Best Restaurants & Hotels in Magical San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is such a wonderful town to just wander the cobblestone streets and take in the sights & sounds, such as the beautiful architecture, churches, lush gardens, artisan crafts and local festivals.  With a large community of both local and expat artists, there is an array of art galleries and artisan shops to explore. And of course — one of the highlights of visiting San Miguel de Allende is the food!

The Best Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

Visit the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel church with it’s unique neo-gothic style architecture and soaring pink spires. Located in the Jardin, the town’s central plaza, it’s also worth a visit in the evening when it’s beautifully lit up and the square becomes the life of the city full of vendors, live music and ice cream stalls — great for people watching.

Spend an afternoon at Fabrica La Aurora, a former textile factory that now plays home to local artist studios, galleries, antique vendors and boutiques.

Schedule a Tequila Tasting at Casa Dragones in their own chic tasting room located in Doce 18 Concept House. Their renowned tequila was named one of the best sipping tequilas.  

Explore the Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market) where you’ll find an array of artifacts, art and curios made by local artisans.  

Visit the Toy Museum (La Esquina: Museo del Juguete Popular Mexicano). This museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Mexican toys.  Also check out the city views from the rooftop terrace.  

Walk in Parque Benito Juárez, a beautiful shaded park ideal for a leisurely stroll (or a vigorous morning walk, which I used to do daily). Beautiful setting and on weekends local artists display their works in the park.

Take a hot air balloon flight over the city at sunrise…spectacular!

Explore El Charco del Ingenio: the Botanical Garden that includes over 170 acres of nature preserve.

Spend a leisurely day wine tasting at one of the beautiful wineries outside of the city. Most of them have a restaurant on-site and offer gourmet lunches.

Day Trips From San Miguel de Allende

Venture out to the Hot Springs. The two most popular are La Gruta and Escondido Place.

Arrange to spend a day or afternoon horseback riding at Rancho Xotolar (about 45 minutes outside town).

Breakfast in San Miguel de Allende

Lavanda Café: The best coffee in town in my opinion; try the lavender cappuccino.

Panio Bakery: Considered the best bakery in town…everything from croissants, cakes and loaves of fresh-baked bread.

Cumpanio: Attached to Panio Bakery, they have a great breakfast menu as well as lunch & dinner & great place to grab a cocktail.

Lunch & Dinner in San Miguel de Allende

Azotea: One of my favorite casual restaurants… you must try their renowned jicama tacos — I’m addicted!

Luna Tapas Bar: Located on the rooftop of the Rosewood Hotel, a favorite place to grab a delicious margarita and watch the sunset while enjoying the beautiful city views.

The Restaurant: Innovative food in a lovely spot with a gorgeous Moroccan courtyard.

Aperi: One of several fine dining spots in SMA.  Try Chef Olivier Deboise’s eight-course tasting menu.

La Parada: For something a bit different try the ceviches & a pisco sour at this popular Peruvian restaurant.

Inside Café: A very casual restaurant with outdoor patios, worth going to for brunch/lunch and their ‘famous’ grilled cheese sandwiches.

There are so many wonderful restaurants to choose from. You really need to spend a long time here to experience most of them…which I have. I’ve highlighted a few, but please contact me and I’d be happy to share many more!