Jalisco is recognized as a destination rich in gastronomy, offering a wide variety of traditional dishes and beverages.
During the hot days, cool yourself down with exquisite drinks that will help you stay refreshed throughout the season or while visiting this beautiful destination. Many of these beverages also reflect the region’s culture and rich culinary traditions.
Traditional drinks from Jalisco
We recommend the following drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to help you beat the heat. You can find them in local spots, markets, and restaurants throughout the area.
Tejuino: Made from fermented corn and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), it’s prepared with natural lime juice and coarse salt, creating a sweet, refreshing, and slightly tangy drink. Optionally, it can be topped with a scoop of lime sorbet to enhance its unique flavor. Best enjoyed cold, tejuino is a true treat for sunny days. It’s commonly found in Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque.
Lechuguilla: This is a non-alcoholic fermented drink produced artisanally using purified water, lechuguilla agave ferment, and refined sugar. The mixture is left to ferment for three or four days before being packaged. It comes in a variety of flavors such as natural, coconut, orange, strawberry, apple, grape, pineapple, tangerine, bubblegum, and more. It’s widely available in the southern municipalities of Jalisco.
Cazuelas: This refreshing cocktail is made with tequila, grapefruit soda, orange, and lime. Its citrusy flavor instantly quenches your thirst and makes it perfect to pair with Mexican snacks or main dishes like grilled meats. You’ll find them especially in Tlaquepaque.
Cantaritos: A symbol of Jalisco’s culture and tradition, this drink is made with tequila, orange, grapefruit, and lime juice, grapefruit soda, and a pinch of salt. Traditionally served in red clay mugs, its presentation adds to its refreshing nature. Optional toppings include chamoy, chili powder, or salt around the rim, and a slice of orange for extra flavor and personality. The best places to enjoy them are in Amatitán and Tequila.
Vampiros: This spicy cocktail is served in a plastic bag with a straw. It includes lime and orange juice, grapefruit soda, salt, tequila, and homemade sangrita (a mix of orange and tomato juice, chili, lime, salt, and hot sauce). Ideal for sharing with friends on a hot afternoon, especially with snacks like peanuts. There’s also a non-alcoholic version. You can find them in San Luis Soyatlán, in the municipality of Tuxcueca, Jalisco.
Pomegranate Punch: This liquor is made with the juice of sour pomegranates, sugar, a little water, and either tequila or mezcal, then bottled to begin the fermentation process. As a handmade beverage, its flavor is unique and characterized by a light acidity. Served cold, it’s a traditional and refreshing drink commonly found in Sayula, Tapalpa, Zacoalco, and Tuxpan.
Escamocha: A cocktail made from tropical fruits chopped into cubes, such as pineapple, watermelon, melon, papaya, strawberries, banana, orange, and jicama. Orange and lime juice are added, along with grenadine, salt, and chili powder or chamoy to enhance the citrus and refreshing flavors. More than just a drink, it’s a typical dessert for the people of Jalisco.
Each drink, through its texture, flavor, and preparation, highlights the traditions, culture, and history of the region. We invite you to be amazed by the exquisite cuisine and traditional beverages this wonderful destination has to offer.
