Philadelphia Welcomes La Jefa Cafe, Celebrating Guadalajara

Patrons enjoying a delightful brunch experience at La Jefa Cafe in Philadelphia.

News Summary

La Jefa Cafe, a new establishment in Philadelphia, opens in tribute to Guadalajara’s culinary heritage. Located at 1605 Latimer Street, it offers brunch and dinner menus featuring authentic Mexican dishes, honoring the legacy of the Suro family and the beloved Tequilas restaurant.

Philadelphia Welcomes La Jefa Cafe, A Tribute to Guadalajara

Philadelphia’s vibrant culinary scene expands as La Jefa, a new cafe and bar-restaurant celebrating Guadalajara’s culinary heritage, opens its doors on Friday at 1605 Latimer Street, located at the rear of the renowned Tequilas. This venture, spearheaded by the Suro family, marks a significant step in honoring their father’s legacy following the devastating fire that forced Tequilas to close temporarily.

Founded by David Suro over 40 years ago, Tequilas has been a pioneer of high-end Mexican cuisine in Philadelphia. The restaurant suffered a catastrophic fire on February 9, 2023, leading to its closure for more than two years. Tequilas has recently reopened on March 18, 2025, boasting stylish renovations that maintain its original heritage while providing a more intimate dining experience with reduced seating capacity, enhancing overall service and enjoyment.

Unique Offerings at La Jefa

La Jefa features two distinct spaces, providing patrons with the opportunity to enjoy a full-service brunch in a café setting or savor dinner and late-night fare in an intimate bar-lounge. The cafe currently opens daily at 8 a.m. for coffee and pastries and serves brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The brunch menu boasts an array of flavorful dishes such as huevos verdes, enmoladas, chilaquiles, and sandwiches, all priced between $14 to $17.

As the Suro family continues to evolve their culinary offerings, dinner service will commence later in May, featuring fresh and innovative dishes like aguachiles, ceviche blanco, and a squash quesadilla. The Suro family describes their culinary style as “Guadaladelphian,” beautifully blending elements from both Guadalajara and Philadelphia.

A Focus on Authentic Ingredients

La Jefa pays homage to its roots by incorporating high-quality ingredients into its beverages and food. The cafe features 100% Mexican coffee sourced from Cafe Estelar and an impressive selection of agave cocktails, natural wines, and traditional ferments, crafted in collaboration with acclaimed James Beard-awarded mixologist Danny Childs. This attention to detail reflects the family’s commitment to honoring their Mexican heritage.

Honoring Family Legacy

At the helm of La Jefa is Dan Cipolloni-Suro, the youngest of David’s children. He has collaborated with a dedicated team of Tapatíos, or individuals from Guadalajara, to cultivate the café’s concept. The establishment also serves as a heartfelt tribute to the family’s late matriarch, Annette Cipolloni, who passed away from cancer in January 2021. The name “La Jefa,” which means “the boss” in Spanish, embodies her influential role in the family’s culinary journey.

Tequilas’ Revival

After the fire, the family faced the daunting task of revitalizing Tequilas. The renovations brought stylish upgrades while preserving the restaurant’s original charm. Enhancements include a menu that highlights elegant regional Mexican dishes, with modern twists such as shrimp cooked in tequila and a variety of pork dishes. A special barrel of Siembra Azul tequila, affectionately named “El Pocho,” was aged during Tequilas’ closure, further underlining the family’s commitment to quality and tradition.

As La Jefa joins the roster of Philadelphia’s dining establishments, the Suro family’s endeavors showcase the evolving nature of Mexican cuisine in the city. With an inviting atmosphere and diverse menu offerings, La Jefa promises to be a beacon of cultural celebration and culinary excellence in the heart of Philadelphia.