Last Updated on March 9, 2026
If you ever find yourself in Guadalajara you are in for a treat. Guadalajara is home to some of the best food in Mexico, with seemingly endless options on every street. In addition to good food, they also have some excellent bars.
My favorite bar in Guadalajara, and actually all of Mexico, is El Gallo Altanero. It translates to English as The Haughty Rooster, they serve a variety of creative cocktails as well as old standbys. I would also go so far as to say its the best cocktail bar in Guadalajara. If you’re visiting Guadalajara you need to stop in for one of their absolutely excellent cocktails.
Where to Find El Gallo Altanero
El Gallo Altanero is located two blocks off the famous Avienda Chapultepec in Colonia Americana. Colonia Américana is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Guadalajara, so if you stay in the this area you won’t be disappointed.
While not a speakeasy, El Gallo Altanero does not have a street facing sign. Look for a coffee place called Fitzroys and walk up to the hostess and ask for El Gallo Altanero. She will lead you inside and up the stairs to the bar where you can sit. It might look like it is closed but just take the leap of faith and walk up.
Seating in El Gallo Altanero
Seating is at somewhat of a premium but that adds to the ambiance of the place. There is seating at the bar, a few booths, but most of the seating is along the railing of the deck or along the wall. It makes for a very intimate and energetic vibe. That being said if you get a little claustrophobic it may be a bit much for you.
Another thing to note is that they do not take reservations. It is first come first served. If you are in a larger group they will accommodate you the best they can, but this can be tough given they don’t take reservations.
The Drinks at El Gallo Altanero
Being a cocktail bar, El Gallo Altanero has drink menu that is very cocktail forward. That being said they do have a variety of craft beers as well from all over Mexico. They even have combos of a beers and a tequila shot. So there is something for almost everyone. Prices are very reasonable in my opinion.
Their cocktail menu is split into two different sections; Classic cocktails and house cocktails. Classic cocktails around like, the old standbys such as a margarita. The house cocktails are their own specialty drinks that they design and make in house. They seem to be on a somewhat rotating basis so check their Instagram for the most up to date info.
Many of the house cocktails are tequila based, given that Guadalajara is just an hour away from Tequila, Mexico, making it squarely in tequila country. Tequilas from the Cascahuin Distillery are featured in many cocktails and are excellent. Cascahuin tequila is also excellent for sipping and you can order neat tequila if you like, or try it in one of their beer and tequila combos. If you’re not a tequila fan there are also cocktails made with other liquors.
Food at El Gallo Altanero
There is a small food menu at El Gallo Altanero. Only once have I went ordered off it. It appeared to be rotating menu as well. It seemed to be small plates and dessert. If you need a full meal I would suggest to eat before you come.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere at El Gallo Altanero is what makes it truly a great bar. The low lighting and the open roof pair incredibly well for a sophisticated but inviting feel. The seating arrangement while not spacious, is done in a way that doesn’t make you feel cramped but part of the room. The feel is very versatile. The close seating makes it easy to be social and meet new friends, or celebrate with old ones.
There is also an intimate feel that makes it great for a date night or special occasion. The energy in the room is enough to make feel invited but not too much that you have to shout to hear person next to you. You could meet your buddy there to start the night out, or end the night there with an exclamation point after dinner.
In addition to the already great atmosphere, El Gallo Altanero will host DJs from time to time. I have not personally been to one of these nights but trust they would be enjoyable. If you’re interested they post upcoming performances on their instagram.
Why El Gallo Altanero is My Favorite Cocktail Bar in Guadalajara
I’m not a hospitality industry expert by any means, but I have had a lot of drinks in a lot of bars around the world. El Gallo Altanero manages to be a unique bar while at the same time being so versatile it’s perfect for almost any occasion. If you go you will not be disappointed.
