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The wine list covers a wide range with Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot and Shiraz available. All of these wines make incredible pairings with the Thai cuisine. You can also order some of the vintages by the glass. The service is impeccable, and the music is laid–back. Most of the menu can be prepared vegetarian, and if you’re looking for a great place to host a group, Baan Thai is one. At Morelos and Comonfort in downtown San José del Cabo. Open Monday through Saturday from noon to 10:30 p.m. Entrees from $8 U.S. to $21 U.S. Street parking only. Seating for 36 inside and 36 on the patio. Groups encouraged. For reservations, call (624) 142-3344.––B.F.
Buddha’s Grill and Bar
Besides introducing Asian stir–fry to Cabo San Lucas, Buddha’s Grill and Bar also is one of the best people–watching spots in town. Recently opened, it’s already popular with those who want to play chef while having some fun with their food. The concept is simple––decide exactly what you want from all the choices at the stir–fry bar, then pick up a bowl and fill ’er up. You pay by the weight at a very reasonable $5 U.S. per 100 grams. Choose from a wide variety of fresh vegetables, seafood, poultry and meat. For an Oriental touch, add bamboo shoots, Shitake mushrooms, and/or bok choy. Top off your masterpiece with one of six salsas, including Peanut, Sweet Chile, and Calvin (soy sauce with fruit). If you need to consult a pro, Chef Freddy Medel Zavaleta is there to answer any question. Once your selection is complete, your food is cooked as you wait. Watch as it sizzles on a palapa–covered griddle, feeling hungrier by the minute. In no time, your stir–fry arrives, served with rice. And only the ingredients you want. Buddha’s also offers a salad bar and a la carte appetizers. With a capacity for 80, it’s open from noon to midnight. Located in downtown CSL on Lázaro Cárdenas across from Burger King. Call (624) 143-5501.––A.U.
Nick–San Palmilla
The third and newest Nick–San Japanese Restaurant is located in Las Tiendas de Palmilla. Dine in the ultra–chic indoor dining room with sushi bar or choose the covered, outdoor terrace with a lovely view of the Sea of Cortés. Try sashimi with cilantro, or scallops, salmon, yellowtail and seared tuna—all with outstanding sauces. Fried rice cake with spicy tuna, lobster roll, soft–shell crab and spinach with crab wrap are favorites. Thinly sliced ginger adds a bite, but be careful with the wasabi. It will take your breath away! Japanese cuisine is among the finest in gourmet eating, and Nick–San serves nothing but the best. Also, thanks to the use of ingredients such as tofu, miso, sushi, green teas and soba, Japanese food is among the healthiest in the world. Even with tempura ice cream for dessert! The outstanding service is only exceeded by the food. Nick–San Palmilla is open for lunch from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m., and for dinner from 6:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. The air–conditioned interior accommodates up to 80 persons, the terrace, 110. Group capacity around 200. Appetizers are $5.50 U.S. to $15 U.S., sushi $15 U.S. to $20 U.S., main courses are $18 U.S. to $35 U.S. At Las Tiendas de Palmilla, Km. 27.5, Tourist Corridor. Reservations are suggested. Call (624) 143-4484.––S.B.
Pitahayas Restaurant
Volker Romeike has been igniting sparks at Pitahayas Restaurant since it opened over a decade ago. With innovation and skill, he takes us along on a trip to explore Pacific Rim cuisine in all its variations. His open kitchen under one of the most impressive palapa roofs in Baja is where East meets West, at least as far as food is concerned. Under his leadership, Pitahayas has been awarded the prestigious Five Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality for eight consecutive years. The ocean view from the multi–level terrace is incredible, but it pales in comparison to the beautiful and meticulously prepared dishes that begin to arrive at your table. Appetizers such as crispy, coconut shrimp with passion fruit gelee and a zesty, chipotle salsa are almost too beautiful to eat. Almost! Everything on the menu is accompanied by fabulous sauces and topped with fresh, fragrant herbs. For dessert, the entire range of sinfully luscious chocolate, tropical fruit and nut–filled creations will have you mesmerized. With the capacity for 300 and exemplary service, Pitahayas is also a perfect wedding venue. At the Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Resort and Spa in Cabo del Sol. Entree prices range from $25 U.S. to $36 U.S. Open for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. nightly. For reservations, call (624) 145-8010.––A.U.
Tsuki Sushi and Tepan Grill
Named after the mysterious Japanese goddess of the moon, Tsuki Sushi and Tepan Grill slowly reveals the secrets of the Orient in its comprehensive, four–page menu, where the food is designed to reveal the harmony of aesthetics and flavors. Chef Gregorio Hernández Villegas, better known as Goyito–San, features local fish such as tuna, sea bass and mahi mahi. Combining Japanese minimalism with Mexican exuberance, Goyito–San serves Oriental specialties Cabo–style. The amazing results are a revelation, especially in dishes such as the Sashimi Cilantro––fine slices of fresh tuna marinated in cilantro and avocado sauce—or the Moonlight Roll, with fresh salmon, tuna, spicy calamari and peanut sauce. You’ll also find traditional nigiri sushi (an oblong mound of sushi rice topped with a slice of fresh fish or seafood), tempura (batter–dipped, deep–fried seafood and vegetables) and yakitori (grilled, marinated chicken). Prices range from $5 U.S. to $8 U.S. for appetizer–sized dishes, and from $12 U.S, to $36 U.S. for main courses. Located on the second level of Plaza Puerto Paraíso, Tsuki seats 36 on the outside terrace and 56 in the sleek, air–conditioned dining room. Drop by anytime for sushi from the sushi bar with four tepanyaki grills. Open daily from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. For reservations, call (624) 105-0123.––A.U.
“Little Italy”
Alfredo Di Roma
It seems as if there has always been great Italian food at Da Antonio Ristorante located at the Presidente InterContinental Hotel in San José del Cabo. In fact, many here believed that the food was so good, it couldn’t possibly get better. Yet get better it has. With new owners and an Old World name––Alfredo Di Roma Los Cabos––this recently revamped ristorante offers the most authentic Roman fare around. The expanded menu fairly spills over with pasta selections that reaffirm centuries–long traditions in Italian cooking. The elegant dining room is decorated with photos of artists and politicians who have been visiting the family restaurant in Rome for over three generations. Chef Daniele Tonin loves to talk about his pasta creations, all fatte in casa (homemade) and utterly fresh with nearly twenty variations. Topping the list is the house specialty––world–famous, creamy Maestosissime Fettuccine all’Alfredo, which is served here just as it is in Rome. Among the new antipasta choices are fresh, green asparagus with cheese fondue and a cream of mushroom soup with crispy croutons and fine herbs. The number of fish and meat entrees has doubled. Two new, delicious choices are swordfish in lemon sauce, and beef filet with two polentas, one topped with grilled mushrooms and the other with artichokes). Overlooking the bird–filled estuary and nature reserve, Alfredo Di Roma Los Cabos offers an unforgettable, authentic Italian dining experience. Pastas from $12 U.S. and entrees from $14 U.S. to $25 U.S. At the very end of Paseo de San José (hotel row). Open Monday to Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Call (624) 142-9229.––A.U.
Amarone
Walk into Amarone, and you will feel as if you have been transported from laconic Los Cabos to somewhere more chic, more sophisticated, more cosmopolitan. Leather-bound menus reveal a list of Italian dishes that will stimulate your appetite long before any food arrives. Double doors lead from the air–conditioned interior to the outside terrace. A labor of love by three boyhood friends from Verona, Italy, Amarone opened in 2003. Since then, it has earned a reputation for serving delicious, classically prepared Northern Italian cuisine. Try the carpaccio of beef as either an appetizer or a light lunch. Salads include the famous Caprese–– with genuine, fresh buffalo mozzarella. There is a wide selection of pizzas as well as a large, luscious calzone filled with ham, ricotta cheese, and mushrooms. The long list of pasta dishes available only makes choosing more difficult. Lasagna al forno, spaghetti with shrimp and mussels, and gnocchi (little dumplings) are just a few of the more popular items. In addition, main courses include fish of the day, steaks, chicken, lamb chops, shrimp and lobster. Deer medallions dressed with blueberry sauce add a touch of the wild. But wait! Save room for the classic tiramisu for dessert. Amarone presents a wonderful dining experience, either in the 100–seat sophistication of its dining room or al fresco under the stars. Entrees from $12 U.S. to $40 U.S. Open daily from noon to 10:30 p.m. Located on the marina level in Plaza Puerto Paraíso. Call (624) 105-1034.––S.B.
Galeon Ristorante
One restaurant in Cabo found on all the “must do” lists is Galeon. And it is always listed near the top. This restaurant is notable for its marina–view location, excellent Italian food and the music of Ronald Valentino, playing from Monday to Saturday. In fact, a trip to Galeon almost wouldn’t be complete without the accompaniment of the virtuoso pianist’s elegant repertoire, which spans everything from blues to Broadway and on to Brahms. In addition, you’ll find yourself dining on some of Cabo’s best ethnic fare. For starters, it’s hard to beat the Caesar salad for two prepared at your table. For an entree, you have a large selection of seafood, pasta, meat, poultry and even pizza dishes from which to choose. Galeon offers 59 entree selections in prices ranging from $9 U.S. for a Margarita pizza to $31 U.S. for a whole lobster grilled over mesquite or served in a Mornay sauce. Recommended are the Gamberone Neptuno––jumbo shrimp in a sweet orange–curry sauce served with rice and vegetables—and Cannelloni DaVinci with succulent, fresh, local lobster. Dessert offerings vary daily but are always delicious; the Mexican Coffee prepared at your table is as much theatre as refreshment. Galeon is located on Marina Boulevard near Avenida Solmar. Open nightly from 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Valet parking and air conditioning. Non–smoking. For reservations call (624) 143-0443––C.B.
La Dolce
La Dolce in San José del Cabo is one of those restaurants that just feels right. Once a home, the location seems to acquire more character with every visit. Selections include appetizers, soups, salads, pizzas, pastas, and a few meat and fish entrees—and everything tastes great. The thin–crust pizzas are baked in a wood–burning oven, visible from the patio area in back. Two favorite pizzas are the Gregorio (with chicken, mushrooms, arugula, and pine nuts) and the Quatro Stagioni (cooked ham, mushrooms, olives and anchovies). A couple of “must try” pastas are Fettuccine Gorgonzola e Funghi or Spaghetti alla Puntanesca. The wine list is not extensive but satisfies. Facing onto the main plaza in downtown San José del Cabo. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Entrees from $9 U.S. to $22 U.S.. Seating for 24 inside and 42 on the patio. Call (624) 142-6621.––B.F.
La Trattoria Ristorante
La Trattoria is another Los Cabos landmark. This quaint bistro resembles a narrow, winding street somewhere in Italy. The extensive menu offers good food prepared by a Mexican chef who cooks with real Italian flair. Everyone will find something––from antipasto to pasta to the specialties of the house including fish, chicken, veal, and seafood. They even have an in–view oven ready to bake any of the homemade pizzas offered. For starters or a light lunch, the Baked Eggplant Parmigiana is perfect. If you can’t decide on a pasta, select the Trattoria Combo, which includes all three of Italy’s most famous pasta dishes: cannelloni, lasagna, and fettuccine Alfredo. Pastas from $8 U.S. to $10 U.S. Entrees from $13 U.S. to $22 U.S. Seating for 50 outside, 40 inside, groups of 100. Located across from El Squid Roe near Plaza Puerto Paraíso. Open from 11 a.m. until midnight. Validated parking in Plaza Bonita. Call (624) 143-0068.–S.B.
Romeo & Julieta
A perennial favorite of locals and visitors, Romeo y Julieta offers fine Italian dining in an intimate setting. Located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas across the street from the marina, many frequent visitors consider a meal here a much–anticipated part of every visit. Known for their pasta and handcrafted pizza, Romeo & Julieta also offers a variety of meat and seafood dishes as well as luscious desserts. Start your meal with the salad bar or a delicious Caesar salad for two prepared at your table. Sixteen pasta selections are freshly prepared and meet the highest standards. For those who can’t decide between seafood or pasta, linguini with shrimp offers tender shrimp in your choice of a creamy Parmesan sauce or a healthier tomato sauce. Signature pizzas are the house specialty with 11 varieties to choose from in prices ranging from $7 U.S. to $11 U.S. Entrees are priced from $10 U.S. to $23 U.S. A children’s menu features kid–pleasing pizza and pasta with prices ranging from $4 U.S. to $7 U.S. This comprehensive and well thought–out menu assures that there is something here to delight everyone in your party. Romeo y Julieta is located at the corner of Marina Boulevard and Camino del Cerro. Seating for 100 on an open–air patio or the air–conditioned indoors. Open daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., with live music nightly. Full bar. Valet parking. For reservations, call (624)143-0225––C.B.
Sunset Da Mona Lisa
One of the most famous restaurant locations anywhere, at Sunset da Mona Lisa everything is new but the view! Long a mainstay, this location has the most famous, romantic sunset view in Los Cabos. Under the directorship of Giamarco Vela––originally from Naples, Italy—this new incarnation prides itself on its exceptional Italian cuisine using local seafood and incorporating Latin and Mediterranean influences. When it is time to dine, you will appreciate the attention Executive Chef Emanuele Olivero gives to each dish. If in doubt, try a 3–course tasting dinner priced from $60 U.S. to $90 U.S. Changing daily, specials may include paper–thin, seared scallops with lemon and watercress as an appetizer followed by an octopus salad infused with orange and garlic and drizzled with olive oil. Tuna served rare with caviar or fresh yellowtail with Gorgonzola and mushrooms served with caramelized onion quiche, a house special, gives you an idea of the tasty treats awaiting your visit. A light dessert of pear compote with “leaves” made with peach sorbet leaves you feeling sated. Wine suggestions to pair with your meal are included on the menu. Pasta dishes from $17 U.S. to $36 U.S. Entrees from $26 U.S. to $36 U.S.. Seating for 80 in air-conditioned comfort; 120 outdoors on the terrace (view included). Group capacity for up to 200 makes this a popular wedding location. Open 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. On the Transpeninsular Highway at Km. 6 in Misiones del Cabo. Valet parking available. Call (624) 145-8160.––S.B.
Señor Sweets
Señor Sweets hums from its 7:30 a.m. opening until the last bits of chocolate are wiped from the tabletops sometime around midnight, serving international, home–made delights with a sweet touch. The new, enlarged menu speaks mostly Italian, even though two Mexican chefs rule the kitchen. Their extensive, all–day breakfast menu makes you feel like everyday is Sunday. Cinnabuns, eggs and crepes complement the morning fare. For lunch and dinner, there are salads, pizzas, crepes and paninis priced from $7 U.S. to $9 U.S.)–all made to satisfy your sweet tooth using ingredients such as fresh fruit, honey or sweet, sun–dried tomatoes. All good. But when the dessert menu arrives, your dilemma begins to unfold. Should you go for the rich, individual–sized, chocolate-laden cakes? Or maybe try the original sweet pizzas and paninis topped with curious combinations such as peanut butter and fresh strawberries or cream cheese, peach and pistachios? Can’t decide? Don’t forget to consider the yummy, creamy gelato or fresh–fruity sorbet in one of more than 40 flavors made freshly every day. Ah, the dilemmas of life! For the still undecided, daily specials are always good, safe choices. The liquid offerings take up a large part of the menu with gourmet coffees, daiquiris, margaritas, martinis and more. Located on the marina side of Plaza Puerto Paraíso. Seating capacity for 60 in the elegant, comfortable interior and for 84 on the open–air terrace with excellent marina views. Wireless internet access. Call (624) 105-0102.––A.U.
A Touch of Europe
Alexander
Walk along the marina in Cabo San Lucas, and you might get to watch as a waiter prepares a spectacular, flaming culinary delight for one of the patrons of Alexander Restaurant lucky enough to be seated right on the waterfront. Alexander specializes in all things flambé, whether it’s sake lobster, tequila shrimp, duck a l’orange or a flaming dessert. Good food, attentive service and reasonable prices plus an outstanding view of the harbor make this one restaurant to visit again and again. Executive Chef Fabricio Petreli is nothing if not original. Try the Thai shrimp served in a coconut shell with coconut ginger sauce as a starter. A favorite for a hot appetizer is a slightly different version of escargot sautéed with garlic and onions—served here in an apple sauce. Pasta choices include fettuccini with crab and scallops; meat items include steaks, chateaubriand for two and lamb chops with peanut butter and rosemary sauce. Fondue is another house specialty. Enjoy a generous glass of wine from the extensive wine list, but save room for the chocolate volcano cake––a chocoholic’s dream—accompanied by with a specialty coffee. “Great food is first enjoyed with your eyes,” says Owner–Chef Alex Brulhart––and it’s true; Alexander prides itself on its presentation. Entrees from $17 U.S. to $45 U.S. Seating for 140 under the roof and al fresco. Located on the waterfront at the Cabo San Lucas Marina. Validated parking in Plaza Bonita. Daily from 8 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. Call (624) 143-2022.––S.B.
French Riviera
Ever since French Master Chef Jacques Chretien and his wife, Sophie, opened the French Riviera Restaurant over six years ago, patrons have been enjoying his fine Mediterranean–influenced French cuisine in the serene dining room that is the embodiment of elegant and aristocratic, Old World charm. The awe–inspiring view of the Sea of Cortés and Cabo’s iconic arch is nearly overshadowed by the view inside the impressive open kitchen. Everything here is de luxe. The meal begins with a creamy, delicious wild mushroom soup that arrives just about the time you’re halfway through the wine list––with selections from around the globe. There are three tasting menus: vegetarian, seasonal and Maitres Cuisiniers. Each places you entirely in the very capable hands of the master chef. Fixed prices per person are $79.50 U.S., $89.50 U.S. and $125 U.S., respectively. Out–of–the–ordinary appetizers may include a roasted crayfish napoleon with coriander–scented tuna and avocado tartar and rosemary–perfumed tomato emulsion. And the entrees yet to come. The steamed black snook with shredded tomato sauce with mussels au gratin and an extravagant quenelle of Sevruga caviar was to die for. Individual entree prices range from $39.50 U.S. to $59.50 U.S. Need we add that the desserts are fabulous? In Plaza del Rey, at Km. 6.3 on the Tourist Corridor. Serving lunch from noon to 4 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily. For reservations, call (624) 142-3350––A.U.
Peacock’s
Peacock’s offers scrumptious “Mediterranean–Latino” fine dining and magnificent service in an elegant yet welcoming setting. Start your meal with Sautéed Lobster Dumplings––lobster, shallots, butter, herbs and mild chipotle peppers in a Chinese dumpling, the Salmon Tartar Tower and Sashimi “Isla María.” The award–winning signature entree is Shrimp Sin Fronteras (without limits)––citrus–marinated, large shrimp flash–grilled over mashed plantain topped with black bean relish with orange liquor. Pastas include Linguini with Chicken Breast (and sun–dried tomatos, feta cheese and fresh basil–cilantro pesto), and Penne Pestifredo (with shrimp, pesto and Alfredo sauce). You’ll find fresh fish prepared blackened, “A La Antigua,” sautéed in butter and topped with a white wine mustard sauce, and grilled Del Patrón. Meat dishes include New York steak grilled with buttery cilantro ginger or green peppercorn sauce, and grilled, marinated arranchera beefsteak rolled and filled with mild Chile Poblano and melted cheese in a chile mulatto sauce. The Chicken Breast Roll features grilled chicken wrapped with bacon and served with freshly prepared cilantro sauce. Whether this is your first or fortieth visit, Peacock’s is not to be missed. Located next to the Meliá Cabo San Lucas, it is open nightly from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Seating capacity is 150; for groups, capacity rises to 220. For reservations, call (624) 143-1858––C.B.
Sancho Panza
Sancho Panza Wine Bistro and Nightclub has come to embody one of the most complex and satisfying fusions of food, wine, art and music in Cabo San Lucas. Thanks to the delectable Mediterranean fare presented with a Latin twist, over 150 wines, original Cuban art as well as live jazz and blues, this is one fun place that packs a full house almost any night of the week. If, like Don Quixote’s humorous companion and the restaurant’s namesake, you are on a constant food quest, you’ll find what you’re looking for on this abundant menu. Bistro specialties are Sancho Panza’s strong suit. Start with the cheese platter or soup du jour, which may be a creamy puree of organic ginger and carrots. Among the most popular picks are the Surf and Turf Kebabs that come with a zesty chipotle–wine salsa for dipping. Entrees include a good selection of fresh fish, seafood and meat priced from $16.50 U.S. to $32 U.S. To accompany your meal, find the perfect wine on the extensive wine list featuring labels from around the globe. Sancho Panza is a venue for many local performers, with one featured live each night. The interior is cozy with a lively bar. Outside dining also available. Find Sancho Panza behind the Tesoro Los Cabos Hotel (formerly Costa Real). Daily from 4 p.m. until the party ends (kitchen closes at 11 p.m., however) with seating capacity for 75. Reservations recommended, call (624) 143-3212.––A.U.
Voilá Bistro and Catering
Imagine combining homey, Mexican dishes with the elegance and sophistication of French cuisine. Add trés chic decor and (pardon me) voilá, you have Voilá Bistro. The romantic setting offers your choice of the air–conditioned, 30–seat dining room or the lovely, 20–seat terrace. The salads, like the rest of the dishes, are loaded with fresh, organic ingredients, while the seafood, steak and chicken entrees come with an array of fabulous French sauces and reductions. The signature dish is the Lobster Burrito with Manchego cheese, avocado, cabbage and mango–chipotle salsa. Another spectacular, not–to–be–missed creation is the divine, hand–made huitlacoche ravioli with creamy tequila and corn sauce. And the desserts––decadent and delicious––are yet to come. Chef Roberto Valle also offers selections from a modest wine list and professional, polished service. Featuring live jazz on Friday nights with French and Mexican tasting menus on Tuesdays and Sundays, Voilá is located inside Plaza Paulina in San José del Cabo’s downtown Art District, across from El Encanto Suites. Entree prices range from $15 U.S. to $28 U.S. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations recommended, call (624) 130-7569.––A.U.
Continental and More
Baja Cantina Dockside & Baja Cantina Beach Grill
This ever–popular marina location is considered the local equivalent of “Cheers,” that neighborhood bar in the television series of the same name. “Happy hour” prices for drinks and appetizers are offered all day in the expanded bar area. Relax in the casual dining room, gaze at yachts in the harbor and watch passersby on the marina. A varied menu of Mexican food, steaks and seafood make this a popular meeting place. Try shrimp or the fish of the day––or better yet, bring your own catch and enjoy it cooked several different ways. Pizzas of varying design are favorite take–out items. The second location, Baja Cantina Beach Grill, located just steps from Médano Beach, is a popular family destination. Low–key jazz music in the background makes it a perfect place to kick back and lounge on a beach chair under an umbrella. For breakfast, try the divorced eggs or shrimp omelet. For lunch, select sushi, sashimi, salads, fish tacos or burgers. The dinner menu offers many of the same items as the dockside location but with added flair. Steaks run $27 U.S., to $35 U.S. for the lobster/filet Mignon combo, and $44 U.S. for the seafood platter for two. Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Baja Cantina Beach Club is located in front of Cabo Villas Resort on Médano Beach, with seating for 60, plus 122 loungers and groups up to 500. Baja Cantina Dockside (in front of L–M Dock at the Cabo San Lucas Marina) opens at 7 a.m. with seating for 100 and groups up to 150. For reservations and groups. Call (624) 143-1591 for Dockside or 143-9199 for Beach Club.––S.B.
La Bodega
Barely a block from the main plaza in downtown San José del Cabo, La Bodega adds a new and exciting element to the fine dining scene in Los Cabos. The restaurant opened in August 2006. Despite occupying an historic building, the immediate impression is very modern in the sleek, chic, air–conditioned dining room just inside the front door. However, the interior opens up into a lovely, open–air courtyard in the back, shaded by a venerable, old tree. The menu—bound in original, wood covers––is eclectic: Mexican and Bistro meets Comfort. Mexican–style seafood dishes dominate the appetizer list, and the crispy, golden Turnover Trio is a hit. Then there are the steaks, the house speciality. Tender, certified Angus beef is available with an array of comforting fixings, including mashed potatoes and wild rice with spinach and mushrooms. Try the “Salsa Borracha” (drunk sauce), made with beer, chile ancho and herbs. They also offer smoked chicken breast and fresh fish, the proverbial Catch of the Day. Entrees from $18 U.S. to $32 U.S. They have a wide selection of wine by the bottle stored in the temperature–controlled wine cellar, and some are available by the glass. Located on Zaragoza about a block and a half before the main plaza, on the left side of the street. With capacity for 80, La Bodega is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations recommended, call (624) 142-6619.—A.U.
Casa Rafael’s
Casa Rafael’s is an eclectic restaurant, bar and boutique hotel located in a 1960s–era turquoise building. The undersea–themed dining room features an enormous aquarium, the piano bar is a house of mirrors, and the adjacent smoking room is decorated with Cuban paintings. Diners are serenaded by a quartet of opera singers. The menu features continental cuisine with a Mexican accent. Starters range from Smoked Dorado Paté to Arrachera (tender, thinly sliced beef) Lettuce Wraps. A thick and creamy seafood bisque comes loaded with shrimp, scallops and clams. Both the Caesar and Greek salads are expertly prepared with perfect dressings. Duck is served with a raspberry–chipotle sauce accompanied by lumpy, mashed potatoes with herbs and green beans and carrots with a honey glaze. House specialties include Chicken Allison (sautéed in a wine–mushroom sauce) and Cornish game hen with a delicate champagne sauce. Seafood entrees are prepared French–style with sauces, wines, spices and herbs. Desserts arrive on a tray that includes slices of tiramisu, triple chocolate cake and other delights. The wine list contains quality selections ranging from Napa Valley Californians to French chateaus. Entrees range from $17 U.S. to $49 U.S. Open from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Located between Hacienda Cabo San Lucas and Marina Sol Condos in CSL. Reservations recommended, call (624) 143-0739.––D.M.
La Cascada at Vistazul
Enjoy alternative Mexican foods as well as therapeutic fruit and vegetable juices designed to calm and balance the body at Vistazul Suites and Spa’s La Cascada Restaurant. The starry night sky combined with the landscape and pool lighting creates a sense of serenity as you dine under an open–air palapa. Healthy rolls or Romaine lettuce come stuffed with fresh vegetables and a choice of meats and cheeses. The Mushroom and Nopal Cactus Risotto with coriander, shaved Parmesan and char–grilled asparagus is unbeatable, and the fettuccini with fresh spinach sauce is dreamy. Shrimp Fajitas are served sizzling hot. Dorado cooked in a clay dish with a savory, tomato–based stew is a Baja delicacy. The Lobster Bisque with Shrimp is seductive to the last spoonful. A full range of beverages from national beers and wines to smooth tropical drinks are available. The desserts vary daily from delicate cakes to traditional flan. Adjacent to the restaurant is a holistic spa, with yoga, Pilates, a dozen massage therapies and beauty treatments available. Try the Temazcal natural, outdoor sauna to cleanse body, mind and spirit. Then try a margarita made with fresh strawberries out by the pool. Located on the Tourist Corridor at Km. 3.5. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Prices range from $12 U.S. to $27 U.S. Restaurant seats 50 and groups up to 200. For reservations, call (624) 144-4727.––D.M.
Los Corsarios
Los Corsarios (the pirates), in the Golden Zone on the marina in Cabo San Lucas, is a steak house and sports bar with—you guessed it—a buccaneer theme! Blackbeard himself would enjoy the cozy, planked bar and its barrel–shaped rattan chairs. The Chef’s Specialty of filet medallions with mushrooms is worth a king’s ransom, as are the other combinations: steak and petite lobster tail, and steak and shrimp. Set your course for a sample appetiser platter including onion rings, artichoke dip, prime–rib bites and fish fingers. A soup and salad bar is included with your entree. Los Corsarios is a casual place to enjoy dining on deck or to take in the latest sports in air–conditioned comfort. Open daily 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. with Mexican folk music on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 p.m. until the bar closes at 2 a.m. Appetizer prices range from $6 U.S. to $17 U.S. for the sample platter. Steaks are $20 U.S. to $35 U.S. with combinations at $36 U.S. Next to Marina Fiesta on the CSL marina, Dock B. Call (624) 145-6020, Ext 8014.—S.B.
La Golondrina
Not far from Médano Beach, you’ll find La Golondrina serving seafood, steaks, Mexican favorites, vegetarian fare and much more in an intimate, stylish courtyard. With over 100 menu items to choose from, you and your guests undoubtedly will find something to savor at a leisurely pace. The house specialty is lobster, and La Golondrina is known for its large portions. Your lobster dinner will be one of the largest you’ve ever seen. All dinner items are offered as full meals including salad, soup and side dishes. The soup and salad options are fresh and prepared daily, and served with hot, home–baked bread. You won’t leave La Golondrina hungry! Entrees range from $14 U.S. for pasta dishes to $60 U.S. for “The Works”––a heaping platter of lobster, shrimp, calamari, chicken, fish, ribs, and carne asada served with soup, salad, rice, potatoes and cole slaw. More conventional selections include fish and seafood with many choices of dipping sauces. Try the Par
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