Some of My Favorite Places in San Miguel de Allende
It’s been almost a month now that I’ve been back from Mexico, and it’s hard to believe how quickly time has passed. It feels like as soon as I returned home the seasons had officially changed– it was time to put another blanket on the bed and start running the heater in the mornings. And although I have settled back into my old routine, Mexico is not far from my mind. It is as if I have taken on a new lover that I can’t get out of my head, such is the passion I feel for this country. Most especially San Miguel de Allende. I think back fondly on the time I spent there and the gracious people I met, namely at the places mentioned below.
La Parada
A friend had told me about this Peruvian restaurant before I left, so I made it a point to try this place. And I was not disappointed, as I described in a previous post it was one of the best meals I had while I was there. Nestled in a non-descript building, everything from the decor to the covered outdoor patio was exceptional. And the food… I am still dreaming about my lomo saltado and that bottle of wine. Que delicioso!
Mente Cacao
This was another word-of-mouth place, and I found it to be quite the unique sort of spot that seems typical to San Miguel. Part artesan chocolate shop and part cafe, it is filled with friendly salespeople who offer you tastes of their many varieties of chocolate as soon as you walk through the door. I picked up a bar of chocolate with chili pepper, and a bottle of chocolate mezcal (yes, it really is as amazing as it sounds!)
Diva Boutique
I have to admit that I went a little crazy when I first walked in here. One whole wall of this adorable boutique is lined with the most beautiful purses in an array of vibrant colors. I knew immediately that I had to have one, and the amount of time it took me to contemplate my options was almost embarassing. But when I sent a photo of my new treasure to my mom and she responded by asking if I could buy one for her too, I knew it wasn’t just me. Handcrafted in Guadalajara with handtooled leather, they are quite lovely. Diva Boutique also sells clothing and jewelry, but to be honest I was so enthralled with the purses that I didn’t really drift over in that direction.
Zandunga
Zandunga feels like one of those secrets that you are lucky to be privy to, because somehow you scored that special invite and now you are left to revel in the glory. Translated as “celebration,” Zandunga can only be described as a musical concert that feels like it’s taking place in someone’s home. And in a way it kind of is. Just outside of San Miguel along the Jalpa valley road, Zandunga was created by famed guitarist Gil Guiterrez and his wife Rebecca and has evolved into an invite-only event that feels both cozy and collaborative. I wrote about this experience in a previous post and it still remains one of my favorite memories of my time in Mexico.
Cafe Oso Azul
Cafe Oso Azul is just a few doors down from Mente Cacao, on one of my favorite streets, Zacateros. I had the pleasure of meeting one of the owners, who was absolutely delightful. Their breakfasts are delicious (try any of the omelettes) and I loved sipping an iced mocha on their outdoor patio. The vibe was relaxed and unpretentious– exactly the way a cafe such as this should be.
Tallulah de la Lune
As soon as I heard the name of this boutique I was immediately intrigued. I first learned of it from our workshop leader, who was wearing the most badass pair of leather boots. She mentioned that the owner was a friend of hers, and said that she had many more different styles in stock. So I hightailed it over there and picked myself up a pair of cowboy boots. Maggie, the owner and designer, was so accommodating and friendly. They also carry a selection of handbags and clothing.
Hacienda de Guadalupe Hotel
Ever since I started taking dance lessons I have been anxious to find places where I can practice my newly-acquired steps. So I was overjoyed to learn that an outing to the Hacienda for some salsa dancing was planned. Also a restaurant, I didn’t have the pleasure of eating here but I did get to sample their tamarind margaritas. I love the way the band is set up right near the door, and how all of the dancing takes place around the bar area. It is a place to see and be seen, so bring your best moves and don’t forget your dancing shoes.
La Burger
I had heard rave reviews about La Burger, but most referred to the location outside of San Miguel, in Dolores Hidalgo. I knew there was a smaller location in town, so I decided to try it out. I have to say that there is no better cure for a hangover than a big juicy burger, and La Burger did not disappoint. The fries were hearty and seasoned just perfectly, and combined with a little hair of the dog (in this case a refreshing glass of white wine) it hit the spot just perfectly.