Jalisco, Mexico takes center stage as host of the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony 2026 | News
Jalisco, Mexico has firmly established itself on the global culinary stage as the official host of the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Mexico Ceremony, marking a historic milestone for the destination and its burgeoning gastronomic influence.
For the first time, Guadalajara hosted the internationally renowned MICHELIN Guide ceremony, putting Jalisco at the center of the global culinary conversation. The event coincided with the Guide’s expansion throughout Mexico, cementing the country – and Jalisco in particular – as a world-class destination for culinary excellence.
A total of 13 restaurants in Jalisco were recognized in the MICHELIN Guide Mexico 2026 selection, spanning Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta and coastal areas, reflecting the depth, authenticity and innovation of the state’s culinary landscape.
Jalisco’s inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide – and its role as host of the 2026 ceremony – represents a defining moment in the state’s long-term strategy to position gastronomy as a central pillar of tourism, cultural identity and economic development.
“Today represents the realization of a long-standing vision to position Jalisco within the MICHELIN Guide,” said Pablo Lemus Navarro, Governor of Jalisco. “This recognition is not just an honor, but a defining distinction – especially as we look ahead to global milestones such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
This milestone is also in line with the state’s forward-looking vision of 2027, officially declared the ‘Year of Gastronomy’, and highlights the growing importance of culinary tourism in shaping Jalisco’s global identity.
Food has long been central to Mexico’s identity, and in Jalisco it is a defining element of the visitor experience. The destination offers a rich spectrum of culinary expressions – from traditional birrierías and ‘taquerías’ to modern, chef-led restaurants – each reflecting the region’s flavours, history and cultural heritage.
“What makes Mexico so special is this mix of deep-rooted traditions and extraordinary creative energy,” says Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guide. “From lively markets to groundbreaking restaurants: food and drink really breathes culture here.”
Locally sourced ingredients and iconic products such as tequila, raicilla and chili de Yahualica further anchor Jalisco’s culinary identity and offer visitors deeply authentic and immersive experiences.
The newly recognized MICHELIN Guide restaurants are expected to significantly raise Jalisco’s profile among high-end travelers, global media and culinary tastemakers, while generating meaningful economic impact across the entire tourism ecosystem.
With more than 46,000 food and beverage outlets statewide, Jalisco’s culinary sector plays a vital role in the local economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating significant annual revenue. Recognition by MICHELIN improves visibility across the entire value chain: from producers and farmers to hotels, artisans and restaurateurs.
As Jalisco prepares to welcome the world for major upcoming events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the recognition from the MICHELIN Guide further strengthens its position as a leading destination where culture, gastronomy and global travel intersect.
This milestone underlines the growing influence of Mexican gastronomy on the world stage – highlighting Jalisco as a destination where culinary excellence is not only celebrated, but experienced.
Restaurants with Michelin stars
Xokol (Guadalajara) – 1 MICHELIN Star + MICHELIN Green Star (Sustainability)
Alcalde (Guadalajara) – 1 MICHELIN star
Bib Gourmand selections
PalReal (Guadalajara)
Tacos and Gorditas Elvira (Guadalajara)
ICU (Puerto Vallarta)
Recommended restaurants from the MICHELIN Guide
Guadalajara
La Docena
Allium
Birriería Las 9 Esquinas
Birriería David
Tete Cocina de Barrio
Tikuun Comedor Local
Puerto Vallarta
Takos from Pancho
Other locations in Jalisco
Coyul (La Huerta)
