Look no further – here’s your guide to food and drink in this historic city

Mexico is home to one of the most diverse cuisines and is one of my personal favorite places to find fresh flavors. Recently on my exploration of the central highlands, I spent time in San Miguel de Allende, well-known for its historic architecture, a bustling old town, and a diverse food scene. It is located not far from Mexico City and Guanajuato. Sitting at the crossroads of great flavors from smoked meat tacos to fresh herb packed stews, this city stands as a testament to Mexican cuisine. Whether you are visiting for a weekend away or on a longer trip through the central highlands here is your handbook to some top spots to eat in San Miguel de Allende.

In the mood for a coffee or something sweet? Check these spots out?

Panio: A pan dulce or a croissant and a coffee? You can’t go wrong and Panio is an excellent start to the day. Trendy, and a little more pricey this place is always packed in the morning. If you can snag a table enjoy the morning rush of people purchasing great pastries that rival some French boulangers.

Rustica: Just down the road is a little garden oasis that is the perfect brunch stop. Offering a wide variety of toasts and contemporary breakfast classics. You can find something sweet or savory here. It provides a more restful vibe tucked away from the bustling street in their cozy courtyard.

Ready for a bigger meal? Street food, Mexican classics, or a mix of both? Here are three spots to fill up on your favorite and soon-to-be favorite dishes:

La Alborada: Tucked away near the popular Jardin Plaza, this restaurant serves up some of the best pozole I’ve ever had. Pozole is a stew made from hominy and meat, this one was pork. It is tangy and packed full of flavor… a definite must try when in town.

San Miguel Allende Tianguis: Now this is more an experience than anything and be sure to go with an empty stomach. Open on Tuesdays and Sundays this is a massive flea market that sells not only every type of clothing item you can imagine, but some of the freshest corn flour tacos, gorditas (think: arepas), and grilled everything. If you aren’t in the market for fresh shoes then you can rotate between the dozens of stalls hawking fresh food. It is an experience not worth missing.

Barbacoa El Texano: Home to a delicious and tasty vendor of barbacoa tacos, these tasty bites make for a nice lunchtime bite. As the juice flows down your forearm go elbow to elbow with tourists, locals, and expats. Pull up a plastic chair, grab a cold drink, and feast on fresh grilled meat.

Thirsty for more than a cold Coca-Cola? Here are two spots that are a bit more than the drinks they serve:

Quince: Looking for a rooftop drink and a perfect view of the San Miguel de Allende landmark, the Parroquia. While the also serve food, this spot for me works more as a happy hour specialty.

La Mezcalaria: If you want a boozy afternoon activity or just a nice bite and drink, this is your go-to spot. Serving mezcal flights to do tastings and a full menu of contemporary dishes, this is a great stop in the old town.

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There you have it, a mix of what’s on offer in this historic city. Walking around the central area there are dozens of restaurants and cafes, these are just a few of my favorites that display the richness and diversity of San Miguel de Allende’s growing food scene. When there try out as much as you can as this region is the motherload for deep flavors and fresh finds.