neighborhood, it is known for its beef and goat birria, made with a traditional seasoning that delivers juicy meat and a rich consomé. The simple, family-friendly setting is ideal for a relaxed home-style meal. Along with birria, they serve tepache, a refreshing fermented pineapple drink that goes well with the meal. After many years in business, Pepe el Torito remains a must for anyone looking for authentic flavor and quality.
Av. Manuel Acuña 1542, Villaseñor, 44600 Guadalajara, Jal.
Instagram
Compare the best car rental companies in Guadalajara and find reliable, convenient options for your trip 🚗🏙️.
Birriería San Luis Soyatlán
Do not let the plain storefront stop you from trying one of the most praised birrias in Guadalajara. We are talking about Birriería San Luis Soyotlán, in the Santa Teresita neighborhood. Customers highlight its excellent value, outstanding flavor and attentive service. The specialty is beef birria, which is tatemada (oven-roasted) before it reaches your table for the best flavor. Pair it with soft tortillas made by hand on the spot.
C. Andrés Terán 599A, Santa Teresita, 44600 Guadalajara, Jal.
See the best of Guadalajara for kids: attractions, activities and fun places for the whole family 🏰🎡👦👧
El Pilón de Los Arrieros
C/ Galeana 388, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal.
Instagram
This is easily one of the most charming places to eat birria in Guadalajara. Its Mexican decor, full of authentic details, creates a traditional and welcoming atmosphere. It is more than a birriería: it is a good choice for celebrating special occasions. El Pilón de los Arrieros combines traditional cooking with a setting that sticks in your memory. Its specialty is birria tatemada made with goat and beef, along with lamb barbacoa, and the menu also includes a range of Mexican dishes for every taste. Live marimba music adds a festive touch to every visit. El Pilón de los Arrieros has earned its place among the best places for birria in Guadalajara.
Explore the best tacos in Guadalajara: local flavor, tradition and authenticity in every bite. Find out where to get the best ones! 🌮
Looking for Guadalajara’s other great street-food craving? Do not leave without trying some good tortas ahogadas in Guadalajara.