With Invita Bistro, Italian-born chef Antonello Lauri lovingly invites guests to enjoy the sights and flavors of his homeland. The charming restaurant, which is located just across from the town square in Cabo San Lucas, features not only impressive scenes of the square’s gazebo but also views of the colorfully painted villas that cling to a Pedregal hillside and an enormous wine-themed painting from local artist Yandi Monardo.

Of course, the menu is the real star here. Lauri has collected an extraordinary highlight reel of sorts, with dishes made from his own family’s recipes. Salads come in two sizes, chica or grande; the small portion is sufficient for two, especially if followed by a tasting of the variety of dishes such as a soufflé de primavera made with veggies, béchamel, and Parmesan, or perhaps the restaurant’s signature dish: eggplant parmigiana. If you haven’t yet tried saltimbocca, this Roman specialty may become your favorite. Finely sliced beef is sprinkled with sage and topped with a thin slice of prosciutto, sautéed in butter, then braised in white wine. Dessert is a must: tiramisu, crème brûlée, or cannoli. Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1386, www.invitabistro.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$

Contact page in Los Cabos Guide: www.loscabosguide.com/invitabistro/