With a growing trend of locally grown organic produce and locally produced wines, cheeses and olive oil, the food scene and culture in this stunning city has never been stronger. On February 22, 2024 Food & Travel magazine awarded San Miguel the prize for the best gastronomic destination in Mexico.
In addition to my top recommendations below, there are a number of more casual cafes and restaurants in town, a growing list of nearby wineries which offer excellent food and wine tastings plus some fun spots for coffee, pastries, ice cream and chocolates. Known for its great weather, San Miguel has many choices for rooftop dining that you can take advantage of while enjoying the amazing views.
As a reminder, I have never been compensated for any meals and that if I have a bad experience at a restaurant, I do not list it in my recommendations.
Restaurants in Town
Casa Nostra: Opened in February, 2018, this is a wonderful addition to the dining scene for Mediterranean cuisine. It is located at Terraplen #8, south of the Jardin and north of Parque Juarez. It has a small indoor dining room, but has two outdoor terraces upstairs. The top terrace is perfect for views of the sunsets over the distant mountains, the flowering jacaranda trees in the spring and of the churches of San Miguel. I am always impressed with the passion of chef/owner Marco Massarotti and the wonderful menu he has created. It features a large number of tapas, salads, risottos and pastas plus entrees of fish, chicken and veal. In the colder months, you might enjoy cheese fondue, raclette and chocolate fondue for dessert. There is also an extensive menu of cocktails and wines. My favorites include the pistachio crusted tuna, the salmon in a mango cilantro sauce and one of their ravioli specials. I have been several times and always look forward to going back for another great experience.
Opened in December 2020, Agavia Restaurant – Bar is located in Centro at Hernandez Macias 115. After I recently read great reviews, I went with a group of friends in October 2024. I was very impressed and had one of the best meals that I have had in San Miguel.
This is a small restaurant with a menu featuring Contemporary Mexican Cuisine. We enjoyed being waited on by the owner Jesus who explained the history of each dish. This is a blend of tradtional regional dishes that were created by Jesus and his wife Nelcy who are both trained chefs. Using fresh and organic produce, they have a number of outstanding dishes. They are particularly known for their creative mole entrees. I was very impressed with the white mole which was a mix of pulque, coconut and almonds on top of roasted pork, hominy corn and plaintains. It was excellent as was the chocolate mole and the baked bananas with cajeta and nuts and the cactus fruit ice cream.
In addition to their downstairs bar and small number of tables, they have two separate areas upstairs along with an outdoor terrace. I highly recommend the experience
Another new recommendation is Ghar Restaurant at Mesones 14 in Centro. Specializing in Indian cuisine, they have a menu of small plates, wood grilled meat and seafood, curry dishes, flatbread or naan, sides and desserts. I enjoyed the space and the staff. It was good to see Adrian who used to be at Aristocrat on Jesus which has now closed. I also enjoyed meeting Kevin O’Connor who used to live near me in Chicago and who also has restaurants in Chicago and the suburbs along with Ghar chef Hiran Patel. I had a very good beet root salad, grilled lamb chops with mashed potatoes and a tasty flourless chocolate cake for dessert. They do have options that are not spicey.
Trazo 1810: Located at Hidalgo #8 in the Casa 1810 Boutique Hotel, I enjoyed an excellent meal in their rooftop bar and restaurant. The views are stunning and the food outstanding. I loved the beet salad and octopus/pulpo entree. The chocolate dessert was excellent as well. My friend loved the fresh green salad and a lovely couscous served with grilled shrimp. I went back and enjoyed the beet salad again plus an excellent sea bass entree. I highly recommend this great spot close to the Jardin.
In early 2022, they opened Casa 1810 Parque at Codo #3. It is small, lovely property with two restaurants, Dulce 1810 Patisserie & Bistro and Tené Kitchen & Bar. Dulce 1810 features coffee drinks, pastries and a few salads and sandwiches. Tené has a large breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. I enjoyed my eggs benedict, latte and a yummy chocolate croissant. The lunch and dinner menu offers tacos, soups, pizzas, salads, ceviches and other entrées. They now also have Tené Rooftop. This is a contemporary space with beautiful views of Centro. They have a smaller menu but you can also order off the menu of Tené downstairs. I shared a tasty pear, arugula and serano ham pizza and a burrata salad.
Opened in September 2023, SOTTO Ristorante is a upscale, multi-level Italian restaurant at Canal 20, a block from the Jardin. It has a menu of appetizers, pastas, pizzas and meat dishes. I went with friends and family and was impressed with the decor, the food and the attentive staff. I really enjoyed the beet or betabel salad, the burrata and tomato salad and the tagliatelle frutos del mar with seafood in a tomato sauce. My friends have been in the food and wine business for many years and this is now one of their favorite new spots in town. I am glad that they made the recommendation. Their first location was in nearby Queretaro.
At the suggestion of a friend, I made sure to try Hacmans Cocina A La Leña at the recently opened hotel, Amatte Wellness Community, at Salida Real a Querétaro 168. It is located on a rooftop above Centro with stunning views of the area. Make sure to go for the sunset! There are a lot of steps to climb or you can take the elevator to the top. There is restaurant seating along with five bars offering tequila, wine and cocktails. I was very impressed with the menu and had one of the best meals that I have had in town. The quality of the food, the presentation and the service were top notch.
I enjoyed the octopus ceviche amuse-bouche, the burrata salad with figs and tomatoes, a sea bass entree with some mussels and topped off by a deconstructed carrot cake ice cream. I also had an excellent old fashioned with a smoky mezcal. I highly recommend the experience.
Bovine: This is a sleek, new spot with a really stunning, contemporary décor was opened by chef Paul Bentley from Magno Brasserie in Guadalajara. I enjoyed a meal with local friends and we all loved the food. The fish entree was really excellent and the side of brussel sprouts and grilled cauliflower were outstanding and some of the best I have eaten. Reservations can be made through their website. You can also reserve the private dining room called Mesa Dragones, featuring Casa Dragones tequila. Here you can try a special tasting menu created just for them with tequila pairings. Canal 16.
La Azotea and Pueblo Viejo’s fine-dining restaurant ATRIO means atrium. When you make the climb to the rooftop restaurant you get one of the most spectacular views of the Parroquia in the entire city. It is located in the old La Fragua space at Cuna de Allende #3 I went on the first night and loved the food. The salmon on a bed of curry, the burrata salad, a quinoa/shrimp salad. Fig and marscapone dessert was amazing. It had lovely wines and large cocktail menu. I have been back twice more and always enjoy the experience.
Thanks to local friends, I enjoyed a great meal at Salvajes Brasserie at Hidalgo 92 a short walk north of the Jardin. Opened in 2022 by the owners of Bastardo Restaurante & Beer Garden, this is a small French bistro featuring a menu of wines, cocktails and traditional French dishes. The food menu changes frequently. Here you can try such dishes as onion soup, a fresh morel cassolette, steak frites and more. I enjoyed a great red wine, a braised leg of lamb with stewed white beans and a tasty crème brûlée crêpe. They have a bar and limited seating downstairs and a covered upstairs patio along with a small private dining room. It is has limited seating so making reservations in advance are must.
I went back with local friends and thought their rosé wine, the coq au vin and the crème brûlée with berries were excellent.
Also a new spot that I highly recommend is Mia de pies a cabeza. This is a lovely, upscale restaurant in a quiet setting on a beautiful patio. Theee is also a small bar in front. They have a large menu, wine list, cocktail menu and a smaller bar menu. I was very impressed with the quality of the food and the service. The chef, Maria, studied at Le Cordon Bleu in France. I had an excellent watermelon salad and a fish entree. They are located in the former Santiago y Macarena space in Hotel Casaliza at Bjd. del Chorro 7, just up from Recreo. I was excited to go back in April, 2024. I loved the gazpacho and a roasted duck entree with figs, peaches and two mole sauces. I feel it is one of the best restaurants in town with great food, service and ambiance. You can now make reservations on OpenTable.
Recently opened is Aqui Castilla for Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. It is a remake of the former El Tapas at Jesús #5. I went with friends in town from the US for dinner on the rooftop terrace upstairs. I was very impressed with the food and service. It has a menu of traditional dishes from tapas, seafood and paella. I enjoyed the traditional tortilla Española or Spanish omelette with potatoes, grilled octopus or pulpo, fried calamari and mussels in a white wine sauce with french fries. They now offer paella specials on Sunday. The menu is great to share. In addtion to the rooftop and downstairs dining, there an attractive private dining room on the second floor.
I also enjoyed the meeting chef Danny who recently joined the team. It turns out he studied at Kendall College which has one of the top culinary programs in the US. He was also a chef at Next Restaurant in Chicago, which is one of the top high-end restaurants in town offering a changing tasting menu. Reservations can be made on OpenTable.
Another great new find is Estoril at Hidalgo #4. Opened in 2022, this is a branch of a popular Mexico City restaurant, with French owners, that opened in 1971.. The menu in San Miguel reflects this French/international tradition. This is a very elegant courtyard restaurant, with large menu of food and wine and excellent service. I went for a late lunch and enjoyed the beet salad, French onion soup and great walnut tarte. They also have a sushi bar, Murasaki, which features a large menu of rolls and nigiri. I will definitely try the sushi on my next visit. You can order from both menus.
Café Casa Blanca-7: Located on the ground floor of the Hotel Casa Blanca, at Juarez 7, this is an attractive café that has reopened in 2022. It is located in a 300-year old landmark building. Upstairs is Fatima 7 opened in in May 2019. I went for a private event just as it was opening and and then went back while hosting a family dinner. The food was excellent and the views stunning.
After reading several articles and posts, I wanted to eat at Conde Restaurante y Terraza which opened in 2023 at Insurgentes 63. It is a beautifully designed space with a bar and dining room, a terrace off of the dining room and a roottop terrace with lovely views. I went with local friends and enjoyed the experience, the staff and the food. I liked the seafood pasta in a pomodoro sauce along with an apple and pear salad and a decadent chocolate cake for dessert.
Restaurante del Parque: Santa Elena #2. Belmond’s Casa de Sierra Nevada en el Parque has reopened its restaurant after being closed for a few years. It was always one of my favorite places for brunch or dinner. This elegant spot as wonderful views of the gardens of the hotel. I enjoyed dinner with local friends who were equally glad that it had reopened. I then went back for Sunday brunch. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is a great spot on a holiday or when the downtown restaurants are full. I have been there twice for brunch on New Years Day and really enjoyed it.
Around the corner is Antigua Villa Santa Monica at Fray Jose Guadalupe Mojica #22: The property has a very traditional colonial Mexican feel and has lovely grounds, a pool and nice outdoor dining. It is one of my go-to places for their Sunday brunch buffet as I always enjoy the food, setting and the service. It is a great spot to go on a holiday weekend when the city is crowded.
Just down the street is another new find, the Talavera Restaurant at the Tres Fuentes Boutique Hotel. This is a lovely restaurant overlooking the beautiful garden and grounds. On my first trip, I went for Sunday brunch and enjoyed a tasty omelette, fruit plate and latte. I went back again for my second Sunday brunch, which in addition to a buffet, they had an excellent band playing music on the lawn. Just like Antigua Villa Santa Monica and Restaurante el Parque, this is a perfect spot for brunch on a busy weekend when Centro is crowded.
Recently they have been offering dinner along with music performances. I went for the first time and loved the food and the concert with music from Frank Sinatra to Elvis. Check their website for the schedule which tends to happen on Thursday evenings, Saturday brunch and Sunday afternoon. It is fun experience. I have been back several more times.
Hacienda el Sanctuario: This boutique hotel at Terraplén 42 has a restaurant on a lovely patio. It is the perfect spot for breakfast or brunch. They often have a buffet on Sunday. I was just there with a local friend and had a very good brunch with great service. It is decorated with beautiful pieces of Mexican folk art from the states of Michoacán, Oaxaca, Chiapas and Guanajuato.
Belmond’s other restaurant is Andanza. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I always enjoy the colonial setting. I had been several times in the past, but recently went back for dinner with my new neighbors. I really enjoyed my meal! Since I was there last, they have a new and talented chef who is in process of redoing all menus. Their Blue Bar is also a great spot to grab a drink. They offer live music twice weekly in the courtyard. in 2023 they opened the new rooftop bar, Tunki Rooftop by Handshake. These are in their downtown location at Hospicio #35.
One of my favorite places in town is Rustica, at Salida a Celaya #34. I always enjoy visiting with Eduardo, the owner, who was originally from Spain. They have turned a former, casual Mexican spot into a delightful restaurant and cafe with a perfect outdoor patio in the back. I enjoy going for lunch where they have a menu of omelettes, tacos, sandwiches, coffee and pastries. The roasted beet salad and a pizza with arugula, figs, goat cheese and prosciutto is the perfect choice!! The frittata is also one of my favorites. The ingredients are always so fresh. I now go once or twice every time I am in San Miguel.
They recently added additional seating on the upstairs rooftop, which is open on weekends when the restaurant is the most popular. You can also sit and work upstairs during the week.
A few years ago San Miguel welcomed a new luxury hotel, Live Aqua San Miguel Urban Resort at Calz. De La Presa No. 85. They have a stunning new restaurant and bar, Zibu Allende, along with a coffee bar serving pastries. On my first visit, I went to Sunday brunch. They have a full brunch buffet, an ala carte menu with a buffet option as well. We just ordered from the menu and had a great meal with outstanding service. I highly recommend it. The entire property is contemporary and beautifully designed.
I was excited to try their new, upscale restaurant called Spice Market on my last trip. It is located on the top floor and is beautifully decorated along with having a creative Asian meno. They have a large outdoor terrace which is perfect for San Miguel sunsets and weather. I enjoyed the experience, service and food.
I also recommend Tostévere at Codo #4. I went for the first time and really enjoyed the experience. It is a tiny spot, so make sure to make a reservation before you go. You can now do it on OpenTable. They have a small menu featuring tacos, tostadas, sides and some sandwiches and entrees. I thought the seared tuna and grilled octopus tostadas were excellent as was the roasted beet tostada. I also thought dessert of figs with a balsamic reduction sauce and cream was a perfect way to end a great meal. I went back for the second time and enjoyed a tasty beet salad and the seared tuna tostada.
The owners of Tostévere and Bocaciega recently opened Fari Trattoria in July 2024 at Salida a Celaya 5. They have a menu of antipasto, salads, pasta, seafood, steaks and pizza. I went with friends for my birthday in November 2024 and was very impressed with the service and the food. I loved the capresse salad with beets and rosted vegetables and the mussels in a tomato sauce. They enjoyed their pasta dishes and chicken and beef entrees. The tiramisu was so good and great to share. It has a small indoor dining room and a larger outdoor patio in front. I recommend eating inside due to the fact that it is on a busy street. I also recommend that you make your reservation in advance.
One of my favorite restaurants, Marsala, unfortunately closed in early 2024. It was taken over by QUANAX Sabor a Mexico. This is an upscale restaurant with outdoor patio and indoor dining along with a small cofee shop and bakery in front and a tequila tasting room. Chef Irving Cano has received several awards including Best New Chef in 2022 in Food & Wine Espanol when he was at at Trazo 1810 in San Miguel. The menu has traditional Mexican dishes with contemporary intrepretations. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily except for Tuesday. I went for Sunday brunch and enjoyed being on the patio with live music. I went back again in November for a group brunch and enjoyed the quality of the food. Hernández Macías 48.
Also opened in February 2024 is the upscale Asian restaurant Kan Bei Asian Cuisine at Zacateros 14. It is located a a beautifully designed space with a lovely outdoor patio restaurant and indoor bar. They have an ala carte menu as well as two tasting menu options. It can be on the pricey side, so I recommend that you share some of the plates including the dumplings, spring rolls, wagu sliders and other dishes. I enjoyed my first visit with local friends. I tried the chicken pandan, a spring roll and the mango sticky rice for dessert.
In June 2024, they started serving a prix fixe dim sum brunch menu on Sundays. In October 2024 after returning back to town, I met friends there and enjoyed the quality of the food. It has roughly 13 small tastes. I recommend the experience.
Other favorites include:
Cent’anni Trattoria: At Canal 34, this is second location for this Italian trattoria based in Condesa in Mexico City. The San Miguel restaurant opened in early 2014. It has inside seating downstairs but the highlight is the rooftop bar and outside terrace seating with wonderful views of the Las Monjas across the street. They have a large menu of pizzas, salads, pastas and meat and fish entrees. Our group had a great house salad with nuts, goat cheese and apples, and steak, fish and grilled pulpo or octopus. I try going during the week as it can be very crowded on weekends. On my next visit, I joyed an excellent tuna entrée.
I went back recently and thought the risotto with clams, pulpo and shrimp was excellent as was the rich tiramisu for dessert. They now often feature live music in the bar downstairs.
La Parada: Check out this Peruvian restaurant located at Recreo #94. Located in an old home, the decor is contemporary and food very good. There is a small indoor space but a large, attractive patio with the bulk of seating. They have some very good ceviches/cebiches. They have a very good chicken entrée with rice and good pisco sour cocktail. I was just back for group dinner and had a seafood and rice entrée plus a white fish ceviche with mango and dulce de leche ice cream for dessert. They recently brought in a new management and chef.
La Parada opened a mezcal bar in April, 2018, two doors north, called San Mezcal. Now under separate management, they feature an extensive menu of mezcals from many Mexican states along with wine, cocktails and a food menu offered by a new chef. It is a fun, small, contemporary space that is well-worth the visit. My favorite cocktail is the old fashioned with a smoky mezcal!
Sharing the space is their latest concept, San Burger. They share the same bar, but the food menu is different. However, you can order from both menus. They feature a number of different burgers and sides. I loved the standard burger and fries. I also had another wonderful old fashioned from San Mezcal with my dinner.
Moxi: Don’t miss this great restaurant at the boutique Hotel Matilda at Aldama 53. The small private dining room with fireplace and round table is perfect for a group. The service and food are always excellent. Their terrace is a lovely spot for dinner on warmer nights! Their new chef is “Vicente Torres, a Michelin star chef, presenting an haute cuisine concept with Mediterranean touches.”
I recently went back for breakfast/brunch with friends visiting San Miguel. I had one of my favorite dishes from the Mexican state of Yucatan, huevos motuleños, while sitting outside on a beautiful day. I had been wanting to go back and was very pleased that I did. They are also open for lunch and dinner.
Lolita Cocina Mexicana & Bar: Opened in November 2012, this good restaurant can be found a short distance from Centro on Salida a Celaya 52. They have a large selection of Mexican wines and Mexican specialties from salads, soups, fish, pork, beef and chicken. The decor is attractive (very Mexican) and the service great. They also had live music the night we were there. I was not aware until my recent trip that they also have great breakfast and lunch menu. I went with a local friend and enjoyed one of my favorite dishes, huevos motuleños from the Yucatan. The dish is made with fried eggs on tortillas with black beans and cheese along with ham, peas, plantains and a tomato sauce. Their outside front patio is perfect on a beautiful day.
Firenze Restaurante: I always enjoy Firenze Restaurante. Several years ago, they moved from a contemporary space overlooking the church of San Antonio at San Antonio #2 to a new spot at Recreo #13 in Centro. In the past I have enjoyed good wines, service and authentic Italian food. The current location is smaller with both indoor and outdoor seating. With seven to eight tables make sure to book ahead. The salads, pastas, and entrees were really excellent. On a recent visit, I had a wonderful sea bass fish entrée in a white wine sauce with tomatos and capers.
MX Restaurante Bar: Make sure to check out this San Miguel restaurant and bar. The décor is sleek and contemporary and the upstairs rooftop bar is one of the best in town. The lighting at night is spectacular and the views of the Parroquia are wonderful!! A perfect spot for an after dinner drink. They have a full menu upstairs as well in the dining room downstairs, including sushi. It is located at San Francisco #8, a block from the Jardin.
1826 Restaurant: This is the main restaurant at the Rosewood Hotel in San Miguel. It is a beautiful room with a great farm-to-table menu. There is a very attractive bar across the hall, 1826 Tequila Bar, with comfortable seating, plus a large menu of tequila, mezcal and small plates. I went for the first time in several years and enjoyed the live music. I also love, Luna Rooftop, the rooftop tapas bar which has amazing views of Centro and the Parroquia. This is the place to watch the sunset over the city.
La Azotea: A sleek restaurant that is perfect for drinks, lunch or dinner overlooking the mountains and nearby churches. Sunsets here are excellent. It was smaller when it first opened, but it was expanded for more bar/lounge seating. It has a great tapas menu with yummy jicama tacos. I just went back again for the tacos and also had an excellent grilled octupus or pulpo. I always enjoy the experience. Umarán 6.
Downstairs from La Azotea, Pueblo Viejo remains a local’s favorite with Mexican specialties. They have music on the weekends. I went back after several years with my family and friends and enjoyed the food and music.
Another great new find is Ojo de Agua at Pila Seca #32. With a number of locations in Mexico City and in other cities around the country. They have a menu that features a large number fresh fuits and vegetables. There are many juices, salads, soups, sandwiches, and breakfast specialties. I had a perfect Huevos Tatemados made with a pamesan cheese quesadilla, stuffed with spinach and avocado and topped with fried eggs and a choice of salsas. The atmosphere is contemporary with a great design. I loved the outdoor patio area. They also have items for sale including fruits and vegetables.
I was recently back and loved the Pear-Deli-Honey sandwich made with a tuna fillet and their tasty pear-deli-honey sauce (ginger, chives, lemon, honey, balsamic vinegar, red onion) with Oaxaca and manchego cheese.
Around the corner from Ojo de Agua is the Hotel El Recinto at Quebrada 113. I went for brunch at their recently opened Huitzil Restaurant/Bar and was blown away by the attractive design of the property. In addition to the bar and restaurant they have a bakery and coffee shop called Maeh Cafetería • Panadería • Repostería. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch. I recommend the avocado toast and the fruit bowl.
Pescau, at Jesus 21, specializes in seafood. It has a great contemporary atmosphere and outdoor patio seating. They have excellent tuna ceviche and marlin tacos.
I also recommend Dos Casas at Quebrada 101. Their restaurant, Aperi, is one of the best in town. I have been several times with local friends and family. It has a lovely contemporary décor with both indoor and outdoor seating. They offer both a tasting and an ala carte menu. I thought the salad, sea bass entrée and chocolate hazelnut dessert were very good and beautifully presented. On my second visit, I loved the beet salad and the tuna steak entrée. It is one of the best fine dining experiences you will find in San Miguel. For special occasions, the chef’s table experience in the kitchen is highly recommended by local friends. The original Chef Matteo Salas left and was replaced by Chef Omar Alejandro Henriquez Martinez who has worked in a number of the top restaurants in Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta. Reservations can be made through OpenTable.
Another local favorite is Cumpanio, at Correo 29, which is an excellent restaurant that is perfect for breakfast and lunch. They have a menu of French and Italian classics. Opened in 2011, it was designed by a top Mexico City designer who has made this a very attractive, sleek new addition to San Miguel.
Next door is their original Panio It is their gourmet French-Italian bakery with wonderful breads, pastries, croissants, cookies and scones. Their second location is at Doce 18 on Relox.
Their newest location is really lovely on Salida a Celaya #69. This was their third location in town. They have a lovely bakery as well as a cafe for coffee sandwiches and more. I really loved the sandwich with prosciutto, goat cheese and sundried tomatoes for lunch on the first week that they opened.
The company recently opened Hortus located in the southeast corner of The Jardin at Portal de Guadalupe 12. This restaurant, opened for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Wednesday through Monday, has a menu of Mediterranean cuisine. They also serve the breads and pastries from Panio along with coffee drinks. These are available to go as well. I went for the first time for brunch and enjoyed the classic eggs benedict. They have outdoor seating and indoor seating for dinner.
Tio Lucas, Messones 103: This is a popular spot that has been there for many years. Known for its steaks, it also has a large menu of pastas, salads and seafood. After several years, I went back for dinner and enjoyed the red snapper in a garlic sauce. They also feature late night jazz.
Café Rama.. Located at Nemesio Diez #7, this is local’s favorite that took over the former Natura local organic grocery and then expanded again, doubling their space and adding an indoor dining room with eclectic furnishings and art. There is now a larger bar and considerably more seating which is now called The Black Book Bar. It has wonderful food and is perfect for lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is very attractive and casual.
They now feature live music or DJs several nights a week and often on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
The Restaurant at Sollano 16, is one of the top spots in town particularly for special occasions like New Year’s Eve or Day of the Dead. I always ask to be seated on the front patio around the fountain. They do have a Sunday brunch and offer special events like a pop-up restaurant by a visiting chef or a popular burger night every Thursday night during the week. The contemporary design and great style, excellent food by chef Donnie Masterton and an attentive staff make for one of the best experiences in town.
The Restaurant recently expanded, by taking over part of the attached retail space, and opened a new Asian bar and restaurant, The Bar at The R. Chef Donnie Masterton, explained at a recent event, that he has a passion for Asian food and that he wanted to open a small bar that featured sushi and small plates along with music played on 33 1/3 vinyl records. The food is very tasty.
Chamonix, at Sollano 17, with its great outdoor dining, is one of my favorite spots for over 17 years. They do a nice job with the the preparation of the the salmon and the spring rolls. I also loved the seabass on my last visit. They have a lovely patio as well as a small indoor dining room which is nice during the cooler months.
Café Parroquia at Jesus 11, is the place for Sunday breakfast or weekday lunch. I love the omelettes!! Sitting on the terrace, listening to birds and the gorgeous fountain with roses petals floating in the water, is the perfect way to start the day. I have to go every time I am back in town!
El Pegaso, at the corner of Correo and Corregidora, has great lunch fare. I always get the gazpacho. They recently opened a lovely rooftop dining room and bar which has great views. I just went back again with friends and had the best gazpacho and salmon burger.
Hecho en Mexico at Ancho San Antonio 8 near the Instituto, is known for the best guacamole in town and the wonderful fish tostada salad. It is not on the menu but ask for it. They often have musical entertainment at night. I was just back with a group of friends and had the seared tuna with their yummy sweet potato caserole and jicama slaw. The food is always consistently good!!
Next to Hecho en Mexico is Antaño Cuatro at Ancha de San Antonio #4. Opened in late 2020, it features a large breakfast and lunch menu. I went and enjoyed a great salmon and goat cheese omelette on the lovely outdoor terrace. The service was excellent.
I always enjoy the wonderful views and Mexican food of La Posadita at Cuna de Allende 13. They have great Mexican specialties. Make sure to eat on the rooftop terrace! I heard they just remodeled and it is lovely.
The Food Factory at La Aurora: After a day of gallery hopping and shopping this is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
Oko Noodle Bar: Located in Plaza Alhondiga across from La Comer, this good Asian restaurant has a fun casual atmosphere, with good food and huge portions.
Paprika: A great restaurant in San Miguel, it has a great eclectic decor with both indoor and outdoor seating. I enjoyed a wonderful salad and great salmon dish. Ancha de San Antonio #7. I recently went back and enjoyed a great tuna dish. They do have music on weekends and several nights during the week which is a great addition. Make sure to make a reservation for the music as the concerts are very popular. The schedule can be found on San Miguel Live.
Formerly located in the Colonia San Antonio neighborhood, Zumo Rooftop Restaurant is now located at Canal and Quebrada. This is one of San Miguel’s best fine dining restaurants. The new space above a small boutique hotel, has wonderful views of Centro and the Parroquia. The staff is extremely attentive and the food excellent. It used to be open for dinner and offered a full tasting menu. Now in its new space, they are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition to its tasting menu at dinner, they now offer ala carte options as well. I went for brunch with a local friend and we both had a great experience. I also enjoyed visiting with Stewart Haverlack the owner, who has a real passion for great food and service.
Stewart recently expanded the restaurant by adding another terrace on the rooftop above. It can be reserved for dining and special events. Quebrada #93.
Doce 18 Concept House: The former Casa Cohen, at Calle Relox 18, now houses high-end boutiques featuring jewelry and designer clothing. There are galleries, a tasting room for Casa Dragones tequila, a Panio bakery and a new restaurant, Casa Arca. Upstairs, L’Otel, one of the top boutique hotels in town, has opened a number of boutique hotel rooms. Unfortunately, during and after Covid in 2020 to 2023, the number of shops and restaurants have been reduced considerably.
I loved the look of Casa Arca, which is operated by L’Otel, on the first floor in the former Nomada space, and went for a late breakfast while in town. It has a colorful vibe with great service and food. I loved the avocado toast and a latte. Breakfast is served until noon, then the lunch and dinner menu starts.
Luna de Queso: This is one of my go to spots in town which is a gourmet grocery and cafe. Here you can buy cheese and other specialty food items or grab a lovely quiche, sandwich or salad in their cafe. A few years ago, they moved around the corner from #79 Salida de Celaya to a larger location at Josefina Orozco 10. I have been there several times for lunch and enjoyed the contemporary design and the food on the lovely patio. They are now open for dinner as well as for breakfast and lunch. In the evening it becomes Celia.
In October 2024 I went for dinner for the first time with local friends. I really enjoyed the warm atmosphere at night and the food. My pork belly tacos were a great choice. It has a whole different vibe than during the day.
Across the street is the new location of Il Mercatino di Bella Italia at Josefina Orozco 19. I read about it and went with local friends after an opera event a block away. It has lovely outdoor seating. It has a large menu of Italian specialties including pizzas, salads, starters, pastas and entrees. I really enjoyed the caprese salad and the seafood pasta. I loved the local rose wine and a perfect tiramisu. Our server was excellent. It is a great spot to go when Centro is crowded on weekends or holidays. We were there on Good Friday where there were many streets blocked off downtown due to the processions.
Opened in April 2016, is the sleek, Quince restaurant located at Cuna de Allende 15. Opened by American restaurateurs, it features upscale Mexican cuisine in a spectacular setting overlooking the Parroquia and the city of San Miguel. I was there on one of the first nights it opened and thought the food and service were excellent. It is also a great spot for an early cocktail to catch a sunset view. They have some wonderful specialty cocktails made by their talented bartenders.
Mi Bistro 300: Located at Quebrada 18D, this is restaurant opened by five partners from Mexico City who all met in a restaurant there. They have a creative menu of tacos, tostados, entrees and more. They started in a small outdoor spot, but just moved into a brand new spot across the parking lot. I thought the food was excellent as was the décor and ambiance. The grilled octopus entrée was a perfect choice. I have been several times and highly recommend it.
Next door at Quebrada 18A, is one of the best new restaurants to open recently. Opened in late 2021, Bocaciega Hostería is a Greek restaurant located next to Casa Quebrada, a new boutique hotel with 13 rooms. I was very impressed with the beautifully decorated dining room, the plates, the service, the lovely presentation and the quality of the food. They have a menu of Greek dishes which are easily shareable as they are quite large. The menu items include tabuleh, hummus, falafel, fried calamari, grilled octopus, lamb and baklava. I really enjoyed the tabuleh salad and the octopus. I highly recommend the experience.
The owners also own La Choperia or La Chope and Tostevere in town. Chef Jose Bazan previously worked at major hotels and restaurants in Mexico City.
Antonio Rooftop: Located atop the El Palomar Hotel at San Francisco #57, this fine dining restaurant is a great addition to the San Miguel food scene. Not only are the views of Centro exceptional, but the food is excellent. I loved the beet salad, grilled tuna entree and decadent chocolate mousse, ice cream and cake. I recently went back for great sunset views and really enjoyed my shrimp tacos and mozzarella salad.
La Mansion de Montitlan: Located in the Los Balcones neighborhood, this is a very good restaurant located in a private home. Open on Sundays from 1 to 3pm and holidays, I have been there for Easter lunch with friends several times and have always had a delightful meal. The setting on the terrace is really lovely. It is also BYOB with a corkage fee. Montitlan 18.
Garufa Restaurante Argentino: At Canal #28, this a restaurant featuring meats and steaks. A little on the pricey side, it has a nice decor and good food. I chose the tuna entree and beet carpaccio and enjoyed it and my friends enjoyed the steak.
Opened in 2007, I have been several times to Vivali Ristorante +Terraza + Bar, that features a number of Italian specialties from pastas and pizzas. I really enjoyed the experience with local friends. My seafood risotto was very tasty as was the caprese salad. They opened a rooftop terrace in 2021 for dining and live music
In January 2024, I went back for a group dinner where I enjoyed the fried calamari, chicken parmigiana and a tasty tiramisu for dessert. The view from the terrace were outstanding particularly during a sunset. Hernández Macias #66.
Another fun, casual Italian spot is Antigua Trattoria Romana at Codo 9. I went back again for a third time and was very impressed this visit. They have an extensive food and wine menu. I really enjoyed the linguine al frutti de mare or linguine with fresh clams, squid, mussels, shrimp, octopus and fish.
Opened in mid- 2019 is La Doña de San Miguel at San Francisco #32. An upscale restaurant, I was impressed with the decor, the service and the food. I loved the salmon entree with pistachios and a decadent chocolate dessert. My only disappointment was that someone next to us started smoking a cigar as we were paying the check. I recommend going on the early side before the locals go to avoid this happening to you. Is is part of a restaurant group based in nearby Queretaro.
The popular Italian restaurant MAMA MIA, after 45 years, has moved from Umarán # 8 to Hernández Macías # 91. They have a coffee shop and cafe, Flor de Altura, two bars and large outdoor patio. The menu featuring antipastos, salads, pastas, pizzas and entrees. I enjoyed their pasta with pesto sauce and loved the atmosphere.
Restaurants Outside of Town
With San Miguel gaining popularity as tourist destination, it often gets very crowded during festivals and holidays. There are more and more dining options within a short drive from town that are great places to escape the crowds. My recommendations include:
Nirvana Restaurant & Retreat is a wonderful spot to visit in Atotonilco, next to Galleria Atotonilco. There are lovely grounds, a pool, hotel rooms and a great restaurant. The food, service and views are always great. They do a wonderful shrimp in Jamaica sauce and salmon with mango salsa. If they have the watermelon gazpacho, make sure to order it! I have been a big fan of the owner, Juan Carlos Escalante and his wife, for over 17 years when they had their first place downtown. I make a point to go at least once a year when I am in town. My favorite spot is on the terrace in the back! I would call ahead to make a reservation in advance as it is very popular on weekends.
La Burger: On the road to Dolores Hildago, just outside of town, is a well-known road-side spot featuring really awesome burgers. Fun outside seating with a red, green and white motif. The excellent burgers are grilled over mesquite wood. Had a perfect lunch with friends. Other friends recommend the steaks. Carretera San Miguel de Allende – Dolores Hidalgo km. 7.3.
La Burger is next to two other restaurants in the same location, which makes it a great spot to visit on a weekend when downtown San Miguel can get crowded. These include SMOKED ‘N LOW for barbecue and Restaurante Cien Fuegos Pizza & Comfort Food.
I now have to try SMOKED ‘N LOW on my next trip. My friends really like the barbecue and casual outdoor setting. I also liked the look and menu of Cien Fuegos, and will definitely try it as well and report back to you.
Another great spot is El Vergel Bistro & Market. Located at Camino la Alborada 17, Predio la Alborada, a short drive outside of town across from Candelaria, this is a restaurant and market with Chef Donnie Masterson as one of the owners. On my first visit, I enjoyed a lovely lunch on the terrace with local friends. The chicken sandwich with asparagus pesto was excellent. On my second visit, I went at night to enjoy a great meal and listen to jazz. I was back again for dinner and loved the salmon and quinoa risotto. On my recent visit for lunch, I had the best grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup! Recently, I enjoyed the beet and kale salad and rich seafood stew.
In addition to the great restaurant, there is The Market, run by Luna de Queso, which has some great food items to purchase. There is also Nomad for international furnishings and accessories.
Nearby to the north is great place to visit, Fuego y Agua located at the Viñedos Patria housing development. This is an contemporary restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the grounds. It is owned by the same people as Mi Bistro 300 in town. I went for dinner with local friends and enjoyed the food. They have a large cocktail and wine list along with starters, starters, pastas, hamburgers, pizzas, steaks and seafood. I enjoyed the tuna burger with fries and a glas of their red blend wine. They grow the grapes on the property but the wine is made at another local winery. Camino a Palo Colorado Km 1 Rancho Los Charcos.`
I also enjoyed my visit to El Coyote Flaco Restaurante, near Atotonilco, with local friends. It is a casual restaurant serving good food and wood fired pizzas. They have a full bar and offer music on Sunday afternoons. I went with local friends and enjoyed being outside on a lovely afternoon, listening to music. They are open Wednesday to Sunday. Carretera Santuario Atotonilco KM 2.
La Santisima Trinidad also has Viñedos San Lucas across from Vinicola Toyan a short drive from San Miguel by taxi. This is a stunning property that features a boutique hotel, restaurant and spa. There are vineyards and a new winery that has recently opened last November. Tastings are available by reservation three times a day except for Tuesday. I had an excellent brunch in the elegant restaurant overlooking the property before my tour and tasting. You feel like you are in the middle of Tuscany! The hotel rooms are really outstanding. They offer horseback riding and other activities as well.
The former stables of the Hacienda Landeta, is now the home to Parrilla al Rojo Vivo. This is a good spot for steaks, pasta, salads, and grilled chicken. I always loved the atmosphere when it was D’Andrea Ristorante. The food and service were very good when I went with local friends. Km 2.5 on the Road to Dr. Mora.
A short drive from Hacienda Landeta is a fun local experience. Finca Luna Serena is a farm that produces local olive oils. I went recently with local friends. We first learned about how olive oil is produced and about the different grades. We then took a tour of the beautiful property which looked like you were in Tuscany in Italy. They have organic olive, fruit and citrus trees along with organic gardens and a greenhouse. Following the tour, we had a tasting of four of their extra virgin oils. We were then served pieces of goat cheese which we could taste with a choice of their products. I enjoyed the oil infused with lemon, basil, rosemary and garlic. Other favorites included their blends of balsamic vinegars with figs and pomegranates.
Lunch followed with a salad, entree and desert. My lamb chops were excellent and was the olive oil gelato! I was then able to shop in their store which in addition to their oils, featured their lotions, soaps and massage oils. Susan and Victor, the owners who live at the farm are very friendly and helpful. I highly recommend that you book a trip. They also provide transportation to and from the farm with an extra charge. Their products are also available in town at the Opal Mine in San Miguel at Hernandez Macias #99.
Along with special events, they also provide morning tours on weekends followed by brunch. In addition to tours, they also offer a number group and private cooking classes featuring French, Chinese, Greek, Spanish tapas, Mexican, Indian and Vietnamese cuisine to name a few.
For many years, one of my favorite musicians in town is Gil Gutierrez. He used to perform weekly at his restaurant Bistro Mi Casa at the Instituto Allende. This is now closed and he is focused only on Zandunga, his restaurant and performance space, approximately 15 minutes outside of town. It features him and other performers playing jazz or blues. It is located in lovely surroundings. The performance space is semi-enclosed with room to dance among the tables. Guests enjoy a buffet of Mexican specialties including grilled meat, fresh tacos, and quesadillas made to order. There is a full bar as well. I recently went for the first time with friends to celebrate Halloween and Day of the Dead, and really enjoyed the experience, the setting, music and seeing a number of friends, including Gil, who I had not seen in a while. Tickets can be purchased at Hernandez Macias #129 or contact them through their email, info@zandunga.net.
On the way to Zandunga is a great new find, El Pavo Real Winery. They are offering wine tastings as well as mezcal tastings from some of the best producers in Mexico. They have a beautiful. contemporary tasting room with outdoor seating. They are also featuring special events from tastings on Friday evenings, special dinners on Saturday and brunch on Sunday. I went for a special Day of the Dead/Día de los Muertos brunch in October, 2022. It was beautifully decorated and the food was excellent. It is a great spot to go with friends on busy holiday weekends when Centro in San Miguel can be very crowded.
Another great spot out of town is the YO Restaurante at the Hacienda los Picachos, a lovely hotel property just outside of San Miguel on the road to Queretaro. I enjoyed it for Sunday brunch with local friends.
I went to Valle de Los Senderos many years ago when it was smaller development with a small organic restaurant. Over the last few years, the development has undergone a major transformation. The stables has been enlarged and the original restaurant closed. The owners have built a new beach area near the water features on the property. They have created places where people and families can swim, enjoy horseback riding, yoga classes, boating, paddle boarding, biking and walking trails. A new spa is under construction. There is a casual beach restaurant for casual dining.
Also at Valle de Los Senderos is La Santisima Trinidad’s newest venture, Viñedos Los Senderos.They took over the 0ld Los Senderos vineyards and built a new winery, tasting room and restaurant. The highlight is their restaurant, Barrica de Fuego Smokehouse & Grill, with an Argentinian menu of meat dishes with cooking on an open fire or in a mesquite smoker. I loved the contemporary decor with great views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside. I expect that as the vineyards grow and production increases that tastings will be offered.
Another restaurant option on the property is the lovely farm-to-table restaurant and bar, Comunidad, located in the recently opened Our Habitas San Miguel. I was very impressed with the staff, the restaurant and the design.
Mama Mia Campestre has recently opened near the Sanctuario Atotonilco at Carretera al Santuario de Atotonilco 15 minutes from San Miguel. The restaurant is located in a beautiful setting of an ancient forest of mesquite trees over looking a pong. The tables are scattered throughout the grounds and on a rooftop terrace overlooking the trees and a pond. Many of the dishes including their popular pizzas are cooked in a mesquite wood oven. You can select from a large number of entrees, salads, sides and pizzas. I enjoyed the guacamole, burrata and pear salad and serano ham pizza. There is also a microbrewery on the site, Cerveceria Hechicera with a tasting room. It is a fun place for families as there are a number of activities for children.
Sounds like all we do is eat in San Miguel. With many things being grown or produced locally, like artisanal cheeses, and with amazing new restaurants showing great creativity, San Miguel is becoming a Mecca for “Foodies” from all over!!!
For residents of San Miguel and those who spend a good amount of time there during the year, I suggest that you buy the VIP Club Card. For a reasonable annual fee, VIP club members receive a 10% to 15% discount on over 1oo restaurants and other services which can easily pay for the annual fee. Some require cash payments and others will accept the discount for both cash and credit card payments. I just renewed mine for my second year and found it to be a very good deal. You can buy the card at La Conexion at Aldama #3 or at several other locations in town.