"While the polish has worn away since the founding of this traditional Mexican cantina, the pulse of Guadalajara still beats in the pale-yellow walls, well-worn bar, and battered tables covered in bottles of Victoria and shots of Tequila Herradura in tall caballitos. The botanas (snacks) are simple: pickled pigs’ feet, tacos dorados, petite tortas ahogadas, or potato chips with lime and hot sauce. But the mariachis are the best in town, and the room is packed with locals and tourists wandering in from a hike through the historic center. Two-ingredient cocktails — rum and Coke, palomas — are served do-it-yourself style; you get a shot, a glass with ice, and a mixer. In this real Mexican cantina, all that mixology stuff won’t get in the way of the drinking. [$]" - Bill Esparza