Casual dining in San Miguel de Allende

Moving to San Miguel has been a terrific decision—with one downside: I’ve forgotten how to cook! Maybe it’s the charm of San Miguel’s streets at the golden hour, or maybe it’s the fact that there’s always a welcoming spot just a short walk away, serving something unique and delicious.  Casual dinners here aren’t rushed or routine—they’re relaxed, social, and full of character, just like the town itself.

These are a few of my favorite places to go at the end of the day, no reservations or dress code required.

La Azotea – Snack -  Sip - Sunset

Jicama and Shrimp Tacos

Ready for some tacos and tequila?

La Azotea’s rooftop bar and restaurant is a favorite spot for locals and travelers alike, perfect for light bites, good margaritas, and an unbeatable western sunset view.

The house specialty is a Jicama Taco.  “What the Jicama is that you ask?”   Think: crisp, paper-thin jicama slices, layered with perfectly fried shrimp, topped with crispy leeks, smoky chipotle mayo, and a tamarind drizzle.  Pair it with a signature margarita (or two  - no judgment), and soak in the golden sunset over the western hills. 

Let’s just say… I used to cook. Now I just climb stairs and order tacos.

Bennu-  A slice of home

Who doesn’t love pizza? 

Bennu Pizza

When visiting San Miguel de Allende and craving something familiar (yet still amazing), Bennu is the place for you.  Pizza!  The sourdough crust is the star -crispy, chewy, wood-fired perfection.  Toppings include the classic ingredients of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, as well as some surprises such as butternut squash sauce, pear, balsamic, and fresh goat cheese.  There are yummy sides too, such as sweet corn with pumpkin seeds and lime butter, and roasted cauliflower marinated in achiote.

 A little pizza oasis in a charming courtyard paired with a darn good glass of French Chardonnay is just what you need to unwind after a busy day exploring this magical city.

Don Taco Tequila- Vegan, Vibrant, and Full of Flavor

Ginger and Lemongrass Margarita

“Eat your vegetables — Yes, please!"

My first visit to Don Taco Tequila was part of a taco tour, and I’ll admit it—I assumed this was the obligatory vegan stop. Boy, was I wrong.

Yes, it’s 100% vegan Mexican cuisine, but there’s nothing obligatory about it. The plant-based tacos, burritos, and nachos are bold, creative, and loaded with flavor—the kind of food that makes you forget it’s vegan at all.

Pair your meal with one of their delicious margaritas (I’m partial to the ginger and lemongrass) and you’ll leave happy—and maybe a little proud of yourself for eating your vegetables.

Los Milagros – Sizzling Mexican Tradition

“Pass the chips and salsa, please.”

Surprisingly, that’s not something you hear too often in San Miguel’s restaurants. But if you're craving next-level traditional Mexican fare, Los Milagros delivers.

Their signature molcajete bowls are the main event—bubbling hot volcanic stone dishes packed with grilled meats, veggies, cheese, and nopales (that’s cactus, but trust me, it works). The vibe feels like a full-on fiesta, complete with big family celebrations, live music, and plenty of laughter.

There are two locations—one in Centro, and another perched up on Salida de Querétaro with sweeping views of the town. Both serve the same traditional Mexican menu, but the hilltop spot wins me over every time with its open-air terrace and killer sunset views.

And let’s be honest—you’ll feel better about all those chips and salsa after a short uphill walk.

El Manantial – The oldest bar in town

Bar most likely to see a donkey tied up outside.

El Manantial has been around since 1920, making it the oldest cantina in San Miguel de Allende.  Its aged salon door opens to what, at first glance, appears to be a divey bar as your eyes adjust to the dim inner light.  A long wooden bar packed with communal seating beckons you in. You take in the hip art on the walls, pick up the beat of the cool tunes in the background, and order a beverage.    And then it hits you: this isn’t just a bar—it’s a San Miguel institution.

The crowd is a colorful mix of longtime regulars, local artists, off-duty chefs, and curious travelers. Strangers are welcomed like old friends, and conversations flow as easily as the tequila.

Don’t let all this divey charm and cool atmosphere fool you—the food here is seriously good.  The seafood-focused menu includes tostadas, tacos, soups, salads, and ceviche. I’d love to describe a few different dishes, but a few years ago I fell for the octopus carpaccio and haven’t managed to order anything else since. At this point, I just call it Wednesday night dinner.

This may look like a dive bar, but it’s absolutely a destination. 

(And yes, I’ve actually seen donkeys tied up outside while their owners popped in for a drink. More than once.)