RIVIERA NAYARIT, Mexico - AussieJournal -- Nayarit's culinary scene has reached a new level of national recognition, with eight restaurants included in the Guía México Gastronómico 2026, one of the country's most influential dining selections curated by Culinaria Mexicana and a panel of industry experts.

The annual guide highlights the Top Restaurants across Mexico based on consistency, culinary concept, technique and identity. The inclusion of eight establishments from Nayarit underscores the state's growing reputation as a serious gastronomic destination, driven by diversity, quality and innovation.

Nayarit restaurants recognized in the 2026 selection:

• Codex (Inside Conrad Punta Mita Hotel) – A contemporary concept that reinterprets regional ingredients through modern techniques, elevating local cuisine into a fine dining experience.
• Cosecha Farm to Table (Mezcales) – A sustainability-driven project focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a true farm-to-table approach.
• Emiliano (Tepic) – A benchmark in the state capital, offering contemporary Mexican cuisine rooted in strong regional identity and technical execution.
• Hector's Kitchen (Punta de Mita) – Known for its well-executed international menu, it has become a staple in the destination for quality and consistency.
• La Casa by Thierry Blouet (Bucerias) – Led by renowned chef Thierry Blouet, the restaurant blends French technique with Mexican ingredients in a refined culinary offering.
• Loma 42 (Tepic y Bahia de Banderas) – A concept that has helped redefine the local dining scene with a creative, contemporary approach centered on product and presentation.
• Makai (Punta de Mita) – A fresh, globally inspired concept focused on delivering elevated dining experiences in a relaxed setting.
• Zicatela (Punta de Mita) – Oaxacan and Mexican cuisine combines a laid-back atmosphere with a solid culinary proposal centered on bold flavors and precise execution.

A destination defined by its culinary identity

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This recognition reflects a broader shift in Nayarit's positioning. The state is not only leveraging its natural assets but also building a distinct culinary narrative grounded in local ingredients, creativity and professionalization.

Beyond its culinary rise, Nayarit is steadily gaining recognition in Mexico's wine and spirits landscape, positioning itself as an emerging producer with authentic regional character. In the highlands of Jala, Vinos Meseta del Cielo is pioneering local viticulture, producing wines that reflect the state's unique volcanic soils and microclimate. Complementing this effort, Tequila Real de Ixtlán showcases the region's agave heritage through traditional tequila production, while raicilla — a lesser-known agave distillate deeply rooted in western Mexico — continues to gain visibility as part of Nayarit's artisanal identity. Together, these producers reinforce the state's expanding gastronomic narrative, adding depth and authenticity to its evolving profile as a destination for both food and beverage experiences.

Unlike destinations that rely heavily on imported concepts, Nayarit is achieving a balance between regional authenticity and international standards. Key elements include the use of Pacific seafood, regional agricultural products, sustainable practices and a growing presence of high-level culinary talent across both coastal destinations and the capital, Tepic.

Press kit and photo gallery

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About Nayarit
Located along Mexico's Pacific coast, Nayarit is a fast-growing tourism destination known for its blend of luxury, nature, and cultural authenticity. Home to the Riviera Nayarit, the state features more than 300 kilometers of coastline with world-class resorts, boutique hotels, surf towns, and protected natural areas, alongside nine Pueblos Mágicos and rich indigenous heritage. With expanding air connectivity through Tepic International Airport and a strong focus on sustainability, Nayarit continues to position itself as a global destination offering diverse, high-quality travel experiences.

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About ENroute Communications

ENroute Communications is a leading travel and tourism public relations agency specializing in Mexico and international destination marketing. With more than two decades of combined experience representing destinations across the country, the agency develops and executes integrated communications strategies in the United States and Canada, including media relations, brand positioning, strategic partnerships and high-impact campaigns.

As the public relations agency of record for Nayarit in North America, ENroute Communications has played a key role in elevating the destination's visibility among top-tier media, travel advisors and industry stakeholders, positioning Nayarit as one of Mexico's most dynamic and fast-growing tourism destinations.