About Us

Our Culinary Journey
Shared with you

Left to right, co-owners Marcelino Zamudio, Hector Flora and Jose Abrego. (Scott Suchman for The Washington Post)

At Chicatana, the air hums with the vibrant spirit of Guerrero, a southern Mexican state where sun-drenched hillsides meet turquoise shores. It’s in this land of contrasts that the magic of our cuisine begins. Here, the aroma of simmering spices and sizzling peppers weaves a spell, beckoning you into a world where each bite tells a story. More than just a restaurant, we are a gathering place.

Our kitchen is a crucible of tradition and innovation, where ancient recipes passed down through generations are reborn with a modern spirit. We honor the legacy of these culinary masters, carefully crafting each dish with a reverence for the land and its bounty. 

Every dish is a whispered secret, a tapestry of flavors. From the humble tortilla, crafted with loving hands, to the rich mole, each bite transports you to sun-drenched markets and bustling plazas of Guerrero. Feel the warmth of our hospitality, the gentle hum of conversation, and the subtle magic that infuses every encounter.

We are not just cooks; we are storytellers, weaving tales of Guerrero’s rich culinary heritage into every plate. Come, join us, and let the magic of Chicatana ignite your senses. Let the heart of Mexico warm your heart.

The Maguey Cupreata: Heart of Guerrero's Mountains

A mountain warrior stands tall in the mountains of Guerrero, Mexico. This is the Maguey Cupreata, also known as the maguey papalote—a name that evokes the majestic expanse of its wide, kite-like leaves and its copper-colored spines. These robust leaves, broader than those of most magueys, rise from the mountain’s steep slopes, a testament to the tenacity of life in this challenging terrain.

For centuries, this remarkable agave has been the heart of Guerrero’s mezcal production. The piña, or heart of the plant, is carefully harvested and then roasted in traditional earth ovens, their crackling heat releasing a rich, smoky essence. This ancient process transforms the agave’s essence into a spirit as complex and layered as the land itself.

At Chicatana, we honor the maguey Cupreata and its profound connection to Guerrero’s heritage. The maguey’s resilience and the bounty it provides inspire our commitment to using fresh, authentic ingredients and creating dishes that celebrate both the traditional and the contemporary.