La Chocolata
Restaurant & Bar – New Regional Cuisine
La Chocolata is a vibrant restaurant and bar that captures the free-spirited essence of Mazatlán’s “pata-salada” culture. Housed in a restored Tropical Neoclassical building, its design preserves historic textures while layering in bold, eclectic elements that reflect the city’s rich fusion of influences. Named after the native Chocolate Clam, the space exudes unpolished charm, warmth, and authenticity—an invitation to savor both heritage and modern coastal flavors.
La Chocolata is meticulously arranged around a central focal point, mirroring the organic symmetry of an opening clam. At the heart of the space, a smooth pink cement floor forms the shape of a shell, surrounded by dark brown tile that creates a striking contrast—keeping the center bright and inviting while the perimeter remains moody and intimate. This central geometry not only defines the layout but also influenced the custom typography and graphic identity of the brand.
The booth seating curves around this focal point like a shell, with wedge-shaped back supports that subtly reference clam formations. A planter at the center is filled with carefully selected pink-hued plants, reinforcing the space’s warm, sensual palette. Above, the ceiling bracket follows the booth’s contours, ensuring that the pendant lights—reminiscent of bubbles or pearls—are perfectly aligned within the heart of the space.
Throughout, arches—a defining feature of La Chocolata’s historic architecture—are echoed in doorways, windows, and ornamental wall moldings, reinforcing a sense of elegance and cohesion. At night, a sultry pink neon glow spills onto the street, hinting at the hidden warmth inside and sparking curiosity among passersby. The result is a space that feels at once mysterious, intimate, and alluring—a hidden pearl waiting to be discovered.
