As someone who spends over 3 months a year in Mexico, I have become somewhat spoiled being able to eat amazing Mexican food all the time. As I explore Mexico I always know I will find incredible food with each region’s flare. That was no exception in San Miguel de Allende. The plates were creative and bursting with flavor. Although hard to narrow down, here are my top restaurant picks in San Miguel de Allende. Remember, if it’s on the guide, it’s great and worth your time!
Top Restaurant Picks in San Miguel
Tostevere
Being a foodie, you begin to walk by restaurants and know when there is magic inside – it’s an innate sense that goes beyond visuals. It’s the harmonious blend of lively conversations, the rhythmic clatter of plates, and a palpable synergy among the staff that signals – this restaurant is gold! This is exactly what I felt when I walked past Tostevere during my first night in San Miguel.
Artisanal Tostadas
Upon walking in to eat a couple days later I immediately noticed the ambiance, a perfect blend of contemporary chic and authentic Mexican charm, which set the stage for a cozy dining experience. The restaurant has 6 tables and 4 bar stools, so making a reservation is key. Tostevere’s menu is small but mighty, the crowning jewels being artisanal tostadas that are not just dishes but edible works of art. When I asked about their red wines the bartender said they had two by the glass – a malbec and a blend. I appreciate when menus are concise and curated with high quality options. This does a lot for my minimalist soul.
On my first visit (yes I had to go back) I sat at the bar and ordered the cauliflower tostada and a glass of local malbec. The tostada was so beautiful I had to take a moment of silence when it arrived. Towering two crisp tortillas was perfectly roasted cauliflower mixed with red onions, radishes and avocado cream. Each bite was heaven, and the wine – precisely as you want a malbec to taste. On my second visit, I sat at a coveted table and ordered the truffle corn tostada. Yes, you read that right, I’m sitting there like why didn’t I think of this? This tostada – equally as indulgent and scrumptious. Beyond the food is the patient and generous staff who just can’t wait to make your experience memorable. Tostevere is foodie gold, 10 out of 10.
Don Taco Tequila
Next to make the roundup is Don Taco Tequila. A quaint eatery was recommended by Rachel and a couple of ladies in my shuttle from the airport to town. I walked in casually on a Sunday. The first thing I noticed was the rustic minimal design, on-point moody lighting and friendly staff. The restaurant was at capacity, but the bartender offered to take my number and call me when a seat became available. 30 minutes later my phone was ringing, what service!
Now as a mostly plant based eater seeing an unexpected fully plant based menu does something for my soul. It’s like – I can eat this whole menu…should I? Well, I had to narrow down my options so I began reading the menu. While deciding my server brought chips and 4 different kinds of salsa to the table, a restaurant after my own heart.
Perfect Few Bites
My appetizer came – Agua Chili Nopal. It was a bowl of perfectly seasoned veggies including nopales, asparagus, chickpeas and peanuts. Topped with hot sauce and scooped with tortilla chips, win win. For my taco, I ordered the Norteña. A homemade tortilla filled with mushrooms, caramelized onions and grilled cashew cheese. The simple ingredients folded together into the perfect few bites. The flavors in both dishes were outstanding. Bummed my stomach wasn’t bigger, I asked for the check vowing I would come back again. I did return a few days later (seeing a pattern?) but they were closed due to an event. Needless to say, get here, a reservation helps.
La Azotea
La Azotea was a shoo-in to make my top restaurant picks in San Miguel as just about everyone I met told me to head up to this roof deck. Some people mentioned the unforgettable shrimp tacos, some the drinks, others the sunset views. I may or may not have ended up here twice with a ginger hibiscus mexcalita in my hand both times. There you have it, I am a repeater. I do repeat with discernment, when you have to go back, you have to go back. No shame in my game.
Bekeb Roofdeck
Bekeb is San Miguel’s first ever mixology bar which came recommended by a few locals. This roof deck is located above the historic Casa Hoyoas Boutique Hotel, a transformed Spanish 17th century mansion. I knew I was in a special place when I walked into the lobby. It was rustic elegance with a chic bohemian dusty rose kinda flair. Upon arriving atop I was warmly greeted by the bartenders and DJ playing melodic house music. Also, there is a deep plunge pool just waiting for you to dip in. Yep, this was a vibe.
I strolled around to soak in the panoramic views of churches, trees, colorful houses and cobblestone streets. The crowd was happy and content. I ordered my go-to Mezal Paloma. It was such a Bekah Rife party of one moment. Sitting in the sun, surrounded by breathtaking views, sipping on my favorite beverage, accompanied by perfectly attuned tunes designed to serenade the sun as it set. Ahh the life. A roof deck not to be missed. I believe they serve food but I’m still basking in the perfectly mixed drink and scenery.
Farewell to This Culinary Tale
In a city where the flavors dance as gracefully as the cobblestone streets, my culinary adventures in San Miguel de Allende led me to these exceptional dining spots. Tostevere, a haven for food enthusiasts, delivered not just meals but edible masterpieces, earning its place as a true gem. Don Taco Tequila surprised my palate with a fully vegan menu, while La Azotea’s rooftop views and delectable offerings left me coming back again. To round out the hot spots Bekeb, San Miguel’s mixology haven, where every sip was a toast to the city’s vibrant spirit. An honorary mention to Mercado Sano – a collection of wonderful food and drink options all under one roof, I became a ‘vacation patron’ here.
As I say farewell to this culinary tale, the lingering symphony of flavors from these outstanding restaurants will not soon be forgotten. I hope you found some inspiration in my top restaurant picks in San Miguel de Allende. If you try them, please let me know what dishes you enjoyed!
Until the next meal, Bekah
PS ~ If you want more restaurant recommendations along with our complete San Migeul de Allende City Guide click here. Between these two guides, you are ready to take on SMDA!
