Guadalajara to host Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026

Guadalajara is set to host the prestigious Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants awards ceremony on December 1, 2026. This announcement follows the city's recent hosting of the Michelin Guide Mexico 2026 ceremony, further cementing its status as a major culinary destination.

The event promises to draw top chefs and restaurateurs from all over Latin America to "La Perla Tapatía." In the days leading up to the main ceremony, attendees can participate in "50 Best Talks," a series of conferences featuring prominent figures from the culinary industry, and "50 Best Signature Sessions." These sessions, open to the public, will include pop-up events where acclaimed chefs collaborate with local restaurants.

Michelle Fridman Hirsch, Jalisco's Secretary of Tourism, emphasized Mexico's rich gastronomic history, noting it is one of the world's four heritage cuisines and the only one in Latin America. She highlighted Jalisco's diversity as a prime representation of Mexican culinary identity. Valentina Ortiz Monasterio, president of the Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants academy for Mexico and Central America, added that regional cuisines like those from Jalisco, Chihuahua, and Yucatan offer incredible opportunities for identity, pride, and cohesion.

Prior to the main awards, the expanded list of restaurants ranked 51-100 will be revealed, along with special awards such as the Champions of Change Award, Art of Hospitality Award, and One To Watch Award. In the 2025 rankings, eight Mexican restaurants were recognized, including Quintonil and Alcalde, underscoring the nation's strong presence in the regional culinary scene.