It is easy to find Tex-Mex around McKinney, but you have to look a little harder to find actual Mexican food. San Miguel will give you the choice with a widely varying menu that concentrates on Mexican food with a nod to Tex-Mex.\r
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I cannot remember entering San Miguel without being greeted by the same handsome management fellow who always offers a warm welcome and even a handshake on my last visit. This gives an idea of the approach to service at San Miguel.\r
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The menu includes such items as grilled pork or beef tenderloin prepared simply or with a variety of sauces and toppings. There is also an extensive grilled chicken selection and a few seafood items such as (if my memory serves) Pescado al Mojo de Ajo and Pescado Veracruzana. Tex-Mex is competently represented, but I must confess that Tex-Mex isn't why I go to San Miguel Grill.\r
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The kids' menu is delightfully free of hamburgers and chicken fingers. Children ought to appreciate different cuisines, and here they get the chance. The children (3 and 6) had some grilled chicken and cheese quesadillas. Hey, it's a start.\r
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The queso was somewhat gritty and thick. Perhaps they should consider blending it with the too-thin queso at Jalapeno's, nearby.\r
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My steak and chorizo entree was full of chunks of both, with a small puddle of orange chorizo grease to prove it. These were sauteed with poblano chile and onion for a distinctly heart-unfriendly but flavorful combination. My wife's chicken fajitas were agreeably moist, well-spiced, and had plenty of grilled onions.\r
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My wife had the San Miguel maragarita on the rocks and liked it, though she prefers them tart and found it a tiny bit too sweet for her taste.\r
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The service was attentive and prompt, considering the Friday night rush was beginning. We arrived early, which is the only way to avoid waiting for a table. The atmosphere is Old Mexico, with beautiful wall paintings and stucco.\r
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For real Mexican food and warm service, go to San Miguel.
Pros: not a chain; beautiful decor; unusual menu items;; attentive service
Cons: it gets busy on weekends; the queso
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