I visit Guadalajara at-least once a month, and refuse to patronize Starbucks, or any other large…read morecoffee chains, in favor of smaller family-run operations. That being said, finding a quality cup of coffee in GDL to my taste is easier said than done. That was until I found Café Oro Maya.
This place is located near Chapalita, one of the best places to find great food in GDL. Just across the street from the glorieta, you'll find easy parking right in-front. With comfortable seating inside and out, you'll find a selection of traditional Mexican coffees. Or, as I often do, I'll get a coffee "para llevar" (to-go) and stroll the glorieta, which often has artists selling beautiful paintings/sculptures.
The owner/operator is very friendly and knowledgeable about the coffee he sells, which originates from the Chiapas region of Mexico. The coffee is grown in fair trade and environmentally sustainable conditions. The owner seemed to recognize that my Spanish isn't the best, and spoke to me about his coffees in English, but I still force myself to learn and speak in Spanish, because it sounds much better.
While sipping a Mayan espresso, I find myself relaxing in this beautiful shop, playing a game of dominoes, and wishing I could take this coffee home with me to California. I'll settle for a pound of beans to take back with me on the plane, because I know I'll be back soon, and will always make it a point to visit Café Oro Maya.