It’s just after sunset in San Miguel de Allende, and a delightful desert chill is already descending on the colorful cobbled town. Here, in the heart of Mexico’s central highlands, I’ve arrived at the home studio of the Sonora-born hat designer Alejandra “Suki” Armendariz. After sharing cocktails across the street at the rooftop bar, Bekeb—helmed by her partner, the famed mixologist Fabiola Padilla—my friends and I stumbled our way uphill to her workshop, only a few blocks away. Winded, we passed through a thick wooden door of an unassuming façade to arrive at the studio, a subterranean room lined with well-worn cowboy saddles, geometric-patterned flannel tops, and antique silver and turquoise metal belts. Norteño music blasts from the speaker as Armendariz grabs beers from the refrigerator. She pops the cap off a bottle with her dusty leather boots and hands it to me; a smile sweeps her face at her trick as congratulatory applause ricochets throughout the room.
In between sips of my beer, Armendariz tells me how she launched her home studio four months ago as a pathway for visitors to San Miguel de Allende to learn about the region’s traditional cowboy culture and customs. Clad in an all-black sombrero of her design and jet-black pants held in place with a thick leather belt with a gold buckle, Armendariz explains how she prefers to utilize one of three materials to create her hats: Bolivian wool, Mexican rabbit fur, and Mexican palm leaves. During bespoke experiences not too dissimilar from the one my friends and I are now enjoying, she even guides guests through the creation of their own hat, with the option to have a more interactive experience by shaping and steaming the brim themselves.
Today I’ve chosen a milky grey base, verging on pink when the light hits it just right, ringed by an alabaster leather rope. As I sift through a box of gold and silver buttons to find the perfect adornment for my piece, Armendariz reaches below her workshop table for a box of feathers. There are dozens of options. I gravitate to a three-pronged piece with brown, white, and black plumages to solidify my minimalist look. As Armendariz makes the final adjustments to my hat by hammering in a series of metal buttons—and my friends solidify their designs while getting distracted by the vintage tops and belts that line the wall—I can’t help but smile at the harmony of the evening. Completely unplanned, entirely impromptu, I know no other country and culture where an artist like Armendariz would so freely open their studio for a spur-of-the-moment design party. It’s celebratory and even a little chaotic; it’s also perfect.
Though I’ve been to San Miguel de Allende over a dozen times, I’m here to discover the crop of new openings like Palomina that are making this Mexican town one of the newest hotspots for young creatives. From natural wineries specializing in wild fermentation techniques to tucked-away boutique bungalows set away from the downtown bustle in the area’s more verdant outskirts, there’s a reason the town’s former reputation as a retirement community is no longer fitting.
Here, your guide to the new, not-to-miss spots in San Miguel de Allende.
Where to Stay
Though it looks as if it’s stood for centuries alongside the town’s 18th-century landmarks, the Rosewood San Miguel de Allende is in fact a modern build, opened in 2011 and designed with such care that it blends seamlessly into the colonial streetscape. Behind its ivy-covered stone walls lies a sprawling resort that channels the spirit of old San Miguel—without sacrificing an ounce of luxury. The rooms are filled with artisanal details: hand-carved wooden doors, traditional tiled floors, and private terraces that overlook the cobbled town below.
This year, the Rosewood debuted a new culinary offering: Pirules Garden Kitchen, a verdant, open-air restaurant that pays tribute to Mexico’s diverse regional cuisines. The menu, which honors ancestral cooking techniques while embracing modern creativity, turns dining into an act of cultural storytelling. For a sunset drink or a view of the Parroquia’s famous pink spires, head up to the Luna Rooftop, which offers one of the best vistas in town—along with a perfectly chilled tamarind margarita. And then there’s the Sense Spa, tucked away behind tall hedges, where treatments incorporate indigenous botanicals and pre-Hispanic healing rituals.
If you weren’t looking for it, you might walk right past Hotel Amparo—and that’s precisely the point. Tucked behind an unmarked wooden door on a quiet street in the historic center, this five-room bolthole is the kind of place insiders whisper about. Housed in a 300-year-old colonial mansion, Amparo feels more like the private residence of a cultured friend than a hotel. Each room is subtly different, blending heirloom antiques with custom-designed furniture and textiles sourced from all over Mexico.
Days here begin with coffee in the tiled courtyard, where sunlight filters through lemon trees and the soundtrack is a soft gurgle from the stone fountain. Afternoons can be spent with a book and a glass of wine in the library-lounge, or perhaps a game of billiards before cocktail hour. The hotel’s hidden gem is Bar Margaret, a sultry, candlelit space tucked in one corner of the house. The wine list is sharp, the mezcal is thoughtfully sourced, and the vibe is undeniably romantic.
Hotel Amparo’s greatest luxury might be its discretion: there’s no front desk, no fawning staff, just an elegant sense of calm and a quiet confidence that everything you need has already been thought of. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who prefer to be low-key but well looked after—exactly the sort of place that feels less like checking into a hotel, and more like slipping into someone’s very beautiful life.
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At first glance, Casa Hoyos appears to be just another handsome stone building in San Miguel de Allende’s historic core—but step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a world of high design and vibrant creativity. Housed in a former grain and seed warehouse owned by the Hoyos family for generations, the hotel retains its historic bones while embracing a daring, contemporary aesthetic. Designed by Mexico City-based A-G Studio, the interiors nod to mid-century Mexican glamour: throne-like velvet armchairs, custom tilework in citrus hues, and soaring archways that frame dramatic sightlines throughout.
Each of the 16 rooms is thoughtfully designed, outfitted with terrazzo floors, sleek lighting, and modernist flourishes that contrast beautifully with the original colonial structure. The vibe is at once sophisticated and irreverent—like an art collector’s home crossed with a Wes Anderson daydream. Splashes of color abound, from cobalt blue planters to murals by Mexican artist Manu Muni that lend a playful edge to the building’s storied past.
In a town revered for its colonial charm and baroque splendor, Hotel Matilda dares to be different. Opened in 2010 and unapologetically modern in both design and spirit, it was the first hotel in San Miguel to push the city’s aesthetic into the 21st century—and it’s still leading the charge. Clean lines, poured concrete, and contemporary artwork replace cantera stone and antique tiles here, creating a space that feels like a chic private gallery more than a traditional hotel.
And that’s not just a mood—it’s by design. The hotel is home to a rotating collection of contemporary Mexican and Latin American art, with works by Bosco Sodi, Aldo Chaparro, and others on display in both public and private spaces. Rooms are minimalist yet warm, with floor-to-ceiling windows, soft neutral palettes, and sculptural light fixtures that nod to modern Mexican craftsmanship.
Matilda’s spa is among the most renowned in town, offering holistic treatments rooted in regional healing traditions. Think herbal body wraps, volcanic stone massages, and facials using Mexican botanicals. For dining, the hotel is home to Moxi, a sleek restaurant that has played host to some of Mexico’s top chefs and continues to serve up inventive, ingredient-driven fare in a low-lit, cosmopolitan setting.
Whether you’re browsing the hotel’s private collection, sipping a perfectly made espresso in the leafy courtyard, or reclining poolside with a mezcal in hand, Hotel Matilda makes you feel like you’re living inside a contemporary design magazine—with just enough San Miguel soul to ground it all.
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For those seeking a slower, softer version of San Miguel de Allende, Quinta Amores offers a hushed escape on the edge of town. Set in the leafy Los Frailes neighborhood—just far enough from the tourist-thronged center to feel like a secret—the property is composed of four pale-pink bungalows arranged around a minimalist courtyard. Designed by architect Ian Pablo Amores, the retreat feels like a design meditation: serene, symmetrical, and awash in filtered light.
Each suite is a study in quiet elegance, with textured plaster walls, poured concrete floors, and thoughtful, tactile details—a hammock here, a handwoven chair there—that give the space warmth and soul. Private patios are planted with succulents and shaded by native trees, while the center of the property is anchored by a sunken dipping pool and communal fire pit perfect for lingering evenings and slow conversations. There’s no restaurant here, no formal programming, no buzzy scene—just stillness and space.
Perched high on the slopes of an extinct volcano 30 minutes outside of San Miguel de Allende, Casa Etérea’s striking mirrored structure was conceived as a “liveable art piece,” reflecting not just the rugged landscape around it, but the philosophy of total immersion in nature. Designed by Singaporean-Mexican writer and creative Prashant Ashoka, it’s completely off-grid, solar-powered, and built with sustainability at its core—yet it feels nothing like roughing it.
The single, open-plan house features sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows (when they’re not blending into the horizon), a floating bed platform, and a bathroom carved from volcanic stone. Inside, textures are earthy and minimal: polished concrete, raw wood, and copper details that catch the desert light. Outside, a basalt-framed plunge pool looks out over the valley, where herds of wild horses graze at golden hour. There’s no Wi-Fi, no TV, and absolutely no interruptions. If you’ve come to disconnect—truly, deeply—Casa Etérea offers a kind of magic that’s increasingly rare: a sense of stillness, scale, and utter awe.
With its vine-draped courtyards, hand-painted tiles, and flickering lanterns, Casa de Sierra Nevada feels like stepping into a bygone era—one where time slows and every detail is quietly exquisite. Operated by Belmond and set across a cluster of 17th- and 18th-century colonial mansions, this hotel is a masterclass in preservation and elegance. Each room and suite is unique, filled with antiques, talavera tilework, and carved wood accents, all arranged around bougainvillea-lined patios and murmuring fountains.
But it’s not just beautiful—it’s deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of San Miguel. At the Sazón cooking school, guests can learn traditional Mexican recipes in a restored convent kitchen, guided by chefs who treat cuisine as storytelling. The Tunki Rooftop is one of the city’s best-kept secrets: perched above the terracotta rooftops, it offers Andean-inspired cocktails and views of La Parroquia at dusk that are nothing short of cinematic.
Throughout the property, nooks invite you to linger—by the fire, in the leafy gardens, or beside the quiet pool shaded by old stone walls. Casa de Sierra Nevada doesn’t feel like a hotel so much as a private hideaway suspended in time. It’s ideal for romantics, aesthetes, and anyone who finds joy in the texture of old stone and the hush of history well-kept.
Where to drink
Tucked away on the outskirts of San Miguel de Allende, Cava Garambullo is a biodynamic winery founded by Natalia López Mota and Branko Pjanic. Their intimate cellar offers tastings of unfiltered, organic varietals, including a refreshing pet-nat reminiscent of strawberries and cream. The rustic setting, complete with reclaimed wood planters and vintage seating, provides a relaxed atmosphere for savoring their unique blends.
In the heart of downtown, Octágono stands out as the region s sole producer of natural wine in clay vessels. Led by Marcelo Castro Vera, the tasting room at Tenerías 2 offers a range of natural wines, including a silky malbec, alongside mint-infused mezcal and housemade dips like spicy chapulín paste. The eclectic ambiance, adorned with Uzbek tapestries, complements the adventurous palate of its offerings.
A staple in San Miguel s spirits scene, the Casa Dragones Tasting Room offers an immersive experience into the world of premium tequila. The Obsidian Bar, with its sleek design, has hosted some of the best bars in North America, providing a sophisticated setting to sample their renowned tequilas.
Perched atop Casa Hoyos, Bekeb is the brainchild of mixologist Fabiola Padilla, a Casa Dragones brand ambassador. This rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city, including the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. Bekeb s menu features earthy, herbal cocktails crafted from Mexican spirits like sotol, raicilla, and mezcal, often infused with herbs from Padilla s on-site garden.
Where to Eat
Perched atop the luxurious Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, Luna Rooftop offers panoramic views of the city s iconic skyline, including the majestic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. The ambiance is enhanced by Mediterranean-inspired décor and a menu that fuses local ingredients with global flavors. Guests can savor artisanal cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists while enjoying live entertainment on select evenings, creating an unforgettable dining experience under the stars.
Nestled just steps from the Parroquia, La Cabra Iluminada is a serene café offering a fully plant-based menu. The courtyard, shaded by trees, provides a tranquil setting for enjoying dishes like chilaquiles topped with oyster mushrooms, avocado toast, and French toast. Their specialty drinks, including affogatos and chai lattes with optional CBD drops, pair perfectly with their renowned cinnamon rolls. The café s commitment to dairy-free offerings and its cozy ambiance make it a standout spot in the heart of the city.
Located in the San Antonio neighborhood, Panina Bakery is a minimalist café known for its sourdough-based offerings. The menu features dishes like shakshuka, salmon-topped bagels, and horchata iced lattes. Their pastries, including blueberry muffins and cinnamon rolls, are baked fresh daily and often sell out quickly. Panina also hosts sourdough workshops, making it a hub for both casual diners and baking enthusiasts.
Raíces offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine, emphasizing local ingredients and ancestral cooking techniques. Signature dishes include corn and yucca arepas filled with local cheese and guacamole, and tortillas wrapped in hoja santa leaves topped with mole sauce. The restaurant s commitment to honoring regional flavors while innovating makes it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Recognized as one of the premier rooftop restaurants globally, Quince Rooftop delivers a vibrant atmosphere with its eclectic menu and stunning vistas. Situated in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, diners are treated to close-up views of the Parroquia, complemented by a diverse culinary offering that spans from sushi to traditional Mexican dishes. The lively setting is further amplified by upbeat music and attentive service, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a dynamic dining experience.
What to Do
Nestled in the heart of San Miguel, Palomina is the atelier of Alejandra “Suki” Armendariz, a designer deeply rooted in Sonora s cowboy culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in a hands-on experience, crafting personalized hats from materials like Bolivian wool, Mexican rabbit fur, or palm leaves. The studio, adorned with vintage saddles and antique silver belts, offers a glimpse into traditional Mexican craftsmanship.
Located on Calle Relox, Dôce 18 Concept House is a vibrant space that brings together the best of Mexican design, fashion, art, and gastronomy. Explore boutiques like Amor Rosas, known for kimonos embroidered by Chiapas collectives, and María Belen, offering handcrafted silver jewelry. The venue also houses the intimate Casa Dragones Tasting Room, where visitors can savor premium tequilas in a setting adorned with obsidian tiles.
Fashion enthusiasts should not miss Montserrat Messeguer s boutique, where contemporary designs meet traditional Mexican aesthetics. The store showcases dual-tone leather boots, as worn by international celebrities, alongside fringed jackets and skirts that reflect the country s rich heritage.
San Miguel s art scene is thriving, with galleries like Arde Gallery offering contemporary pieces in dynamic settings. Rise and Objeto Central are also notable stops for those seeking unique artworks that capture the spirit of the region.
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For a taste of the countryside, Rancho del Sol Dorado offers horseback riding experiences through the scenic landscapes surrounding San Miguel. Visitors can opt for day rides or overnight camping trips, complete with local delicacies like sweet bread and goat cheese. The ranch also hosts Bazar Sol, a quarterly fair featuring goods from around 30 local artisans.
Just outside the city center lies El Charco del Ingenio, a sprawling botanical garden and nature preserve set around a canyon. Wander trails flanked by native cacti, take in sweeping views of the valley, or attend one of the garden’s seasonal festivals or full moon meditations. A hidden gem for hikers, bird-watchers, and anyone seeking a quiet communion with nature.
Once a textile factory, this now-vast creative complex is home to contemporary galleries, design shops, artist studios, and antique dealers. The wide hallways and soaring ceilings retain a touch of the industrial past, while the rotating exhibitions and permanent shops showcase the city’s artistic present. It’s an essential stop for design lovers.
A short drive from town brings you to the 18th-century Sanctuary of Atotonilco, known as the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico” thanks to its astonishing interior murals. The church remains a site of pilgrimage and devotion, and offers a moment of reverence amid your explorations. History, art, and spiritual grandeur come together in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
