Charles Woollett
When good friends, long time San Miguel residents, Chef Sherry and Bridge Champion, Woody invite you out to savor authentico Mexican Barbacoa, you jump at the opportunity. We speak of a long time locals favorite “El Pato”, run by the sweetest couple, Pilar and her husband, Jose Luis. The reviews and their reputation proceeds them by all who have enjoyed their slow cooked lamb, ‘the best in SMA’(not mutton). It’s long been on the Phantom Gourmet’s bucket list and it didn’t disappoint, muy bueno! Buen Provecho
… moreGordon Wu
Delicious lamb barbacoa with consume and don’t miss the mixiotes! it’s a bowl of flavorful marinated lamb stew. of course with tender thin homemade tortillas to wrap them up with
… moreEdward Baker
I spent a week traveling around the region and this was BY FAR the best meal I had! Pilar treats you like family and serves up the fiercest barbacoa that San Miguel de Allende has ever seen. 10/10
… moreStephanie Chen
I decided to stop by for an early brunch before my bus and I am so so glad I did. Pilar greeted with me such warmth and sat me down and told me what I was going to get. She first gave me the mixiote which the lamb was very tender but the BROTH!!! It was so flavorful I couldn’t stop drinking it. Then she told me I had to try at least one lamb barbacoa taco and it was honestly the best bite I had my entire trip. It was so incredibly juicy, with bits of flaky sea salt on it. They truly perfected the craft. I ended the meal with their flan which was lovely, syrupy, and custardy.
I was luckily one of the few people there so Pilar spent some time chatting with me and it was such a beautiful experience. It’s experiences like this that really make me love travel. I hope to come back to San Miguel De Allende soon and eat here again!
… moreGeoffrey Dean
This is a really lovely spot for an authentic and delicious meal. Located in an unassuming tent down a short gravel driveway close to the bus terminal, the interior is pleasantly clean and cool. The owner Pilar is wonderful and speaks English fluently. Put yourself in her hands and she will bring you very lean, tender and delicious lamb barbacoa, tortillas, salsas and other taco toppings. I’m not usually fond of lamb but this was really quite enjoyable. The lamb mixiotes is equally tasty. We were the only non-locals there at lunch today.
… moreEthan Rinks
Don’t miss this roasted lamb – highly recommended. Tucked away on a side street next to the bus station, this open air spit has fantastic roast and stewed lamb served with fresh corn tortillas and salsas. Was about 250 pesos for 2 people – excellent value. The service is quick and the owner incredibly friendly.
… moreMarco Sison
Delicious. Best meal I’ve had in Mexico so far. The place has limited open times, so verify before you go. The owner, Pillar, is a fantastic host.
… moreKaren Jones
Out of the way, but worth finding! Most delicious slow cooked lamb served with special homemade tortillas. A special treat!
… moreCam Sedgwick
Simply one of the best experiences I’ve had in a restaurant. I went there with my family and we were immediately adopted by Pilar, the owner. She is gregarious and friendly and told us about the dishes and their preparation in great detail.
She’s not just experienced in the dishes she serves but a master of them.
Everything was delicious and authentic.
… moreBrian Drlion
I’m not religious but Jesus lord have mercy is this place so good. I’m at a loss for words. Not only is this barbacoa (lamb only) some of the best you’ll ever try but the hospitality that you receive at this humble establishment is worth all the riches in the world.
They have two kinds of barbacoa dishes (barbacoa and mixiotes). Pilar, the owner suggested getting both in portions to share with the table alongside some consume to start. You put together your own tacos at the table. You can also just order tacos or barbacoa or the mixiote (more brotha dish) but, trust me, just do what she says and let them present their best to you. The flavors will tell you just how much quality and care is put into the food. The barbacoa is cooked for a whole night underground fire pit style. Literally, some of the best barbacoa I’ve had in the 20 times I’ve been to Mexico.
Come for an early lunch, they close at 2pm.
The establishment is off the road and next to the bus station. They have the little flags that say barbacoa – it’s a real hidden gem.
Fair warning:
Don’t come here and ask for vegetarian options. If anything the cute little lamb was vegetarian. Do not expect a large menu of poorly curated dishes like the $$$ restaurants in the city center.
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