Pork belly, photo by Food and pleasure
By Josemaria Moreno
The origin of this celebration is as uncertain as the origin of the hamburger itself. Most likely this commemorative day was an invention of the first large fast-food chains that began to sell this dish that became popular at the beginning of the 20th century in the United States. The origin of the hamburger, however, is pure speculation. It may have originated in Hamburg, Germany, where in the late 19th century a round loaf began to be baked and served with meat—although there are cookbooks such as Hannah Glasse’s that refer to a «hamburger sausage» in the mid-18th century. What is a fact is that the hamburger, as we know it today, is a product of migration to the United States and, without a doubt, it is the most favorite comfort food that exists on the planet.
In San Miguel de Allende we are fortunate to have at our disposal several places that have brought this dish to a level of perfection. These are just three of our recommendations.
El Grandpa & Son, located in the Fábrica la Aurora, is the first stop. The place takes advantage of one of the terraces of the renowned arts center to offer a wide variety of burgers: from a delicate and tasty shrimp burger with cheese and avocado, to an imposing rib-eye burger (USDA prime). After visiting the art galleries, there is nothing better than stopping at this restaurant to enjoy its extensive menu.
Another place just outside of downtown is Pork Belly. We recently reviewed this place on our Stirling Dickinson circuit itinerary. The place specializes in its grill and smoker, where they prepare their delicious brisket for eight long hours. Here, we recommend trying the pulled pork hamburger—another characteristically American dish. It’s much more difficult to find in San Miguel, and here it is a beauty. Well served, juicy, and soft—the meat crumbles in your mouth. Don’t forget to accompany it with the house lager beer, a hazy lager with bitter notes that goes perfectly with the sweetness of the pulled pork.
The third stop is the Chopería on Canal, very close to the Jardín. This place has become a place of relaxation for office workers who work in the center of town. During the “godín” hour, when they visit after work, the place is crowded with those relaxing after a long day. If you’re looking for a calmer atmosphere, you should visit earlier during lunch time. There will always be space. If you are lucky enough to be here on a Champions League day, you will be able to enjoy the game since there are many screens around the premises. Our recommendation is the Fondue Burger, an incredible, monstrous, burger with a combination of melted cheeses—blue cheese, gouda, mozzarella, and parmesan.
