A Solo Cultural Sojourn in San Miguel de Allende

Art and Flavor: Discovering San Miguel's Soul

Today was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of art, history, and the tantalizing flavors of San Miguel de Allende. As a restorer of antique furniture, I find myself drawn to the stories embedded in old walls and the craftsmanship of bygone eras, and this city has stories aplenty to tell. It's funny, I packed everything I thought I needed, but completely forgot my Spanish phrasebook. Astrid would have reminded me, no doubt. I really should remember to charge my portable phone charger tonight, too. Tomorrow promises even more adventures, and I don't want to miss capturing a single moment of it.


My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Rama. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Arezzo, where I spent countless mornings sketching designs for furniture restorations. I opted for a traditional Mexican breakfast, savoring every bite as I planned my day's itinerary. Apparently, Café Rama is quite the spot, having been mentioned in publications like the New York Times and Vogue. I can certainly see why; it has a certain charm that's hard to resist. The mismatched furniture and the art-lined walls gave it a cozy, almost bohemian vibe.


Experience the vibrant flavors and artistic ambiance at Café Rama in San Miguel de Allende—where every meal tells a story.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the Teatro Angela Peralta. I was immediately struck by its grandeur. The theater stands as a testament to San Miguel's rich cultural history. Named after the famous opera singer Ángela Peralta, the theater has a fascinating past. Though Peralta tragically died of yellow fever before she could perform there, her name lives on in this magnificent building.

Experience the vibrant cultural scene of San Miguel de Allende at Teatro Angela Peralta, where art and history come to life.

The Teatro Angela Peralta reminded me of the Teatro Petrarca in my hometown, Arezzo. Both theaters stand as cultural landmarks, testaments to the enduring power of art and performance. The Angela Peralta has served many purposes over the years, including as an opera house and theater, a circus, boxing arena, cantina, and cinema. It's been beautifully restored since 1987, reopening in 1992.

Wandering through its halls, I could almost hear the echoes of past performances, the laughter and applause of captivated audiences. It's incredible to think that this very space has hosted everything from operas to boxing matches. It really does speak to the versatility and resilience of the building, and perhaps to the spirit of the city itself. The design and construction involved craftsmen, technicians, and artisans from the region, adopting models of nineteenth-century Romantic theaters with horseshoe-shaped halls in the Italian style.

Leaving the theater, I made my way to Murales Guadalupe, a neighborhood renowned for its vibrant street art. As I strolled through the streets, I was immediately captivated by the colorful murals that adorned the walls. Each mural told a story, a visual narrative of Mexican culture, history, and daily life. It was like walking through an open-air gallery, each corner revealing a new masterpiece.

Discover the vibrant artistry of Murales Guadalupe in San Miguel de Allende, where local culture and creativity come alive in stunning murals.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

The murals in Guadalupe are a relatively recent phenomenon. Before 2013, street art was banned in the city. Thankfully, a group of art lovers came together and lobbied the town authorities to change this. The Murales en Blanco (White Walls) initiative was born, and since then, over a hundred murals have been painted in this suburb and around town by local and international artists. It's transformed the area into a living, breathing art gallery.

I spent hours wandering through the neighborhood, camera in hand, capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors of each mural. I felt a sense of connection to the artists and the community, a shared appreciation for the power of art to transform public spaces. The experience reminded me of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage, a mission that resonates deeply with my work as a furniture restorer.

For lunch, I ventured to Don Taco Tequila, a restaurant known for its creative and fully vegan tacos. Though I am not vegan, I was intrigued by the innovative menu and the restaurant's reputation. I ordered a selection of tacos, each one bursting with flavor and unexpected combinations of ingredients. It was a delightful culinary experience, a testament to the city's vibrant food scene. The staff was friendly and informative, and I enjoyed the complimentary chips and dips they served as a starter.

Experience vibrant vegan Mexican cuisine at Don Taco Tequila in San Miguel de Allende – where fresh flavors meet local tradition.

In the afternoon, I indulged in some retail therapy at mixta, a unique shop that blends local design with international ideas. Housed in a former 18th-century colonial mansion, the shop was a treasure trove of textiles, fashion, jewelry, home goods, and art. I found myself drawn to a hand-embroidered shawl, its intricate patterns reminiscent of the motifs I often find on antique furniture. I purchased it as a gift for Astrid, knowing she would appreciate its beauty and craftsmanship. Mixta is located in a beautiful 18th-century structure on Calle Pila Seca. The shop's name implies that you'll find a mix of products, like textiles, fashion, jewelry, home goods and art by Mexican designers and artisans.

Discover the artistic charm of Mixta, a boutique in San Miguel de Allende offering unique artisanal products and a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to San Mezcal, a bar that celebrates the traditional Mexican spirit. I sampled a variety of mezcals, each one with its distinct flavor profile and smoky aroma. The bartender was knowledgeable and passionate, sharing stories about the history and production of mezcal. It was a fitting end to a day of cultural immersion, a chance to savor the essence of Mexico in a glass.

Experience the best of mezcal and local cuisine at San Mezcal, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.

For dinner, I chose Los Milagros, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Mexican cuisine and charming ambiance. I ordered a traditional mole dish, its complex flavors a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The restaurant's quiet ambiance and terrific decor made for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.

Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Los Milagros in San Miguel de Allende – where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, I'm planning a trip to Cañada de la Virgen, an archaeological site just outside San Miguel. It's supposed to be an incredible place, with ancient pyramids and stunning views. I'm also considering a visit to San Miguel Parque de Aventuras. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including zip-lining and horseback riding. I think Lasse would have loved that. It's a shame they couldn't come along, but I know they're both cheering me on from Silkeborg.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of San Miguel de Allende. It's a city that nourishes the soul, a place where art, history, and culinary delights intertwine to create a truly unforgettable travel experience. I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'll rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to try and find a Spanish phrasebook tomorrow. It would certainly make navigating the local markets and chatting with artisans a little easier. And perhaps a stronger portable charger, so I can keep capturing these memories without fear of running out of battery. Small details, but essential for a smooth journey. I'm already looking forward to sharing tomorrow's adventures with you all. Until then, *arrivederci* from San Miguel de Allende!