San Miguel de Allende has a big expat crowd, so the town offers a variety of types of restaurants. There’s something for every budget from cheap eats to fine dining. Here are my recommendation for the best restaurants you just shouldn’t miss in San Miguel.

1.  La Mesa Grande

My favorite time to go to La Mesa Grande is for their Thursday night pizza night when they also have live music. The pizza is made in a pizza oven, so it’s really good. They also have great bagel sandwiches, salads, and breakfast. The breakfast menu is centered around their breads, but also includes huevos rancheros & chilaquiles. The family style seating also makes it a great place to meet new people.

2.  La Posadita

If you want one of the best margaritas in San Miguel de Allende with a stunning rooftop view of the Parroquia to match, go to La Posadita. They serve traditional Mexican specialty items at very reasonable prices. Get the green pozole, the chile rellenos con queso or the mole enchiladas.  The service here is also excellent.

3.  The Restaurant

Donnie Masterton, the chef at The Restaurant, uses fresh local ingredients to create stunning world-class cuisine.  There are many dishes to choose from. Don’t miss the Thursday night burger night. The restaurant has great service, and a beautiful colonial setting that is perfect for a long, relaxed lunch or a special dinner. The tuna tacos are great. Also, make sure you order the burnt caramel ice cream sundae that comes with marshmallow sauce and Spanish peanuts for dessert. It will change your world.

4.  Cumpanio

Cumpanio is my favorite bakery in San Miguel de Allende and has one of the best breakfasts around. Order the chicharron crepes in 3-chili sauce.  The french door windows that open to the street are my favorite place to sit by and people watch. Cumpanio has a nice upscale setting, and the menu changes seasonally.

5. Lavanda Cafe

Lavanda Cafe has an artistic courtyard that just beckons you take a seat and stay a while.  The eggs benedict is the best I’ve ever had, and everything they make is made with great attention to detail and care. Good choices are the lavender lemonade, the homemade jams, or the fish tacos. Lavanda Cafe makes great coffee, too.

6.  La Parada

La Parada is a Peruvian restaurant that has excellent Pisco Sours. Make sure you have a reservation, as this place gets booked. It is run by a young couple who put a lot of energy into the decor and the food. Sit in the open-air courtyard and try the fresh ceviche, the short ribs called Chino Cochino, and the avocado salad.

7.  Paprika

Paprika with its gorgeous courtyard and convenient location has fast become one of the most popular restaurants in San Miguel de Allende. The food is creative and wonderfully prepared, and there’s something for every budget. Thursday is reserved for those who wish to bring their own wine for a small corkage fee.  They have everything from rack of lamb to burgers with bacon and jack cheese to French onion soup. It’s also a great place for live music.