Gavin and recently returned from a romantic weekend wandering the charming cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende. Along our journey, we discovered the most beautiful and unique art galleries and dined on rooftops while looking down on the vibrant rainbow of colors that make up the old world cityscape. If you are seeking a full immersion into old-world Mexican culture then San Miguel de Allende is your next must-go destination!
Gavin and I stayed at the infamous Matilda hotel , right in the heart of downtown. This super classy (with a little side of funk) boutique hotel is blessed with an interior courtyard to die for, complete with a botanical encrusted infinity edge pool, and pop art mural made for the perfect photo opp.
Our room was cute and quaint, and the best part was its expansive balcony overlooking the glistening pool waters below. Service here was top notch -you know the kind- when they welcome you everywhere by name and memorize the way you like your skinny+spicy marg. After we settled into our room we set out on the town to grab a bite to eat.
On the main square we stumbled upon a local spot, Cen Tro, that was packed with locals singing along to the sounds of ranchera (traditional Mexican cowboy music that dated back to the revolution). Intrigued by the palpable energy of the crowd, we grabbed a table and ordered some margaritas and tacos. This was one of the effing best margaritas I have ever had! So authentic and perfectly balanced with spice, a touch of sweet, and rimmed with tajine. Gavin and I smiled with joy as we watched everyone in the bar soulfully sing along with each and every song while cheering and clinking their beers.
The next day we wandered out in no particular direction to find some of the galleries and shops that we had heard so much about. (Insider tip: I love the old cobblestone streets, but they are not easy on the feet! No heels here ladies- just comfy flats.) We stumbled upon a lighting shop that was so specular it should be called a gallery. Intricate gold chandeliers hung from every spot in the ceiling. And the golden light casts beautiful light and shadows across every surface.
The next amazing discovery is the Bovine Concept Store, part store, part gallery. Their black and white motif was striking and edgy. The art work that graced the walls was complete, colorful, and definitely caused a moment of pause. Every detail was meticulously placed and balanced. It was simply a fascinating place. Gavin and I gathered so many design ideas here we had to start writing them all down! And although we didn’t dine at their adjoining restaurant, Bovine, we had received many recommendations that it is the go-to place for wood fired steaks.
After a full day of walking we were famished. We headed over to Quince Rooftop (http://quincerooftop.com) for a sunset dinner with #highvibecrew. Perched high above the city, we watched the sun sink down into the clouds, tuning them rich hues of gold, pink and purple, blending into the colorful casita rooftops. We dined on Peruvian nikkei and truffle tuna sashimi, porteno ceviche, and chimichurri hamachi nigiri. Every bite was a flavorful explosion. Soon the sunset colors faded, the sky darkened to an ink black and millions of twinkling stars came out to shine down on us. What a special night of birds-eye beauty, culinary delights, and great conversations with friends.
