El Parián Tlaquepaque
Experience the world's largest cantina, El Parián in Tlaquepaque, with vibrant mariachi music, delicious cazuelas, and lively Mexican culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & mariachi
El Parián Tlaquepaque
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & mariachi
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the world's largest cantina, El Parián in Tlaquepaque, with vibrant mariachi music, delicious cazuelas, and lively Mexican culture.
"Great place where you can spend a delicious time with family and friends, enjoying the 'Cazuelas', listening to Mariachi and vibrating with the colours and atmosphere."
Bring Cash! 💰
Most establishments in El Parián are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid payment issues.
Savor the Cazuelas! 🍹
Don't leave without trying the famous tequila cazuelas, a refreshing local specialty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The World's Largest Cantina
El Parián Plaza
Experience the legendary El Parián, famed as the world's largest cantina. Enjoy tequila cazuelas, mariachi music, and a lively atmosphere.
Mariachi Music & Folkloric Dance
El Parián Plaza
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Mexico with live mariachi performances and vibrant folkloric dance shows that fill the air.
Iconic Tequila Cazuelas
Various restaurants and bars
Sip on the signature 'cazuelas,' a refreshing tequila-based cocktail served in a clay pot, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Street Food Delights
Surrounding streets and within El Parián
Sample delicious street food, from famous Tlaquepaque churros to savory tacos and salchipulpos, a true taste of Jalisco.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Timing is Everything for Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
Most establishments in El Parián are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid payment issues.
Savor the Cazuelas! 🍹
Don't leave without trying the famous tequila cazuelas, a refreshing local specialty.
Arrive Early for Seats
To get good seats, especially near the mariachi, aim to arrive earlier in the evening.
Beware of Scams ⚠️
Some visitors report being overcharged or pressured into buying more than intended, especially with mariachi minimums. Clarify all charges upfront.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
Most establishments in El Parián are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid payment issues.
Savor the Cazuelas! 🍹
Don't leave without trying the famous tequila cazuelas, a refreshing local specialty.
Arrive Early for Seats
To get good seats, especially near the mariachi, aim to arrive earlier in the evening.
Beware of Scams ⚠️
Some visitors report being overcharged or pressured into buying more than intended, especially with mariachi minimums. Clarify all charges upfront.
Explore Beyond the Plaza
Wander the charming streets of Tlaquepaque for unique crafts, galleries, and more local eateries.
Try the Churros! 😋
Look out for the 'Encanelados' churros, a sweet treat highly recommended by locals and visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Parián is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, live mariachi music, and the iconic tequila cazuelas, offering a quintessential Tlaquepaque experience. However, some visitors report inconsistent food quality and service, with a few instances of perceived overcharging or scams related to drink minimums. It's a place best enjoyed for its lively ambiance and cultural immersion, with a caution to clarify all charges.
"The place is beautiful with great atmosphere but the food is not good and the service was not good either.
It took over an hour to get our food. The baked potato tasted bad. The pina colada, coke, and lemonade also tasted bad. I ordered the arrachera marinada and it was gross.
They don’t accept cards just cash."
Jacqueline Amador
"It was my first time and what an awesome experience. The Tequila Cazuelas...just exquisite! A must! The main dish was Chiles Nogada. Not the best ever, El Cardenal, in México City the best, but was good! Top notch service and real good food."
José Benito Martínez Jr.
"Great place where you can spend a delicious time with family and friends, enjoying the 'Cazuelas', listening to Mariachi and vibrating with the colours and atmosphere."
Tomas Lugo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Parián is located in the heart of Tlaquepaque's historic center. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services (like Uber or Didi), or public bus from Guadalajara. Many visitors find ride-sharing to be convenient and affordable.
Parking can be challenging in the busy historic center. There are some paid parking lots available, but it's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid the hassle.
El Parián is located in Tlaquepaque, which is a separate municipality from Guadalajara. While they are adjacent, it's too far to walk comfortably. Public transport or a taxi/ride-share is recommended.
Tlaquepaque's center is very walkable. You can explore the streets, shops, and galleries on foot. For longer distances or to return to Guadalajara, taxis and ride-sharing are readily available.
Yes, many day tours from Guadalajara include a visit to Tlaquepaque and El Parián, often combining it with other local attractions. This can be a convenient option if you prefer guided excursions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, El Parián itself is a public plaza and does not require an entrance ticket. You pay for food, drinks, and any purchases you make from vendors or restaurants within the plaza.
El Parián is generally open throughout the day and into the evening. Individual restaurants and bars within the plaza will have their own operating hours, typically extending late into the night, especially on weekends.
While the mariachi music is a highlight, be aware that some establishments may have a 'two-drink minimum' or a cover charge associated with seating near the performers. Always clarify this with your server before sitting down.
Reservations are not typically required for the general plaza area, as it's a public space. However, if you wish to dine at a specific restaurant within El Parián, it's advisable to check if they accept reservations, especially for larger groups or during peak hours.
The shops and galleries surrounding El Parián do not have an entrance fee. You are free to browse and purchase items as you wish.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Parián is famous for its traditional Mexican cuisine, including grilled meats like arrachera, as well as street food favorites like 'salchipulpos' (sausage skewers) and 'encanelados' (cinnamon churros).
The signature drink is the 'cazuela,' a refreshing tequila-based cocktail served in a clay pot. You'll also find a wide variety of tequilas, beers, and other traditional Mexican beverages.
While traditional Mexican cuisine can be meat-heavy, some restaurants may offer vegetarian options like quesadillas, vegetable stews, or salads. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant about their specific offerings.
Many establishments in El Parián are cash-only. It's crucial to have enough Mexican Pesos with you, as ATMs can be unreliable or far from the immediate plaza area.
While El Parián is a collective experience, some popular spots mentioned include those serving tacos, enchiladas suizas, and molletes. Exploring the various eateries within the plaza is part of the adventure.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the plaza, the colorful architecture, the lively mariachi bands, and the delicious food. The bustling energy and traditional decor offer endless photo opportunities.
Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of the mariachi bands. However, it's considered polite to tip them if you are actively photographing them or if they are performing near your table.
There are no general restrictions on photography in the public areas of El Parián. However, individual restaurants or shops might have their own policies, so it's always good to be mindful and respectful.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful lighting as the sun sets, and the plaza begins to light up. This is also when the mariachi bands are most active, providing dynamic subjects for your photos.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in crowded public spaces like El Parián due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that the plaza can get very crowded, especially on weekends and evenings, which might be overwhelming for very young children. Keep a close eye on them and ensure you have cash for any spontaneous purchases. The surrounding streets of Tlaquepaque also offer artisan shops that might interest older children or teens.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the atmosphere and the free entertainment of the mariachi bands. If you're looking to save, avoid establishments that impose drink minimums or cover charges. Exploring the artisan shops without necessarily buying can also be a free way to experience the local culture. Remember to bring cash, as card fees can sometimes be added.
couples
For a more intimate experience, explore the charming streets of Tlaquepaque hand-in-hand before or after visiting El Parián. The town's art galleries and artisan shops provide opportunities for shared discoveries. Evenings can be particularly atmospheric, with the plaza coming alive under the lights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Tlaquepaque: El Parián's Atmosphere
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as electric and festive, perfect for a lively night out with friends or family. The sheer scale of the cantina, often cited as the largest in the world, adds to its unique charm. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in Mexican culture, from the music to the drinks and the communal spirit.
While the lively atmosphere is a major draw, some reviews mention that the food and service can be inconsistent. However, the overall experience, driven by the music, drinks, and vibrant setting, often outweighs these concerns for many visitors. It's recommended to go with an open mind, ready to soak in the cultural experience.
Culinary Adventures in El Parián
For those seeking a more substantial meal, you'll find restaurants serving classic Mexican dishes. Popular choices include grilled meats like arrachera, enchiladas suizas, and molletes. Don't miss out on the local street food specialties either; the 'salchipulpos' (sausage skewers) and the famous 'encanelados' (cinnamon-sugar churros) are highly recommended and offer a delicious taste of Tlaquepaque.
It's important to note that many establishments in El Parián operate on a cash-only basis. While some places might accept cards, it's best to be prepared with sufficient Mexican Pesos to avoid any inconvenience. Also, be mindful of potential upselling, particularly with drinks and mariachi performances, and always clarify prices beforehand.
Navigating Tlaquepaque's Charm
Beyond the main plaza, Tlaquepaque boasts other points of interest such as the Santuario de la Soledad, a historic church offering a glimpse into the town's spiritual heritage. The Andador Independencia is another key area, brimming with art galleries and shops showcasing local talent. For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting the MUPE (Museo del Perfume), which offers a fascinating olfactory journey.
Getting around Tlaquepaque is best done on foot once you're in the historic center. For travel to and from Guadalajara, ride-sharing services and taxis are readily available and generally affordable. This allows you to easily combine a visit to El Parián with exploring the broader cultural landscape of Tlaquepaque.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit