5 Guatemalan-owned businesses to know
We are so fortunate to have an amazing community of creative small businesses here in Antigua. Whenever we feel alone, discouraged or ready to throw in the towel- we have an amazing community to lean on. We’ve outlined 5 Guatemalan-owned businesses that we LOVE:
Paralelo Catorce
Traveling to Guatemala and having a proper coffee experience should be in everyone's bucket list. We consider Paralelo Catorce one of the top coffee experiences providers; from a fabulous walk all the way up Agua Volcano being surrounded by breathtaking views and coffee trees to the whole science that is hidden inside your mug, you'll find yourself immerse in the depths of the coffee world. We love Paralelo Catorce because they allow you to connect with this culture on a whole new level, while you treat yourself to an exceptional brew. Add them to your travel bucket list when the borders open up and for now, you can enjoy their coffee at home! Click the link below to buy yourself some Guatemalan coffee: https://paralelo14coffee.com
Antigua Cerveza
When it comes to beer, we prefer ours handcrafted in our own town. Antigua Cerveza is by far our favorite beer, not only because of it’s incomparable taste but also because it was one of the first craft breweries in Antigua. Their four signature beers: Muy Noble, Don Nadie, Sin Novia and Cucurucho will each tell you a story about the people behind these traditions and the history of the place they were made. That’s why we love them so much, you’re not just having a beer, you’re joining a community, sharing a culture and living a great adventure. Did we mention they have the coolest taproom in town?
Future Travel Plans: Book a tour of their brewery and enjoy a boozie testing of their amazing beers and check out their taproom: 5a Avenida Norte #20A
For now: Follow them on Instagram and check out their site: https://www.antiguacerveza.com/espanol#cervezas
Xibalba Joyas
The place where style meets tradition. Xibalba is a jewelry brand that truly honors craftsmanship and design; offering a whole cultural experience and not just beautiful jewels. When visiting Antigua Guatemala, this is a must go to place. Not only will you get to appreciate the art in every unique and one of a kind silver and jade pieces that they have on exhibition, you will also have the opportunity to handcraft your own jewel in their workshop. And you might also get to meet their inspiring founder Laura, who created this beautiful concept that represents the true value for local art.
Future Travel Plans: Book a Jade workshop at their flagship store in Antigua.
For now: Shop their amazing collections here: https://xibalbadesigns.com
Arista de Café
Not a day goes by without us craving one of Artista de Cafe’s amazing lattes. Their goal is to dignify every cup of coffee, and oh boy they honor that statement. We love this coffee shop founded in 2018 by Guatemalan, Maria Andree Negreros, because she created one of the chicest and creative spots in Antigua. Every coffee lover will appreciate visiting this spot while they stay in Antigua, knowing that the quality of their coffee is as high as the mountains surrounding the town and the awesome customer service leaves you with a big smile. A great experience + quality is always the best combo in our opinion.
Future Travel Plans: Visit their coffee shop at 4ta calle oriente #5B
For now: Follow them on Instagram and be inspired by their perfectly curated feed: https://www.instagram.com/artistadecafe/
Hilosophy
As the years go by, we keep finding ourselves loving home decor and homegoods more and more with the goal of making our house feel like our own personal piece of heaven. And it is no secret that we are in love with Guatemalan textiles and weaving techniques. That’s why we consider Hilosophy an actual gem in the heart of Antigua Guatemala. Founded in 1984 by Guatemalan Milena Prem, who is the artist behind the textile design, Hilosophy has been offering not only very high quality and original homegoods, but also sharing the great beauty of Guatemalan art and traditional weaving. Their shop and workshop are located on the famous Arch Street where they exhibit and sell their beautiful pieces and offer occasional tours to experience the weaving process. We love this brand because, just like us, they focus on honoring the artisans above everything.
Future Travel Plans: Visit their shop on Arch Street (right past Fridas)
For now: Shop their beautiful collection here: https://www.hilosophy.shop/shop