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San Miguel de Allende

Healthy and delicious dining in San Miguel

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By Michael Solof

San Miguel de Allende isn’t just about the colorful buildings and lively streets—it’s turning into a solid spot for healthy eating too. More folks are paying attention to what they eat, and the restaurants here have stepped up with fresh ingredients and menus that work for different diets. Whether you’re vegan, avoiding gluten, or just want something lighter, there are excellent choices available around town.

Spots range from laid-back to a bit more polished, so you might find yourself eating in a quiet garden, on a sunny patio, or at a shared table where the vibe feels easy and welcoming. Here are a few standouts for healthy dining in San Miguel de Allende. Each one has its own style but sticks to quality ingredients so the food not only tastes good but is also good for you. Locals and visitors alike keep coming back to these places time and time again for a reason.

RUSTICA – Salida a Celaya 34
Everyday 8am – 5pm

Rustica is one of those places that gets healthy eating right. I went for the breakfast bowl and lentil soup last time, and both were full of flavor without any heavy seasoning. They let the ingredients do the talking, which is nice. The green juice was fresh and gave me a good boost to start the day.

The space feels calm from the second you walk in—like a quiet garden with all sorts of beautiful plants around. The front patio is fine even if you’re near the street, but the back one is especially nice when the weather cooperates. It’s peaceful without being too isolated. The staff is friendly and on top of things. They make you feel at home right away and are great at keeping everything running smooth and relaxed.

They have plenty of plant-based and gluten-free dishes, and you see people ordering breakfast tacos or smoothies that look just as fresh. The menu covers a lot, from breakfast sandwiches to mole eggs, and prices stay reasonable for the quality. It’s easy to understand why this spot stays busy. If you’re after a healthy breakfast or lunch in a chill setting, Rustica is a reliable pick. It’s definitely one of my favorite places to take visitors.

NÉCTAR – Correo 43
Wednesday-Sunday 8:30-4:30pm

Nectar has become a popular hot spot for people looking for healthy meals. The place mixes a cozy indoor area with loads of beautiful artwork, with a nice outdoor patio, so it feels inviting no matter where you sit. The menu works for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone gluten-free. I liked the roasted vegetable omelette—it came with delicious potatoes on the side—and the mini tamales were a fun, satisfying option. They do creative things like Earl Grey-infused black beans or chilaquiles with sesame, keeping things lighter but still tasty. Desserts like chocolate cake are worth saving room for, and portions are generous.

The helpful staff will suggest dishes if you need ideas. They‘ve never made a bad suggestion in all the times I’ve visited. While you wait, you can check out the gift shop with home decor and glass hummingbird feeders. It adds a little extra to the visit.

Nectar is about the whole experience: solid food, a relaxed spot, and friendly people. It’s great for breakfast or lunch, and it quickly becomes one of those places you’ll want to revisit again and again.

OJO DE AGUA – The Corner of Correo and Portal de Guadalupe, near the Jardin – hours vary, check locally.

Ojo de Agua sits close to the Parroquia and Jardin, making it an easy stop when you’re out walking. The inner courtyard is a peaceful break from the bustle, with plants, swinging hammocks and nature sounds all around.

The menu focuses on fresh, simple dishes. I had chilaquiles and avocado toast, both made with really good ingredients that let the flavors stand out. Friends tried the matcha tea cakes with ricotta, and tuna tacos—everything came out perfectly. They have lots of vegan-friendly and lighter options, plus made-to-order juices and smoothies. It’s one of the best juice places in SMA!

The quesadillas are another solid choice, showing how they turn basic ingredients into something filling. The garden seating, including swings, gives it a fun, relaxed feel. It’s a good place to settle in for breakfast or lunch without being rushed. It’s worth stopping by if you’re nearby and want something wholesome.

DON TACO TEQUILA – Calle Dr Ignacio Hernandez Macias 83 Everyday 2pm -10 pm

Don Taco Tequila does fully vegan Mexican food in a way that works even if you’re not usually vegan. The dishes feel hearty and creative. Some favorites are the corn ribs, tequila nachos, and tacos like chicharrito (vegan chicharrón style), mayahuel in lettuce wraps, baja, and spicy chorizo. Vegan staples are in plentiful supply there and they use lots of vegetables, grains, legumes, mushrooms, and avocado, so the meals are nutritious without a single animal product in sight. The mushroom quesadilla has a nice texture that feels close to meat but stays plant-based. There’s also a spinach and quinoa salad with roasted tomatoes and agave-sesame dressing, or quesabirria for that classic flavor.

They also serve a tasty selection of all sorts of drinks including ginger lemonade, Jamaica options, and cocktails like the Jamaica mezcal margarita. Many folks go there just for the drinks; they are that good!

I talked with Hernando, the owner, during my visit. He’s been vegetarian his whole life, even though he grew up in northern Mexico where carne asada was everywhere. He opened Don Taco Tequila in 2012 believing tacos could be a base for more refined Mexican flavors. The restaurant slowly evolved into being fully vegan, and he’s proud of helping people try cruelty-free food without feeling like they’re missing out.

He feels the main challenge he faces is the word “vegan” which sometimes turns people off, but changing people’s minds and seeing his customers enjoy his food, year after year is the best part of his job. Dishes like the Bigotes taco and Mushroom Mixote show how simple ingredients can make a complete, flavorful meal. Hernando says the real draw is the atmosphere there, and everyone from staff to customers adds to the positive energy that pervades the place. Food, he says, brings people together and he loves providing that chance.

As you check out these healthy spots in San Miguel de Allende, it’s clear you don’t have to give up great taste to eat well. And all these restaurants use fresh ingredients and create welcoming spaces where you can relax and enjoy. It makes every meal feel like a small but wonderful discovery. So, whether you’re after a big meal or just something super refreshing like a delicious salad, soup, fresh juice, or smoothie. There’s something available for every type of tasty and dietary desire.

Healthy eating in SMA can be both easy to find and incredibly enjoyable. Ya just gotta get off the couch!

Michael Solof leads SMA Adventure Hound, a group which takes locals and newcomers to brunches and dinners at different restaurants every week and he also offers classes in the art of smartphone photography. You can contact him at WhatsApp +1-443-310-9214 for more info and to reserve.

San Miguel de Allende

The Most Beautiful Churches in SMA Centro

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By Michael Solof—

It happens all the time. You’re new in town and want to see something special, or maybe you simply have a couple of hours to fill and feel like exploring somewhere different. That’s where this little walking tour comes in.

Today, we’ll visit four of the most beautiful and historically significant churches in San Miguel de Allende, all located within a few blocks of Centro. Along the way, we’ll touch on their architectural styles, histories, and why they continue to matter to the life of the city.

San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and striking religious buildings. Let’s begin at the heart of it all.

The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel

The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is the city’s most iconic structure. The original church dates back to the early 17th century, though it underwent major renovations and expansion in the late 19th century. Its dramatic neo-Gothic façade was redesigned by local architect Zeferino Gutiérrez, who reportedly drew inspiration from European Gothic cathedrals.

The church is constructed from pink cantera, a volcanic stone widely used throughout the city and valued for both its durability and warm tonal variations. This material has become closely associated with San Miguel’s architectural identity.

Inside, visitors will find stained-glass windows, soaring arches, religious artworks, and impressive bell towers that dominate the skyline. Today, the Parroquia is one of the most photographed and recognizable churches in Mexico.

Over the years, the Parroquia has also accumulated its share of local legends and ghost stories — a common fate for historic churches. These tales belong more to popular imagination than documented history, but they add another layer to the building’s mystique, especially when seen at dusk.

Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción (Las Monjas)

Located near the Jardín Principal, the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción— often referred to as Las Monjas—is one of the city’s architectural highlights.

Construction began in the mid-18th century, and the church is a fine example of Mexican Baroque architecture. Its most striking feature is the dome, which was inspired by European cathedral design and rises elegantly above the surrounding streets. The façade and dome glow beautifully in the late afternoon light, thanks again to the use of pink cantera stone.
Inside, the church contains richly decorated altarpieces covered in gold leaf, along with artwork created by local craftsmen. The church is dedicated to the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, reflecting strong Spanish colonial influence in both its architecture and devotional focus.

Each year, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated here, drawing a primarily local congregation and reinforcing the church’s role as a living part of San Miguel’s religious life.

Templo de San Francisco
(Corner of San Francisco and Juárez)

The Templo de San Francisco is among the oldest churches in the city. Construction began in 1683 under the direction of Franciscan friars, who played a central role in spreading Christianity throughout the region.

The exterior reflects restrained Baroque design, combining pink stone with white stucco for a striking but understated contrast. Inside, however, the church is far more ornate, featuring a beautifully crafted altar, decorative ceilings, and religious artwork.

While the church itself sits within the bustle of Centro, nearby courtyards and surrounding streets offer quieter moments for reflection. Each year, the Feast of Saint Francis is celebrated in early October, marking one of the church’s most important annual events.

Templo del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri
(Insurgentes 12)

The Oratorio de San Felipe Neri is an excellent example of 18th-century Baroque architecture paired with deep civic and religious significance.

Founded by the Oratorians—a religious order devoted to preaching, education, and community service—construction began in 1748 and was completed in 1753. The church’s elegant façade, carved from local pink stone, features intricate detailing that highlights the craftsmanship of the period. Its bell tower makes it a prominent landmark along Calle Insurgentes.

Inside, visitors will find a finely detailed altar, religious icons, and murals depicting saints and biblical scenes. The Oratorians were instrumental in establishing educational institutions in San Miguel, and their influence extended well beyond the church walls.

The Feast of San Felipe Neri is celebrated each May, maintaining the Oratorio’s role as an active center of worship and community life.

A City of Churches

The churches scattered throughout San Miguel de Allende offer a window into Mexico’s layered history—colonial ambition, religious devotion, artistic expression, and everyday life unfolding over centuries. While it would take weeks to visit them all, these four provide a rich introduction, all within a short walk of Centro.

Enjoy your travels—and take your time.

Michael Solof leads SMA Adventure Hound, a group which takes locals and newcomers to brunches and dinners at different restaurants every week and he also offers classes in the art of smartphone photography. You can contact him at WhatsApp +1-443-310-9214 for more info and to reserve.

San Miguel de Allende

Your Guide to Asian Delights in SMA

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By Michael Solof—

This month, in honor of the Chinese Year of the Horse, I want to share a few of my favorite Asian restaurants in SMA. I picked four very different types of restaurants and spoke with the owners and chefs about their establishments and what inspired them to create their own unique spin on Asian cuisine. I selected places with not only varied menus and pricing but also different philosophies and goals.

SPICE MARKET- (Calz. De La Presa 85) 1pm -11:30pm, Daily

Spice Market opened inside the Live Aqua Hotel seven years ago. They specialize in a combination of Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese foods. Each dish captivates your taste buds while delighting you with beautiful visuals and tantalizing smells. I spoke with Ernesto, the executive chef, and Oscar, the Operations Manager, to get a sneak peek behind the scenes of the restaurant. Spice Market’s dishes are served family-style so that everyone gets involved. The decor feels like you’ve stepped out of Mexico and into an Asian palace. According to Ernesto, Spice Market only uses the finest ingredients, both imported and, as much as possible, locally sourced. Both he and Oscar are especially proud of the service provided in the restaurant. The wait staff offers perfect recommendations after finding out if you have any specific preferences or allergies to any given foods. I love salads, and my waiter recommended the Endive salad with Asian pears, which had a delicious creamy sesame, chili oil-infused takai furikake dressing. The restaurant switches up its menu at least twice a year to keep up with the latest trends and to keep it exciting for returning guests. Ernesto says the key to a great dish is loving what you are cooking and realizing that you are cooking for others and not just yourself. His cooks constantly taste the meals they are prepping to ensure each dish is perfectly flavored. “Cooking is easy to do if you love what you’re doing.”

DRAGON CHINO – (Salida a Celaya 71) 12:30pm – 7pm, Daily

Dragon Chino opened in its current location in 2008 and is the oldest Chinese restaurant in SMA. Over the years, they have developed a devoted local following. The restaurant is small and sparsely decorated, but that’s because the focus is on the dishes they create. I talked with Luis, the owner, and his wife, Lily, who, along with their entire staff, have operated the restaurant since its opening.

A family atmosphere pervades at Dragon Chino, which is open from 12:30 to 7 PM, seven days a week. The menu is packed with well-known and well-loved favorites, as well as a selection of specialty dishes. Luis recommends trying the Peking duck or the crispy orange chicken, which sells the best among long-term customers. “All our food has no MSG, is prepared to order, locally sourced as much as possible, and made with all-natural, fresh ingredients. And the best part is we have an open kitchen, so you can watch as they prepare your meal. It’s lots of fun!” Luis’s words of wisdom are, “Treat your customers like family, and you’ll never go wrong.”

FUNKY PANDA – (Salida a Celaya 16a) 1pm – 9:30pm, Daily

Funky Panda has been open for a year and a half at its current location. Mario, the owner, has big plans and hopes to expand Funky Panda to locations all over Mexico. They are working on opening a new spot in Mexico City early next year. The menu is very varied because Andrea, Mario’s wife and co-owner, likes different types of food than he does, so the menu runs the gamut from sushi to hamburgers. But don’t let those two extremes scare you; the various flavors and tastes are what’s key there, no matter what the dish is.

“We focus on the best ingredients around. All our sauces and salsas are made in-house using traditional family recipes and methods. We respect the past. Some of our recipes are even from my grandmother, who was a famous cook in our neighborhood growing up. For instance, our hamburgers are made by combining three wonderful, yet different types of meat. It may not be the biggest hamburger in town, but I guarantee it’s the most delicious. Many of our ingredients are organic and locally sourced. We’re very proud of the fusion between cultures that we offer, and we love connecting different elements to make unique dishes, all at very affordable prices. I feel you don’t need to be a classically trained chef to succeed; you just have to have a love and a passion for good food and cooking… and everyone here does,” explains Mario.

KOKUMI – (Stirling Dickinson 2) 11am – 8 pm, Closed Wednesdays

There is a brand-new Korean restaurant that opened just over a month ago called Kokumi. When I asked the owner, Aleysha, and her husband, Satoru (who is also the chef), the meaning of the unique name, they stated that it’s a Japanese food-based expression that you say when you eat something wonderful. Kokumi is a sensation of richness, depth, and complexity…and that’s a perfect description for the food they offer. Aleysha was inspired by the fact that her husband is Japanese and they both love Korean food, so they decided to open a Japanese-Korean restaurant but with a goal to go beyond the typical sushi place. They strive to combine traditional Japanese and Korean foods with the warmth of Mexican hospitality. Using many unique ingredients, they make their own kimchi and miso on-site, and bibimbap, Korean BBQ, and shabu-shabu are just some of their specialty dishes. They also love serving Soba noodles because they are not found in many restaurants. Aleysha and Satoru are always looking for ways to reach out to the local community by planning fun, special events and collaborating with other chefs and bartenders. Satoru follows his passion for cooking by starting with a traditional foundation and then innovating it. Aleysha says, “We love this new start and new location, and especially our name… and can’t wait to share our passion for cooking with the community.”

SMA continues to expand its culinary horizons and offerings… and these are just some of the unique culinary experiences that you can enjoy while celebrating the Year of the Horse. I hope to see you at some of these incredible restaurants soon. Each one promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Asian cuisine in SMA.

For those looking to discover more culinary treasures and engage with the local community, I lead *SMA Adventure Hound*, a group that organizes brunches and dinners at various restaurants every week. Additionally, I offer classes in the art of smartphone photography. Feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp at +1 443–310–9214 for more information and to reserve your spot.

San Miguel de Allende

A Culinary Journey Through San Miguel: Discovering Hidden Gems

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By Michael Solof —

For over five years, through my group SMA Adventure Hound, I have been introducing newcomers, tourists, and locals, twice a week, to a large variety of brunch and dinner spots around town. That’s more than 300 different restaurants, including local food trucks, vineyards, and fine dining adventures.

When The Eye magazine asked me to write an article on my favorite eating places around town, it felt like a daunting task. I asked them if I could just focus on my favorite secret places. These are spots that are sometimes hidden away, off the beaten track or sometimes they’re hiding behind an unmarked door on one of the busy main streets. My challenge was to pick a breakfast, lunch, and dinner place that maybe isn’t the first thing that pops into people’s mind… but should be.

BREAKFAST
Aldama 9 (also goes by Posada Corazón)
San Miguel is gorgeous in the mornings. It’s cool and crisp before the sun works its way up into the sky, making it the perfect time to head out to a spot where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a wonderful meal to start your day. My favorite secret spot for breakfast hides itself better than Waldo in a building-sized mural! Aldama 9 is concealed behind a small door with nothing more than a small plaque with the address: #9. That’s it. No signs, no greeters, nothing indicating that behind this door is one of the most beautiful breakfast spots in all of SMA. Next to the door is a small speaker with a button. Push the button, and they will ring you in.

As you enter there is a beautiful walkway leading past a huge old tree stretching up to the sky. If you follow that walkway down and to the left, you’ll see a building that could easily have been designed by my favorite architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Across from an open kitchen are two huge window doors that rotate from the center like revolving doors, leading to the outdoor balcony where they serve breakfast every morning from 8 AM to 12 noon. But first, go into the main library full of books lining the walls, a fireplace, and lots of comfy chairs. I can’t think of a more magnificent room to relax in.

Seating is available inside or out on the balcony overlooking chickens, roosters, and their private garden, where the owners grow veggies and offer organic menu options based on what’s available in the garden that day. On Sundays, they also have a buffet and usually have a harpist playing quietly in the background. It’s quite lovely. Brunch runs about 200 pesos (250 on Sunday) and is worth every exquisite bite. The service is always excellent, and the huge variety of food is just plain delicious. Please make sure you pet the many friendly cats and dogs who you’ll often see lounging around the place. So cute.

LUNCH
El Encanto – Relox No. 41 (just across the street from the side entrance of the Biblioteca on Relox)

If you like Mexican charm, look no further than El Encanto. It is located a five-minute walk from the center of town. Covered from floor to ceiling in vibrant Mexican murals and filled with decorations, this is the place I take visitors to feel that old-world Mexican spirit.

Although they have a breakfast menu from 9 AM to 1 PM, the lunch and dinner menu is where it’s at! It features over 10 pages of items, all inexpensively priced, stunningly plated, and huge portions to boot. I usually have enough to take some home for dinner! The lasagnas, salads, and pastas are phenomenal and freshly prepared to order. Though the wait can be a little longer, the generous portion sizes and beautifully presented dishes make it well worth it. I have been taking people here for years, and the place never ceases to astound my guests!

Meals run around 250-300 pesos. Closed on Mondays.

After your meal, make sure to check out the Biblioteca (Library) across the street. It contains the largest collection of English-language books in all of Mexico! To top it off, the bookstore is a fabulous place to get gifts, see a show in their tiny theater, or grab a snack in their café.

DINNER
Mestiza – Hermanos Aldama No. 43 (located on the back terrace through all the stores)

Mestiza nudges past the competition as my favorite dinner spot. The restaurant is run by two incredibly nice guys, George and Javier. Located about a ten-minute stroll from the Jardin, this gem is situated in a stunning secret garden that captures the essence of Mexico with its aromas, warmth, and rich traditions.

Mestiza specializes in celebrating ancestral recipes passed down through generations, showcasing dishes such as enmoladas, sopecitos mestizos, and gorditas de cochinita pibil. Each dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of Mexico, and every visit yields rave reviews from my guests. The restaurant is also whimsical and kid-friendly, with tiny gnomes hidden throughout.

Mestiza specializes in Mexican food with a European twist and has won many awards for its delectable dishes. It has been voted as my group’s favorite restaurant for both years. There is one more key reason to go to Mestiza. I collect voluntary donations for the local pet rescues in town at all my events and last year, we collected over 60,000 pesos. I have two rescues myself, so it’s a cause near and dear to my heart. Of the almost 300 spots we’ve gone to in five years, Mestiza is the only one to give back a significant portion of their proceeds as a donation for the pets. The owners have several rescued animals too.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, San Miguel de Allende offers a rich culinary landscape. From the quiet mornings at Aldama 9 to the charming lunches at El Encanto and the delicious dinners at Mestiza, these spots provide not just meals, but experiences that capture the heart and soul of this beautiful town.

So, venture beyond the well-trodden paths and indulge in culinary delights that promise to make your time in San Miguel unforgettable.

Michael Solof leads SMA Adventure Hound, a group which takes locals and newcomers to brunches and dinners at different restaurants every week and he also offers classes in the art of smartphone photography. You can contact him at WhatsApp +1-443-310-9214 for more info and to reserve.