What attracts people to this ranch-style house sitting in a dusty arroyo on the outskirts of Cabo San Lucas? Since La Casa de Don Juan opened in November 2014, people have flocked to the building that boasts a sign “Open for Breakfast 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.” Most mornings, the cars are three rows deep. Recently a sign was erected stating dinner was now being served. Curiosity won out on this particular evening and upon entering the charming multilevel house, I had what proved to be a delightful meal of traditional Mexican recipes in this family-run restaurant. Gonzalo Hoyas and his wife, Leticia, are the owners, while daughter Michele is the manager, and a grandson works the tables. Dining area options include a terrace, outdoor patio, and air-conditioned comfort. The dinner menu reads like a list of famous Mexican songs with titles like Besame Mucho (a delicious appetizer of mushrooms in olive oil with mild guajillo chile accompanied with hot corn tortillas). Perfidia is cold cucumber soup with a flavor of almonds. Entrées include Cien Años (a chicken breast with garlic and chipotle) as well as a pork leg with mild achiote sauce, ribs, and filet with cactus leaves. Beer, wine, and are tequila available. Transpeninsular service road just past City Express Hotel, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 105-9339. Sun., Tues.–Wed. 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Thurs.–Sat. 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5 p.m.–10 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$ S.A.B.
