Gossip’s Kitchen, the only Black-owned restaurant in Ajijic, Mexico, emerged serendipitously. Owner Ismat Jivani, a seasoned consultant with a rich background in the hospitality industry, initially visited Ajijic for work. Little did he know that this visit would ignite the creation of something extraordinary.
“I fell in love with Ajijic and decided to stay,” Jivani shared with Travel Noire.
Having spent 24 years in Toronto but originally hailing from Nairobi, Jivani found Ajijic reminiscent of his hometown. The altitude—around 5,000 feet above sea level—mirrored Nairobi’s, and the pace of life resonated with him.
Despite his love for Nairobi, Jivani wanted to be closer to his children, who lived in Canada and Mexico. In 2010, he opened Gossip’s Kitchen as an homage to Kenya and his global travels (Mexico being the 14th country he’d explored).
The restaurant’s name stems from the rumors that circulated after Jivani left his successful consulting career behind. Initially considering “Tamu Tamu” (meaning “delicious” in Swahili), he ultimately settled on “Gossip’s.” And contrary to negative connotations, Gossip’s Kitchen exudes warmth and nostalgia—much like the comfort of home.
“When I was a consultant, people often expressed what they missed most about home, and it was invariably food,” Jivani explained. Curious, he asked four team members what culinary delights they longed for from their home countries while living in Mexico.
Drawing inspiration from Texas, Louisiana, Arizona, and Africa, Gossip’s Kitchen offers a menu that defies convention. Located near the highway, it’s an eclectic spot perfect for people-watching.
Ajijic, approximately 30 minutes from Guadalajara, awaits travelers seeking this unique culinary experience. You’ll find Gossip’s Kitchen at Carr Jocotepec-Chapala 36, Centro.
Source: Travel Noire
