In its second-quarter earnings report issued last week, SCC, a subsidiary of Grupo México, one of the largest copper producers in the world, said ongoing negotiations are designed to secure environmental and operational approvals needed to move forward with several key projects in the country.

“We are in talks with the current administration to continue SCC’s US $10.2 billion investment in Mexico,” it said in the report.

SCC identified several Mexican projects it hopes to develop, including mines in Angangueo (Michoacán) and Chalchihuites (Zacatecas), as well as the El Arco copper deposit (Baja California) and the El Pilar project (Sonora), which is a conventional open-pit mine with an annual production capacity of 36,000 metric tons of copper cathodes. 

The company also hopes to revisit plans to invest in a copper smelter project in Sonora.

SCC’s mines in Mexico produce more semi-processed copper, or concentrate, than its plants can handle, forcing the company to rely on offshore smelters. Before Mexico’s latest mining reforms in 2023, the company was considering spending US $1 billion on a new smelter in Sonora.

The reforms significantly altered Mexico’s mining regime, emphasizing enhanced environmental and social protections. The reform included modifications to mining concessions (reducing them from 50 years to 30 years, among other changes), water rights and obligations for concession holders.

Regarding fracking and open-pit mining (the latter being of interest to Southern Copper), the reform authorizes contracts and concessions at the discretion of the president, “due to their strategic nature for national development.”

BCS legislators call on Baja California to reject copper mining mega-project

Mining.com magazine reported that as of late 2024, “there were 116 pending environmental approvals with [the Environment Ministry] and 107 awaiting clearance from [the National Water Commission] Conagua.”

Southern Copper, with operations in Mexico and Peru, said its investment plans include an immediate expenditure of more than US $600 million by the end of 2025 in both open-pit and underground operations in Mexico. 

The company said it would spend roughly half of that to modernize infrastructure and ensure long-term viability. It would also target “water efficiency, tailings management and operational improvements to boost productivity and sustainability,” according to the industry platform Mining Reporters, which focuses on mining in Latin America.

The planned investments would go a long way in strengthening SCC’s position as a fully integrated copper producer, it said in its earning report.

With reports from El Economista, Mining Reporters and Mining.com

The post Southern Copper in talks with government to unlock US $10B+ in stalled mining investment appeared first on Mexico News Daily

In recent years, however, the city has begun to see a dynamic shift. While there are still water aerobics classes, yoga and book clubs, there are also rock concerts featuring teenaged bands, skateboard parks and special clubs designed just for teens.

With more and more younger families arriving, San Miguel is gaining a reputation as not just a great place to retire but also as one that is evolving into a capital for kids.

Musical theater for kids

Teen Connect SMA (SMA stands for San Miguel de Allende) is a club that puts on theatrical music productions and sponsors “unplugged” — i.e. no phones allowed — adventure camps for kids. The founder, Kirsten McCormick, moved to San Miguel five years ago.

“I’m a mom of five kids. We moved to San Miguel as kind of an experiment,” McCormick tells me. “To see if it was a good fit for my family. I fell in love immediately, but my teenagers were less impressed. 

“It seemed like there wasn’t much for them. I realized [that] if I wanted the whole family to stay, I needed to do something. I started Teen Connect SMA in January of 2021 with a socially distanced outdoor meetup. We played icebreaker games with the kids, and I saw how much they lit up at being in person instead of online.

“I knew my kids needed this. I decided to do it once a week. And now we have this high-quality children’s theater, classes, clubs and social events.”

Today, Teen Connect SMA comprises over 100 families, and its musical theater program puts on a big production twice a year.

Drum teacher launches teen concert series

Yet another music program for children and teens started in 2023, when San Miguel native Luis Flores moved home after spending 15 years in California.

“I got my first drum set when I was only eight years old,” Flores says. “I’ve been hooked since then. Punk rock and skateboarding culture always caught my attention, and that’s how I discovered the bands that became my inspiration.”

Flores now teaches drums and percussion to over 50 students in San Miguel aged two to 19.

“In my classes, we learn about all music styles, but we definitely focus more on rock ‘n’ roll. From the very first lesson, my students play along to bands like Black Sabbath, AC/DC or the Beatles,” Flores says.

In Flores’ program, kids can do regular live gigs: He arranges concerts in public parks for special occasions, and the teenagers play at local cafés and restaurants.

“I always encourage my students to perform in front of audiences,” says. “This helps build self-esteem, and it gets them excited about future presentations. Some of my students are now forming their own bands: Cat Litter, Toxic, Indigo, Vestige and Music Machine. These young bands have already been performing in local venues like Café Rama, Tupinamba, Amapola and El Sindicato.”

‘A fertile environment for kids’

These young bands include students taught guitar and piano by local music professor Mario Moya. Born and raised in San Miguel, the classically trained Moya plays harpsichord, piano and guitar.

Moya has recently noticed a recent change in the town’s personality.

“The musical scene of San Miguel is moving. More people are coming. Not just Americans but also Mexicans from Mexico City, from Monterrey, from Guanajuato. It is becoming a better place for young people,” Moya says. “Once, it was mainly retired people. There was even a saying that people came here to die happy,” he says with a laugh.

As a boy, Moya earned part of his music class tuition by accompanying his teacher to perform in rural communities and orphanages. To this day, he remains passionate about bringing art and music to financially challenged families. His perception of the evolving music scene in San Miguel is positive.

“Due to our economic situation, my father was not sure about music. Probably he would have rather had a teacher or a lawyer,” Moya says. “To become a musician was just a dream.” 

“But now I see the way that music is developing here,” Moya adds. “There is the desire of the kids to play, but there is also support from the parents. The families moving here are finding it a very fertile environment for kids. San Miguel has a better infrastructure for youth. I mean, we have the teen club that puts on musical productions, Luis Flores with 50 kids playing drums, the youth orchestra, new music stores, skateboarding parks. Look at all the possibilities.

“People often want to say that the past was better. And, yes, there are a lot of people moving to San Miguel. But it’s very cool to think how the city has developed from a touristy retired international community to what I consider a multicultural musical scene. Because of the demand, there is so much to offer. It is amazing to me that so many kids here have access to art.”

Demand for youth activities higher than ever

The private-sector demand for youth activities also provides more opportunities for lower-income families. Moya offers scholarships, while McCormick’s unplugged teen adventure camps spend part of their experience teaching younger kids in the countryside.

“The camp is free for [the rural kids], and it gives the teens a chance to do service, immerse themselves in the communities and give back,” McCormick says. “It feels good for everyone. It’s an awesome integrated experience. Overall, I’d say San Miguel has become a great place for teens.”

Flores’ student bands played a sold-out show at a popular nightspot in downtown San Miguel in late July.

“This change in the music scene for San Miguel is very exciting,” Flores said. “It will be very beneficial to the community to have a nice mix of retirees and young families at these events. When the kids play live, there is great energy in the crowd. It turns into an amazing time, and everyone enjoys the show.”

Anne Richards is a San Miguel de Allende-based author.

The post Retirement mecca San Miguel de Allende changes its tune with increasing youth activities appeared first on Mexico News Daily

FASMA

 

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The most important summer arts festival in town. From August 1 to 17, enjoy over 100 cultural activities including concerts, exhibitions, theater, workshops, lectures, and literary presentations at various venues throughout the city. It features international collaborations and participation from local institutions such as the National Institute of Fine Arts, Museo La Esquina, Instituto Allende, Fábrica La Aurora, and the Public Library. For the full program, click here.

Date: August 1-17 
Location: Instituto Allende, Teatro Santa Ana, Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez, etc…
Cost: Depends on the event

Art Walk 

Fábrica La Aurora invites you on Saturday, August 2, to celebrate the traditional Art Walk, where you can mingle with artists and their works in an extraordinary atmosphere. Don’t miss live music at the factory’s restaurant either!

Date: Saturday, August 2, 5–7 p.m.
Location: Fábrica la Aurora s/n 
Cost: Free 

Zandunga: Gil Gutierrez and Friends

Zandunga is a charming countryside venue about 15 minutes from San Miguel de Allende, featuring live jazz and blues with guitarist Gil Gutíerrez and his wife, Rebecca. Much of the ranch was hand-built by Gil and friends, offering a delightful open-air setting blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Zandunga also hosts art exhibits, concerts, and private events, making it perfect for unique gatherings near San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato. Buy tickets at Hernández Macías 129 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 am to 3 pm.

Date: Sunday, August 3, 1–5 p.m.
Location: Rancho Zandunga
Cost: 800 pesos

The 8 Seasons of Vivaldi

A must for chamber music lovers, Casa Europa México presents “The 8 Seasons of Vivaldi and Piazzolla” featuring Adolfo Alejo and the Kukulkán Kamerata. Alejo, a leading figure in classical music in Mexico and recognized by Forbes as one of the “most creative Mexicans in the world,” captivates audiences with impeccable technique and deep expressiveness.  Tickets available online or at the Casa Europa México box office.

Date: Thursday, August 7, 7 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa México, San Francisco 23
Cost: 400 pesos

Folkloric Dance

If you love Mexican traditions and art, celebrate half a century of dance, color, and tradition with the Ballet Folklórico Representativo de San Miguel de Allende, founded in 1975 by Maestra Gloria Rodríguez Navarrete and officially recognized in 1998 as a representative group of the Casa de la Cultura. The troupe features three generations — children, youth, and adults — and has performed hundreds of shows in Mexico and abroad.

Date: Thursday, August 14, 6 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa Mexico, San Francisco 23 
Cost: 200 pesos 

Tribute to Mercedes Sosa

Get ready for an extraordinary and emotional night with Liliana Medrano in “Tribute to Mercedes Sosa” at Casa Europa México. Join on August 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM for a moving journey through the timeless music of “The Voice of Latin America.” Liliana Medrano is an acclaimed vocalist known for her powerful and authentic interpretations, reviving Mercedes Sosa’s legacy with talented musicians, promising a touching and unforgettable experience.

Date: Thursday, August 21, 7 p.m.
Location: Casa Europa México, San Francisco 23
Cost: 450 pesos

The Young Actors of San Miguel proudly present: Alice in Wonderland

Dive into a world of wonder with this charming theater adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland,” performed by young actors of San Miguel de Allende. Follow Alice on her whimsical journey after the White Rabbit, meeting eccentric characters like the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts. This family-friendly English show features imaginative costumes, magic, and fun for all ages. Presented Friday and Saturday, August 22 and 23 at 6 p.m. at Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca. Entry by donation of 220 pesos. Don’t miss it!

Date: Friday and Saturday, August 22 and 23, 6 p.m.

Location: Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca

Cost: 220 pesos 

Literature Seminar

Mexican writer Julián Herbert presents his book Overol. Notes on recent Mexican narrative in conversation with Carmen Rioja as part of the Literature Seminar at the Public Library.

Date: Saturday, August 23, 1 p.m.

Location: Teatro Santa Ana de La Biblioteca

Cost: Free

Viva la vid

The grape harvest season begins. Save the date for Saturday, August 30, for an unforgettable experience in San Miguel’s vineyards. Enjoy delicious food, live music plus a DJ, unlimited wine, a welcome kit, and participate in the traditional grape stomping. Buy tickets soon, as space is limited.

Date: Saturday, August 30 
Location: Viñedo San Miguel, Carretera Comonfort San Miguel de Allende #1, 38206 Comonfort, Gto
Cost: 2,700 pesos

The post What’s on in San Miguel de Allende in August? appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Contract bidding for three other tranches and the provision of more than 60 trains is well advanced, and studies are underway for new lines connection to Guadalajara, San Luis Potosí, Mazatlán and more.

Sheinbaum opened her Wednesday morning press conference by introducing the three men responsible for meeting an ambitious goal: that of building more than 3,000 kilometers of railway track for passenger trains before her term ends in 2030.

Andrés Lajous, director of Mexico’s Rail Transport Regulatory Agency (ARTF), provided a brief update on progress on the Mexico City-Querétaro and Mexico City-Pachuca lines, before turning his attention to the Querétaro-Irapuato line, construction of which is expected to begin this month.

Lajous said the Querétaro-Irapuato line will be built in two sections: from Querétaro to Apaseo el Grande (a distance of 33 km) and from Apaseo el Grande to Irapuato (78 km). Construction contracts will be announced in mid-August and October respectively.

The Mexico City-Querétaro and Querétaro-Irapuato lines are tranches of the Mexico City-Guadalajara-Nogales line that aims to serve 6 million passengers a year upon completion.

Another section of track that could see construction begin this month is the Unión San Javier to Arroyo El Sauz tranche of the Saltillo-Monterrey-Nuevo Laredo train. The winning bid for this 100-kilometer section in the northern state of Nuevo León will be announced this month.

With regards to the remainder of the Saltillo-to-Nuevo Laredo line, the Saltillo-Santa Catarina section (70 km) tender will be published on Sept. 18 and the Arroyo El Sauz-Nuevo Laredo tranche (133 km) will be determined on Oct. 3.

Larous said that four other lines — Irapuato to Guadalajara; Querétaro to San Luis Potosí; San Luis Potosí to Saltillo and Mazatlán to Los Mochis — are entering the study phase. The call for proposals for environmental assessments was published on Wednesday.

Also this month, the ARTF will award contracts for trains for three lines: Mexico City-Pachuca, Mexico City-Irapuato and Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo.

General Gustavo Ricardo Vallejo, commander of the Army engineers overseeing the construction of the Mexico City-Pachuca line, said construction there will generate more than 60,000 direct and indirect jobs.

“There are already 6,000 people employed in building embankments, compacting track platforms, excavation and pouring of piles and foundation footings,” he said.

Additionally, Vallejo said, the Mexico City-Querétaro job is expected to create employment for roughly 200,000 people. More than 5,000 people have already found jobs on this route.

En la #MañaneraDelPueblo de hoy, con la Presidenta @Claudiashein, compartimos el avance de construcción de los nuevos trenes de pasajeros:

En agosto, inician las obras de las rutas Querétaro-Irapuato y Saltillo Nuevo-Laredo.

Arrancamos los estudios para las nuevas rutas. pic.twitter.com/eG7NTfQUP7

— Andrés Lajous (@andreslajous) July 30, 2025

Sheinbaum interjected that her passenger railway project has two purposes — better communication across the country and economic benefits for the communities along the routes.

“The objective … is to benefit communities during and after construction, not just provide a means of transportation,” she said, adding that another goal is to ensure safe, rapid and high-quality transportation.

Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation Minister Jesús Esteva was also present, but his comments were limited to progress on the Amado Nervo Bridge that will connect the Pacific Coast resort cities of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit. The bridge is scheduled to be completed in November 2026.

With reports from Infobae and Milenio

The post What’s next for Mexico’s growing rail system? Officials share advances in Nuevo León, Guadalajara, SLP, Sinaloa and more appeared first on Mexico News Daily

The Cuernavaca Valley Industrial City (Civac) plant, located in Jiutepec, Morelos, just outside Cuernavaca, was Nissan’s first production facility outside of Japan. However, beginning in March 2026, the end of the Japanese fiscal year, production of all models currently assembled at Civac, including the NP300, Frontier and Versa, will be transferred to the more modern Aguascalientes automotive complex.

Así fue el momento en que la directiva de Nissan anunció a los trabajadores el cierre de la planta de Jiutepec tras 59 años de historia La producción se traslada a Aguascalientes https://t.co/XN1BFkm9hC

@InfoAgenda_Mor pic.twitter.com/hakR1z7bTb

— @diario24horas (@diario24horas) July 30, 2025

This Spanish-language video, possibly taken clandestinely and posted on X, captures the moment when employees of Nissan’s 59-year-old Cuernavaca plant first learned that they will soon be out of a job.

“Today, we have made the difficult but necessary decision that will allow us to become more efficient, more competitive, and more sustainable,” CEO of Nissan Motor Corporation Ivan Espinosa said, adding that relocating production to Aguascalientes, the capital of the central state of the same name, will ensure the continuity of key models in a facility with greater technological capacity.

This decision is part of the global “Re:Nissan” restructuring plan, which seeks to consolidate production and optimize the company’s efficiency worldwide. According to the newspaper El Universal, Nissan plans to reduce its non-China global production capacity from 3.5 million units to 2.5 million units yearly.

Though Nissan is not leaving Mexico, its current plans mark the end of an era. 

The Cuernavaca plant accounted for approximately 11% of Nissan’s total production in Mexico and had produced more than 6.5 million vehicles since its opening in 1966, marking the beginning of the brand’s international expansion outside of Japan. Over the years, its vehicles have not only been distributed in Mexico but have also reached international markets, including Japan. The Nissan Tsubame was exported in 1993, marking the first model manufactured in Mexico and sold in the Asian country.

Since its opening, Civac has boosted development for the local community and acted as a benchmark for the Mexican automotive industry, which is why the move has raised concerns about the future employment of the plant’s direct employees. The company did not mention in its announcements how many employees will be affected, but the newspaper El País reported that figures from Nissan itself put the number of Civac workers at 4,800 in 2016.

Nissan says it is committed to ensuring a respectful transition for affected employees. However, it has not announced any specific plans about severance, relocation or retirement plans, leaving workers feeling uncertain.

Morelos Governor Margarita González Saravia and state Minister of Economic Development Víctor Sánchez Trujillo announced plans to meet with Nissan representatives to ensure compliance with  labor rights and to facilitate a fair transition. The action plan includes placement of employees in other automotive companies in the state, a special program through the National Employment Service (SNE) for new job opportunities, and support for entrepreneurship, leveraging employees’ technical skills.

In an interview, González added that her government will seek to bring in another automotive company to replace Nissan. 

With reports from Diario de Morelos and Merca 20

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As a hospitality lifer and former Top 10 in America restaurant owner with a live-in James Beard Award-nominated chef for a mother, I wasn’t looking at San Miguel’s restaurant scene through rose-colored glasses when I got here four years ago. I arrived pregnant with twins and I was constantly starving. Eating for three and on the hunt for comfort meals, I was mainly disappointed by the mediocre dining options downtown. 

Most “where to eat in San Miguel de Allende” searches will steer you to overpriced rooftop bars, where jaw-dropping pastel panoramas form the backdrop for exquisitely plated, nonspecific international fare. But Centro’s feast-for-the-eyes dishes are woefully lacking in sazón and soul, despite their aesthetic overtures. Regrettably, San Miguel’s relatively walkable, densely concentrated city center is where many of its most-read city guides start and end.

Having lived in five different homes and neighborhoods since giving birth here, I — alongside my Burmese American chef-mama, Mexican foodie husband and Bur-Mexi gourmand toddlers — have tirelessly combed the city in search of memorable meals for our multicultural palates. If you’re taking your cues from “best of” roundups, you might miss the chance to experience an elite culinary tour of the world on a plate, and I don’t want you to have to wait four years like we did before discovering it.

Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find any of our neighborhood gems on the 50 Best Bars list or in the Michelin guide yet, but you’re guaranteed to become a repeat customer, complete with bragging rights to confidently say you didn’t fall prey to tourist traps on all the “it” lists written by people just passing through. Whether you’re in town for a visit or here for the long haul, I beg you: Don’t spend all your time in Centro’s 60-block radius.

Instead, head down San Miguel’s main thoroughfare, the Salida a Celaya, leading toward the nearby city of Celaya, famed for regional delicacies like artisanal cajeta, or goat’s milk caramel. Should you dare to venture south of Centro just five minutes by car — or a 20-minute walk — I’ll show you where the industry locals go to eat along what we can call the Salida a Celaya strip.

Café Quería: Best of the strip

 

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 A massive copper espresso machine shines at the entrance of Café Quería, a beacon lighting the way inside a temple to Mexico’s carne asada heritage, filled with some of the city’s best espresso drinks, made with Tatemado’s locally roasted specialty coffee. On the back patio, light and shadows wind through the roofing’s bamboo slats, dancing over humble metal trays filled with a half-dozen housemade condiments. And if the bone marrow oozing over dichromatic layers of hand-nixtamaled, grill-kissed tortillas and the cloudlike microfoam on your flat white feels like they’ve been blessed, that’s because, well, they have been. 

Since 2023, co-owners Andrix Oropeza, 28, and Tim Vanderwerf, 29, have consciously created a speakeasy sanctuary through their revolutionary, faith-based vision of hospitality where, as Oropeza puts it, “no one is disposable.” Just a few years before opening Quería, the pair met at Andrix’s family taco cart, Los Tiznados. Realizing they shared a vision that began in their adolescence, Café Quería only hires local youth from underserved populations in partnership with the Christian nonprofit Young Life. Staff members, who Oropeza calls the “arms and legs” of the operation, generally join the team with no prior restaurant experience, then rotate through all service stations, front and back of house, in hopes of finding their niche and being promoted from within. Many, like the current 16-year-old manager who gleefully greets guests at the start of every visit, do just that.

While Vanderwerf is the Querétaro-born, Puebla-raised son of Michigan missionary parents with no prior restaurant experience, much of Oropeza’s paternal lineage has been dedicated to making Hidalgo-style barbacoa and pollo ximbo, a dish traditionally associated with the Hñähñu (Otomí) people of Hidalgo’s Mezquital Valley. Like barbacoa, pollo ximbo is marinated in chili and spices, then wrapped in maguey leaves and cooked overnight in an earth oven.

Unintentionally planting seeds for his future endeavor during the Covid-19 pandemic, Oropeza followed his mother’s patient guidance in the kitchen, with Mamá Oropeza giving her son specific instructions for how to make traditional home-cooked meals from her childhood. In 2022, after shuttering Kab’an, the family’s first seasonally-inspired comida de origen Mexican restaurant, Oropeza’s time at Los Tiznados proved not only inspirational but foundational for the recipes Quería now serves: crispy enchiladas dedicated to his dad, comforting chilaquiles he hopes his mom will approve of and saucy enfrijoladas prepared the way his sister likes them.

The menu reflects the culmination of both owners’ teenage dreams, a sacred tribute to Hidalgo family-style memories, homestyle Mexican fare and the team’s daily prayer. With every visit, the Quería crew aims to restore something in you. “Isn’t that the whole point?” Oropeza asks. “Restaurants are about restoration through hospitality.”

Raíces: Breakfast reimagined

 

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 Chef Vanessa Romero and her mostly female cooking crew embody everything about being chingona (badass). The breakfast-all-day menu retains the authentic essence of old classics while innovating florally adorned, futuristic takes on them. Better still, Romero’s no-frills, all-flavor approach to upgrading Mexican morning staples like stuffed chilaquiles embarazados with pressed pork rinds, dusted with black chili ash and floating in a morita salsa alongside smoky-sweet café de olla served in canteen cups is more reminiscent of a backyard barbecue than sitting down at a restaurant. 

Don’t leave without ordering the corn and cottage cheese hot cakes, drizzled with pure agave honey and fresh berries. Avocado water may sound like an oddly savory finish, but its creamy texture and sweet-salty balance offer guilt-free indulgence to wash it all down. On weekends, Raíces stays open until 10 p.m., with seasonally rotating dinner specials.

Lima: Where food cultures collide

 

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Before my kids were born, they were somersaulting in my belly as their dad and I spun around to live salsa rhythms at this modern Peruvian joint’s former rooftop location. Once our children were old enough to join us at Lima, we were thankful for the high chairs that were slid tableside even before us having to ask for them, the cheerful waiters who made our little diners feel special by carrying them on their hips to high-five Chef Sebastián Soldevila in his open kitchen and the speedy service of generous portions. 

Hailing from Cusco, Soldevila delights with unexpected textures in his Peruvian share plates and the most inventive sushi rolls in town. Some might wonder, “Why serve sushi?” Far from being a gringo-bait marketing strategy, Asian-Peruvian cuisine is as authentic to the modern Peruvian culinary canon as is ceviche. That’s because it evolved with generations of of Chinese and Japanese migration to Peru dating back to the 1800s.

On a rainy summer afternoon, nothing beats slurping a bowl of chupe de camarones, a classic soup from Arequipa, Peru, with massive shrimp swimming in a spicy, herbaceous broth. It’s a bewildering pairing that hits your nose before your tongue can figure it out: huacatay (Peruvian black mint) meets strings of melted cheese and a delicate poached egg, with the option to add more seafood to the mix — and I recommend you do.

Fari: Not your nonna’s trattoria

 

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In 2024, Italian-born Chef Davide Giribaldi of Cien Fuegos and local restaurateur-darlings, the brothers Toño and Andrés Aranda Lavalle, joined forces to launch Fari, boldly replacing their previous grab-and-go torta shop at the same address. Building on the longstanding successes of their other culinary concepts — the inventive tostada mecca Tostévere and the elegant, Mediterranean-inspired Bocaciega, among others — the family legacy continues at this sleek yet casual roadside hub. Here, you can people-watch and soak in street performances on the covered terrace, or nestle cozily into one of the few tables inside for a more intimate evening. 

Don’t let the white tablecloths or brick oven-facing bar fool you; the real showstopper is the carciofi al formo, an artichoke a la leña slathered in porcini mushroom hollandaise with a mountain of parmesan hiding a sensuous runny egg that bursts into the heart’s center at first poke. No visit to Fari is complete without a classic cocktail; the Negroni and Aperol Spritz rival those being stirred and poured in New York City’s best bars. 

For starters, order the white wine sautéed mussels, dunked in a garlicky parsley broth, accompanied by paprika-seasoned shoestring fries and a torched lemon wedge. Save room for a simple wood-fired margarita pizza that does Italy’s finest bistros justice. The whole experience is pause-worthy. Enjoy la dolce far niente as hand-cut noodles, offered in eight distinct sauce baths, transport you closer to the Bel Paese with each satisfied twist of your fork.

Nudol: Late-night vinyl vibes and ramen

 

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In another Salida a Celaya redemption story, owner Daniel Merkel and his interior architect fiancée Regina Lauxterman gutted Mikka, their fast-casual sushi concept,  in 2024 to give it a sexy minimalist design and Asian-inspired menu makeover. The switch to Nudol is paying dividends in local patronage. One of San Miguel’s  few late-night dining options that doesn’t demand you quickly wolf down tacos streetside while standing or balancing atop plastic bar stools, Nudol features a crew of rotating DJs spins sets of jazz, funk and rock vinyl from the 1960s to the ’80s, attracting a hipper and more mature local ’30s-to-40s crowd after hours. 

Standout dishes include the triple-fried, Korean-ish gojuchang wings, farm-fresh smashed cucumber salad and shio ramen with a chicken-dashi blended broth, a thick slab of flame-torched pork belly and a jammy soy egg. San Miguel’s retirement-age patrons prefer frequenting Nudol’s L-shaped bar or quieter outdoor patio while the sun’s still out. After dark, an unforgettable night of dumplings and drinks could carry on as late as 2 a.m., “if we vibin’,” says Merkel.

Simone Jacobson is a Burmese American cultural connector, toddler twin mama and writer based in San Miguel de Allende. By day, she is the Content Director for Well Spirit Collective. In all other moments, she strives to raise compassionate children who never lose their curiosity, tenderness and radiant light. Read more by Simone here.

The post The ‘Salida a Celaya’ strip is quietly leading San Miguel’s dining boom appeared first on Mexico News Daily

Our city was named Best City in the World by Travel + Leisure again, and news broke that a new airport may be on the horizon. These developments add to a surge of international attention and expansion, from another luxury hotel opening its doors soon to major cultural events like the GIFF film festival starting this month.

But as San Miguel continues to grow, so do the questions. How do we preserve the soul of the city we love? What does all this development mean for locals, long-time residents and visitors?

San Miguel was named the World’s Best City, but what do you think makes it truly special?

San Miguel has earned global praise for its iconic architecture, vibrant arts and rich traditions. But as Ricardo Ferro Baeza, president of the local Congress Tourism Commission, put it, what truly sets it apart is its people, the ones who bring it to life.

So now we want to hear from you. Whether you live here full time, visit often, or have been here once:

Tell us what you love most about San Miguel and how you feel about all the international attention the city’s been getting.

Time's up

Your responses may be featured in an upcoming story exploring how the people who know San Miguel best — you, its residents and visitors — feel about the growth and changes shaping the city.

GIFF 2025 brings global cinema to San Miguel

The 28th Guanajuato International Film Festival (GIFF) has returned. Until July 31, San Miguel will shine as a key venue, offering not only screenings but also a tribute to legendary artist Verónica Castro, an undeniable symbol of Mexican pop culture. 

In San Miguel, Castro will receive two major honors: the Women in Film and Television Mexico Award and the silver Más Cine award. After years away from the spotlight, her return promises to deeply move audiences who grew up watching her tenovelas, dramas and comedies.

While the full GIFF 2025 lineup includes over 200 films from 61 countries and events across Guanajuato city, Irapuato and San Miguel, the San Miguel portion stands out for its tributes, open-air screenings and cultural venues like Jardín Principal, Teatro Ángela Peralta and the Centro Cultural Ignacio Ramírez “El Nigromante.”

For the full schedule of screenings and events, check out the GIFF 2025 program here. 

San Miguel de Allende’s tourism sector expands once again

Tourism in San Miguel de Allende continues its upward trajectory, with new hotel developments and infrastructure projects signaling increased international interest. Notably, the highly anticipated Pueblo Bonito Vantage San Miguel de Allende is set to open on Aug. 15, promising to bring a fresh wave of ultra-luxury hospitality to the city.

Located in the tranquil and strategically developed Distrito Corazón area, Pueblo Bonito Vantage will offer 111 suites and 45 private residences designed in elegant neo-colonial style, blending San Miguel’s historic charm with modern comforts. Guests will be able to enjoy five distinct dining venues ranging from gourmet experiences to casual poolside lounges, as well as an expansive spa and wellness center. Pueblo Bonito’s event spaces will also make it an ideal venue for weddings, conferences and other high-profile gatherings.

Alongside Pueblo Bonito’s arrival, Meliá Hotels International has announced plans to expand into San Miguel by 2028, further confirming the city’s appeal as a destination for luxury and international tourism. Meanwhile, discussions about establishing a regional airport near San Miguel could enhance accessibility, potentially drawing more visitors and boosting the local economy.

San Miguel native rescued from Texas floods

A 19-year-old from San Miguel de Allende has survived the devastating floods in Texas that tragically claimed the lives of his father, stepmother and younger brother. Leonardo Jr., known as “Leo,” was found alive after being swept away by the Guadalupe River last week. He remains hospitalized as he recovers from the traumatic event.

In response, San Miguel de Allende mayor Mauricio Trejo Pureco confirmed that the municipal government has a dedicated support fund for migrants to support families like the Romeros. “Over a year ago, I said San Miguel had a fund to help our migrant brothers and sisters in case of tragedy or deportation,” Trejo stated. “It’s there to help ease the financial burden during already difficult situations like this one.”

The mayor also recently highlighted San Miguel’s broader migrant support initiative. Since the onset of more aggressive U.S. immigration policies, the city has activated a temporary employment program designed to welcome deported residents back with economic opportunity and community reintegration. “Here in your homeland, you are wanted. Here in your homeland, you are needed,” Trejo said. “Here you will find work… where you can bring all the skills or trades you learned in the United States to teach them here.”

One recent example: A deported Sanmiguelense received municipal funding to start a carpentry business and now plans to run a skills workshop for local youth.

Heavy rains trigger controlled release at Allende dam

In response to the season’s heavy rains, authorities began a controlled release from the Presa Allende dam on July 17 at 5 p.m., discharging water at a rate of 50 cubic meters per second after the reservoir reached over 93% capacity. This is a stark contrast to the same time last year, when the dam sat at 30%. Officials have issued flood alerts across San Miguel de Allende and nine other municipalities, asking residents to stay alert and avoid rivers. 

The Presa Allende is a vital resource for San Miguel de Allende, supplying much of the city’s water for homes, agriculture and businesses. It also helps regulate river flow to reduce flood risks during heavy rains and supports local ecosystems. Because of its central role, changes in the dam’s water levels have a direct impact on the community’s water security, economy and safety.

Did you know?

San Miguel de Allende is the current setting for “Leche Roja” (Red Milk) a poetic and experimental vampire mini-series based on the story of Eva, a 300-year-old vampire. Structured as a trilogy of short episodes, the first has already been filmed, while the second — set in San Miguel — draws on the city’s cinematic allure, from its cobblestone streets to its dramatic architecture. The final episode is planned for filming in Morelia, Michoacán.

So far, there’s no official word on which platform will distribute “Leche Roja.” The creators plan to debut it on the festival circuit before exploring online release options.

Mexico News Daily

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Here are the top events and concerts taking place in Guadalajara this August.

Lindsay Stirling on tour

American violinist, composer and dancer Lindsay Stirling will perform live in Guadalajara as part of her The Duality Tour 2025, in which she presents her latest album, Duality Deluxe. 

On this tour, Stirling fuses her violin virtuosity with dynamic choreography, performing well-known songs such as “Crystallize,” “Shatter Me” and “Elements,” as well as special versions of traditional Mexican songs such as “Cielito Lindo” and “Cómo Te Voy a Olvidar.”

Dates: August 6
Location: Telmex Auditorium. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at 2,383 pesos (US $151)

Tesistán Corn Festival

The Tesistán Corn Festival is one of the most anticipated gastronomic and cultural festivals in Guadalajara, one that celebrates the region’s rich corn heritage. 

During the fair, visitors can sample a wide variety of corn products, including cooked and grilled corn, esquites — small cups of roasted corn kernels prepared with toppings like butter, mayonnaise, cheese and chile — homemade cornbread and many more. 

Dates: August 13-17
Location: Main Square of San Francisco Tesistán in Zapopan, Jalisco
Cost: Free

Maluma in Concert

Internationally acclaimed singer and Latin Grammy winner Maluma, recognized as one of the greatest exponents of contemporary Latin music, is back in Guadalajara as part of his international “Pretty + Dirty World Tour” on two consecutive dates in August. 

Fans can expect to hear the Colombian artist’s hits like “Felices los 4”, “Hawái” and “Borro Cassette.”

Dates: August 15 and 16
Location: Auditorio Telmex. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at 7,894 for a VIP ticket (US $422)

Mexican alt-rock favorites Allison in concert

If you’re interested in exploring Mexican alternative rock music, this concert is your chance. Allison, one of Mexico’s iconic bands in the genre, is returning to Guadalajara to perform live their greatest hits. Made up of Erik, Fear, Alfie, and Diego, the band is known for songs like “Frágil,” “Memorama” and “Aquí.”

Dates: August 23
Location: Teatro Diana. Avenida 16 de Septiembre No. 710, Guadalajara, Jalisco
Cost: Starting at 1,280 pesos (US $42)

Reggae and ska legends Los Pericos

Argentine band Los Pericos, icons of Latin American reggae and ska, will come back to Guadalajara for a live performance as part of their 2025 international tour marking their 35-year career and the legacy of their album “Big Yuyo.”

You’ll hear some of Los Pericos’ most popular hits, including “Runaway,” “Waitin,” “El Ritual de la Banana,” “Pupilas Distantes” and “Me Late.”

Dates: August 24
Location: Teatro Diana. Avenida 16 de Septiembre No. 710, Guadalajara
Cost: Starting at 1,200 pesos (US $64) 

International Mariachi and Charrería Festival

One of Guadalajara’s most anticipated festivals every year is the Mariachi and Charrería International Festival, which celebrates some of the country’s most iconic traditions, both of which have been declared Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

Back for its 32nd edition, the festival will feature music, folklore, and charrería equestrian competitions all across Jalisco, with over 170 events planned. 

Charrería is Mexico’s national sport.

A highlight of the festival is the mariachi gala at Guadalajara’s Degollado Theater, where national and international groups perform alongside the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra. Other notable events include charrería championships and exhibitions at charro arenas (lienzos charros) across the Guadalajara metropolitan area and other municipalities throughout the state.

To see the full program, click here.

Dates: August 27 to September 7
Location: Several venues across Jalisco, including the Degollado Theater in Guadalajara
Cost: Varying prices

Kylie Minogue in concert

The iconic Aussie pop diva brings her Tension Tour 2025 to Guadalajara in August. The tour promotes her recent albums Tension and Tension II (released in 2023 and 2024), which include songs like “Taboo” and “Things We Do For Love.”

Fans can also expect to hear her iconic classics like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and “Come Into My World,” which earned her a Grammy in 2003.

Dates: August 24
Location: Auditorio Telmex. Obreros de Cananea 747, Complejo Belenes, Zapopan
Cost: Starting at $4,380 pesos (US $234)

Forest picnic with palReal chef Fabián Delgado

Calling all nature lovers to a guided tour led by biologist Daniel Bojórquez, which concludes with a picnic prepared by chef Fabián Delgado. Founder of one of Guadalajara’s most popular restaurants, palReal, Delgado is a self-taught chef who has enhanced the city’s culinary scene with his creative dishes in a variety of gastronomical projects. 

The experience includes beverages, food and a mushroom-printed manual.

Dates: August 9 and 23
Location: Bosque de la Primavera (Meeting point at entrance to the forest by Mariano Otero).
Cost: Starting at 1,990 pesos (US $106).

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Though Guadalajara still lacks the thriving wine bar scene of Mexico City, a new wave of bottle shops and bars have opened in the past two years. It seems like wine culture may at last be taking root here.

What makes a great wine bar? 

In my book it’s someplace that’s all about the grape. A great wine bar isn’t  a bar selling wine alongside a cocktail program; it’s a spot with knowledgeable staff offering wines not found elsewhere, with food meant to be  paired with wine in a setting conducive to conversation.

With that in mind, below are my top five places in Guadalajara to enjoy a good glass of wine. 

Roothouse 

Tucked away on a quiet street in the Colonia Americana, Roothouse has an elegant, low-key ambience. Since its opening in 2023, it has developed a strong following.

The wine list contains both old and new world wines, but skews towards European labels. We enjoyed a light, refreshing Crémant from Loire, a stunning Tuscan red blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Merlot and a full-bodied Tempranillo from Ribera del Duero. 

Roothouse’s food is an ideal complement to its wines: Spanish-inspired tapas, small pizzas and a few large plates. Our pizza was prepared with goat cheese, cherry tomatoes and peppers. I love that they use double-zero flour, which produces a chewy and delicious crust every time.

Indoor tables are generously spaced and low-lit, ideal for quality conversation. Or just relax and sip while you take in lo-fi jazz and trip hop on the sound system. The outdoor, partially covered patio in back is more convivial, with live jazz musicians on weekends.  

Juan Ruiz de Alarcón 92, Colonia Americana, Lafayette

El Corcho

I first visited El Corcho, another Colonia Americana staple, about three years ago, not long after relocating to Guadalajara. While I loved its well curated wine list, the ambience felt a bit spartan. 

Owner Nahum Camacho decided to spruce things up in early 2025, and the place has a new energy. With tan suede banquettes, soft lighting and a menu overhaul, El Corcho is now a cozy and cool spot worthy of a date night. 

The wine list skews European, with a particular affinity for Italian reds from lesser-known regions like Puglia and Campania. Like most other wine bars in town, Mexican wines are oddly overlooked. Perhaps the cosmopolitan young Tapatíos who frequent these spots just feel sexier drinking imports?

Wines rotate regularly, with about two dozen options by the bottle and four to five by the glass. I had a memorable red made from the seldom seen Nero di Troia grape, while my husband quaffed a refreshing rose of Aglianico. 

Unlike some wine bars where you leave hungry, El Corcho’s kitchen consistently turns out sophisticated and delicious plates. 

Our favorite dishes here are the pan-seared cauliflower with artichoke cream sauce, almonds and parsley; the tomato salad with extra virgin olive oil, pistachios, parmesan, goat cheese and aged grapefruit; and the mussels with pomme fries. 

Argentina 15, Colonia Americana

LAVID Cava y Copa

Without a doubt, LAVID is the swankiest wine bar in Guadalajara — and probably all of Jalisco. Its floor-to-ceiling blond wood shelves display fine wines from prestigious vintners, Riedel glassware and a small library’s worth of wine books. 

Whenever I visit, I half expect to see Anna Wintour seated at the marble U-shaped bar, sipping champagne. LAVID is a place with serious wines for beautiful people with money to burn.

It can all seem a bit intimidating. But the staff are welcoming and unpretentious, so it’s worth a stop before or after dinner in Andares.  

This is your go-to spot for hard-to-find Super Tuscans, Napa Cabernets, Ribera del Duero Tempranillos, and top wines from Valle de Guadalupe. There are coveted bottles from storied wineries like Stag’s Leap, Marchesi Antinori and Viña Tondonia that will cost you a pretty penny, as well as premium pours from their Coravin.

Upstairs, an inviting lounge is the perfect spot for a private soirée. On Thursday nights, a younger, smartly dressed crowd descends to sip and socialize while enjoying live DJ sets.

If you’re short on time, just grab a bottle to go. And don’t miss the tiny tins of caviar! Visit LAVID’s Instagram for information on seasonal flights and upcoming tastings.

Blvd. Puerta de Hierro 5225, Puerta de Hierro, Zapopan

La Cave Liberté

On the grittier south end of Colonia Americana sits a tiny gem of a wine bar called La Cave Liberté, run by a Frenchman named Louis. I started visiting this place late last year, after hearing foodie expats rave about it.

As a Guadalajara resident for the past three years, I’d resigned myself to foregoing my favorite French wines and artisanal French cheeses as too exotic to find here. But with the opening of La Cave Liberté, I found those things, as well as a kindred spirit in Louis. 

Louis — whose main gig is poker — decided to open the wine bar as a passion project. His wines are 99 percent French, with bottles from lesser-known regions like Alsace and Loire, along with perennial favorites Bordeaux and Burgundy. 

Prices range from US $20 white blends to triple digit Burgundies. No matter what you choose, it’s still cheaper than a flight to Paris!

La Cave Liberté’s wines are wonderful, but what makes it extra-special is the artisanal cheese, sourced mostly from France, along with a few gems from Mexico. Customize a plate and pair it with these unique wines for a next-level sensory experience. 

On our last visit we devoured a creamy Pirámide de Cabra from Queretaro, a pungent Roquefort, and Tête de Moine, a melt-in-your-mouth Swiss mountain cheese. 

All bottles, cheeses and charcuterie can be purchased to take away. Check out LCL’s Instagram for upcoming tasting events. And like any worthwhile French bistro, dogs are welcome too.

Libertad 1416b, Colonia Americana

Rayuela Bodega de Vino

Rayuela is a cozy, under-the-radar spot in the leafy Colonia Moderna, south of Guadalajara Centro. Its vibe is bohemian chic, with unmatching wooden tables, a vintage stereo system playing jazz-hip hop fusion and a shaded garden patio.

Unlike pretty much everywhere else, Rayuela devotes its attention to biodynamic and natural wines, paired with exceptionally tasty Italian-inspired dishes. 

The bottle list is refreshingly arranged by style, not region. Reds are grouped as light, robust and complex or structured and interesting, with tasting notes for each bottle to help you decide.  

Italian wine fans are well taken care of here, with bottles from France, Spain and Austria as well. If you can’t decide, staff are happy to make a recommendation. You can also visit Rayuela’s cellar to explore more options.

We chose a funky natural sparkling Pét Nat  of Durello, from the Veneto region, to pair with a stunning burrata and tomato salad, and a Grenache-Syrah blend from the Rhône Valley to pair with wild mushroom pappardelle pasta.  

While it’s a little off the beaten path, Rayuela is a charming spot worthy of a detour. If I lived nearby, I’d definitely be a regular.

Av. Alemania 1779, Moderna

Honorable mentions

Three other wine bars in Guadalajara I recommend visiting if you’re thirsty for more are La Mantequería in Andares, for top Valle de Guadalupe wines; Romea in Americana, for European wines; and Cava Charmat in Monraz, for Mexican and imported wines.

After discovering that life in Mexico was a lot more fun than working in Corporate America, Dawn Stoner moved to Guadalajara in 2022, where she lives with her husband, two cats and Tapatío rescue dog. Her blog livewellmexico.com helps expats live their best life south of the border.

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This year’s edition — themed “In Free Fall” and inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 renowned psychological thriller “Vertigo” — includes a focus on the role of artificial intelligence in cinema.

With over 4,000 submissions received, the selection committee settled on a program that includes 18 world premieres and 51 Mexican premieres.

Pretty much every screening — including a late-night showing of two horror films in Guanajuato city’s old Santa Paula Cemetery — is free, with seats offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The festival, which last year included screenings in the state’s largest city, Léon, carries the name Guanajuato in reference to the landlocked state in central Mexico known for its colonial-era architecture, rich mining history and highlands location. It will conclude Aug. 4.

Each of the host cities will have its own opening-night film.

“Un Futuro Brillante” (“A Bright Future”) from Uruguay will open the Guanajuato city portion of the festival on Friday night at the famous Teatro Juárez. Films here will run through Monday at nine venues, including two late-night, ticketed screenings in one of the city’s vaunted tunnels: “Salão de Baile” (“This Is Ballroom”) from Brazil and a collection of international LGBTIQ-themed shorts.

The San Miguel de Allende portion of the festival will run from Tuesday, July 29 through Thursday, July 31, officially opening with the U.S. production “Omaha” at the Cinemex la Luciérnaga. It’s about a middle-America family searching for a better life during the tough economic times of 2008.

The Aug. 1-4 lineup in Irapuato officially opens with “No dejes a los niños solos” (“Don’t Leave the Children Alone”), a Mexican psychological thriller about a 10-year-old and his 7-year-old brother being left at home alone. It will screen at Teatro de la Ciudad on Friday, Aug. 1.

Other highlights of GIFF 2025 include the Epicentro program (with immersive virtual reality experiences, plus panels and workshops focused on filmmaking technology and the use of A.I.) and the panel “Women in Innovation” (featuring four Mexican women in cutting-edge professions, including Glenda Michel, who leads tech and AI projects at Facebook’s parent company, Meta).

Notable figures in Mexico cinema will be honored with awards, including actress Verónica Castro, who played the matriarch Virginia de la Mora in the first season of the popular Netflix comedy series “La Casa de las Flores,” and TV producer Rosy Ocampo, who adapted the global hit “Ugly Betty” into “La Fea Más Bella” (“The Prettiest Ugly Girl”), a hugely popular telenovela comedy in Mexico.

Legendary Mexican singer Emmanuel will be celebrated Sunday in the Music + Film program, and other awards will go to cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, actress Arcelia Ramírez and director-screenwriter Carlos Carrera, all Mexicans.

Highlight entries from Mexico’s Cinematographic Training Center include “Mudanza” and shorts such as “Amare” and “Gasolina,” which explore emotional reconnections, family fractures and magical realism.

More festival details can be found at GIFF.mx.

With reports from Crónica, Infobae and Once Noticias

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