Much like a chef,master mixologist,Uriel Jonathan Frausto Tabares of Bovine, is challenged to find the best local ingredients, the precise balance of flavors for every new drink recipe he creates including syrups and infusions he makes from scratch. He has a razor sharp sense of presentation - everything from temperature to garnish to glassware – in order to craft the perfect cocktail like his latest signature drink, La Costumbre, to promote the city of SMA.
The drink is made of Mezcal Lineal with natural pineapple juice, passion fruit syrup, sweet and sour, Licor 43 and an edible wafer with an image of Aldama Street; one of the most iconic streets of our city.
The cocktail culture in SMA is at a whole new level these days; one of the many reasons why Barra Mexico was held in SMA for the first time this past August. SMA has been lucky to attract a group of young mixologist with a passion and knowledge of ingredients and techniques like Mixologist, Fabiola Padilla, the owner of BEKEB Artisanal Mixology, who is internationally recognized for her restaurant collaborations in New York. She also represents a growing number of women who choose to make their profession working behind the bar.
SMA’s Mixologists have been busy crafting cocktail menus and one-of-a-kind drinks that locals and visitors love. Much to my delight, a 50 year long passion, the Brandy Alexander with Ice Cream, was recreated by Juan Manuel Mata at Marsala cocina con acentos just for the asking. Juan is now the head Mixologist at Kouyin, Chef Marcela Bolano’s new restaurant, located near Juarez Park.
Whether it’s the attraction of a new bar, a rooftop with an incredible view, an eye-catching favorite with an appealing bar menu, a much-loved dive bar with a questionable history or a SMA institution like El Manatial, that’s been around for over 100 years, here's your ultimate guide to drinking late night in San Miguel de Allende.
Just visiting? Make this your hit list. Just don’t blame us when you miss your morning wakeup call after being intoxicated by the magic of the all night fiesta. Salud!
Drinks with a View…
Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar
The Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
Nemesio Diaz #11
Monday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM/ Tuesday – Sunday: 12:00 Noon – 10:00 PM
If you only have one night in town, this is your experience. The magic: a 360 degree view of SMA; still the best in the city. Choose from a long list of cocktails that make for a memorable tasting, created by the collaborative mixology team at Rosewood: Angel Castaneda, Miguel Guevara and Erick Andrew. The bar menu was produced by Executive Chef, Vincent Wallez, and includes some pretty fabulous pizzas. Make a reservation in season by calling 415 152 9700.
Anonimo Rooftop
Hotel Selina
Cuna de Allende #11
Daily: 1:00 PM – 11:30 PM
This bar has multiple gorgeous views of the city. No matter where you land, you’ll get a stunning look at SMA. Head Mixologist, Kevin Cesar Romero, is in the house, mixing your favorite fall cocktails. Chef Abel Hernandez, a newcomer to SMA from Mexico City, created three of Mexico City’s most popular restaurants so don’t expect this one to be any different. It’s a long climb to the top but well worth the vistas once you get there. Below the bar is an outdoor cinema where movies are shown every night at 7:30 PM; another great spot to take a drink. Call 415 137 7256.
Atrio
Cuna de Allende #3
Daily 1:00 PM – 10:30 PM
You get in your face views of the Parroquia amid some of the most elegant surroundings in town. We love this bar so much, we call it our second home. A cold glass of Wente Chardonnay will make things pretty perfect so check in with Abraham or Tono when you arrive. The bar menu was created by Chef Arturo Sandoval; one of the best chefs in SMA and has a wide variety of options for late night grazing. Reservations suggested; especially on the weekends. Call 415 688 1405.
Terraza La Dona
San Francisco #32
Open: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM Monday - Wednesday
1:00 PM – 11:30 PM Thursday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Terraza La Dona is one of the top rooftops in SMA. This beautiful spot set the standard when it comes to mixing music and spirits. A regular schedule of shows includes local favorite, the fabulous Lady Zen. DJ’s spin your favorite tunes every Thursday – Sunday. Late night eating at its finest, don’t miss Chef Juan Manuel Galvan Lopez’s bar bites, including the original recipe of grilled cauliflower; an easy four way split and that’s just scratching the surface. Check with Fabian for a list of drink specialties and belly up to the bar for Happy Hour: 1x1 on Friday and Saturday from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM. There’s another great view waiting so go early to get the best seat in the house. Call 415 688 3131.
La Unica
Sollano #14
1:00 PM – 12:00 Midnight
The magnificent view from the terrace is the other side of the Parroquia, where you’re surrounded by blooming gardens. Don’t miss the specialty desserts; all of them remarkable. If you love chocolate, order a Cordelion and take it with a double shot of Kahula for the maximum pleasure. Mixologist, Alfredo Garcia, has created a number of craft cocktails you’ll not want to miss. Who needs a beach when you can get a classic Pina Colada with a view like this? Ask for the cocktail of the day; remarkable spirits with a creative blend of ingredients to start off your happiest hour ever. Call 415 688 1393.
La Azotea
Umaran #3
Daily: 12:00 Noon – 10:00 PM
Manager: Teru
Sunshine + Bougainvilleas are a PX for a Chardonnay with supreme floral notes. We take ours with a sunset view; one of the best pairings in town. A texturally adventurous bite, their signature Jicama Taco is SMA’s most famous for over 16 years. The shell is a thin slice of Jicama that’s topped with lightly breaded shrimp, chipotle mayo and a tamarind sauce. The fried leek finish puts this taco in a class by itself. La Azotea gets our vote for the most popular bar in the city. Watch the birds in flight at the back bar during sunset. Call 415 152 8265.
Zumo
Quebrada #93
Thursday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Wednesdays starting September 15/Sunday Brunch starting September 15 : 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
A new level will open up October 1st – The Luxe Sky Bar. Check out this amazing view of SMA, presented by Chef/Owner, Stewart Haverlack. The stylish, new lounge will provide an almost 360 degree view of the entire city. It’s certain to be the best addition to the city’s long list of fabulous rooftops, hosting an in- house DJ every Thursday – Sunday. Mixologist Alexis Chavez will see you through the Happy Hour from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM on Thursday and Friday. After September 15, Zumo will also be open Wednesdays. Call 415 152 0489.
Trazo 1810
Hidalgo #8
8:00 AM – 12:30 PM/Sunday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch
There are multiple levels of terraces with magnificent views of Centro, especially from the upper terrace where you can also catch a sundown glass of bubbly. Esteban Rivera (“El Abuelo”) is the Mixologist in-house and prepares eclectic cocktails using premium, Mexican spirits. Trazo 1810 gets our vote as one of the most beautiful bars in the city. Call 415 121 3501.
BEKEB Artisanal Mixology
Mesones 14
Thursday and Sunday 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Friday and Saturday 3:00 PM – 12:00 Midnight
You’ll hear nothing but great things about Owner/Mixologist Fabiola Padilla, who’s internationally recognized for her restaurant collaborations in New York City. All of her cocktails are simple and natural; made from plants, roots and flowers that are mixed with Mexican, agave spirits: different Tequilas, Mezcals, and Bacanoras. To get a peek at the gorgeous views, you’ll want to put this one on your list. It’s the ultimate experience of SMA mixology at its absolute finest. Call 415 688 1355. Photos:BEKEB
Blind Jaguar
Sollano and Dávalos 14, Centro. Enter from La Unica
Friday and Saturday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM/ Sunday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Owners: Martin and Joaquin
The bar is located behind a hidden door inside another restaurant, La Unica. The owners are from Tulum and have put all the finishing touches on in true SMA style including a central pool filled with magnificent flowers. The crowd is young but we also found families and grandmothers gathered to take in the spectacular view of the Parroquia. Mixologist Rafael Velez Leal has a long list of cocktail options; all of them top notch. Try the house Paloma or a Xaman Sour – the perfect combination of sweet, sour, spicy and smoky.
Antonia Bistro
San Francisco 57
Daily 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM except Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Perched on top of the Hotel Boutique El Palomar, I have to admit, a cocktail here is pretty perfect; a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. You’ll want to grab the high, center table to catch the brilliant colors of a SMA sunset; it’s nothing short of incredible. Antonia Bistro SMA has the Apellation of Origin drinks made from agave spirits; Pox "Siglo Cero" from Chiapas, Sotol "Coyote" from Chihapas, Bacanora "Pascola" from Sonora and Raicilla "Hacienda el Divisadero" from Jalisco. Located up the hill, it’s just 5 minutes from SMA’s main square. Call 415 152 7295.
Kôuyīn Asian Eatery
Apapacho Hotel
Bajada del Chorro 11 esq. Recreo, Centro.
Hours: Wednesday to Monday / 2 - 10 PM
Chef: Marcela Bolano
Our new favorite restaurant/bar in SMA, you get a bird’s eye view of the other side of Centro. The head mixologist, Juaraz Park, Juan Manuel Mata, is gaining quite a following. Reports have it that his creative Asian cocktails are some of the best in town. We also have it from an inside source that he makes a killer Martini.
If there’s one Mixologist in town to keep an eye on, Juan Manuel is it. Call 415 154 9762.Photo:Kôuyīn Asian Eatery
Don’t miss some of our other favorites…
The Bar at the R
Sollano #16
Wednesday – Saturday 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Savor every element of this bar because owner, Chef Donnie Masterton, put his magic touch on another late night favorite. It’s our #1 bar in the city for so many reasons, starting with the renowned DJ’s on the late night track including the chef himself, who is also a DJ. A small fireplace provides the perfect place for cold weather drinking. Beto Martintz, the head bartender, can help you choose from a growing selection of cocktails and spirits. We love the affordable and delicious Asian small plates and sushi; some of the best in town. WhatsApp: 415 113 5107.
Marsala, cocina con acentos
Hernandez Macias 48
Zona Centro, 37700 San Miguel de Allende, Gto.
Hours:Friday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM/ Sunday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM/ Monday – Thursday 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Going home early is never an option so come by for a house Mezcal, an unofficial Friday Sobramesa or a fun, nonstop conversation with the girls; some of the real reason why this is one of the best places in SMA for cocktails. And notice we made that plural! Call 415 152 0080.
San Mezcal
Recreo #88
Bar: Wednesday – Saturday 5:00 PM –11:00 PM Cash only cocktails
Kitchen: TBD September
This place always delivers a good time. Reopening in September or early October, Master Mezcalier, Julio Hernandez heads up the bar and Jason Maloff, from the original Café Rama, joins the new team in the kitchen. The menu has changed but rumor has it from the source that the BLT and Pastor Fries will stay. This bar is a stop on the SMA Mezcal tour. With over 100 brands of Mezcals to pick from, where else do you really need to go tonight? Call 415 121 1422.
Hercules Beer Bar
Districo Soma
Estacion del Ferrocarril – Lupita #2
San Miguel de Allende 37759
Phone: 415 150 1541
Sunday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Hercules Beer owns a large Ceveceria and beer garden in the center of Queretaro and have opened up this tiny bar inside Districo Soma, a new shopping mall in SMA. Ask for Daniel, the star of the bar, who will walk you through a long list of their home brews. The beer bottle is slowly dying because Hercules packaging is as amazing as the cold brew inside and they make us want to line up for every new release. This is a great place to start; it’s one of the best afternoon bars in the city.
Mui Ramen Bar
Aldama #53
Tuesday – Sunday 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM/Closed Monday
Chef: Paul Bentley
Mixologist/Manager: Jon Vas
Our new favorite hideaway, you’ll love the cocktail menu at Mui Ramen Bar; many of the drinks are made with Sake. It has an outstanding Asian menu created by Hotel Matilda’s chef, Paul Bentley. The rooftop patio is upstairs and hidden among the trees making it totally possible to go into hiding for hours on end. We give the bar an added star as the service here is as near to perfect as it gets. Call 415 152 1015.
Olivia’s Bar Rooftop at Casa No Name
Hernandez Macias #52
Tuesday – Thursday: 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM/Friday – Saturday: 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM/ Sunday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
How to pull off a solo bar trip? This is the place to try it. This cozy rooftop serves one of the best Martini’s in town. It’s a great place to take cover when you need a break from the nightlife but still want a night-time high. Here, you’re in your own little world; call it a safe haven from the tourist mayhem just a few blocks away. Sometimes we love peace and quiet and Olivia’s has got them both. Call 415 152 1768.
Bovine
Canal #16
Tuesday 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM/ Wed – Sunday 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Raise your glass to one of the hottest places in the city. Bovine is helmed by power duo, Bruce James and Chef Paul Bentley. With the best Mixologist behind the bar, Uriel Jonathan Frausto Tabares, who else do you need tonight? You can’t go wrong with this bar; it looks every inch of London, Miami or NY City. Smoked oysters are golden for late night snacking. Dress to impress. The newly remodeled patio is a great spot to take in the ultimate cocktail experience. Call 415 121 6787. Drink Photo: Bovine.
The Blue Bar at Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada
Hospicio #35
Daily: Noon – 10:30 PM
Throughout SMA, there are countless bars that we could just curl up in and never leave. This is one of them. Gerardo Luna, will make you feel at home. He has a long list of prime cocktails and wines to choose from. The Blue and White stenciled walls are a signature mark for this perfect hide-away if you want to disappear for an hour or two. A great place to rendezvous with your number one. Ask about the intimate dinner for two downstairs; the most romantic spot in SMA. Call 415 152 7040. Photo: Casa de Sierra Nevada
The Monkey Bar
Aldama #53
Daily: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
We don’t just like this bar – we LOVE it! The Money Bar at Hotel Matilda is the perfect place to celebrate SMA in the new normal; it’s outside, poolside and teeny tiny – there are five bar stools. You can reach across the bar and practically touch the back wall, it’s that cozy. Some additional seating spills into Moxi, Matilda’s flagship restaurant. The smallest bar in SMA has some of the biggest offerings when it comes to spirits and service. We think good things come in small packages these days - the Monkey Bar at Hotel Matilda is it! Call 415 152 1015.
Casa Dragones Tasting Room
Relox 18 in Doce 18 Concept House
By Appointment
Home is historic SMA to this small batch tequila producer who hand crafts superior sipping tequilas to absolute perfection one bottle at a time.
Book your exclusive, tasting experience at the private, six-seat bar located in the historic Doce 18. Pick up a custom engraved bottle; a great gift for who else but you!
https://casadragones.com.mx/en/tequila-tasting-experiences/
1826 Tequila Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
Nemesio Diaz #11
Daily: Noon – 10:00 PM
You’ll enjoy a delicious, Pacific Rim menu while pairing it with an artisanal cocktail, made to order. You can book a tasting for four or more if you’re interested in trying their long line of premium brands. One of the most beautiful bars in SMA is equally as cozy. If you're planning a romantic night, pull out all the stops and come here. Home sweet home, this is one bar you’ll want to stay at once you’ve settled in. Call 415 152 9700. Restaurant Photo:1826 Tequila Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende
Baradero Cuban Cigar Bar
Cuadrante #30
Daily 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM/Closed Monday and Tuesday
Baradero is one of the best secrets in SMA; if you love Cuban music, this is your place. Slip on your dancing shoes and get lost in the music of Son Candela. More intoxicating than the music and the booze is your guaranteed anonymity. This is one of our favorite new bars for music. Call 415 688 3074.
La Mezcaleria
Correo #47-A
Daily: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM/Closes Sunday 4:00 PM
The original Mezcal bar in SMA, try one of their intoxicating Mezcal Margaritas; we love the Pepino and Cilantro or drink it straight up with a slice of orange. You can also order an Aguamiel or a Pulque if you’re into something more authentic to sip on the patio. The roasted crickets with lime and chilies are a must for late night snack. Now serving breakfast, this bar opens at 9:00 AM. Call 415 121 5354.
El Manantial
Barranca #78
Daily: 1:00 PM – 11:30 PM
One of the oldest and most popular spots in San Miguel was founded in 1920 as a men’s cantina. You can also get Chamorro here, along with delicious seafood ceviche and tacos. It’s nearly always packed; a testament to the great Mexican food and drinks. Try a Ginger Margarita; another SMA classic. El Manantial celebrated its 100 year anniversary this past year (1920-2020) but the real reason we like it is that it’s one of the few bars in town that's got it all, including mainly locals. Call 415 110 0007.
La Hija del Manantial
Correo #14
Daily: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM/Tuesday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
El Manantial’s sister bar, La Hija del Manantial, has the best ambiance in the city. Chamorro Tacos with blue corn tortillas is one of Chef Aidee Prado’s specialties. The gourmet cantina is conveniently located in town, just a few steps from the Jardin. Our favorite spot is one of the two high tables in the window where the people watching, both indoors and out, is the best in SMA. Live Jazz on Tuesday at 7:30 PM. No Cover. Call 415 111 7431.
Mama Mia
Ignacio Hernandez Macias #91
Daily 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Adal Garcia Moreno, the head bartender at Mama Mia's, once told us that Mama Mia’s makes the best Margarita in town and we only needed a sip of this gigantic drink to be convinced. One of these drinks is an experience; two of them, a party. They’re really 2 for 1, just all in the same glass.
If you’re hungry, try the Arrachera Burger. Live music keeps the party going late night. It’s one of the busiest bars in the city. Everyone has great bar stories and this one place you’ll make them. Call 415 152 2063.
Bacco Ristorante Bar
Herandez Macias #59
1:00 PM – 10:30 PM/Sunday 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM/ Closed Monday
If this is Sunday, it must be Home Sweet Home Bacco. The owner, Ricardo Sautto, is usually in the house to greet you. Carlos is one of the best bartenders in town. This old world setting, which opened in 1953, serves up great food and drink with portions that are enormous. The enchanting patio is lit up at night like Christmas so if you’re looking for a spot with a lot of locals, this is your place. Hotel Sautto is cool because it's not trying to be anything else. Call 415 154 5613.
Great Bars in Centro…
Roagi
Doce 18 Concept House
Relox 18
Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday- Sunday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Thursday – Friday-Saturday 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
While you’re wandering around beautiful Doce 18 Concept House, stop for a cocktail at Roagi, a new bar in Doce 18, that hosts a list of guest bartenders every month and mixes one of the best cocktails called, what else, BREAKFAST: Bulleit Bourbon, coffee fatwash, oolong, amarena and Ganache 85%. This is one place where you’ll never get bored with the menu; it changes up often and currently offers three seasonal cocktails for fall: The Auyama, the Origen Lejano and the Autumn Chronicles. Call 415 152 1434. Photo by Roagi.
Centanni
Canal 34
Hours: 1:00 PM – 12:30 PM Sunday closes 10:00 PM
415 154 8044
Centanni boasts a long list of live music performances including local singer, Johnny Favorite, in the house on Wednesdays for some late night fun. Live bands play Friday and Saturday nights. Thursday is Ladies Night with salsa music, free drinks and no cover. On Tuesdays, 2x1 pizzas are a delicious deal. Much to the delight of half the city, Wilson is in the house. You think you need something and well, it turns out you don’t – you already have it. Without a doubt, Wilson is best magician in the city. Call 415 154 8044.
Berlin
Umaran #19
Daily: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM/Closed Sunday
We’re crazy about Berlin’s fish tacos; made with catfish, lightly breaded and served with a side of chipotle mayo. You have to sit at the bar and order these; they’re not on the menu. Be there when they open just to get a seat; the bar is always crowded. A new rooftop is a work in progress and will open soon. A healthy pour and great food make this bar one of the best spots in the city. Now open for lunch. Go for the longest Happy Hour we know: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Call 415 154 9432.
Bella Italia
Guadalupe Portal 12, Centro
Sunday – Thursday: Noon – 10:00 PM
Friday – Saturday: Noon – 11:00 PM
Owner: Paolo Vizzotto
From owner, Paolo Vizzotto, if Ernest Hemingway were to pick a perfect place to waste away the afternoon, Bella Italia would be it. Call 415 154 6758.
Quince
Cuna de Allende #15
Sunday – Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM/Tuesday closed/Wednesday – Thursday: 1:00 PM – 10:45 PM/Friday – Saturday: 1:00 PM – Midnight
With a rolling drink cart, you don’t have to sit at the bar to catch the Parroquia view; it’s right across the street. Chef Gonzalo Martinez has designed the perfect nibbling menu that includes sushi and dumplings. There are 6 variations of Bloody Mary’s and much to the delight of every tequila lover, a flight of Casa Dragones. We go in late afternoon, when you can still have a conversation and enjoy the sunset vistas. Order a house Margarita - a mix of Don Julio blanco, cucumber, lemon, pineapple, green chili and serrano chile; one of the best in SMA.
Centro Bar SMA
Portal Allende #2
Daily: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
Many of SMA’s Mariachi groups play at this bar in the evening. Get out your list of tunes and prepare to settle in; oft times until closing. It’s one of the best spots in town to people watch. Try a Mojito Aldama with Absolut Pears and red fruit. Want to go another round? Come back in the morning for a strong pot of coffee while SMA wakes up; it’s guaranteed to be the morning after highlight you’ll not soon forget. Call 415 152 8493.
Hanks
Hidalgo 12
12:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight/Saturday-Sunday to 1:00 AM
A legendary New Orleans style happy hour for serious drinkers, take your pick from a parade of drinks – there’s really no wrong choice during happy hour. How to approach a post-drink pickup? Ask the bartender if you’re rusty; there’s a bit of mischief if that’s what you’re really after. Most of us are into Happy Hour; it goes from 5:00 – 8:00 PM. Monday drink 2x1 Mojitos. There’s a special Taco Tuesday with Margaritas. Come on Wednesday for 2X1 Martinis and Hurricane Thursday rounds out the week. Always crowded, go early if you want to get a seat. Call 415 152 2645.
La Plancha
Jesus and Quadrante
Wednesday – Sunday 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
A great dive bar doesn’t care about what you want so don’t even try to order a Lemon Drop or a martini. Inexpensive food and drink and Mariachi music are the main draws here and it’s also got a jukebox. Get your party on because who needs more if you’re painting the town tonight?
La Coronela Cantina Bar
San Francisco #2
Opens: 2:00 PM
Surfacing from the Golden Years of Mexican cinema, this is a regular stop for many of the Mariachi groups that play in the Jardin. Larger than it looks from the outside, we recently caught up with friends who were tipping a well deserved shot of Mezcal in the early afternoon. It’s a great way to escape the zany vibe of SMA in the wee hours of morning if you decide it’s still too early to go home …and it is you know? Late night any night is where it’s at in SMA, especially with the Jardin nearby. Call 415 152 5032.
Another Nightcap, Por Favor…
La Cucaracha
Zacateros 20, Centro
Opens: 10:30ish PM Closes: 3:00 – 4:00 AM
La Cucaracha opened in 1947; once called one of the 10 best bars in the world by Esquire magazine. Located on Zacateros, it’s a mix of locals with foreigners and national tourists on the weekends. You wouldn’t find any artisanal beers here and it’s by no means SMA glamorous, but you can’t leave town without going once; that’s if you’re lucky enough to get in. With its tough drinking reputation, it’s had its share of all stars, writers and artists over the years, but for the most part, it’s a rite of passage that will probably leave you sleeping it off the next morning. Don’t plan La Cucaracha if you have a 3:00 AM shuttle to the airport but you’re timing for closing the bar down may be pretty close to perfect.
Cantina El Gato Negro
Mesones #12
Open: 11:00 AM
Enjoy a taste of the quintessential drink, Tequila, at one of the oldest (1922) cantinas in SMA. Graffiti murals include Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles and The Doors. It’s dark and narrow inside but climb the stairs to the small, rooftop terrace and you’ll see the light of day. Chat with the bartender for a quick lesson on the history. El Gato Negro vies with La Cucaracha for the title of the most famous cantina in SMA. You be the judge; we’ve tried them both and refuse to break the tie.
Bar San Miguel
Insurgentes #67
2:00 PM – 2:00 AM
An all night crawl isn’t really one until you’ve done Bar San Miguel. Since 1957, this is the kind of place where anything can happen. Maybe that's why you love it in the first place; especially after midnight when practically everything else is closed. The positive: Andy’s Taco cart is right up the street and Tacos Al Pastor is the ultimate treat when you’ve been on an all night binge and you’re starting to see stars at 2:00 AM.
Photo: Claudia Bo
Here’s What’s New:
TIGA Tiki Bar
Pila Seca #2
Daily 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Clandestino Rooftop
Recreo #34
Daily 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Mike Espinosa has earned his place as one of the top Mixologists in SMA so either of these new bars are a sure bet for a great round of drinks. An expert on the art of cocktail, Mike built his talents by managing some of San Miguel’s best bars; most recently The Monkey Bar in Hotel Matilda.Photo: TIGA Tiki Bar
Eustolia
Correo #34
Daily 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM except Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Take a peek at this new spot, created by first time restaurant owners, Grecia and Kyara Trejo and managed by Mexico City transplant, Griselda Contreras. Gerardo Cortes, the head Mixologist, has a brand new list of cocktails waiting for you, including the Ceremonia Maya made with Pox. One of our favorite singers, Johnny Favorite, plays on Thursday nights.Photo:Eustolia
Santo Cuviso
Formerly Don Taco Tequila Hernandez Macias #83 Dailly 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Owner Alain Mares and Santo Cuviso made a coop agreement "bar takeover" and named the bar Santo Cuviso Cocktail bar. On the other side of this agreement is Gunther Maier, a well known photographer, who photographed the Chef series for Claroscuro: The Art of Gastronomy project last year. For those of you who didn’t get to view his amazing collection,some of them will be hanging in the bar; a hallowed spot among the extensive collection of spirits including Santa Cuviso Bacanora, produced by Gunther Maier’s company. Sotols will also be at the bar, produced by Casa Santeros. With a prime location on Hernandez Macias and one of the few, all Vegan menus in town, this bar is sure gain a large following of both locals and tourists alike.
The morning after… Photos:Santa Maciza
We can’t think of a better morning after food than Carnitas so wander up the hill – the walk will do you good - to a delightful new restaurant, Santa Maciza, at the corner of Barranca and Montes de Oca, that’s owned by Tito Martinez of La Unica and dishes out some of the best hangover medicine around. There’s nothing better than a large plate of carnita tacos with salsa verde to get you up for another night on the town. That’s right, the list is long, and you’ve got exactly 44 more to go.
The Best Cocktail in SMA? The Vesper Martini by Mixologist, Gabrile Avila, who is now in Valle de Guadalupe.
Tito’s handmade craft Vodka
Bombay Gin
Dolin Blanc French Vermouth
Basil Smash
Iced
Shaken not stirred
3 Olives
Straight up
Beautiful glass
It's Friday. ♥ Life is good!
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