discover
our history
Balam is an innovative initiative that aims to rescue and promote the gastronomic richness of the Mayan culture, one of the oldest and most diverse in Mexico and the world. It originated in Guadalajara, Jalisco as a pop-up restaurant, offering typical dishes of ancestral Mayan cuisine, crafted with organic, indigenous ingredients, and ancient techniques, inspired by the traditions and flavors of this pre-Hispanic culture.
Currently, in 2023, we have evolved into a broader and contemporary proposal that blends internationally recognized Mexican cuisine with conceptual elements from our Sudcalifornian culture, creating unique and original flavors.
Our logo represents the Jaguar (Balam in Maya), the most powerful, imposing, and sacred animal of the Maya, symbolizing strength, elegance, and connection to our Mexican roots. It was a mysterious and ambivalent entity in Mayan culture, associated with various aspects of life and death, nature, and the cosmos. Balam is an expression of art, culture, and history, aiming to respect and honor the legacy of our ancestors. Let yourself be captivated by the charm of the Jaguar.
Meet
our executive chef
Ivana Vinessa Pérez Preciado
Sudcalifornian with an incredible passion for cooking and culinary art. Her goal is to bring the finest dishes to your table, with fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and impeccable presentation. Inspired by traditional recipes of the region, yet daring to innovate and experiment with new combinations. She invites you to discover her work and indulge in her creations.
Sudcalifornian with an incredible passion for cooking and culinary art. Her goal is to bring the finest dishes to your table, with fresh ingredients, authentic flavors, and impeccable presentation. Inspired by traditional recipes of the region, yet daring to innovate and experiment with new combinations. She invites you to discover her work and indulge in her creations..
Meet
our corporative chef
Jorge Octavio Hernández Molina
Originally from La Paz, Baja California Sur, he developed a passion for gastronomy at a very young age, overcoming the fear of stovetops at the age of 6. At 17, he began working in high-end kitchens while pursuing a degree in Gastronomy. He completed his studies at the International Culinary School, specializing as a grill chef accredited by the Mexican Grill Society. His thirst for improvement led him to specialize in Food and Beverage Business Administration. Ultimately, he decided to create the BALAM project, an ode to the fusion of Mayan and Sudcalifornian cuisine.
Originally from La Paz, Baja California Sur, he developed a passion for gastronomy at a very young age, overcoming the fear of stovetops at the age of 6. At 17, he began working in high-end kitchens while pursuing a degree in Gastronomy. He completed his studies at the International Culinary School, specializing as a grill chef accredited by the Mexican Grill Society. His thirst for improvement led him to specialize in Food and Beverage Business Administration. Ultimately, he decided to create the BALAM project, an ode to the fusion of Mayan and Sudcalifornian cuisine.
Meet
our team
Our
restaurant
The location of Balam is strategic, being close to the heart of the city yet distant enough to create a cozy and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a meal with family, friends, or your partner.