Avocado Toast a la Nectar
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by Brenda Sexton

Last time, Hidden Gems introduced you to three newer culinary spots in San Miguel. But some special places don't just shine for a season—they glow steadily, year after year, thanks to the heart and soul behind them. This week, I'm sharing two beloved gems that have not only served delicious food but have also enriched our community for over a decade: Nectar and Berlin.

In Greek mythology, nectar was the drink of the gods. Stepping off busy Correo, just two blocks from the Jardín, you instantly feel a shift in energy. A slice of heaven—beautiful, tranquil, and deeply connected to nature. It's clear why this sanctuary bears the name Nectar.

For eight years, I was vegan. I loved the creativity of plant-based cooking, surprising friends with how flavorful and satisfying meals could be. Nectar's dishes remind me of that same joy—each bite bursting with fresh, layered flavors, a testament to the dedication of its owners, Jim and Alfredo. Their passion is undeniable; during the pandemic, when the restaurant and shop were closed, they spent their time creating and testing over 700 different recipes. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in every dish they serve today.

Hummingbirds brought Jim and Alfredo to San Miguel. While living in Colorado, they searched for an elegant hummingbird feeder, only to find plastic options that didn't suit their style. Frequent visitors to Mexico, they met a glassblower in Guadalajara, sketched out a few ideas, and soon launched a thriving business. Eventually, they moved to San Miguel and opened a shop, originally serving only tea. But when customers saw them enjoying their own homemade lunches and began saying, “I'll have what he's having,” their farm-to-table restaurant was born. Fourteen years later, Nectar remains a cherished culinary destination.

Beyond their restaurant, farm, and hummingbird feeder business, Jim and Alfredo are dedicated to giving back to the community. Just last week, they hosted a seven-course dinner at their home for 30 guests in honor of Javier Zamora, author of Solito, raising funds for the Latin America Relief Fund. They frequently donate their store/restaurant space for community speaker events, bringing meaningful conversations to San Miguel.

Now, the food! My go-to is their avocado toast, a dish I could eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Here, it's elevated: Alfredo bakes fresh sourdough rye each morning (you can take home a loaf for $220 pesos), and the toast can be topped with avocado, hummus, crushed sweet peas, or an incredible mushroom blend. I always add two poached eggs, and it's served with a side of perfectly seasoned black beans—all for $200 pesos. Hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious. Jim and Alfredo put their hearts into every detail, making Nectar extraordinary. Don't be shy—say hello when you visit!

Nectar Restaurante
8:30am-4:30pm Wednesday through Saturday
9:30am-4:30pm Sunday
Closed Monday and Tuesday
Soon to be open for dinner
Camino Silvestre, Correo 43
415-109-8934

Like Nectar, the magic of Berlin is rooted in its owner. Walk into this cozy bar and restaurant, and Carlos will greet you like an old friend. The atmosphere is effortlessly welcoming, a place where newcomers quickly become regulars. Often compared to the Cheers bar from the 1980s sitcom, Berlin is a favorite among solo diners and those looking for good food, great conversation, and a sense of belonging.

The intimate space—with just a dozen or so barstools and a handful of tables—fills up quickly, especially during the nightly two-for-one cocktail special. Patrons swap stories over generously portioned, comforting dishes. My personal favorite? The potato-crusted catfish—crispy, golden perfection on the outside, tender and flaky inside. An absolute steal at $275 pesos. My husband swears by the oversized hamburguesa ($210 pesos) and, of course, the legendary meatloaf, available only on Meatloaf Mondays. For those with heartier appetites, the fall-off-the-bone pork shank ($295 pesos) is large enough to share.

Berlin opens at 4 PM, and there's often a line to get in. The three small dining areas offer just four tables each, so reservations are a must—especially on Meatloaf Mondays and BBQ Rib Fridays. Beyond the food, what truly makes Berlin special is the people. You'll likely meet our favorites—Linda, Warren, Rick—and, of course, Carlos himself, the heart and soul of the place.

Carlos's journey to San Miguel is as unique as his restaurant. Born to a Mexican mother and a Colombian father, he frequently visited Mexico growing up. After an intense career as a management consultant in NYC, he craved a change. He came to San Miguel, fell in love with Berlin (then owned by a German), and bought the restaurant 14 years ago. His passion for hospitality runs deep—his mother was a successful caterer in New York, and he inherited her knack for making people feel at home. Berlin is his first and last restaurant, and it shows. The food is delicious, the prices are reasonable, and every night feels like a celebration.

So whether you're in the mood for a peaceful meal at Nectar or a lively evening at Berlin, these two spots offer more than just great food—they offer a sense of place, a sense of home. And in a town like San Miguel, they are truly enduring gems.

Berlin Bar & Bistro
4-11pm daily
Closed Sunday
Umaran 19
415-154-9432

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Brenda Sexton and her husband, Greg Nye, have been residents of San Miguel for over 12 years. She is a board member Equinoterapia SMA, and was a founding board member of PAWS Chicago, a thriving no kill animal shelter. They are very active members of the Malanquin Golf Club and The Croquet Club of San Miguel.

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