Exploring the Charm of San Miguel de Allende with Friends

A Cultural Immersion

Today was a day of vibrant exploration in San Miguel de Allende. From delving into the local art scene to savoring exquisite Peruvian cuisine, every moment was a feast for the senses. It’s amazing how much this city has to offer, and I’m excited to share the highlights with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Rama. It’s a cozy spot, just a stone's throw from the Rosewood Hotel, and it came highly recommended. I made sure to book a table in advance. The cafe had this super-hip, almost 70s Berkeley vibe, which I found quite charming. I opted for the shrimp tacos, which, based on what I overheard from the patrons, were the best. Olivia went for the chicken flautas. Both meals were incredible. The salsas were amazing, and the red onions were the best. I can see why it's a local favorite. Starting the day with a delicious breakfast set the perfect tone for our adventures ahead.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to Fabrica la Aurora. What once was a textile factory is now a thriving art and design center. The transformation is incredible! As a construction project manager, I couldn't help but admire the architecture and the way the old industrial spaces have been repurposed into studios and galleries. Each studio was a world of its own, showcasing everything from paintings and sculptures to photography and textiles. I even saw some artists offering workshops. It was inspiring to see so much creativity in one place. I picked up a small watercolor painting of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a perfect memento of our trip. The place was built by an English company in 1902, and it still has all 12 stone arches and wrought iron gates.


Explore the artistic heart of San Miguel de Allende at Fabrica la Aurora, where creativity, culture, and craftsmanship come together in a historic setting.

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

Next on our list was Murales Guadalupe, located in the Colonia Guadalupe Arts District. This neighborhood is a hidden gem, a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the visit. The streets are lined with vibrant murals, each telling a unique story. It felt like walking through an open-air art gallery. I learned that many of these murals are part of community-driven art projects, aiming to bring art and culture to the local youth. The contrast between the colonial architecture and the contemporary murals was striking. Olivia, who has a keen eye for art, was in her element, snapping photos at every corner. The area has become a home for artists, and the walls are decorated more dramatically than in the city center. It's a rotating canvas, with new pieces created over existing murals. I really appreciated how this initiative has transformed what was once a neglected area into a vibrant and safe place to visit.


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

After immersing ourselves in art, we sought some tranquility at Parque Benito Juárez. This park is a green oasis in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling streets. It was designed in a French style, with fountains, ponds, and walking paths. I found a quiet bench under a tree and spent some time reading from my guidebook. The park was originally a series of orchards. The mayor, Ignacio Hernández Macías, acquired lands to create a recreational space for the locals. The park was unveiled and named the French Garden. It's a versatile haven for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement. I watched families picnicking, children playing, and couples strolling hand in hand. It was a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. The jacaranda trees were in full bloom, their purple blossoms adding a splash of color to the landscape.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Parque Benito Juárez, a lush urban park in San Miguel de Allende, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.

For lunch, we headed to La Parada, a Peruvian restaurant known for its ceviche. I had heard great things about their cuisine, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant had a cozy and romantic atmosphere, and we were promptly seated in a charming courtyard. We started with the Ceviche La Parada, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For the main course, I opted for the Peruvian chicken sandwich. Olivia went with one of the fish dishes. Every dish was a masterpiece, bursting with unique flavors and spices. I learned that the chef, Alexandra Gutt, is a native of Lima and a graduate of the Cordon Bleu school. The restaurant offers mini-tasting portions of most of the dishes before 5:00 pm. The cebiches are the best in San Miguel.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at La Parada in San Miguel de Allende – where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience the nightlife at Luna Tapas Bar, located on the rooftop of the Rosewood Hotel. The view from the rooftop was breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the city and the iconic La Parroquia. The bar had a trendy yet relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cocktail and tapas. I ordered a margarita, while Olivia chose a glass of wine. The tapas were delicious, and we shared a variety of small plates, from patatas bravas to grilled octopus. The sunset over San Miguel was magical, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The staff was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with art, culture, and culinary delights. It's a stylish rooftop, serving inventive cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired tapas. The rooftop terrace feels very natural, yet very stylish. The menu includes cold and warm tapas, pizza, grill, and tacos.


Discover the exquisite rooftop dining experience at Luna Tapas Bar, where gourmet tapas and stunning views of San Miguel de Allende await.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at a local market to pick up some souvenirs. I found a beautiful hand-painted Talavera tile, which I plan to use as a coaster back home. I also bought some local honey and artisanal chocolates, perfect gifts for Ethan and Olivia's mum. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and I always try to bring back unique and authentic souvenirs from my travels.

Reflecting on the day, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of San Miguel de Allende. From the vibrant art scene to the serene parks and the exquisite cuisine, every moment was a delight. I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s adventure, which includes a visit to Cañada de la Virgen and El Charco del Ingenio. I'm excited to explore more of what this charming city has to offer. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Garambullo.

Good night from San Miguel!

Tomorrow, we're planning on visiting Cañada de la Virgen and Charco del Ingenio. It should be a fascinating day!

P.S. I really need to remember to pack a Spanish phrasebook next time. My attempts at speaking Spanish are getting me some amused looks, to say the least!

Safe travels,
Michael.