For residents of Monterrey and the northeast of the country seeking an authentic culinary experience without venturing too far from the city, the compass points north to Tamaulipas. There lies Mier, a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) that, despite being the site of historical battles, now wins over visitors through its cuisine.
This destination, ideal for a weekend getaway in February 2026, holds an open secret among the region’s foodies: it’s home to some of the best milanesas in the country. Far from being a generic dish, in Mier, the milanesa is an institution, appearing on practically every menu in the town center, with La Hacienda restaurant being a must-visit for its most exquisite version.
While northern cuisine is known for its cuts of meat, Mier diversifies the palate with options that surprise with their originality and tradition.
Besides the famous milanesa and steak wrapped in bacon, the local cuisine offers game delicacies like roasted quail and the ever-present cabrito (kid goat) in sauce. For breakfast or lunch, locals recommend trying caldillo fiscaleño, a hearty stew made with dried beef and machacado (dried shredded beef) with huevos a la mexicana (Mexican-style eggs).
For travelers with a hearty appetite who prefer street food, local stalls offer tamales with unusual fillings, such as pork stews or chard with cheese, perfect to enjoy with a rice atole (a hot drink) with raisins or pinole (a toasted cornmeal drink).
Dessert? Here, creativity knows no bounds. A must-try is dulce de frijol norteño (a sweet bean pudding), a bold blend of cooked beans, milk, and egg yolks. Also noteworthy are the pumpkin and cajeta (caramelized milk) empanadas, as well as the cornbread and polvorones (shortbread cookies).
Mier not only nourishes the body but also the sense of history. As the oldest border town in Mexico, its cobblestone streets tell tales of the war against the United States and the Texans.
One site that sends shivers down your spine is the House of Beans. This historic building was the scene of a macabre lottery during the conflict: foreign prisoners had to draw a bean from a vessel; those who drew a black bean were shot, while those who drew a pinto bean were spared.
The town’s architecture complements the journey into the past:
Church of the Immaculate Conception: With its colonial-era facade.
House of Columns: Famous for its six arches and undulating cornice, it has served as a jail, town hall, and Masonic temple.
Chapel of Saint John the Baptist: A structure dating from 1835 with a unique bell tower.
Source: ambito
