Chef Antonello Lauri has brought the flavors and charm of his native Rome to downtown Cabo San Lucas, more specifically to the beautiful Invita Bistro, which he opened in 2012. The menu of family-recipe dishes, freshly made breads and pastas, and gener- ously filled glasses of Chianti trans- port guests to Italy, while an expansive window and enormous wine-themed painting from local artist Yandi Monardo simply dazzle. The eggplant Parmesan recipe was passed down from Lauri’s grandmoth- er, and his mother was a frequent presence when the restaurant debuted. This familial touch extends to the service. Antipasti and appetiz- ers like the Tocho Morocho de la casa—the chef’s choice of five signa- ture tapas—are served family style in the center of the table, as if guests were dining at home. And entrée highlights like piquant Piccatine de Pollo (sautéed chicken breast with lime and parsley) and brochetas de camarón (grilled shrimp with zucchini and cherry tomatoes) are preceded by complimentary helpings of fresh focaccia. An old-fashioned black- board touts the restaurant’s wine selections, among which are tempera- ture-controlled bottles from top pro- ducers in Argentina, Italy, México, and the United States. There are also several excellent choices by the glass, and the dessert menu showcases deca- dent meal cappers like tiramisu and crème brûlée. Calle Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1386, www.invitabistro.com. Mon.–Sat. 5 p.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$ C.S.

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