Mexcala Restaurant: Celebrating Traditional Mexican Cuisine

Tara A. Spears

To eat real traditional Mexican food is to celebrate sensuality in every bite. The young owners of Mexcala Restaurant in south Guayabitos, Oscar Rodriguez, Andrea Guelaguetza Herrera and Alejandro Escaloma Cayetano (not pictured) have a vision to elevate the appreciation of traditional Mexican dishes. “We want our restaurant to appeal to everyone, to blend people from the United States, Canada, and Mexico,” explained Oscar. “We want to share our love for authentic Mexican cooking because it‘s sharing our heritage.” The new restaurant is located on the main Guayabitos street south of the downtown area. Mexcala is open nightly 5 pm until 11 pm except closed on Tuesday. Call for reservations 327 332 1585 or go to their Facebook page to message.

What makes ‘authentic traditional’ Mexican cuisine unique is that it is a comprehensive cultural model comprised of farming, traditional practices, age-old skills, culinary techniques and ancestral community customs and manners. Mexican traditional cuisine is made possible by collective participation in the entire traditional food chain: from planting and harvesting to cooking and eating. The basis of the system is founded on corn, beans and chilies yet Mexican cuisine is elaborate and infused with symbolism. A look at the variety of offerings on the Mexcala menu reflects these aspects. Dining at Mexcala is not simply filling your belly- it is savoring Mexican culture thru food.

From the time you enter, the understated Mexican décor envelopes you like a hug. The scents wafting from the open kitchen are a perfect accompaniment as you peruse the menu. “I selected the dishes based on what previous customers have liked and my family traditions,” said Andrea. From the appetizers to the main course selections there is something for every pallet: salads, soups, seafood, pork, and steak. You can tell the server if you need dietary adjustments. All ingredients are fresh and the meals cooked when ordered for maximum flavor.

If you’ve been thinking, “I’ve seen those two before….” That’s correct. Oskar began his career in hospitality at age 15 by being a waiter at Restaurant El Rodeo. He worked though out high school and university gaining experience in the restaurant business. “I love all elements of being in a restaurant,” said Oscar. “I knew early that is the job I’m meant to do.” The biggest challenge to starting and managing a restaurant for Oscar is the constant decision making: “A poor choice or a missed supply has an immediate consequence. But it is also what makes it interesting!” When Oscar is not working he likes to swim and watch football with friends. You can see him shaking it up behind the bar every night: Mexcala carries 7 different beers, 7 brands of tequila, all your favorite cocktails and name brand booze besides a decent wine selection.

Besides being a partner in the restaurant, Andrea is the executive chef of Mexcala. She is a certified chef (as indicated by her being entitled to wear the white tunic and hat.) Although she’s young, Andrea has extensive experience and excellent credentials. She has owned and operated the five star La Penita restaurant, Casa Rosetta, since 2018. In addition to her degree in Culinary Arts, Andrea has been honored to be selected as a show case chef in Puerto Vallarta and Tepic culinary events. “My objective with Mexcala is to provide quality, unique but authentic Mexican food that is affordable for everyone,” said Andrea. “I see Casa Rosetta as elegant, special dining and Mexcala as more casual but a special dining experience because so many are on vacation. I’m excited to think that I can introduce favorite Mexican dishes to those from other countries!” Besides the wonderful flavor of her cooking, Andrea has a delightful presentation of all dishes. It’s this attention to detail- selecting only the freshest, quality ingredients, creating a relaxing environment and a unique presentation that makes Mexcala a memorable dining experience.

Mexcala does accept reservations for private parties or other events. Credit cards are accepted. Live music entertainment is scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays for this winter. The staff adheres to the health protocols besides it is open air dining. In addition to Andrea, Mexcala has head chef Alejandro Escalona who is equally dedicated to cooking. Watch social media for announcements of upcoming special dinners for December 25 and New Year’s Eve. Both will be advance ticket sale events.

Congratulations to Oscar, Andrea and Alejandro for dreaming big and sharing this culinary dream with the Jaltemba Bay community! Dining at Mexcala is a fantastic introduction to authentic traditional food that is like a slice of heaven on a plate.

Open 5-11 pm every day but Tuesday FB or telephone 327 332 1585