The vibrant, Mexican city of San Miguel de Allende is known as a magnet for US and European retirees looking for a new home in sunny Mexico. What is less known, is the popularity of the city among younger expats who are drawn by the artistic vibe, the great lifestyle and the exciting nightlife. Below we have listed the best bars to explore in San Miguel, for visitors of all ages and tastes, looking for a good time.
You cannot come to Mexico and not drink Mezcal, the ‘overcooked agave’ version of tequila. And there is no better place to enjoy it than La Mezcaleria. This modern bar-restaurant has creatively built its vibe around Mexico’s famous drink, with huge success. People flockto taste the different types of Mezcal and the imaginative Mezcal cocktails from the exhaustive drinks menu. La Mezcaleria is also popular for its gourmet menu and innovative interpretations of traditional Mexican dishes. The interiors are comfortable and welcoming with a well thought balance between warm traditional Mexican and modern sleek. The perfect place to try some of the best drinks and Mexican cuisine in San Miguel.
This popular restaurant-bar boasts the best ambience in town; as a spot where you can enjoy the genuine Mexican fiesta vibe. Mama Mia is more like a multi-space, offering food and drinks in different bars and restaurants. Its rooftop terrace is ideal for those who want a cold beer and great views whilst listening to reggae. Other areas offer live Mariachi or jazz bands, salsa music and dancing, and there is even a Karaoke night for those who are feeling adventurous. Mama Mia is open late, a real blessing for anyone looking for some non-nonsense Mexican fun in San Miguel.
This cozy downtown bar and restaurant has European charm and attracts an interesting artsy crowd. Berlin Bar and Bistro has smartly separated its interiors to accommodate both a busy bar and a more laid-back restaurant area, and you can easily access the best of both worlds. There is a gallery feel inside, since Berlin Bar and Bistro is a proud supporter of arts and local artists, and frequently hosts exhibitions. The well-crafted martinis, delicious cocktails and sophisticated ambience have made it the favourite of many expats looking for an original bar scene.
Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar offers an attractive combination of breath taking views and fresh cocktails that is sure to please. Boasting the best rooftop views in San Miguel, this is the ultimate place to watch the sun go down while enjoying a great Mojito. The bar belongs to Rosewood Hotel meaning that top quality cuisine complements this experience. A smart variety of creative tapas is available.
El Tres is a super sleek restaurant bar that serves some of the best margaritas in San Miguel. Located within the luxurious boutique hotel El Meson in the heart of the city, it attracts an elegant and smart crowd. El Tres is also a restaurant serving superb gourmet cuisine to be enjoyed in a lively, fabulously decorated dining area .The music playing in the evenings is great too. A perfect place to share some delicious gourmet food and a bottle of wine with a big group of friends.
Hank’s New Orleans Cafe and Oyster Bar is one of San Miguel’s long established downtown bars and restaurants that are very popular among the expat crowd. If you’re looking for a lively bar atmosphere and old school charm, Hank’s Bar is the place to go. There is a rare selection of whiskeys and tequilas to choose from, and the Mojitos are great too. Always buzzing with people, this is a friendly laid-back bar.
Santos Crudoteca is a real local bar to enjoy great drinks and simple tasty food during the day. At night it transforms into a vibrant music venue with jazz bands playing live and a has a good vibe overall. This is a great place to see a more unpretentious and original version of the San Miguel nightlife and have a good time in a friendly laid back ambience.
If you’re thinking that an Irish bar has no place in San Miguel, Limerick Pub will prove you wrong; and it is more than just a pub. With a dynamic music scene hosting regular live gigs and DJ events, it is the favourite hangout of many young people in San Miguel. Despite the dance club vibe, good old Guinness is still served at the bar as well as a variety of pub food.
This simple and elegant cute corner bar is a hidden gem in San Miguel. It is so tiny it almost looks like a box full of local charm! While it is a stylish eatery serving delicious snacks, salads and tapas, it is also a romantic spot to enjoy a glass of wine, an afternoon beer or some tequila. Las Cuatro Milpas offer a warm and welcoming ambience that feels like home.
La Noche Piano Bar is widely known in San Miguel as one of the best places in town to enjoy great live music and well-made margaritas. Johnny Favourite and his crew create magic every night by transporting audiences to New York in the 50s, while channelling the ‘Frank Sinatra’ vibe. Every week he is joined by talented musicians from around the world for unique performances. The venue’s ambience is retro and stylish, just like the host.
