Los Cabos Magazine Issue #49 Spring 2018

Peak Cabo Tips for Traveling Solo Local Flavor

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Must-Visit Los Cabos Beaches

letter from the

PUBLISHER

¡Hola! It’s my great pleasure to welcome you to Los Cabos, a world-class destination known for its one-of-a-kind blend of natural wonders, excellent fishing conditions, fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant nightlife. In fact, it’s here at Land’s End that the best adventures begin.

This year Los Cabos Magazine turns 25 years old, and we’re thrilled to continue our tradition of celebrating Los Cabos while also providing readers—visitors, expats, and locals—with useful, up-to-date information that allows everybody to enjoy peak Cabo.

In this issue alone, you’ll find “The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching,” page 56; “The 5 Beaches You Have to Visit Right Now,” page 64; the five activities you can’t miss during Los Cabos’ busiest time of the year, page 70; a guide to enjoying a solo vacation, page 32; and our insider tips on exploring “Baja on a Budget,” page 74.

Of course, that’s not all you’ll find. No issue is complete without our must-read directory of activities, page 78, and our famous dining guide, page 96. This issue we’re also taking time out to salute the best appetizers in town in “2018’s Best Apps,” page 88.

Whether this is your first or 50th visit to Los Cabos, it’s always smart to keep an eye on the real estate scene…which is booming, by the way. We share the latest news you can use in “Recent Developments,” page 50. And, with tax season here, resident real estate expert Carol S. Billups shares the advice she picked up from a local tax expert in “Hey, Mr. Taxman,” page 48.

Want more info on Los Cabos? Follow our Facebook page (www.facebook .com/loscabosmagazine), where you can ask us questions and let us know about your favorite Los Cabos destinations.

ISSUE NUMBER 49 ­Publisher Joseph A. Tyson Executive Editor Ashley Alvarado Contributing Writers Julio Beltrán, Sandra A. Berry, Carol S. Billups, Michael Bobo, Beto Haro, Fernando Rodriguez, Antonio Vargas Proofreader Sandra A. Berry General Manager Lic. Perla Palomino Design Rogelio Pérez, Omar Valdez Sales Manager Lic. Diney Manríquez Sales Gabriela Carra, Cindy Espinoza Administration Gabriela Carra, Rogelio Tinajero Web Development Edgar Ruiz, Rebeca Valladares Photography Francisco Estrada, Sergio Martínez, Andrik Oechler, Oscar Ortíz, Rogelio Pérez, Hugo Román, Joseph A. Tyson, Brian Ulloa, Miguel Ventura

Edited and distributed by Publicaciones Turísticas Los Cabos S.A. de C.V. Calle Flor de Pitahaya Mza. 7, Lote 29, Fraccionamiento Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México 23473 Telephone...............011-52 (624) 143-1346 Vonage............................1 (800) 481-3905 Facsimile................011-52 (624) 143-2659 E-mail.............ventas1@loscabosguide.com

WWW.LOSCABOSMAGAZINE.COM USA MAILING ADDRESS Los Cabos Magazines, Inc. Tyson Promotions, Inc. 2215 Paseo de Las Americas, Suite 25-M-4 San Diego, CA 92154-7908 Telephone...........................(858) 569-0172 Facsimile............................(858) 333-7000 E-mail...........vouchers@loscabosguide.com Copyright ©2018 Los Cabos Magazines, Inc. Printed in Denver, Colorado, USA

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Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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S A F E T Y

This Is Our Home

Residents answer the question, How safe is Los Cabos?

By Sandra A. Berry

It’s a question I posed to friends I’ve known for years here in Los Cabos. I wanted to know how recent news about violence in the state has affected them as residents and frequent visitors, as well as the reactions of their friends and families.

wonderful people, beaches are clean and safe, and I’ve never been bothered or seen anything that would cause me to be apprehensive.”

“It is no different from living in the United States or Canada,” said Grace Suen, who is from Canada. “Los Cabos is as safe a place to live as anywhere. It doesn’t matter where we are, we need to keep our wits about us and exercise good judgment.”

When I connected with Barbara Smith, a 47-year Los Cabos resident who had just returned from Minnesota, she spoke about the stark contrast between reality and what she’d see on the news in the States. “Turning on TV, the first thing we would hear is how many murders had occurred in the city overnight. And these are citizens against citizens. The biggest problem in Los Cabos that I can think of is being accosted by a time-share [off-property] consultant.”

Rhoda Campbell has been coming down to Cabo for 16 years (she spends about half the year here). She said, “I have read about the happenings in Cabo, and it has not affected me at all. I’ve never had a problem. Mexicans are

No one likes to hear about crime in the neighborhood where they live, or where they plan to travel. But, let’s face it, crime happens in the best of neighborhoods worldwide. And, yes, in Los Cabos, too. We who live here

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FRANCISCO ESTRADA

How safe is Los Cabos?

S A F E T Y or travel here often are hoping the government will get a better handle on criminal activities, and we know there are steps being made in that direction. In the meantime, we live here, want our families and friends to come visit, and therefore we take necessary precautions.

At the time of this writing, there are no (repeat: no) U.S. government restrictions for travel in Baja California Sur, which includes tourist areas of Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo and La Paz. On January 10, 2018, the U.S. Department of State began a new campaign to share information with U.S. travelers to foreign countries to provide its citizens with reliable safety information worldwide. This new system will provide every country a travel advisory providing levels of advice ranging from 1 to 4, with Level 1 advising you exercise normal precautions and Level 4 advising against travel.

The majority of travel destinations worldwide have one of the above travel warnings. As of this same date, the entire country of México received a Level 2 advisory to exercise increased caution due to crime, including violent crime such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery. This advisory includes the state of Baja California (Baja California Sur’s neighbor to the north).

Criminal activity and violence remain an issue throughout that state.

While most homicides appear to be targeted, turf battles between crim-

inal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens.

When traveling anywhere, it’s common sense to take precautions. Use toll or main roads when possible and avoid driving at night. Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in case of an emergency.

Always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.

Despite bad press, tourism in Baja California Sur is thriving. The latest figures are in: The number of visitors this past holiday season did not go down. In Los Cabos, the Hotel Association is saying that occupancy levels exceeded those of last year.

Current estimates see occupancy of 72.5 percent, 4 points higher in 2017 than the previous year. Through November, the San José del Cabo International Airport received 2,227,900 flying passengers and those coming by cruise ships numbered 414,920.

The business community in Los Cabos is building a new military barracks it believes will help combat rising levels of violent crime. It has pledged $7.5 million U.S. toward the project, which will be turned over to the navy and will house 250 military personnel. The first stage of construction is expected to be completed by April. New sleeping quarters will provide better accommodation

LOS CABOS MAGAZINE, revista trimestral, edición número 49, abril 2018. Editado por: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V. Editor Responsable: Joseph Anthony Tyson Carlton. No. de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2005-062017021100-102. No. de Certificado de Licitud de Título: No. 13247. No. de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: 10820. Domicilio de la Publicación: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 29, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS, México, 23473. Impresor: Los Cabos Magazines Inc., 2215 Paseo de Las Americas, Suite 25-M-4 San Diego, CA 921547908. Tel. (858)-569-0172. Imprenta: Publication Printers Corp, 2001 S. Platte River Dr. Denver Colorado 80223. Tel. (303)-936-0303. Distribuidor: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V., Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 29, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México, 23473 Despacho.

for marines charged with supporting public security operations. The private sector, in collaboration with the navy, is currently seeking new cadets in México to transfer them to Los Cabos in the coming weeks.

It is unnerving to hear stories coming out of our generally safe and secure haven, but these stories are becoming more common—seemingly everywhere. These are frightening events that deserve attention. But they should also be put into context with what is going on in the United States, Canada, and around the world. We’ve been very lucky to not have had problems to the extent that other Mexican tourist destinations have had. Because of recent incidents of organized crime, we’ve had an influx of federal police, and we welcome them. They are here to help keep us safe.

Let’s face it. Where in the world is safe? We have to go about the business of living our lives, and Los Cabos is as safe or safer than many places elsewhere. What happens here gets blown out of proportion by the news media. Travel warnings are just that: warnings. We who live here do not like what is happening, but when I’m asked whether I am afraid of living in Los Cabos, my response is that I’m more fearful of storms that cause loss of life and property.

Come enjoy Los Cabos. Be aware of your surroundings, stay in tourist areas, and go about your vacation as intended. In other words, focus on having fun. Y

LOS CABOS MAGAZINE, published four times per year, issue number 49, April 2018. Published by: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V. Editor Responsible: Joseph Anthony Tyson. Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2005-062017021100-102.

Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: No. 13247. Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: 10820. Publication Address: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 29, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS, México, 23473. Printer: Los Cabos Magazines, Inc., 2215 Paseo de Las Americas, Suite 25-M-4 San Diego, CA 92154-7908. Tel. (858)-569-0172. Printed at: Publication Printers Corp, 2001 S. Platte River Dr. Denver Colorado, USA 80223, Tel. (303)-936-0303. Distributor: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V., Office: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 29, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México, 23473.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Spring 2018 LIFESTYLE

Vacation Goals

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The new entertainment district at Vidanta Los Cabos wows

By Ashley Alvarado

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Me Time 5 tips for traveling solo

Arts & Culture

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From Cabo San Lucas to San José and Todos Santos, the region is alive with creative displays worthy of your attention.

We’ll show you where to get your fill

By Sandra A. Berry

Checking In

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These Los Cabos hotels offer unique retreats so sweet that you’ll never want to check out

By Ashley Alvarado

REAL ESTATE Hey, Mr. Taxman

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We sit down with a U.S. tax expert to answer your real estate questions

On the Cover Location: Sea of Cortés, Cabo San Lucas

By Carol S. Billups

Recent Developments Catch up on the latest Los Cabos real estate news

By Carol S. Billups 12

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Photography: Francisco Estrada www.photomexico.com

FROM TOP: DAN KRAUSS; COURTESY HILTON LOS CABOS BEACH & GOLF RESORT; FRANCISCO ESTRADA; COURTESY DUARA

By Ashley Alvarado

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Spring 2018 OUTDOORS

The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching

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By Beto Haro

The 5 Cabo Beaches You Have to Visit Right Now

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Stop what you’re doing. It’s time to hit up some of the best beaches in Southern Baja

By Fernando Rodriguez

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Peak Cabo Baja on a Budget

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Everything you need to know to save big on your Los Cabos vacation

By Beto Haro

The Directory

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Your guide to Los Cabos activities

By Sandra A. Berry

D I N I N G 2018’s Best Apps The Los Cabos appetizers we can’t pass up

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By Beto Haro

The Dining Guide

M a p s

By Ashley Alvarado, Julio Beltrán, Sandra A. Berry, Michael Bobo, Dana McLoughlin, Fernando Rodriguez, and Antonio Vargas

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Downtown Cabo San Lucas.....................26 San José del Cabo.................................48 Cabo San Lucas.....................................54 Puerto Los Cabos...................................62 Downtown San José del Cabo.................86 Tourist Corridor..................................94-95 Overview, La Paz–East Cape–Los Cabos...128 Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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FROM TOP: OSCAR ORTÍZ; FRANCISCO ESTRADA; COURTESY WILD CANYON; COURTESY NICK-SAN; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

By Beto Haro

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Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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Talk of the Town JW Marriott Introduces ‘Best Brunch in Cabo’ Uá Culinary Artisans at the JW Marriott in San José del Cabo has introduced what it’s touting as “the Best Brunch in Cabo,” and the offerings are definitely impressive. There are food stations offering ceviche, sushi, salads, and Mexican fare indoors while on the lower patio are main course dishes like roasted prime rib, lobster, stuffed clams, roasted pork, and more. Bar items, including a variety of mimosas, are offered, as are desserts. Brunch is served Sundays 10 a.m.–4 p.m. for $50 U.S. per person. More info is available at www.marriott.com/sjdjw.

What started as a single-boat company in 2000 has grown into one of Los Cabos’ largest fleets focused primarily on what its crew loves best: fishing! The team behind Silverado Sportfishing believes there is nothing quite so thrilling as the experience of chasing and reeling in a catch. Nevertheless Silverado Sportfishing offers more than fishing trips—which are great; it also offers private charters, romantic sunset cruises, whale watching, snorkeling, and other personalized experiences. More information available at www.silveradosportfishing.com.

Entertainment District Debuts at Vidanta Los Cabos Already home to the Grand Mayan resort, Vidanta Los Cabos has unveiled a brand-new, world-class entertainment district. This joint venture between Grupo Vidanta and Hakkasan Group held its grand opening February 23–25, and it featured performances by international superstars Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki, and Zedd. The first four venues opening as part of this entertainment district are OMNIA Dayclub, chef Brian Malarkey’s Herringbone restaurant, the new Casa Calavera culinary concept, and SHOREbar. To learn more, visit www.vidanta.com.

John’s Place Is the Real Deal The downtown Cabo San Lucas spot John’s Place has a lot to recommend it: large-screen TVs (showing every major sporting event), a centralized location, and a kitchen that churns out dishes ranging from Italian pastas to Mexican-style seafood to Southern ribs. But it’s quite likely the popular lineup of daily and weekly specials that most sets this spot apart: Highlights include two-for-one deals on beers and margaritas, a two-forone on pastas, and the $4 U.S. Real Deal breakfast with three eggs, mixed fruit, potatoes, beans, toast, and bacon. More information is available at www.facebook.com/johnsplacecabo.

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FROM TOP: COURTESY JW MARRIOT LOS CABOS; COURTESY SILVERADOS; COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA; ROGELIO PÉREZ

Silverados Sportfishing Goes Beyond the Expected

Talk of the Town Mortgages for U.S. Citizens in México Now Available Global Mortgage has announced the availability of a 15-year fully amortized mortgage for U.S. buyers looking to purchase or leverage equity in an existing Mexican property. Designed with the U.S. consumer specifically in mind, Global Mortgage offers the same customer service, qualification, and lending process U.S. citizens are familiar with as well as all the requirements for doing business in México. The state-of-the-art software system streamlines the closing process, keeping the buyer, seller, and agents in the know every step of the way.

Global Mortgage is located in San José del Cabo, at Plaza Peninsula, on the third floor. For more information, visit www .globalmortgage.mx.

You don’t have to travel to the other side of the planet to enjoy the thrill of riding a camel through the desert.

Camel Quest—part of the popular eco-activities park Wild Canyon—offers visitors 4 and older the opportunity to journey through the El Tule oasis atop the impressive creatures, several of which have been trained especially for use with children. For more information, including how you can save on prepaid vouchers for Camel Quest, visit www.loscabosguide.com.

Yes, There Is Great Chinese in Los Cabos While the Los Cabos food scene is known for its concentration of excellent seafood, Japanese, and Italian restaurants, there has been a noticeable lack of high-end Chinese. That changed with the opening of Chin’s Cabo, which offers gourmet fare and a premier location at the Shoppes at Palmilla in San José del Cabo. Highlights at the Szechuan-style spot include spicy, pineapple-glazed shrimp; sweet-and-sour pork; and curry chicken. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ChinsCabo.

Discover Koral Center, the Place That Has It All With a prime location on the tourist corridor, thoughtful concept, and high-quality design, Koral Center is a place where people can meet and find everything they need to feel good. It’s a place that within one complex can serve all the needs of a community, ranging from the most basic to more sophisticated demands. More information is available at www.koralcenter.com.mx/en.

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FROM TOP: COURTESY GLOBAL MORTGAGE; COURTESY WILD CANYON; JOSEPH A. TYSON; COURTESY KORAL CENTER

Ride a Camel…in Cabo

www. event slosc a bos .co m

E V E N T S

Beach Party

Just in time for spring break, the Vidanta Los Cabos debuted its brand-new OMNIA Dayclub on February 22. It was a four-day celebration that also hailed the arrival of three other Vidanta Los Cabos venues: Herringbone restaurant, 22

the new Casa Calavera culinary concept, and SHOREbar. And there was no shortage of star power: International superstars Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki, and Zedd all performed over the course of the multiday event.

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

For those not in the know, Vidanta Los Cabos is home to the exquisite Grand Mayan resort, which features some of the most stunning architecture and vistas in Los Cabos.

Think triple-tiered pools, ultra-luxe accommodations, and on-site spa.

COURTESY VIDANTA LOS CABOS

OMNIA Dayclub rocks opening weekend at Vidanta Los Cabos

E V E N T S

www. event slosc a bos .co m

The addition of the entertainment district raises the bar for resorts not only in Los Cabos but around the world.

You can get an entire photo tour of the entertainment district—a joint venture of Grupo Vidanta and Hakkasan Group—in this issue of Los Cabos Magazine. See “Vacation Goals” on page 28.

In the meantime, let’s talk about that celebration, which kicked off Thursday, February 22, with an open invitation to party. Revelers snapped photos in front of an orange step-and-repeat and enjoyed the evening mixing and mingling with local tastemakers.

Zedd took over the entertainment reins on Saturday, February 24. Then it was all eyes on hit maker DJ Calvin Harris, who performed the closing night.

For more photos of the parties, visit www.loscabosguide.com.

Vidanta Los Cabos is located at Boulevard San José S/N Lote 12 Campo de Golf in San José del Cabo. For more information, visit www.vidanta.com. For information specific to OMNIA DayClub, visit www.omnialoscabos.com. Y 24

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From top: DJ Steve Aoki showed off his craft February 23; Zedd and Aoki pose on the red carpet.

COURTESY VIDANTA LOS CABOS (2)

World-renowned DJ Steve Aoki wowed crowds on Friday, February 23, with a show that was preceded by a red carpet featuring VIP guests, musicians, models, and local dignitaries. It was also covered by domestic and international media outlets.

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© 2018 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA

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Talk about gilding the lily. Vidan-

ta Los Cabos—home to the exquisite Grand Mayan resort—already features some of the most stunning architecture and vistas in the region, with triple-tiered pools, ultra-luxe accommodations, and an on-site spa so indulgent it would make Oprah whimper. And now it has introduced a world-class entertainment district that promises to change the way people experience Los Cabos.

The district—a joint venture of Grupo Vidanta and Hakkasan Group—knows how to make a splash. The grand opening weekend February 23–25 included performances by international superstars Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki, and Zedd. It was a celebration worthy of the first four venues to open: OMNIA Dayclub, Herringbone restaurant, the new Casa Calavera culinary concept, and SHOREbar.

COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA

Didn’t score an invite to the exclusive festivities? Fear not, here we offer a visual tour of the new venues, which were designed by the renowned architectural firm Rockwell Group.

OMNIA Dayclub Billed as “the ultimate party destination,” the OMNIA Dayclub is the perfect allday beachfront escape. In addition to a sparkling central pool, there’s a mix of poolside VIP areas and two-story VIP bungalows complete with their own private infinity plunge pools and chaise lounges. Weekdays, you’ll enjoy peak relaxation poolside. Then, come the weekend, it’s all about creating an allday party vibe featuring internationally recognized DJs spinning. Learn more at www.omnialoscabos.com.

Casa Calavera An original concept from Hakkasan Group, Casa Calavera was designed to reflect its Los Cabos location. Think Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Herringbone restaurant at Vidanta Los Cabos offers a coastal chic vibe.

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COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA (2)

meets the beach. Located next to the OMNIA Dayclub, Casa Calavera features that same laidback vibe and weekend party theme. The aesthetic is Mexican to its core, with an openair design, Mexican tilework, handcrafted wooden furniture, and more.

The menu—both when it comes to plates and cocktails—honors México’s rich culinary traditions. Expect tableside guacamole, elotes, margaritas, mojitos, and tacos galore. Learn more at casacalavera.com.

COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA (2)

Herringbone Food Network favorite Brian Malarkey—a veteran of Top Chef and The Taste—introduced the “fish meats field” concept restaurant Herringbone first in the United States, with locations in La Jolla, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, and Waikiki. Now he’s bringing the first-ever international installment to Los Cabos and Vidanta. The theme here is “California Coastal Cuisine,” and visitors can expect creations like tuna tartar with tomato-ginger salsa and Buffalo octopus, plus a daily oyster bar featuring innovative, seafood-forward dishes. It’s a seamless marriage of culinary creativity and locally sourced ingredients. Learn more at www.herringboneeats.com.

SHOREbar The eye-catching open-air pavilion will own your Instagram feed with its curved thatched roof and statement-making pendant lighting fixtures.

The otherwise casual spot overlooks one of the Grand Mayan’s main pools, the perfect venue for enjoying one of the bar’s yummy and potent cocktails.

Hungry? There’s a vintage van parked at SHOREbar that offers a menu of small bites and shareables. Learn more at www.shorebarloscabos.com.

Opposite page, from top: A look inside Casa Calavera; the lovely exterior of Herringbone. This page, from top: SHOREbar offers stunning design and delicious drinks; the bar at Herringbone is at once chic and relaxed.

Vidanta Los Cabos is located at Boulevard San José S/N Lote 12 Campo de Golf in San José del Cabo. For more information, visit www.vidanta.com. Y

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L I F E S T Y L E

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

By Ashley Alvarado

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Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

L I F E S T Y L E Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time we get one thing straight— one is not, in fact, the loneliest number.

While the idea of getting dinner or catching a movie alone may still cause your blood pressure to spike, we’re here to propose an even bigger adventure: a solo vacation to Los Cabos.

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If your life looks anything like mine, it’s becoming a near-impossible feat to align vacation schedules with your nearest and dearest. And sometimes, if we’re being honest, all you crave is a little alone time. Well, here’s your chance to have the highest-quality “me time” of your lifetime—especially when you follow these five handy tips.

Get booking

COURTESY LOS RISCOS RESTAURANT

Whatever your travel preferences, you’ll find a Los Cabos hotel that matches your needs. Located along the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Tesoro Los Cabos (www.tesororesorts.com) offers lovely views of the bay in addition to easy access to all of the city’s biggest attractions: Médano Beach, Land’s End, restaurants, nightlife, and more. This trip is all about treating yourself, and at Tesoro you can indulge in a fullbody treatment at its on-site Aura spa. Hacienda Encantada (www.haciendaencantada.com) is an idyllic retreat that boasts spectacular views of the Southern Baja coastline as well as stellar restaurants like Los Riscos. All of the 20-plus treatments offered at its private Petite Spa Suites are designed to nourish the body, mind, and spirit. It’s just what the doctor ordered.

Why share this view from Los Riscos when you can have it all to yourself?

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L I F E S T Y L E

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Embrace your inner foodie

There are not enough days in the year to enjoy all the incredible food offerings in Los Cabos, which range from innovative sushi at Nick-San (www.nicksan.com) to Indian home cooking at Namaste (www.namasteindiacabo.com), teppanyaki at Daikoku (http://daikoku.com.mx), and diverse and excellent interpretations of Mediterranean and Mexican pretty much everywhere. By traveling solo, you’re cutting your meal expenses significantly…and that means you can afford to splurge! Want to make your pesos stretch even further? Consider checking out your favorite restaurants’ lunchtime options and make sure to explore the Los Cabos Magazine prepaid voucher program (www.loscabos guide.com/discounts).

2 5 3 Ditch your comfort zone

What’s the best part of traveling solo? Doing things you’d be too terrified or embarrassed to do when traveling with friends or family. Fortunately, Los Cabos offers a plethora of such opportunities. Sing your favorite Britney Spears tune at Arre Mango (www.arremango.com.mx), a favorite karaoke spot downtown. Zip hundreds of feet in the air at Wild Canyon (www.wildcanyon.com.mx); you can also bungee jump and do other gravity-defying activities at this premier eco-park. Speaking of defying gravity, you can do just that and embrace your inner superhero with Cabo Flyboard (www.caboflyboard.com).

Make new friends aboard Cabo Escape’s floating nightclub.

Make new friends

Be smart

A solo vacation doesn’t mean you can’t make new friends. In fact, your solo status can make getting reservations for Los Cabos’ hottest activities even easier—and more economical. Grab a spot on Cabo Escape’s famous floating nightclub (www.wildcabotours.com/cabo-escape-tours), or book a trip out on a Sun Rider (www.sunridertours.com) whale watching tour. At Dolphin Discovery (www.dolphindis covery.com), you can get some quality one-on-one time with playful dolphins at the state-of-the-art facility in San José del Cabo. It’s a supportive space that allows the animals to enjoy their natural habitat while you get to make memories for a lifetime. Prefer dry land? The phenomenal Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpeditions.com.mx) has launched three new guided “land tours”: Faro Viejo (the old lighthouse), Country Experience (including a horseback tour of the San José del Cabo estuary), and Parietal Paintings (a look at the prehistoric paintings around Los Cabos).

Wherever your solo travels may take you, there are certain safety precautions that will serve you well. Make copies of your passport, and keep one in your suitcase. Give a second copy to a loved one at home. Share your itinerary with friends and family, too, and plan times to check in. Many hotels offer high-speed internet, as do several restaurants.

When out for coffee, take a moment to ask for the Wi-Fi password. Stay connected and stay alert. This is a chance to indulge—but don’t overindulge to the point that you’ll make poor decisions. And it’s never a good idea—no matter where you are—to flaunt jewelry or cash, to get involved in illegal activities, or to be out alone late at night in an unfamiliar setting.

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Follow these fun tips, and you’re guaranteed the solo trip of a lifetime! Y

FROM LEFT: COURTESY WILD CANYON; COURTESY WILD CABO TOURS

What’s the best part of traveling solo? Doing things you’d be too terrified or embarrassed to do when traveling with friends or family.

JOSEPH A. TYSON

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L I F E S T Y L E

Arts & Culture

From Cabo San Lucas to San JosĂŠ and Todos Santos, the region is alive with creative displays worthy of your attention. We show you where to get your fill

DAN KRAUSS

By Sandra A. Berry

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L I F E S T Y L E

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os Cabos’ modern history starts shortly after World War II. According to local lore, the area became known to a group of California movie stars who discovered the seas surrounding the Baja Peninsula were teeming with fish. Because there were no roads, they brought their yachts or flew their private plans to this still-remote region.

FROM TOP: COURTESY SAN JOSE DEL CABO ART WALK; COURTESY PEZ GORDO GALERIA

It wasn’t long after that ex-U.S. air force pilot Luis Coppola built Hotel Finisterra. Spaniard Luis Bulnes quickly followed with Hotel Solmar. The transpeninsular highway was completed in 1974, and it was a game changer that connected Southern Baja to the rest of North America in a meaningful way. The international airport expanded in 1986, and Los Cabos was soon after established as the marlin capital of the world.

People came to fish, golf, relax, and invest.

As the Los Cabos community has grown, so too has the arts and culture scene. The community has its own culture, one that draws on ancient history and international influences. The long-running Thursday-night Art Walk in San José del Cabo (www.artcabo.com) is one driver of the continued development of live music, artisanal crafts, theater, and dance in Los Cabos. It runs weekly November through May. The event has become an exemplary experience for locals and visitors, socially and culturally. More than a dozen galleries participate, among them standouts such as Galeria de Ida Victoria, a three-level space that houses original works from local international artists. Another is the working studio of abstract painter and sculptor Frank Arnold, whose work is in private and corporate collections worldwide.

Los Cabos is home to an unexpected and diverse arts and culture scene. Opposite page: Gala de Danza. This page, from top: San José del Cabo Art Walk; Pez Gordo art gallery.

Beyond San José del Cabo, you’ll find Pez Gordo Galeria (www.pezgor doloscabos.com) in the Shoppes at Palmilla; it represents more than 40 artists from Los Cabos, greater México, and South America. Anoth-

er venue showcasing artists is at the high-end Luxury Avenue boutique shopping center (www.luxuryave nue.com) adjacent to Puerto Paraiso on the Cabo San Lucas Marina. It features the works of Yandi Monar-

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The longest-running showcase of local art is the East Cape Festival de Artes (www.eastcapearts.com), which is held in Los Barriles each spring. It marks its 25th anniversary in 2018, and the event will support 14 community schools with art and educational supplies. It’s a happening festival with plenty of food, music, and many local artists displaying and selling their work.

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A new cultural attraction is Viva la Plaza in Amelia Wilkes Plaza in downtown Cabo San Lucas every Friday night, 5 p.m.–9 p.m. It fea-

tures music by famous vocalists such as Luna Itzel. Others featured include opera singers, jazz musicians, dancers, and diverse musical groups.

From top: The East Cape Festival de Artes is the region’s longest-running showcase of local art; the weekly Viva La Plaza event features local artisans.

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

FROM TOP: COURTESY EAST CAPE FESTIVAL DE ARTES; SERGIO MARTÍNEZ

do, who for many years searched to generate space for culture and the arts as a platform for different artists and creators involved in the spirit of the development of Baja California Sur. His search paid off. He achieved permanence and consolidation of one of the most relevant projects in the promotion of art in Los Cabos in the corridors of Luxury Avenue, where there are pieces with different techniques and whose assembly and presentation are worthy of a museum.

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L I F E S T Y L E You’ll also find vintage crafts, food, and pieces by Mexican artisans.

There are many traditional religious holidays throughout the year that are celebrated all over México, and that includes in Los Cabos. The holiday season here, for example, runs from the Feast of Our Lady Guadalupe on December 12 through Three Kings Day on January 6 and Candlemas Day on February 2.

The Artists Open Studio Tour in Todos Santos is a two-day event held in February when visitors are able to see artists in their studios to learn about their respective creative processes and to purchase their art. Participating artists include painters, sculptors, photographers, muralists, air painters, jewelers, print makers, collage artists, potters, and wood turners. Proceeds benefit the Palapa Society of Todos Santos’ Children’s Art Program.

The Todos Santos Film Festival (www.filmfreeway.com) is held annually in February and features top films from México, Spain, and Latin America—all in Spanish with English subtitles. In addition, there is a film school—Escuela de Cine de Leonardo Perel—in which classes are taught and work is done on films for the Festival and to be seen at other festivals.

The school’s film La Ahorcadita won 40

From top: The Art Walk in San José del Cabo has become a favorite weekly event, not only for the art but also for the opportunity to check out local restaurants. Gala de Danza returns to Los Cabos in March.

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

FROM TOP: ANDRIK OECHLER; DAN KRAUSS

Just an hour’s drive from Los Cabos is Todos Santos, an artists colony that has been named a pueblo mágico. It offers many cultural events throughout the year, beginning with the Tropic of Cancer Concert Series (www. tropicofcancerconcertseries.mx) in January. Hosted by the rock-n-roll band Cordovas, the concert series gathers local and nationally touring musical acts for two weekends of music, and art with proceeds going to the local fire department. The line-up of musicians includes La Santa Cecilia, Joan Osborne, Julie Roberts, Steve Poltz, the Jaz, and many more.

The Art Walk in San José del Cabo allows visitors to explore the works of local and international artists.

best Mexican short documentary in the Mexican International Documentary Film Festival in 2013.

This March, we enjoyed a spectacular weekend experience of fashion, architecture, music, and dance at Gala De Danza (www.galadedanza.com) at Viceroy Los Cabos in San José del Cabo.

The Baja food and wine festival known as Gastro Vino Fiesta (www.gastrovino.mx) is held in May in Todos Santos with a three-day event featuring wine, food, and music.

ANDRIK OECHLER

Authentic handmade pottery can be found in many shops in Los Cabos such as Cobalto Pottery (www.cobaltotiles .com), which has beautiful handmade ceramic kitchenware, tiles, as well as woven handbags. Jewelry creation and design is another expression of local art and especially sought after at Indira Gems (www.jewelry designerscabo.com) in San José del Cabo. Each piece is inspired from history.

For more on the history of the region, the Museo de Historia Natural in Cabo San Lucas gives visitors an introductory course, albeit in Spanish, on the area’s native Pericú people, while showcasing fossils and archaeological finds.

Learn even more info at our sister site, www.loscabos guide.com. Y Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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ith its gorgeous beaches, stunning natural wonders, countless adventures, and an average temperature of 77 degrees, Los Cabos is a world-class destination that continues to invest heavily in creating and maintaining the tourism infrastructure to delight the roughly 2 million visitors who arrive each year. The accommodations that line the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula offer a host of experiences, catering to guests’ unique preferences and budgets.

Here we highlight a handful of our favorites.

Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort A household name, the Hilton resort in Los Cabos nevertheless offers unexpected levels of indulgence to travelers seeking luxury, familiarity, and new adventures.

Stay: Enjoy the best of two worlds when you opt for La Vista Club, the collection of 65 guest rooms on the top floors of the Hilton Los Cabos. You’ll enjoy a boutique experience— concierge service, exclusive pool area with butler service, daily pressing of garments, Salvatore Ferragamo bath amenities, silk bathrobes, and more—along with the grandeur that comes with the larger resort. And, at the La Vista Club Lounge, you’ll enjoy breakfasts from the on-site El Meson restaurant, poolside snacks, and a social hour complete with hors d’oeuvres, wine, and spirits.

Eat: There are several on-site dining options, including the formidable Azul bar, but we’re partial to Vela, which fuses refined Italian dishes with locally sourced ingredients and inspiration. Try the Oaxacan mole linguini or the corn risotto made with chile de árbol.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY HILTON LOS CABOS; PATRICIA SANTES

Do: You don’t want to miss the extraordinary opportunity to experience the hatching of the Olive Ridley sea turtle. From

late July to early November, hundreds of sea turtles climb the beach that lines the Hilton Los Cabos to find the perfect place to dig nests and lay eggs. Once these eggs hatch, you get to enjoy watching adorable, tiny sea turtles march toward the water. The Hilton Los Cabos has received certification from Semarnat & Profepa environment agency and is recognized as a partner is protecting the turtles during this crucial period.

Learn more at www.hiltonloscabos.com

Tesoro Los Cabos Located right on the Cabo San Lucas Marina, the expansive Tesoro Los Cabos offers unparalleled access to the city as well as fishing and water activities.

Stay: Tesoro offers deluxe marina view rooms, junior suites, and master suites from which to choose. Before you book, make sure to visit the Tesoro resorts website for offers. As of press time, it offered from 35–50 percent discounts on rates for travel March 1 through the end of 2018.

Eat: The revamped menu at the marina-front LightHouse eatery is delightful. With ladies´ night on Wednesdays and live music on Friday and Saturday nights, this beautiful place comes to life. It’s also the perfect spot to people watch and have breakfast on the marina.

Do: Party poolside right above the marina at Tesoro’s popular SkyPool and its hot tubs. You’ll love the cocktail lineup, especially when paired with stellar marina views, and the Vista Roof Cuisine.

Learn more at www.tesororesorts.com

Los Cabos hotels are home to some of the region’s best restaurants, including El Meson (left) and Light House Bistro (right).

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L I F E S T Y L E Hacienda Encantada Here’s a one-of-a-kind, family-owned resort that honors the traditions of Mexican cuisine, culture, and architecture while keeping guest experience top of mind.

Stay: The Hacienda Encantada amenities were designed with traveling families in mind. The 2,200-squarefoot, two-bedroom presidential suite can accommodate up to eight people and can be reserved separately or as part of a package that includes airfare.

Do: The on-site spa offers one of the most expansive experience menus we have ever seen, and it warrants multiple visits during your stay. Start with the signature massage meant to fight off jet lag and any associated eye puffiness. Come back for the seaweed body treatment that includes a full-body sea salt exfoliation.

Learn more at www.haciendaencanta da.com

Vidanta Los Cabos The resort and entertainment district features the Grand Mayan, as well as the brand-new OMNIA Dayclub, Herringbone restaurant, Casa Calavera culinary concept, and SHOREbar.

You know you’re in paradise at these Los Cabos resorts. From top: Hacienda Encantada, Vidanta Los Cabos.

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Stay: The palatial Grand Mayan offers modern, luxurious accommodations.

If you’re traveling with family, opt for the two-bedroom master suite, which accommodates up to six adults and two children and features a Jacuzzi tub.

There’s even a private plunge pool.

FROM TOP: COURTESY HACIENDA ENCANTADA; COURTESY HAKKASAN GROUP VIDANTA.

Eat: A great perk for guests is Hacienda Encantada’s all-inclusive dineout program, through which people can enjoy meals at both the on-site restaurants and the Marina Golden Zone spots along the Cabo San Lucas Marina.

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The Café des Artistes restaurant at JW Marriott offers an exquisite culinary experience.

Eat: The brand-new Herringbone restaurant from Brian Malarkey expertly marries his signature California coastal cuisine with the ingredients and sensibility of Los Cabos.

Do: Treat yourself to day-to-night fun at the OMNIA Dayclub, which offers laid-back relaxation weekdays and DJ-driven parties come the weekend.

Learn more at www.vidanta.com

JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa This San José del Cabo resort has everything you could wish for: lush beach access, 18-hole golf course, exquisite dining, and a spa that’ll spoil you for life back home.

Stay: You’ll find luxurious accommodations in every room at the JW Marriott, but for the ultimate splurge, opt for the ocean-front Luxury Umey. The gorgeous suite offers a king bed, separate living room, and, most importantly, private and exceptional ocean views.

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Eat: Renowned chef Thierry Blouet has outdone himself with the on-site Café des Artistes, which showcases exceptional design and accentuates Mexican fine dining with French influences.

Available 1/3

Do: Your biggest challenge at the JW Marriott may be choosing between a round of golf on the Jack Nicklausand Greg Norman-designed 18-hole course and a trip to the Jasha Spa, where you can enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, couple’s massages, and more. Time and budget permitting, do both!

Learn more at www.marriott.com Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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Choose your own adventure at Los Cabos hotels. Clockwise from top: a rendering of the OMNIA Dayclub at Vidanta Los Cabos; a spa treatment at Hacienda Encantada; and family time in the pool at Hilton Los Cabos.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY HAKKSAN GROUP VIDANTA; COURTESY HACIENDA ENCANTADA; COURTESY HILTON LOS CABOS

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Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar The Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar has a long, respected history in Los Cabos. Located just six miles from downtown Cabo San Lucas, it offers spacious rooms, breathtaking ocean views, and excellent spa and dining experiences.

Stay: Very few rooms accommodate so many people as the Virreyes Suite, which sleeps 10. Looking for a romantic getaway, opt for the deluxe room, which blends modern comforts and traditional Mexican design.

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Eat: There are several great restaurants at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar, but chef Volker Romeike’s Pitahayas is a standout. Dine on innovative dishes that blend Asian influences and local ingredients for dishes like carnitas lumpia and grilled octopus marinated in yuzu and soy sauce.

Do: The little ones will love the Adventure Kids Club, where children 4–11 can spend an hour or the day, playing and exploring.

Learn more at: www.sheratonhacien dadelmar.com Y

Chef Volker Romeike’s Pitahayas is a standout at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar.

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© 2018 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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R E A L E S T A T E R E A L E S T A T E

Hey, Mr. Taxman

We sit down with a U.S. tax expert to answer your real estate questions

By Carol S. Billups. Photos by Francisco Estrada

B

enjamin Franklin said it best: “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

But if you’re a U.S. citizen who owns property in México, those certain taxes can feel quite confusing. And, in fact, you may need to file information about your México property on your U.S. taxes.

Luckily, I know an expert who is my go-to resource when clients have questions about their U.S. tax reporting responsibility. Don D. Nelson is a U.S. tax attorney and certified public accountant who has specialized in tax issues for expatriates for more than 35 years. He is considered the foremost authority on U.S. tax issues involving Mexican real estate. We posed four scenarios to Nelson, all true situations involving real clients. Here is his advice to them.

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“Help! We’ve owned a house in Cabo for five years and never mentioned it on our taxes.

We just changed accountants, and the new one says we should have. She says we may be in big trouble and face huge fines for failing to report it.”

The forms you will need to file, if any at all, depend largely on how you use your Los Cabos home or residence. If you own a house or condominium exclusively for your own personal use, the paperwork is minimal. Your home is not considered as asset as it is not producing income.

Americans who own property within 50 kilometers of the ocean must hold it in a trust that is known as a fideicomiso and established with a Mexican bank. As a rule, offshore trusts are of interest to the Internal Revenue Service,

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which requires strict reporting on the trusts. But in 2014, the IRS issued a summary judgment stating that for the purposes of taxation, a fideicomiso is not considered a trust as there is no income involved. Translation: It is no longer necessary to file forms 3520 and 3520A (beneficiaries of a foreign trust). Your tax return will only be affected if you deduct the property tax you pay in México or the interest from a mortgage on the property.

“We’re buying a condo and plan to rent it out when we’re not using it. Our realtor keeps bugging us to consult a tax adviser. Why?” Many U.S. citizens who own in México rent their properties out when they are not using the homes themselves. That situation triggers tax issues on both sides of the border. On the U.S. side, you will need to use form 1040 Schedule E to report income or loss and expenses.

You will work with a Mexican firm to pay tax on your rental income; you will collect and pass through both IVA (sales) tax and the lodging tax.

You will report your Mexican taxes paid on the income on form 1116, which will allow you to use that amount as credit toward taxes owed in the United States. If the property is owned in a Mexican corporation, you must file form 5471 with your personal income tax return and the net income from the property may or may not be subject to U.S. income tax. You may also be eligible to take certain deductions concerning the property, including trips to inspect or repair the condo.

“I purchased a house via a ‘presale’ contract. I made a deposit of 30 percent of the purchase price this year, but the house won’t be delivered for 18

An inside look at one of the homes within the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Los Cabos.

months. When do my tax obligations kick in?”

This could be construed as a foreign financial asset if the funds are on deposit in a foreign financial account.

If the amount of the deposit exceeds $10,000 U.S. when combined with your other foreign financial accounts, it needs to be reported on form 1114 in order to avoid a potential penalty of $10,000 U.S. or more. If the amount is high enough and depending on whether you live in México or the United States, it might have to be reported on form 8938 to avoid the same large penalty. Form 1114 (FBAR) is filed online only, and the 8938 is filed with your personal tax return.

“I’m selling my house, and the real estate agent says I’ll owe taxes even though I’m not making anything on it. Why?” You would think everyone is happy when the exchange rate goes up: You get more pesos for your dollar.

But if you are selling your property, a high exchange rate works against you. Because the sale is recorded in México in pesos, on paper it appears you made a large profit even if in dollars you are only breaking even.

The good news is the tax you will be

charged on the profit in pesos is considered income tax, the same as if you paid it on wages earned in México.

Just as in the case of rental income, you will report it on form 1116 and may use that amount as a direct tax credit on your personal return.

As you can see, the issues involving your U.S. tax return are complex, and you are always encouraged to consult with an accountant or other tax adviser. For more information, you may want to contact Nelson or visit his website, www.taxmeless .com. He can also be reached via email at ddnelson@gmail.com. His accounting firm, Kauffman Nelson, LLC, specializes in income tax preparation for U.S. expatriates and U.S. residents with foreign assets. You will be able to relax and enjoy your Los Cabos retreat that much more knowing that all the paperwork has been done, and done properly. Y Carol Billups is broker-owner of Cabo Realty Pros, a full-service real estate firm in Cabo San Lucas. After more than 17 years, she still loves working with clients to find the perfect property and buy it safely. She can be reached by email at carolbillups@hotmail .com or by phone at 044-624-147-7541 in Cabo or 760-481-7694 from the United States or Canada. You can search the entire multiple-listing service inventory for free on her website www.caborealtypros.com.

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Recent Develo p ments Catch up on the latest Los Cabos real estate news

By Carol S. Billups

The first home in Coronado (www.quiviraloscabos.com) has been delivered to owners, and the developer is moving ahead with building additional properties in this exclusive gated golf community within the larger master-planned Quivira community. Located on the Pacific coast just north of Cabo San Lucas, Coronado features elegant, custom single-story hacienda-style homes with high-end features and finishes.

All Coronado homes feature excellent ocean views. Coronado owners have access to all of Quivira’s common amenities, including an award-winning golf club, beach club, and the Good Life amenity package that promotes social activities, organic markets, classes, and a wine-making facility. Coronado homes are priced from $1.7 to $2.5 million U.S. with several developer-financing options, including zero percent interest mortgages. A MLS-BCS agent can arrange a private tour of Coronado, the clubhouses, and the new on-site model home as well an opportunity to experience the golf course.

Paraiso Residences Will Offer Marina Living Currently under construction—delivery of homes is scheduled for early 2018—the condominiums of the Paraiso Residences (www.theparaisoresidences.com) will offer a sophis52

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ticated downtown option above the Puerto Paraiso shopping and dining center. These homes have beautiful views of the marina and will offer owners easy walking access to Cabo San Lucas’s finest restaurants, clubs, shopping, and, of course, the activities centered on the marina. The residences will include concierge service, private elevator entry, terraces with marina views, fitness center, bar, rental program and property management, swimming pools and gated parking. Prices start less than $500,000 U.S., and the developer is offering a financing package. See an MLS-BCS agent for more details.

Exciting Developments Along Tourist Corridor The tourist corridor—the roughly 20-mile stretch between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas—is home to some of Los Cabos’ most luxurious real estate. Among the higher-priced properties, though, there is a selection of very affordable homes. The portion of the tourist corridor that is closer to Cabo San Lucas is popular with retirees, snowbirds, and full-time residents who appreciate the beautiful ocean views this area provides and value the proximity to services and town. At press time, there were approximately 200 houses and condominiums offered on the multiple-listing service in this area: a mix of existing proper-

COURTESY DUARA

Coronado Moving Ahead

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ties and presales of planned projects.

The popularity of the area has made purchasing a contract for an as-yet-unbuilt property appealing to many buyers, especially those who are planning an eventual relocation to Los Cabos.

COURTESY COPALA AT QUIVIRA LOS CABOS

Solaria Los Cabos (www.solariaca bo.com), a tourist corridor condominium complex only minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, was recently introduced to the real estate community.

The developer describes Solaria as a low-density gated community of twoand three-bedroom units with highend finishes and GE Profile appliances.

Ground-floor units may come with an optional private plunge pool. All units will have the option to add individual water purification systems, hot tubs, and furniture packages. A clubhouse will offer residents two swimming pools, a spa, a restaurant, and a fitness club. Outdoors there will be gardens, fire pits, a tennis court, and a children’s playground.

Pre-construction prices start at about $300,000 U.S. with developer-financing for up to 10 years after purchase.

Progress continues at the master-planned Quivira community in Los Cabos.

of the first three towers are under way, with prices starting about $300,000 U.S. with financing packages from zero percent with payments spread throughout the construction phase to a 12-year

option at 7 percent. Seven towers are planned in all, with two- and three-bedroom floor plans. A club house, pool, “linear park,” and event spaces will be offered in the common areas. Y

Duara (www.duaraloscabos.mx) is a new development of condominiums and single-family homes, offered “mainland style” without kitchens, closets, or air conditioners. That allows new owners to customize the interior spaces. The amenities planned for the clubhouse include an infinity pool, fire pit, gym, children’s play area, and deli. Pre-construction contracts start at about $200,000 U.S. for condominiums and $250,000 U.S. for single-family homes.

Tramonti Los Cabos (www.tramonti loscabos.com) is a new development that recently broke ground for the building of ultramodern ocean-view condominiums on the tourist corridor.

Although located outside Quivira, these units are offered by the developer of Coronado and Copala, which means owners here will be eligible to join the Quivira golf club. Pre-construction sales

From top Quivira Golf Club, & Copala.

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© 2018JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

O U T D O O R S

The Ultimate Guide to

Whale Watching

OSCAR ORTĂ?Z

By Beto Haro

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O U T D O O R S

A

-list celebrity sightings are nothing new in Los Cabos, where luxe resorts and world-class dining are known to attract stars like Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney, and Justin Beiber. But there are no bigger stars than the ones who make their much-anticipated first appearance of the year every winter and stay only through early spring.

Of course, we’re talking about whales.

Los Cabos is rightfully recognized as one of the world’s best destinations for whale watching; humans aren’t the only ones to enjoy the region’s bountiful seas and great wintertime temps.

Whale watching season kicked off mid-December and typically lasts until early or mid-April. This is when whales—like many a snowbird—make the journey thousands of miles south from the freezing north Pacific. Known as the “aquarium of the world,” the Sea of Cortés boasts an impressive biodiversity that means you can spot all kinds of marine mammals, from the largest on Earth—the giant 100-foot blue whale—to the petite vaquita, a rare type of porpoise that is endemic to the northern part of the Sea of Cortés, measures about three-anda-half feet, and weighs just over 100 pounds.

Nevertheless, the whales you’re most likely to see are the humpback whales.

OSCAR ORTÍZ (2)

These whales come to Los Cabos with a long to-do list: They’re here to mate, give birth, and feed on the region’s rich marine life.

Over the next several pages, we hope you will enjoy our guide to not only whale watching options but to the whales you’ll get to observe.

Cabo Expeditions offers a one-of-a-kind sunset whale watching tour (top) as well as excellent daytime viewing (bottom).

But, first, a quick note about whales and how they can actually be divided into two groups: those with teeth (orcas and sperm whales are exam-

ples) and those with baleen (filter feeders like humpbacks). The filter feeders eat plankton, krill, tiny crustaceans, and schools of small fish.

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O U T D O O R S

Let’s start with the companies that offer whale watching in Los Cabos: Buccaneer Queen/Cabo Legend: Take a trip back in history to imagine how pirates observed the mighty and majestic sea creatures. There’s no whale hunting involved; just plenty of fun, drinks, and good food. To learn more, go to www.wildcabotours.com.

Cabo Expeditions: This leader in eco-friendly adventures offers whale watching tours on small, speedy boats known 58

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as Zodiacs (similar to what Navy Seals use) that feature hydrophones so guests can hear the whales. Groups are limited to 15 or fewer people per boat. For a really unique experience, opt for the sunset whale watching tour. Learn more at www.caboexpedtions.com.mx.

Cabo Mar/Pez Gato/Tropicat: This popular trio of catamarans offers sunset and snorkel cruises throughout the year, and the high-quality experience people have come to expect is what you’ll discover during its whale watching tours, too. To learn more, visit www.pezgato.com.

COURTESY CABO LEGEND

Imagine you’re a pirate as you check out the magnificent creatures from aboard Cabo Legend.

O U T D O O R S

Special Zodiac boats allow you to get up-close views of whales.

Cabo Rey: Each spring, you can enjoy the all-you-caneat breakfast and whale watching tour atop the three-level Cabo Rey. Ask about the discount for kids. To learn more, visit www.caboreycruise.com.

Cabo Sailing: This luxury sailing company offers private and shared tours, which depart from the Cabo San Lucas Marina. There’s an emphasis on eco-friendly whale watching, which allows close-up views without interfering with their routines. To learn more, visit www.cabosailing.com.

COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS

Cabo Sails: Design your own private whale watching adventure on sailboats measuring from 28 to 44 feet, or opt for a group tour. Learn more at www.cabosails.com.

EcoCat: The smooth-sailing and eco-friendly EcoCat catamaran offers a comfy perch from which to watch whales, especially during its sunset cocktail tours. You can also buzz along for up-close views on its EcoToo Zodiac.

Learn more at www.caboecotours.com.

Sun Rider: An eco-friendly activities company with locations in Los Cabos and La Paz, Sun Rider offers whale watching tours that depart twice daily. These 2.5-hour tours include food, open bar, and incredible views. Learn more at www.sunridertours.com.

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O U T D O O R S

Sun Rider (top) and Cabo Mar (bottom) provide comfortable perches from which you can enjoy the whales’ acrobatics.

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Humpback whales are the most acrobatic of all baleen whales. You can spot them from miles away because they make a huge splash when breaching (jumping), slapping the water with their long flippers or tails. There’s a belief among researchers that humpbacks do this in an effort to communicate with one another and to rid themselves of the barnacles on their bodies. It’s easy to identify a humpback whale thanks to its dark color and because the big hump on their—you guessed it—back. With all that fun jumping and diving, you’re likely to see a few of these. An adult humpback can measure up to 40 feet long, weighing around 1 ton per foot.

Here’s one fun fact: The male humpbacks tend to measure smaller than their female counterparts.

FROM TOP: CARLOS ABOYO; COURTESY CABO MAR

And now Los Cabos all-stars:

O U T D O O R S The second most common of the whales you’ll see during your Los Cabos vacation are gray whales, which are known not only for their color but their friendliness. They are roughly the same size as their cousins, the humpbacks.

The not-too-creative name comes from the gray patches and white mottling on the dark gray skin of the whales. It’s a better name than “devil fish,” a moniker once used for gray whales because of their fighting behavior when hunted.

In contrast to the days when they were hunted, gray whales are thought to have pet-like behavior. In some settings, they will approach a boat close enough for excited whale watchers to reach out and pet them. These whales are also known for their long migrations; they’ve even set the record for the longest tracked migration by a mammal: A female gray whale named Varbara successfully made a round-trip journey from her home off the east coast of Russia to Cabo San Lucas 14,000 miles away over the course of 172 days.

While Moby Dick made the sperm whale recognizable, you’re unlikely to see too many of these. They are master divers that can hold their breath for up to two hours and go as far as 10,000 feet deep to search out the also-famous-but-never-seen-by-humans giant squid.

We think all these whales are pretty big deals, but the blue whale just happens to be the largest…and, by largest, we mean the biggest animal to ever exist on planet Earth. A favorite explanation of its size: A human baby could crawl inside its arteries and a Volkswagen Beetle could park itself inside the blue whale’s heart. Blue whale sightings are rare, but the Sea of Cortés is one of the world’s best places to center your search. How do you identify a blue whale? They can reach up to 100 feet long and weigh up to 170 tons. They are long and slender—despite what the scale says—with a body that has various shades of blue and gray. They feed almost exclusively on krill (small shrimp-like crustaceans). Y Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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The 5 Cabo Beaches You Have to Visit

Right Now

Stop what you’re doing. It’s time to hit up some of the best beaches in Southern Baja

By Fernando Rodriguez / Photos by Francisco Estrada

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ou can’t come to Los Cabos without visiting our world-famous beaches, especially these five standouts. Once you’ve checked out the list, grab some bottled water, a hat, and some sunscreen. Then get going!

A few additional words of advice: Swimming at any of the Pacific Ocean-side beaches should be avoided; dangerous sea currents and powerful roaring waves are not to be messed with. You won’t find lifeguards at most Los Cabos beaches, so please exercise caution at all times.

Playa el Médano (Médano Beach) The most popular Los Cabos beach is undoubtedly Playa el Médano, where all the fun, water-related, and party activities take place. Médano is a pristine, caramel-colored stretch of sand that is home to several popular resorts and even more beachfront restaurants and activities companies. Enjoy everything from parasailing to kayaking, wave run-

Chileno Bay is an award-winning beach with great conditions and amenities.

ner, water taxis, standup paddleboarding; Médano is also the most swimmable beach in Cabo.

Known as a spring break destination, Médano is home to a mix of beach

clubs, party-hardy restaurants, and fine dining. You could spend the day—or even a week—exploring the menus and other offerings at spots like Mango Deck, Billygan’s, Nikki Beach, SUR Beach House, and Tabasco Restaurant. Whether you’re looking for green juice and yoga, tequila and raw clams, or mariachi and tacos, you’ll find it on Playa el Médano.

You’ll also find a multitude of vendors selling wares that range from sunglasses, silver bracelets, and hats to rugs, temporary tattoos, and T-shirts.

When it comes to people watching and good, old-fashioned sunbathing, no Los Cabos beach rivals Médano. When cruise ships arrive in Cabo, they anchor in Cabo San Lucas Bay, right in front of Médano, and allow guests and passengers a full day to enjoy this beach and all of its amenities and splendor.

Playa el Chileno (Chileno Bay)

You need to navigate a bit of a maze to find Palmilla Beach, but it’s totally worth it.

The family-friendly Playa el Chileno—commonly known as Chileno Bay—is located north of Playa

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The excellent swimming conditions at Chileno make for great days in the water.

el Médano, on the tourist corridor.

Here on this cozy strip of beach, families bask in the sun and the semi-seclusion of the destination. Many arrive here, including tour companies, to enjoy snorkeling in the clear and calm Sea of Cortés waters that’s home to vibrant, multicolored fish.

Like Médano, Chileno is a very swimmable beach. Having won national recognition for its cleanliness and modern amenities, it also boasts wheelchair access to the restrooms via a wooden walkway, shade coverage thanks to permanent palapas, and showers. As you can imagine, it fills up on the weekends with a mix of locals and tourists. Come early and on a weekday to enjoy peak adventure and have the beach practically to yourself.

You can find Chileno right off the tourist corridor; look for signs near the km 12 marker.

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Start your morning with a walk down Palmilla Beach.

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Playa Santa María (Santa María) The darling Playa Santa María is located only a few hundred yards from Playa el Chileno, near the km 15 marker on the tourist corridor. This small and semiprivate cove is a favorite of tourists and locals. The beach has a dirt access road and plenty of parking. New wooden palapas and portable restrooms are available, but it’s still best do as the locals do: If you’re going to want to eat or drink during your visit, bring along an ice chest for water, drinks, and sandwiches. You’ll also want to bring along sunscreen and a shade umbrella, if you have one.

Parents will love Santa María because of its calm waters and the small natural wading pool that’s perfect for small children.

Playa Palmilla (Palmilla Beach) Appearances can be deceiving. While the beach near the famous One&Only Palmilla resort may appear inaccessible, it—like all México beaches—is public. All you have to do is navigate the maze of golf cart roads that wind down to this lovely playa. Don’t hesitate to ask for help should you get lost or confused; Palmilla employees are used to and quite good at providing directions. The resort area was one of the first to attract the Hollywood jet set back in the 1950s. How great is the swimming here? It’s now the starting point for the swim stage of the annual Los Cabos Ironman competition.

Playa Los Cerritos (Cerritos Beach) When it comes to serious surfing, you have to include the famous Playa Los Cerritos in the conversation. There are several surfing websites that provide wave and swell updates for avid surfing aficionados who journey to this semisecluded surfing paradise regularly during fall and winter months, when waves tend to be as good and high as adventure, thrill-seeking surfers prefer.

Playa Los Cerritos is located about 40 miles northwest from Cabo San Lucas along the Pacific Highway, driving toward Todos Santos. The small farming community of El Pescador is the closest to the Cerritos surfing mecca.

The unique Los Cerritos has a charming history with a hippie-like culture and surf camping thrill seekers who gave the area its popularity.

The Hacienda Cerritos Hotel, which looks more mansion than hotel and is located on a private cliff at the shore of the ocean, is the prime indicator of the Playa Los Cerritos location.

Getting to Los Cerritos can take about 45 minutes, but the drive is lovely: There are picturesque views of the desert-like mountains on one side and the tranquil-looking Pacific Ocean on the other. Because there are no highway road signs to guide anyone there, visitors need only keep a sharp eye out for what appears as an oasis Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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O U T D O O R S resting along the solitude of the Pacific Ocean strip to know that they have arrived.

The waves and experience of Los Cerritos have been mentioned numerous times in Surfer magazine, and it’s a poorly kept secret that many Hollywood surfers (Rob Lowe, Keith Jardine, Adam Sandler, Tommy Lee, and Sammy Hagar) drop by occasionally to soak in the ambience farther away from the Cabo San Lucas party scene.

ATV rentals, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and much needed massages are just some of the other perks to enjoy at Los Cerritos. Y

When it comes to serious surfing, you have to include the famous Playa Los Cerritos in the conversation.

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FRANCISCO ESTRADA

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Peak Cabo

It’s the busiest time of the year in Los Cabos, and here are 5 activities you can’t miss

OSCAR ORTÍZ

By Beto Haro

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he whales are jumping, the bars are hopping, and all of Los Cabos is alive with the excitement of early spring. With the region’s overabundance of activities, restaurants, spas, and clubs, deciding where to focus your attention can feel like a having to choose a favorite child or—more challenging—just one Netflix show to binge. That’s why we are here to narrow the field to five must-do activities that will help you experience peak Cabo.

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Whale Watching

COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS

You’ll find a complete guide to whale watching on page 54. But we can’t stress enough how incredible it is to experience the majesty of whale watching against a backdrop of Los Cabos scenery. During your time here, expect to see humpbacks, orcas, and gray whales. As a former whale guide, let me give you this pro tip: Once you’ve gotten a few good shots, put that camera down. Focusing all your attention on getting the perfect pic means you miss out on the thrill of living in the moment and the excitement of watching the unique acrobatics of the humpbacks.

You can’t visit Los Cabos in early spring without at least one whale watching adventure.

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Beach Hopping Los Cabos has its share of iconic beaches: Lover’s, Médano, Divorce—to name a few. But there are plenty of shorelines worthy of your attention. Once you’ve made the requisite visits to Land’s End and spots like SUR Beach House, plan a day to venture farther out. Chileno offers modern amenities and primo snorkeling conditions. Cerritos is a surfer’s paradise. And Cabo Pulmo, while a much longer drive away, is a must-visit destination for divers. Learn more about beaches in “The 5 Cabo Beaches You Have to Visit Right Now,” page 64, or visit www.cabosanlucas beaches.com.

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Club Crawl

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Sportfishing This is the marlin capital of the world and home to some of the biggest, most competitive tournaments in the hemisphere. Whether you’re an expert angler or angling for a new experience, you’ll find charter options and captains to help guide you to the best spots to fish—and the best fish to catch depending on the timing of your visit. Among our favorite charters is the award-winning Silverados Sportfishing (www.silveradosportfishing.com), which has been operating for more than a quarter century.

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Seafood, Seafood, and More Seafood

Clockwise from top right: Silverados Sportfishing; shrimp ceviche at Eco Bar; and Lover’s Beach.

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You can’t come to Los Cabos without exploring the incredible seafood options. Many restaurants offer lobster specials (always a good idea) and fish tacos (always a great idea), but don’t pass up the chance to try chocolate clams (named for their color, not their flavor). These meaty mollusks are best enjoyed raw, topped with lime, hot sauce, and your favorite condiments (I add ketchup). Y

FROM TOP: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; MIGUEL VENTURA; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

With Médano Beach only steps away from the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas, it’s easy to navigate between the shoreline strip of beach clubs (think Mango Deck, the Office, and Tabasco) and spots like Cabo Wabo, El Squid Roe, and Mandala. For the ultimate Cabo experience, start your adventures during the day and seamlessly transition into nighttime fun. (Remember to stay hydrated.)

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OSCAR ORTĂ?Z

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FROM TOP: COURTESY DOLPHIN DISCOVERY; COURTESY CABO FLYBOARD

Dolphin Discovery (top), Cabo Flyboard (bottom), and Cabo Expeditions (opposite page) are among the businesses that participate in Los Cabos Magaziine’s prepaid voucher program.

Cabo has come a long way, baby.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Cabo San Lucas—and the entire Los Cabos region—has become a worldclass travel destination complete with high-end resorts, five-star restaurants, and extraordinary activities that range from sunset cruises to powered hang gliding and Flyboarding.

While there is a seemingly endless list of things to do while in Los Cabos, most of us have to be realistic about our budgets, right? Of course!

But that doesn’t mean you need to start giving up on your vacation plans. Instead, it’s time to check out Los Cabos Magazine’s prepaid voucher program and to start making your dreams a reality.

Los Cabos Magazine’s signature discount program lets you save 35–70 percent on many of the region’s most famous restaurants and activities in Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo,

and along the tourist corridor. The vouchers are easy to use and can be refunded within 120 days if unused.

Before we get into the details of how the program works, let’s talk about the places you can use vouchers.

Participating activities companies include popular Los Cabos outfits like Cabo Expeditions, Cabo Flyboard, Buccaneer Queen, and Dolphin Discovery. Among the restaurants: Sunset Point, Pan di Bacco, Daikoku, Baja Lobster Co., and the new Light House bistro at Tesoro Los Cabos. You can swim with dolphins, sail the seas, and dine at restaurants that dazzle with their menus and their views.

You can find the complete list of participating businesses as well as the different discount levels at www.los cabosguide.com/discounts-vouchers.

The list of participating companies and availability changes frequently, so we encourage you to check often.

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Treat the whole family to a pirate adventure—at a discount— with Buccaneer Queen.

OK, so how does this all work?

First you visit the website listed above or call the Los Cabos Magazine office—(800) 481-3905 from the United States or (624) 143-1346 from México—to confirm the current inventory. Decide on the volume of vouchers you want for each business, then the discount will be applied. Say, for example, you want $500 worth of vouchers for restaurants that all fall under the 50 percent off category. All you pay is $250, and you have $500 in vouchers to apply at the respective restaurants. (Prepaid vouchers are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 U.S.) You can pick vouchers out and purchase them right in the office, over the phone, or via the website. PayPal and credit card purchases are accepted on the website, and vouchers are then shipped to you. Our mail and shipping services provide mail delivery to and from our office in Los Cabos to locations in the United States.

There are a few rules when it comes to redeeming prepaid vouchers. All the details are available on the website, but it’s most important to remember to sign each voucher, use them at the restaurant marked at the front of the voucher, and present them before ordering. Restaurants do not provide change for vouchers, and they do not apply them to tips.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time you turn those day dreams into vacation plans. Y 76

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The Directory Your guide to Los Cabos’ best activities

W

hen visitors are planning a trip to Los Cabos, they’re often in awe of all the activities available and at times overwhelmed when it comes to making arrangements for snorkeling, a sunset cruise, or learning what else there is to see and do. Our activities directory will help you plan your Los Cabos itinerary. You can also check www.loscabosguide.com for a complete listing. For big savings, go to www.loscabos magazine.com/discounts.

But first, a few questions: How do you want to spend your

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time in Los Cabos? Are you looking for something relaxed or fast paced? Are children involved? How long are you staying? There are myriad things to do in Los Cabos, but let’s break it down.

Bungee Jumping Whether a thrill seeker or a first-time beginner, take a leap of faith from a gondola 300 feet high at Wild Canyon. What’s on your bucket list? Wild Canyon (www .wildcanyon.com.mx)

COURTESY WILD CANYON

By Sandra A. Berry

O U T D O O R S

Cabo Pulmo Expeditions

FROM TOP: OSCAR ORTÍZ; COURTESY WILD CANYON

Visit the so-called “aquarium of the world” just 60 miles north of Los Cabos. Cabo Pulmo houses one of three living coral reefs in North America.

Designated as a national marine park in 1995, it contains more than 300 species of fish. World-class diving is offered for beginners or advanced.

Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpe ditions.com.mx)

Camel Rides Ride through El Tule oasis on one of eight camels, four of which are trained especially for children to ride. Pet, feed and interact with these gentle and friendly animals.

Wild Canyon’s Camel Quest (www .wildcanyon.com.mx)

Dolphins Hang out with dolphins in their own habitat, a beautiful saltwater

Opposite page: Jump the line at Wild Canyon’s Bungee Bombers. This page, from top: Explore the reefs off Cabo Pulmo with Cabo Expeditions; make new friends at Camel Quest.

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O U T D O O R S award-winning crew of Silverados.

Silverados Sportfishing (www.sil veradosportfishing.com)

Flyboard, Hoverbroard, and Jetpack This is a cool and unique experience with professional one-on-one instructions with Cabo’s Hydroflight experts. Flyboarding is the newest water adventure not to be missed.

Fly like a superhero over the Cabo San Lucas Bay. Lessons for kids 10 and older. Cabo Flyboard (www .caboflyboard .com) Kayaking Explore the Sea of Cortés. Paddle to Lover’s Beach. See the sea lion colony. EcoCat (www.ecocatcabo.com) Motorcycle Adventures Explore Baja’s mountains and desert-like regions, over sand dunes, river beds, mountain trails, and scenic routes. See ghost towns and abandoned gold mines on your own bike or one of theirs. All equipment provided; just bring your own socks!

Baja Dirt (www.bajadirt.com)

The sky’s the limit with Cabo Flyboard (top). Let out your inner off-road warrior at Off-Road Runners.

cove. You might even get a kiss, a hug or a belly ride. Great family entertainment. Dolphin Discovery (www.dolphindiscovery.com)

buffet, or even lobster and filet mignon. Cabo Rey (www.caborey .com), Sun Rider Tours (www.sun ridertours.com)

Dinner Cruises

Fishing

Almost all boats offer food of some type: tacos, fajitas, full Mexican

Novice or experienced anglers are welcome to fish with experts, the

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Ride powerful Honda 450 quad-runners at Wild Canyon’s 100-acre biosphere park. Explore the rugged environment of desert and beach, canyons, and mountains on professional equipment led by professional guides. Wild Canyon’s Off-Road Runners (www.wildcanyon.com.mx) Parasailing Get a bird’s-eye view of the arch and Lover’s Beach. You’ll fly like an eagle, lifting off from the back of a boat, either single or tandem, and you don’t even have to get wet.

Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpe ditions.com.mx)

FROM TOP: COURTESY CABO FLYBOARD; COURTESY WILD CANYON

Off-road runners

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Party Boats Of course, there are party boats, ideal for bachelor and bachelorette soirees or just to have fun with friends to wild and boisterous music, a great way to unwind and let your hair down. Buccaneer Queen (www.buccaneerloscabos.com), Cabo Escape (www.wildcabotours .com), Cabo Legend (www.wild cabotours.com) Pirate Ships Not one but two pirate ships unite for an epic show: the Buccaneer Queen’s black galleon and the 100foot twin-masted brig Cabo Legend.

Great fun for all ages. Buccaneer Queen (www.buccaneerloscabos .com), Cabo Legend (www.wild cabotours .com)

It’s always a party aboard the one-and-only Cabo Escape catamaran.

Sailing If ever you wanted to learn the ropes, this is your chance, regard-

less of your experience level. Cabo’s consistent good weather offers the perfect chance to spend your vacation learning or buffing up on sailing skills. Ask about private and overnight charter options. Cabo Sailing (www.cabosailing.com), Cabo Sails (www.cabosails.com)

The Sea of Cortés boasts a spectacular array of fish and beautiful underwater creatures. It has hidden reefs and 600 dazzling species of marine life, including eels, manta rays, puffers, angelfish, spiny blowfish, and florescent fish. Big Mike Sea Adventure (www.bigmikesea dventures.com), Buccaneer Queen (www.buccaneerloscabos.com), Cabo Escape (www.wildcabotours .com), Cabo Rey (www.caborey .com), Cabo Sailing (www.cabosail ing.com), Eco Cat (www.ecocatca bo.com), Pez Gato (www.pezgato .com), Sun Rider Tours (www.sun ridertours .com) Submarine Rides Go underwater without getting wet on a 60-foot semisubmersible yel82

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Snorkeling

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Looking for a sophisticated sunset cruise? With Tropicat, you’ll get wine and jazz!

low submarine to witness dazzling underwater sea life.

Great for all ages. Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpedi tions.com.mx) Sunset Cruises

COURTESY TROPICAT

Cabo boasts some of the most incredible sunsets; boats line up to witness this pure beauty. What better place to be than drifting, gently rocking on the water at Land’s End—where the Pacific and Sea of Cortés meet—when the sun dips into the horizon. Cabo Escape (www.wild cabotours.com), Cabo Sails (www.cabosails.com), EcoCat (www.ecocatcabo.com), Pez Gato (www.pezgato .com), Sun Rider Tours (www.sunridertours.com) Sunset Wine & Jazz Cruise Enjoy smooth jazz, calm waters, incredible views, and delicious canapés and cocktails. Tropicat (www.tropicat cabo.com) Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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O U T D O O R S the most spectacular whale watching destination in the world. More than 10,000 whales visit the southern tip of Baja California on their annual 7,000-mile trek to the warm waters of the southern Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortés to mate and give birth. There are many excursions that will get you up close and personal with these mammoth mammals December 15– April 15. Buccaneer Queen (www .buccaneerloscabos.com), Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpeditions .com.mx), Cabo Rey (www.caborey .com), Cabo Sailing (www.cabosa iling .com), Sun Rider Tours (www .sunridertours.com) Ziplines

Voted as having one of the top 12 beaches in the world, the uninhabited Espíritu Santo archipelago is great for not only scuba diving but also snorkeling and kayaking in calm waters in a natural reserve. Located one half-hour boat ride from La Paz. Cabo Expeditions (www.caboexpe ditions.com.mx), Sun Rider Tours (www.sunridertours.com)

possible. Cabo Expeditions (www .caboexpeditions.com.mx), Sun Rider Tours (www.sunridertours.com) Whale Watching Los Cabos is rightfully known as

Get your heart rate up by zipping from peak to peak at Wild Canyon over scenic canyons either solo or in tandem. The Monster Zipline is the longest. Try Moon Ziplining on a fullmoon night for an unforgettable (and romantic) experience. Wild Canyon (www.wildcanyon.com.mx) Y

Weddings at Sea Celebrate your wedding, wedding anniversary, or a big birthday from the comforts of a big, beautiful boat.

Sun Rider Tours (www.sunrider tours.com) Whale Sharks Adventures Picture yourself swimming with a fish that is the size of an SUV. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world and can grow up to 40 feet, but average about 18 feet. They are slow moving and pose no threat to humans, thus the exciting adventure to swim with these gentle giants is made 84

There’s much to explore above and below water (top). The ziplines always thrill at Wild Canyon.

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FROM TOP: COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS; COURTESY WILD CANYON

Scuba Diving

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© 2018 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

D I N I N G

2018’s Best Apps The Los Cabos appetizers we can’t pass up

By Beto Haro

Tuna tostada at Nick-San.

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D I N I N G Leave it to Los Cabos’ smallest bites to pack the biggest flavor.

Here at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula you’ll find a huge variety of international and boundary-spanning food types, with everything from traditional Mexican to Indian, Italian, Japanese, American, Argentine, southern, and fusion. And while entrées earn top billing and most everybody has a soft spot for dessert, we thought it time to salute the small bites— those appetizer courses that refuse to be ignored.

Ladies and gentlemen, here is a look at Los Cabos’ best appetizers.

OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY NICK-SAN. THIS PAGE: MIGUEL VENTURA

Sunset Mona Lisa’s Burrata and Carpaccio The view at Sunset Mona Lisa rivals da Vinci’s namesake masterpiece, and the restaurant has been named among the world’s top must-visit destinations by such media outlets as The New York Times. You could make a meal out of the antipasti itself, and the selection is great enough to warrant repeat visits. The housemade burrata is served with pesto and tomatoes, while classic Italian-style beef carpaccio is prepared with arugula, Parmesan, and truffle oil powder. Bonus tip: Sunset Mona Lisa’s sister spot Sunset Point is located on the same property and specializes in tapas. Try the tuna tartar, which is served with crispy polenta and marinated in a puttanesca soy sauce. www.sunsetmonalisa.com

Nick-San’s Tuna Tostada The first Nick-San opened its doors in downtown Cabo San Lucas back in 1994, launching what has become a decades-long trend of Japanese restaurants in Southern Baja.

It makes sense, of course, what with the emphasis on fresh, quality sea-

The delightful steamed wontons at Chin’s are a perfect marriage of Chinese and Mexican ingredients, with crab, shrimp, chicken, cream cheese, house-made yellow curry, habanero, and cilantro.

food. From day one, Nick-San set the bar high, and it has continued to chart new ground and open additional venues—in San José del Cabo and beyond. The Nick-San menu features dozens of small bite items, including the perfect starter: The tuna tostada features yellowfin tuna belly, a rice cracker, avocado, and red onion. www.nicksan.com

Chin’s Crab Wontons While Los Cabos has had a longstanding love affair with Japanese food, it was only the introduction of Chin’s at the Shoppes at Palmilla that really allowed Chinese food to take a turn in the spotlight. The delightful steamed crab wontons are a perfect marriage of Chinese and Mexican ingredients:

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The scallops at Sammy Hagar’s iconic Cabo Wabo are worthy of the Red Rocker himself.

Cabo Wabo’s Scallops Rocker Sammy Hagar’s downtown Cabo nightclub is rightfully known for its all-star lineup and all-night entertainment, but you’d be remiss if you didn’t check out its on-site cantina. The kitchen here offers a concise but expertly crafted menu. The standout appetizer? Pan-seared scallops served with a Cabo Wabo reposado tequila butter and crunchy red cabbage slaw. www.cabowabocantina.com

Pitahayas’ Roasted Octopus Chef Volker Romeike has been dazzling Los Cabos patrons with his culinary wizardry since Pitahayas opened in 1995. He pioneered the fusion of foreign favorites with local flavors, always emphasizing creativity and 90

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quality ingredients. We’re fans of his whole award-winning menu, including innovative apps like char sui shrimp taquitos and a tuna poke featuring watermelon. But there’s something incredibly inviting about the deceptive simplicity of his roasted octopus served with potato cake that draws us in. www.pitahayas.com

Alcaravea Mushrooms What started as a favorite Mediterranean hole-in-thewall among locals has grown into an exceptional if still intimate restaurant with a loyal and enthusiastic fan base.

Just check out the many, many reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp. There are plenty of apps to choose from—and an ever-changing daily menu, too—but one fixture on the menu stands out: The Alcaravea Mushrooms are hugely popular. Mushrooms are sautéed in olive oil, marsala, and white wine sauce, then spiced with sage, basil, and fresh oregano, and ornamented with thick shavings of Parmesan. www.facebook.com/alcaraveagourmet

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Wontons are stuffed with crab, shrimp, chicken, cream cheese, house-made yellow curry, habanero, and cilantro. www.facebook.com/chinscabo

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Blue Fish Seafood’s Octopus in Love The seafood-forward menu at Blue Fish Seafood offers a mix of tacos, ceviches, salads, and more—and its approach blends traditional flavor profiles and more adventurous plays. The Octopus in Love tostada, for example, is a creamier version than what you’re likely used to seeing. Another must-try on the menu is the Mazatlan ceviche with carrot and cucumber. www.bluefish cabo.com

Los Deseos’ Queso Fundido If you’re on a diet, you better stop reading right now. Los Deseos, which in English means “the desires,” is home to one of the most decadent appetizers in all of Los Cabos…but it’s so worth the calories. The tequila-style queso fundido (melted cheese) is flamed right at your table and served with fresh, handmade tortillas. www.goldenzone cabo.com

Every dish at chef Thierry Blouet’s Café des Artistes is a work of art.

To quote acclaimed Mexican author Carlos Fuentes, “At Café des Artistes, every dish is a masterpiece, and every masterpiece feeds the spirit.” Among the beautiful creations is the fresh tuna tartar ‘Guacachile, a playful spin on the highend restaurant standard. Here the tuna tartar is topped with pickled veggies, fried fennel, capers, and topped with a duo of vibrant sauces. www.cafedesartistescabos.com Which restaurant and appetizer gets your vote? Did we leave a favorite spot or bite off our list? Let us know on our Facebook page: www.face book.com/loscabosmagazine. Y 92

From top: The deceptive simplicity of Pitahayas’ roasted octopus and potato cake draws us in; the Alcaravea Mushrooms have developed a fandom all their own.

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FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Café des Artistes’ Tuna Tartar

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© 2018 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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© 2018 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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The Dining Guide

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

By Ashley Alvarado, Julio Beltrรกn, Sandra A. Berry, Michael Bobo, Dana McLoughlin, Fernando Rodriguez, and Antonio Vargas

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Alcaravea Gourmet

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Chef Enrique Diaz Gerard had a dream that continues to unfold. From a four-table start in a former bus station, he has developed a popular fullscale Mediterranean restaurant. My biggest word of advice. Don’t overdo it on the stuffed mushroom starter; they’re so delicious and filing that you may not have room for an entrée. Best to share and then order the Mediterranean-style catch of the day baked with sun-dried tomatoes and accompanied with pesto and Parmesan on a mirror of Gorgonzola sauce. Other tantalizing options include Roman saltimbocca, veal scallopini with prosciutto and sage in a white wine sauce, or tender octopus or filet mignon marsala. All entrées are served with the choice of seasonal vegetables or a swirl of pasta with red or white sauce.

Lunch specials are popular here, espe-

cially for the businesspeople downtown.

A three-course luncheon is available noon–4:30 p.m. with fish, fowl, beef or pasta for approximately $15 U.S., all inclusive. A choice of crispy salad or soup is offered along with refillable iced tea or lemonade, followed by a choice of entrée. Each day there is a different dish, like seabass topped with pesto or top sirloin beef with marsala wine sauce and mushrooms, chicken breast with eggplant baked in tomato sauce, or pasta in butter with tomatoes and olives. A petit dessert comes with the meal; it might be a chocolate brownie with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a square of mango and yogurt mousse topped with a mixed fruit compote and whipped cream. Ignacio Zaragoza and 16 de Septiembre, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3730, www.face book.com/alcaraveagourmet, Mon.–Sat. noon–11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Opposite page: Surf and turf, Romeo & Julieta style. This page: Grilled scallops at Alcaravea Gourmet.

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D I N I N G Baja Lobster Co. It’s all about choices at the Baja Lobster Co., a longtime favorite on the Cabo San Lucas Marina. For an escape from the heat, opt for the indoor, air-conditioned dining room. To enjoy casual people watching, you can convene outside on the patio or at the cantilevered deck-bar. The abundance of choices is a theme that continues to the menu. Start with a casual appetizer of ceviche, raw chocolate clams (named for their color), tuna tartar, or oysters on the half shell. The creamy lobster bisque makes a wonderful second course, especially on cool winter nights. Of course, there’s more to Baja Lobster Co. than just lobster.

Bacon-wrapped shrimp come stuffed with cheese; battered shrimp are crispy and delicious; and paella is an elegant date night option. If seafood isn’t your thing, opt for the filet mignon, vegetable lasagna, or baked Rock Cornish hen. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6011, www.goldenzonecabo.com.

Daily noon–11 p.m. (Kitchen closes at 10:30 p.m.) All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$ A.A.

Barra Barra Seafood & Bar

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From top: Baja-style fish ceviche at Barra Barra; finger-lickin’-good barbecue ribs at Black Smoke Barbeque.

presented with the meticulous detail of fine art. Other outstanding menu items include chicken cordon bleu, Angus steaks, lobster enchiladas, and lobster chowder. The signature salad includes shrimp, octopus, calamari, avocado, orange segments, and blue cheese.

Those in the mood for Mexican food won’t be disappointed with delicious guacamole made at the table, Azteca soup, and Mexican combo plates. Out for a morning walk or run along the malecón, stop in for breakfast starting at 7 a.m. and dine in air-conditioned comfort during warm sunny days. The

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diversity of dishes makes this dining establishment an ideal choice for families and groups with contrasting food tastes. Valet parking is available.

Boulevard Paseo de la Marina, next to Breathless Resort, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1105, www.barrabarracabo .com. Daily 7 a.m.–7 p.m. MasterCard and Visa cards accepted. $$ S.A.B.

Black Smoke Barbeque New on the restaurant scene and already earning raves as the best place for authentic barbeque, the rustic Black

FRANCISCO ESTRADA (2)

The best and simplest way to describe this seafood restaurant is outstanding.

Built along the marina’s edge, the alfresco spot offers a front-row seat to the ever-changing activity on the water as boats leave and enter the harbor. There are colorful umbrellas during the day, and it’s especially festive at dusk when party boats arrive back in the harbor with sparkling lights, laughter, and music from partygoers. Specialties include gourmet seafood and eclectic drink concoctions. Classic dishes with innovative twists by chef Candido Godinez, such as oysters Rockefeller; jumbo shrimp on spikes dredged in sliced almonds; grilled octopus; fried sweet potato chips; and soft crabmeat tacos communicate the core message of ultra-fresh seafood, all

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Smoke welcomes diners to dig in and not worry about messy fingers. Flatware, including steak knives, stands upright in a wooden box on wooden tables with rolls of paper towels even the most prim and proper will appreciate. Large dispensers of barbecue sauce (one spicy hot) allow diners to smother the various meats to their hearts’ content. Start with a Soul Train cocktail made with tequila, grapefruit, and lime juice to wash down an appetizer of bone marrow served with crisp toast, a seldom-seen item on menus in Los Cabos. Other starters include stuffed Caribe poppers, chicken wings, and jalapeño poppers. Depending on how hungry you are, there are sampler platters of varying sizes serving from two to six people with meats of short ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, plus sides of farmer’s potatoes, potato sal100

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ad, coleslaw, and macaroni and cheese made with chipotle. Light eaters may prefer the asparagus salad with portobello mushroom. For those with a sweet tooth who still have room to indulge, desserts include a decadent chocolate soufflé fondant with vanilla ice cream, or an even more decadent deep-fried cookie. Although having only opened a few months ago, the scene is slowly changing to become a fun sports place to hang out with table games, cards, darts and a pool table. Calle Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 2470564, Daily 2:30 p.m.– 11 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$ S.A.B.

Cabo Wabo Welcome to the spot that started it all. Back when rocker Sammy Hagar opened his now-iconic nightclub in

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Pop into Cabo Wabo for lunch or dinner to feast on its signature lobster burrito.

D I N I N G downtown Cabo San Lucas, this was a destination known mostly for its fishing scene, and he was best known as the lead singer of Van Halen. Now the Red Rocker is a household name and forever tied to the Cabo Wabo empire he started…and the world-class destination he helped put on the map. The nightclub continues to be a must-visit spot, but we’ll admit to being partial to its restaurant. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it’s like a culinary treasure hidden in plain sight. You’ll find something delightful on every section of the concise menu. Start with the pan-seared scallops served with Cabo Wabo tequila butter.

The chile-and-cream-cheese-stuffed mushrooms are another favorite starter.

For the main course, opt for the famous lobster tacos or the Waburrito, a huge burrito stuffed with chicken, tomatoes, and cheese. The lobster burrito is sautéed lobster, onion, tomato, and garlic are deglazed white wine and finished with heavy cream. Other standout main course options include jumbo shrimp in a cilantro-honey glaze and the panseared beef tenderloin. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the banana bread pudding. Vincente Guerrero and Lázaro Cárdenas, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1188, www.cabowabocantina.com.

Restaurant: Daily 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Patio bar: Daily 8 a.m.–1 a.m. Club: Nightly 8 p.m.–1 a.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$ A.A.

Café des Artistes The ambience is sophisticated yet comfortable, city lights twinkle in the distance, and a pianist provides a subtle soundtrack for your romantic dinner at the JW Marriott’s fine dining restaurant, Café des Artistes. But it’s the culinary talents of chef Thierry Blouet—along with his inspired marriage of French cuisine and Mexican ingredients—that have made Café des Artistes a standout. Start with an exotic cocktail created with mezcal. The fresh tuna tartar with a topping of pickled vegetables and avocado will get the taste buds crying for more. Don’t get Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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carried away with the delicious bread; there’s more to come. On at least one visit, you must try the signature prawn and pumpkin cream soup. For main entrées, roasted duck leg, rack of lamb, short ribs, fresh tuna with peanut crust, broiled octopus with spinach gratine make for a difficult choice. They’re all excellent. A tasting menu might help in the decision-making, with or without wine pairing. Vegetarians will enjoy a veggie symphony or risotto with huitlacoche, a corn mushroom delicacy.

Save room for dessert, which can be the Flower Pot with mousse in three flavors; the blue cheese soufflé; or a Valrhona chocolate brick, a pure and intense cocoa with a red mahogany color. The restaurant hosts various special promotions throughout the year, such as an artisanal cheese tasting, or special chef’s dinner with wine pairing.

JW Marriott Resort, Puerto Los Cabos, San José del Cabo, (624) 163-7600, www.cafedesartistescabos.com. Tues.– Sun. 6 p.m.–11 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$$–$$$$ S.A.B.

Don’t be surprised if there is a line to get in. No need to worry; it moves fast.

Campestre is where locals go because the food is authentic Mexican fare and the price is right. Whether you go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find a noisy spot alive with families, working class, executives, and tourists in a large, vibrant room enjoying the true spirit of México. Every dish is prepared with traditional ingredients to recreate the flavors of old recipes. Try one of the colorful plates of enchiladas with red or green chile sauce, a chile relleno with shredded chicken and cheese covered in a rich tomato sauce, or fajitas of chicken, beef, or fish served with rice and beans. A myriad of seafood is available starting with fish prepared to your liking such as with garlic, Veracruz-style, or Hawaiian. Surf and turf is a popular request. The servings are ample, sometimes enough for two.

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Campestre Restaurant Bar serves authentic Mexican favorites like tortilla soup (top).

The coconut shrimp (bottom) at Captain Tony’s are tropical bursts of flavor.

Save room for chocolate pie and Mexican coffee prepared at the table. Salvatierra, corner of López Mateos and Camino al Faro, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8830, www.restaurantcampestre locsabos.com. Mon.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$ S.A.B.

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Captain Tony’s It’s 6 a.m., and the Cabo San Lucas Marina is a busy place. That’s especially true at Captain Tony’s, where anglers come for breakfast and a takeout lunch before heading out for a day on the water. Later, they bring their catch back to be prepared in any number of options.

FROM TOP: MIGUEL VENTURA; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Campestre Restaurant Bar

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The Shoppes at Palmilla is not only a world-class destination for shopping and ocean views, it’s the home of Los Cabos’ premier Chinese restaurant, Chin’s.

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.piscesgroupcabo.com. Daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Chin’s The Shoppes at Palmilla is not only a world-class destination for shopping and ocean views, it’s the home of Los Cabos’ premier Chinese restaurant, Chin’s. Guests can expect a menu that dances about Cathay, Cantonese, and Szechwan dishes with a distinct Las Vegas flair. Hong Kong-raised Tola Chin originated the concept in Sin City before coming to Los Cabos. Start with the smart drink menu: Examples include a ginger margarita and a martini made with avocado, vodka, sake, lemon, and agave syrup. There is also a selection of Chinese beer and an exten-

MIGUEL VENTURA

Captain Tony’s offers a casual atmosphere with open-air seating, prime people watching ,and a bird’s-eye view of the harbor. Although Captain Tony’s is famous for fresh seafood (try the grilled fish burger), there are plenty of salads, pizzas, and grilled choices to satisfy the whole family. Starters include baked mushrooms stuffed with ricotta and Parmesan, dynamite shrimp, popcorn shrimp, nachos, barbecued ribs, guacamole prepared tableside, ceviche, tuna tostados, sashimi, and curricanes made with crab and avocado.

Still hungry after noshing on any of the above? Go for the whole red snapper or any of the chef’s specials such as coconut shrimp or Captain Tony’s shrimp stuffed with crab. Cabo San Lucas Marina (behind Tesoro Los Cabos Resort), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-6797, www

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COURTESY DAIKOKU

Daikoku transports guests to Japan with a menu that dances about the country’s cuisine, including soups, teppanyaki, noodle dishes, and sushi (pictured: Inari roll).

sive sake list. When it comes to starters, I especially like the steamed crab wontons that awaken the palate with a bit of a kick of garlic, ginger, cilantro, and habanero sauce. Moo shu pork is wrapped in a crepe prepared tableside and topped with a special hoisin sauce. Entrées include traditional favorites such as sweet-and-sour pork; walnut shrimp with a special mayo sauce; wok-prepared Mongolian beef; spicy chicken with red chile peppers; and lemon chicken, a favorite of many.

And there are always fried rice dishes with various additions as well as egg rolls. Treat yourself to an espresso martini, made with Baileys, Frangelico, and espresso or one of the sumptuous desserts such as tempura fried ice cream.

Takeout service is available. Shoppes at Palmilla, km 27.5 on the tour-

ist corridor, San José del Cabo, (624) 144-6060, www.chinscabo.com. Daily 12:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Daikoku When you enter Daikoku, you will think you have been transported to Japan. You cross over a small bridge, and you’re magically cast into a Japanese garden setting. There are two tables where water runs through the tops of the tables and then two small waterfalls that cascade into a Koi pond. A water wheel adds to the ambience that you’re next to a small stream in the forest. There are two teppanyaki grills in the outside garden area. As you walk up a small flight of stairs and enter the restaurant, the floor you’re standing on Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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District MX Eat + Drink The District is San José del Cabo’s premier sports and entertainment restaurant and lounge. Eye-catching decor blends an industrial feel with creature comforts, and here you can relax and take in Baja’s best audiovisual entertainment and

international sports. There are booths, a VIP area perfect for conversations or parties, and a deck for drinking and soaking up the sun. The excellent gourmet-casual North American menu is infused with international flavors, and the District’s food is expertly created with high-quality, guilt-free ingredients. Beer lovers can enjoy a great variety of draft and craft beer (guaranteed the coldest in Baja).

Enjoy weekend brunch and build your own masterpiece with the Bloody Mary-Caesar kart. There’s live entertainment with musicians and DJs Thursday through Saturday, happy hour daily, as well as games for children and adults.

Plaza Peninsula, km 29.5 on the tourist corridor, San José del Cabo, (624) 688-6818, www.districtmx.com. Mon.– Wed. Noon–11 p.m., Thurs.–Fri. noon–midnight, Sat. 11 a.m.–midnight, Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Major credit cards accepted. $–$$$ D.M.

Eco Bar What’s the perfect way to wind down after a morning of whale watching with Eco Cat? How about lunch at the company’s delightful sports bar and restaurant, Eco Bar? This Cabo San Lucas Marina spot is perfect for watching all your favorite teams play; there are seven flat-screen TVs, a full bar, and a menu that features delicious nosh at affordable prices. This is a family-friendly restaurant, and you’ll appreciate the children’s menu (never a given in Los Cabos). The wee ones will love the hot dogs and

A masterful burger creation at District MX.

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COURTESY DISTRICT MX EAT + DRINK

is made of thick glass with a Zen garden below. You usually go to a restaurant for the food, but Daikoku throws in a spiritual experience along with the food, and has a very warm and hospitable staff, and air-conditioning. There are many sushi restaurants in Cabo, but Daikoku is one of a kind. To my knowledge, it’s the only one to offer bluefin tuna, the emperor of the ocean. The best cuts are from the belly, and from a 400-pound tuna, you may get only a couple of kilos. If you love tuna, you must give this a try and you will not be disappointed. If you’re a meat lover, try the filet mignon, which is cooked on the teppanyaki grill and served with assorted vegies. The menu also includes chicken and shrimp and other exotic things to choose from. If you’re into sake, Daikoku has a variety of sakes from Japan. Plaza Nautica, Blvd.

Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-4038, (624) 143-4267, http://loscabos.daikoku.com.mx/en. Daily noon–11:30 p.m.

AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $$–$$$ M.B.

RAYNNIER GALLEGOS

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D I N I N G fries, chicken fingers, and, come dinnertime, spaghetti with meatballs. For adults and those with bigger appetites, Eco Bar offers loaded quesadillas (try them with shrimp), veggie burritos, spicy wings, fish and chips, and ceviche. The sports helpings include NBA, MLB, NHL, NFL, college, or other games. Returning from a day of fishing the abundant seas that surround Cabo San Lucas?

For just $9 U.S., the capable kitchen crew will prepare your catch either blackened, grilled, fried, or in a tasty fresh seafood-sashimi style. The Eco Bar’s friendly bilingual staff is another enjoyable feature. A bonus: Eco Bar offers one hour validated parking at the nearby Tesoro Los Cabos resort.

Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 157-4685. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Daily 7:30 a.m.– 11:30 p.m. $–$$$ F.R.

From top: Spend the perfect afternoon nibbling on this shrimp cocktail and people watching at Eco Bar, which is located right on the Cabo San Lucas Marina.

Chef Ángel Carbajal continues to wow at his new restaurant Fat Tuna with dishes like this short rib lasagna; the curricanes at Fisherman’s Landing will have you coming back for more.

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After 23 years at the helm of NickSan, Los Cabos master chef Ángel Carbajal was looking for a new challenge. Hence: Fat Tuna Copas y Cocina, which opened last year.

The sleek three-level restaurant is set in the heart of the Land’s End city’s nightclub district—it sits on the same block as late-night meccas Mandala and El Squid Roe—and showcases all the seafood mastery one would expect from Carbajal (think spicy octopus with three chiles, lime, garlic, Himalayan salt, and quinoa), as well as a generous selection of steaks (including a Wagyu rib eye with ponzu and sesame oil pearls, and flank steak with garlic fries). The real eye-openers, however, are found on the pasta menu; it features delicious options that, in their finished form, often seem as much Mexican dishes as Italian.

Gnocchi with chorizo? Black risotto with huitlacoche? Pizza with arrachera?

Welcome to the wonderful world of Ángel Carbajal. Local press and fine dining connoisseurs gathered April

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Fat Tuna

D I N I N G 28 for a private cocktail party to celebrate Carbajal’s latest project. A state-of-the-art elevator whisked VIPs from ground level to the rooftop, where they were fêted in grand style with top-shelf tequila cocktails and what seemed an endless succession of delicious hors d’oeuvres, before settling in for a more thorough examination of the bill of fare.

Boulevard Lázaro Cárdenas S/N (between Morelos and Zaragoza), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-4740, www.face book.com/fattunacabo. Daily noon–midnight. $$ C.S.

Fisherman’s Landing Bar With a name like Fisherman’s Landing, you’ve got to have good seafood. And this place does—in spades. Situated right smack on the marina, it gives diners a bird’s-eye view of boats leaving the harbor in search of dinner for the night, or returning with their catch. Its open-air atmosphere, succulent dishes, and outstanding service bring patrons back time and again, welcoming early morning anglers to come for breakfast and a packed lunch starting at 5 a.m. and to return with their catch to be cooked several different ways.

Throughout the day, the highest quality fish and shellfish make it to your table. This is a restaurant for the true seafood aficionado. A sampling of the varied menu includes sushi, including a new one to the menu with crispy greens, strawberries, and cucumber that could easily pass for a salad or satisfy a vegetarian. Other starters include curricanes with avocado and tuna. Main course items will blow you away.

Choose any combination of lobster with lime butter, perfectly prepared filet mignon, jumbo shrimp on skewers with citrus sauce, yellowtail, or sea bass blackened Rockefeller style. Other items include a cheese tortilla with crab meat, oysters on half shell, shrimp cocktail, and entrées of lots of shrimp dishes fixed the way you like them, seafood chiles rellenos, and pastas. Ask for the special margarita: It comes in a bowl with a straw. A nice ending to a fully satisfying meal are churros with caramel dipping sauce, and maybe a Baileys and espresso coffee. Satisfaction guaranteed. Paseo de la Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-7275. Daily 5 a.m.–10:30 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$ S.A.B.

Jack’s Steak House Step into Jack’s Steak House and you’re transported to another place and time (think: Pirates of the Caribbean). It’s a fun, kitschy, and surprising sophisticated spot featuring a menu from chef Rodrigo Moreno that draws from France, Italy, the United States, and México. It’s a wonderful lunchtime destination, especially if you’re looking for casual comfort and delicious fare. The signature Jack’s nachos come loaded with refried beans, grated cheese, salsa, jalapeños, and sour cream. Calamari gets a twist with a chipotle sauce. If you’re hungry after a morning of activities, opt for the Jack’s Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 109

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Burger topped with cheese, bacon, mushrooms, and caramelized onions or the grilled Angus flank steak with enchiladas, refried beans, and guacamole. All entrées include a choice of sides—nopales (cactus salad), baby carrots, grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, and baked potatoes, to name but a few. Kids love pirates, so there are also plenty of lunch and dinner offerings geared toward the little ones. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6011, www.goldenzone cabo.com. Daily noon to 11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$ C.S.

John’s Place Restaurant & Sports Bar There’s something incredibly comforting about getting to travel the world and discover a place that feels just like home. That’s the sensation we experience every time we visit John’s Place, a downtown Cabo San Lucas restaurant that offers big flavors and budget-friendly prices in addition 110

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to large-screen TVs to watch all the NFL games, locally sourced seafood dishes, and a popular lineup of weekly specials. Highlights include two-forone deals on beers and margaritas, as well as a two-for-one on pastas during lunch and dinner. The most famous of its deals is likely the $4 U.S. Real Deal, a breakfast feast that includes three eggs, mixed fruit, potatoes, beans, toast, and tasty slices of bacon. John’s Place is known for several impressive dining options, including one dinner combo that pairs lobster, rib eye, and shrimp. For a real Mexican experience, opt for the huachinango (red snapper) or go all-American with the all-youcan-eat finger-licking-good baby back barbecued ribs (complete with baked potato and corn) for $17 U.S. You’ll get to enjoy all of these while watching sports; John’s Place has all the NFL games, basketball, and more. Boulevard Marina and Vicente Guerrero, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 105-0381, (624) 145-4071, www.facebook.com /johnsplacecabo, magda.sojo@gmail .com. Major credit cards accepted.

Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. $–$$$ F.R.

ROGELIO PÉREZ

The baby back ribs at John’s Place taste just like home—but even better!

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PATRICIA SANTES

La Bocana One of the best lunchtime deals at La Bocana is its scrumptious hamburger with wedge-cut fries for $150 M.X.; it’s actually more of a steak burger than anything else. The restaurant, almost a hidden dining treasure, is located on Lázaro Cardenas Boulevard, a few hundred feet south of El Squid Roe, near the Oxxo store and across the street from the Puerto Paraiso shopping center. La Bocana’s dinner menu is seafood forward and offers everything from fresh and spicy Sashimi Serranitos to a delicious and creamy mix of scallops, shrimp, and tender fish slices served in a pineapple bowl. Another dish available at a steal of a price is the tangy and crispy coconut shrimp. La Bocana also serves a variety of Mexican and artisanal beers that include Minerva (pale, Viena dark, and stout)

La Bocana’s dinner menu is seafood forward, with everything from sushi rolls to sashimi and beyond.

at a three-for-two price. Seating at La Bocana consists of the streetview front patio area and the quieter and serene table setting in the back,

which includes two large plasma TVs for sports and a large pool table. During the week, live musicians perform acoustic and mellow tunes,

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while on weekends a live band brings the audience a nice brand of harmonious rock and roll, blues, and jazz that covers entertainment. On Thursdays, sushi orders are offered at a cost of three plates for the price of two. Lázaro Cardenas/Leona Vicario and Calle Morelos, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 179-1429. Daily 12:30 p.m.–1 a.m. All major credit cards accepted. $–$$$. F.R.

La Casa de Don Juan One of our favorite breakfast spots has a new location— and a new offering: special taco hours! But, first: Breakfast is what made La Casa de Don Juan an instant favorite among Los Cabos locals and in-the-know visitors.

Since day one, this place has been fantastic. And that’s even more true of its new location. Café de la olla is the perfect pairing for breakfast items that range from huevos divorciados (two eggs, one with red sauce and the other with green) to menudo (tripe with white or red sauce with cilantro, onion, oregano, and lime) and chicharrones (fried pork skin) served in a red sauce. In the last year, La Casa de Don Juan extended its schedule to include lunch (and an early dinner). Come for the the prix fixe lunch meal, 112

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which includes the soup of the day or green salad; two choices of sides such as baked potato, vegetables, pasta, Mexican rice, or beans; and an entrée (the fish of the day either grilled or batter fried, shrimp fixed in a similar manner but with a spicy diablo sauce, chicken breast stuffed with spinach, chicken or fish fingers with French fries, chiles rellenos, taquitos, a popular pork dish called cochinita pibil, or two beef dishes) for less than $15 U.S. Or you can come late for those must-have tacos; they’re served till midnight! Calle Ignacio Zaragoza, between Revolución 1910 and V. Carranza, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 105-9339.

Tues.–Sun. 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 7 p.m.–midnight. MasterCard, AmEx, and Visa accepted. $–$$ A.A.

La Deriva Master chef Emanuele Olivero has brought the colors and flavors of his native Italy to Baja California Sur with his Solaz Los Cabos restaurant La Deriva. The glass-enclosed restaurant and its terrace offer incredible sea views, yet the menu is somehow even more impressive. The carpaccio di manzo (beef tenderloin with arugula and Parmigiano– Reggiano) is a must-try appetizer, as is the burrata served

FROM LEFT: HUGO ROMÁN; COURTESY LA DERIVA

From left: The Doña María breakfast features three enchiladas, finely chopped cactus leaves salad, and beans at La Casa de Don Juan; La Deriva, which turned 1 this March, elevates local ingredients with Italian recipes—and flair.

D I N I N G with heirloom tomatoes and basil. As a second course, choose from fish, fowl, or beef prepared as only a true Italian can do, with a touch of vino, fresh organic veggies, and just the right seasonings. Pastas, porterhouse, and organic chicken are all prepared to order to enjoy with your favorite wine. The ravioli al tastastal is perfect for; the fresh pasta is gently filled with sausage and served in a brown butter and sage sauce. And the filetto al pepe rosa is a beef tenderloin with pink peppercorn, bone marrow, and grilled potatoes. Save room for something dolci; the choices are delectable. Choose tiramisu enveloped in a house secret cocoa flavor. Panna cotta is always a treat in a true Italian restaurant, especially here with strawberry and chocolate sauce. There are other delights, but you can save those for another visit, as I’m sure there will be.

Solaz Los Cabos, km 18.5 on the tourist corridor, www .laderivarestaurant.com. Mon.–Sat. 5:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

All major credit cards accepted. $$$ S.A.B.

La Dolce Los Cabos, for whatever reason, has become a mecca for Italian chefs, restaurants, and devotees. Mediterranean restaurants abound, and yet the diversity of these spots prevents the scene from ever becoming rote. With La Dolce, Stefan Miotto and Juan Calderoni welcome guests to the flavors of northern Italy—and, by extension—France and Austria. Think more butter and less olive oil. At La Dolce, you can expect rich sauces, more beef, and homemade pastas. There’s a lot to choose from on this menu. Start with antipasti like thinly sliced fish carpaccio in La Dolce’s secret sauce or trifolati misto (shrimp and calamari sautéed with garlic, capers, red pepper, and white wine with Pomodoro). The lasagna is made with Bolognese sauce and a béchamel with mozzarella and Parmesan. La Dolce also serves an excellent beef tenderloin with Gorgonzola and mushroom sauce.

You can’t leave without trying the tiramisu. Cabo San Lucas: Miguel Hidalgo and Zapatas, (624) 143-4122, www .restauranteladolce.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–midnight. San José del Cabo: Miguel Hidalgo and Zaragosa, (624) 1426621. Tues.–Sun. 1 p.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$–$$$ A.A.

La Panga Antigua Restaurant & Bar Walk into this 150-year-old mansion, and you’ll get a taste of what Old México was all about. An amazing transition takes place when you leave the hustle and bustle of the tourist area near the old church in San José del Cabo—especially on the night of the seasonal Art Walk (November–June)—and enter through an unassuming doorway. Lush tropical foliage surrounds several levels Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 113

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The antipasti misto at La Dolce is a nice lighter start to a dinner, especially considering the rich northern Italian fare to follow.

del Cabo, (624) 142-4041, www .lapangaantigua.restaurant.com Daily noon–10:30 p.m. All major cards accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

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Los Barriles A blending of various culinary philosophies creates a dining experience at this family-owned restaurant unlike any other. Special cocktail concoctions such as pineapple or mango mojitos are a great start any time of day. You’ll find Sevechimi (a blend of sashimi and ceviche), oysters on the half shell, tuna tartar with sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce and avocado listed as appetizers, but any could serve as a light lunch. The dinner menu has many delectable dishes, especially red snapper served whole or butterfly cut. Whatever your taste, you can find it here: from pastas to authentic Mexican fare including a mixed molcajete of flank steak, shrimp, and cactus to fall-offthe-bone barbecued ribs slow-baked for seven hours. A highlight of a special dinner are the flamed dishes prepared at your table. In fact, there’s a whole lot of flaming going on here from seafood—including lobster, shrimp, and tuna steak—to USDA Choice steak and even desserts. A grill is rolled out, a white chef’s toque donned by the preparer, and the show is worthy of applause.

With all these options, be sure to

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of adobe walls, rock walkways and enchanting seating areas. At the far end is an antique panga, a roughly hewn wooden boat for which the restaurant is named. The staff scurries about taking drink orders, such as a refreshing mojito made with hibiscus, and dishing up incredible farm-to-table fare such as appetizers of three-cheese ravioli in a squash blossom sauce; tuna with sesame seed crust and cilantro aioli; baby octopus; or sea scallops with a citrus vinaigrette. Entrées worth every bite are grilled rib eye with rosemary, red wine, and bacon-wrapped asparagus or the grilled catch of the day with a pumpkin seed crust and grilled asparagus. Dessert choices include house-made flan, crepes, and the restaurant’s signature chocolate tamal baked in a corn husk.

Private and corporate events welcome. Zaragoza No. 20, San José

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Los Barriles is known for its robust menu and forward-thinking fusion, but you can also find traditional Mexican favorites like molcajete bowls.

save room for flaming bananas Foster. The show is worth it. Bring the children; it’s a family affair. Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1619, www.los-barriles-cabo .com. Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

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Los Deseos Famed Mexican chef Patti Jinich once wrote, “A cuisine as rich and diverse as México’s needs for us to make an effort to preserve what has been passed on.” That same sentiment is at the heart of Los Deseos, a Cabo San Lucas Marina restaurant—part of the famed Golden Zone—that celebrates dishes from across México and its generations. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Los Deseos serves everything from pan dulce to mesquite-style marrow and old-fashioned mole. The restaurant boasts a tremendous number of lunch and dinner entrées, and it can be tough to narrow the field. Here we present a suggested dinner, from appetizer to dessert: Start with the three-cheese queso fundido. Three cheeses and tequila are flamed in a molcajete and served with fresh tortillas. Follow with a pumpkin flower soup, especially Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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D I N I N G biscus sauce. A nice Italian sparkling prosecco rosé goes well with most dishes and is a refreshing option. Multilevel terraces are candle lit with exquisite glass globes and protected from the wind by large glass panels. Private dining areas are perfect for a romantic evening, made all the more special with the sound of waves crashing below. An international buffet is served on Saturdays. Hacienda Encantada Hotel, km 7.3 on the tourist corridor, (624) 163-5550, www.haciendaencantada .com. Mon., Wed.–Thurs., Sat.– Sun. 6 p.m.–10:30 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

Madeira Bistro

vegetables and aromatic oils, vinaigrettes, and house-made dressings.

There are fresh fish specialties such as sea bass stuffed with seafood or pastor-style shrimp marinated with achiote and served over a slab of grilled pineapple drizzled with hi-

Los Riscos Mesquite Grill The family-owned Hacienda Encantada is one of our favorite Los Cabos resorts thanks to its emphasis on honoring México’s rich culinary, cultural, and architectural traditions.

Its on-site Los Riscos Mesquite Grill showcases that sensibility through its design and high standard of service. Start with the callos garra de león con cremoso de aguacate (scallops with avocado dip) or shrimp and mushrooms sautéed with butter, garlic, and guajillo chile. A salad bar features a variety of field-to-table 116

From top: Los Deseos specializes in Mexican cuisine (pictured: fajitas); dine on shrimp al pastor at Los Riscos.

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FROM TOP: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; COURTESY LOS RISCOS

if you’re visiting Los Deseos at night with a cool breeze over the marina.

The chile en nogada is a beloved tradition; essentially, it’s a poblano pepper stuffed with minced pork, beef, and dried fruits topped with a nut and pomegranate sauce. For dessert, pair a traditional cinnamony café de la olla with a coconut flan; it’s a specialty of the house. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1456011, www.goldenzonecabo.com.

Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$$ A.A.

There’s no room for self-control at Madeira Bistro, Rodrigo Aensa’s brilliant Brazilian steakhouse in downtown Cabo San Lucas. While there are à la carte options on the menu, the headliner here is the all-youcan-eat rodízio-style barbecue from chef Misael LeGaria: perfectly marinated, mesquite-fire-cooked meats

D I N I N G paired with red wine for $29 U.S. The meal includes basil-flavored mashed potatoes, sweet and tasty cabbage coleslaw, two small chicken wings, and three sweet potato slices. The dizzying array of sliced meats, served round after round include arrachera, rib eye, spicy Mexican chorizo hot links, top sirloin, turkey wrapped in bacon, brochette, barbecued ribs, and lamb. Looking for something a little lighter? That à la carte menu we mentioned earlier also features salads, pasta, fish, and shrimp entrées. Highlights include a garlic fish and a tropical shrimp-pineapple salad. Vicente Guerrero Street and Francisco I. Madero, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 150-5089 and (624) 175-3593, madeirabistro@gmail.com. Tues.–Sun. 4 p.m.–11 p.m.

MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ F.R.

Mama’s Royal Café Having opened in 1991, Mama’s Royal Café is one of the oldest continuously operated restaurants in all of Los Cabos and has earned the recognition as “oldest gringo restaurant in downtown.” It takes only one bite of its famous breakfasts to see why the eatery has persisted, not only surviving the recession but thriving. The “World’s Best French Toast”—stuffed with rich ricotta and cream cheese, loaded with fresh fruit, and flambéed in orange liqueur—is the restaurant’s signature dish.. Try traditional eggs Benedict, sample Mexican specialties like the huevos rancheros chorizeros, or order a custom three-egg omelet.

The King Kong omelet contains enough nutrients to meet your recommended daily allowance of almost everything. It’s made with bacon, cheese, mushrooms, mild chiles, tomato, avocado, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and herbs. Calle Hidalgo, between Zapata and Madero, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-4290, www.mamasroyalcafe loscabos.com. Daily 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$ C.S.

Mi Casa San José Want to explore traditional Mexican cuisine while on vacation in Los Cabos? The hacienda-style Mi Casa restaurant in San José del Cabo (as well as its sister spot in Cabo San Lucas) honors the country’s rich culinary and artistic traditions. Its neighbors here in San José del Cabo are the historic mission church and a number of charming art galleries. Oversize murals hearken back to years past, while strolling musicians delight. The rich aromas of traditional dishes like chicken mole and carnitas waft through the outdoor setting. Start dinner with a tortilla soup or shrimp cocktail. The salads feature farm-fresh produce, and the vegetarian chile relleno and mushroom enchilada are two more dishes that impress. So does the chicken chile en nogada. For dessert, try the wonderful pairing of Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 117

the Tijuana microbrew La Fauna dark beer with chocolate cake. La Fauna is considered México’s version of Guiness. Alvaro Obregón 19, Art District San José del Cabo, (624) 146-9263, www.micasarestaurant.com.mx.

Nightly 4 p.m.–10 pm. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $–$$$ F.R.

Misaky Sushi & Salad

Clockwise top left: The Brazilian-style barbecue is all you can eat at Madeira Bistro; it’s all about breakfast and brunch at Mama’s Royal Café; the serranito roll is nice and spicy at Misaky Sushi & Salad.

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The new food court at Puerto Paraiso shopping center includes some of the freshest and tastiest sushi that Los Cabos has to offer. Check out the variety of sushi at Misaky, whether ending a day of shopping or on your way to see a movie in the mall. A closed circuit menu board offers colorful photos of the various dishes offered with the name of the dish, making the difficult decision of what to choose a lot easier. Featured selections by locally trained chef and manager Javier Peréz include Tostadas Won Tong with tuna and avocado; Tuna Tataky with cilantro, orange, and serranito; a Cosmo Roll with cream cheese; a Volcano Roll; a Sake Roll with fresh salmon;, Hil Roll with mango and kiwi; various sashimi; and the favorite of most, curricanes, all at very reasonable prices. Salads include an interesting combination of tempura shrimp and veggies, lettuce, white rice and teriyaki sauce. The food court is large, clean, and well lit with many tables available for patrons, including a terrace for outdoor eating overlooking the harbor. Misaky is part

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SERGIO MARTÍNEZ; COURTESY MAMA’S ROYAL CAFÉ; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

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D I N I N G of a family of restaurants that includes Black Smoke Barbeque, Fisherman’s Landing Bar, and Barra Barra. Upper level, Puerto Paraiso, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-3958. Daily 10 a.m.–9 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $ S.A.B.

Namaste India The family-owned Namaste India serves made-to-order Indian fare like biryani, naan, palak paneer, and chicken tikka masala. Start with a crispy samosa garbanzo chat followed by spinach palak paneer and the chef’s special mutton korma. All main dishes have various spices that are actually medicine for the body, and each dish is made with fresh and healthy ingredients. Dishes are made here with fresh produce, infused with homemade Italian spices. Raj Kothapalli and his wife, Jean, will make certain your visit meets your expectations. Catering is available for up to 100 people; this is a great option for a wedding.

Looking for something sweet? There’s nothing more refreshing or satisfying than a freshly made mango lassi.

Finally, you can end your visit with a cup of chai—the Indian tea. Located Camino Real, near Avenedi del Pescado, Cabo San Lucas, 624-218-0810, www.namasteindia cabo.com. Daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$ S.A.B.

Nick-San Cabo San Lucas You have to try Nick-San more than once. This is not only the best sushi and sake that Los Cabos has to offer, but you get to enjoy it in a beautiful setting right here in México. This is your chance to taste and explore the vastness and richness of Japanese cuisine and to appreciate the uniqueness of what Nick-San brings to Japanese food—Mexican ingredients and innovative twists. For more than two decades, Nick-San has introduced people to just these flavors. Guests are invited to discover NickSan’s delicious recipes and be surprised by its extensive menu. The best known culinary contribution from Japan is, of course, sushi. But you may be surprised to know that Nick-San does not take its cues from what’s trending but rather in the ancient traditions. Here you’ll find dishes that are fried, boiled, and boiling over. Some are marinated. Some are raw. There is a variety of seafood— mackerel, sierra, wahoo, snapper, tuna, lobster—as well as chicken and steak; and the food is expertly executed with great technique under the guidance of experienced chef and Nick-San founder Ángel Carbajal. Nick-San owners invite you to taste its menu not just once but many times. The surprises here never end, with dishes’ flavors, textures, and presentations. Celebrate your special occasions here. There’s a reason so many visitors Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 119

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come back time and again. Japanese cuisine is more than sushi, and the Nick-San experience can’t be relegated to just one visit. Boulevard Marina L10–L2, Plaza de la Danza, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2491, www.nicksan .com. Daily 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. (One hour of free parking available at adjacent Tesoro resort). Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$

On our last trip to Nick-San Palmilla, we started with a Champagne cocktail from the Champagne Bar at the Garden to get ourselves into the ambience. The chef sent an amuse bouche of whitefish sashimi served with truffle oil. And we continued with a jicama tartar made of seabass, jicama, chasoba, and a refreshing citrus dressing. Try this dish with the house sauvignon blanc so you will be able to appreciate even more the fruity sides of the wine and of the dressing as well. We then continued with the Negi Roll, made with whitefish, crab, shrimp, thin caramelized onions, and a touch of truffle oil. One of our favorite dishes was the crab ravioli, a special dish currently available exclusively at the Palmilla location and consisting of delicious ravioli stuffed with softshell crab and shitake and served with a creamy yuzu sauce.

This visit to Nick-San Palmilla was totally different from previous trips; the restaurant was completely remodeled

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From top: You have to try Nick-San more than once. Not only are there two locations—one in downtown Cabo San Lucas; the other in San José del Cabo—but there is also a huge variety of offerings. One favorite is the yellowtail sashimi (pictured); the Oyster Bar puts a fun, spicy spin on raw oysters on the half shell with a habanero cocktail sauce.

FROM TOP: COURTESY NICK-SAN; BRIAN ULLOA

Nick-San Palmilla

D I N I N G also a lovely Zen vibe in the Garden Lounge Bar as well as in the terrace facing the sea. Come for a visit and enjoy great service, unbelievable dishes, and a unique ambience, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or for a special occasion. Nick-San Palmilla also offers its Beyond catering service. Pair the most exclusive setting in Los Cabos with incredible flavors and service. Area privativa Ap-15, Shoppes at Palmilla, San José del Cabo, Phone (624) 144-6264, www.nicksan.com. Daily 2 p.m.–11 p.m. Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$

The Oyster Bar Seafood abounds in Los Cabos—so much so that the team behind Baja Lobster Co. on the Cabo San Lucas Marina decided it needed to honor not only lobsters but also oysters with its name. So, every day—from noon till 6 p.m.

Baja Lobster Co. offers the alfresco Oyster Bar with its incredible selection of fresh local seafood and marina views.

Enjoy a mix of raw and prepared seafood creations—all expertly executed, all delicious. Shellfish highlights include oysters Rockefeller, an Acapulco-style shrimp cocktail, oysters on the half shell, San Carlos-style scallops, and that distinctive Baja California Sur specialty item, chocolate clams. The ultimate option, however, is an El Patrón platter featuring a dozen each of oysters, shrimp, clams, and mussels. White wines are the preferred pairing for shellfish, and the Oyster Bar menu includes an international selection of premium wine selections by the glass or bottle. For dessert, dig into decadent slices of cheesecake or caramel flan, or share a bananas and strawberry flambé for two. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6011, www.golden zonecabo.com. Daily noon–6 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $$ C.S.

Pan di Bacco Is there anything better than the aroma of freshly roasted espresso and right-from-the-oven bread? That’s what greets you as walk by the downtown Cabo San Lucas Pan di Bacco. Enter, and you’re treated to even more wonders. A large bowl of seasonal fruit is a nice starter served with dipping honey. My favorite egg dish is an omelet roll filled with salmon, cream cheese, and arugula. The green omelet is made with spinach, cream cheese, ham, and leafy and colorful arugula. A tasting menu is also available. A basket of fresh, warm, house-baked toast is always included, served with butter and jam (perhaps made of hibiscus flowers). Panini can be had with various filings such as salmon or prosciutto and cheese and then grilled flat. Of course, the name says it all: Pan di Bacco means bread of the gods in Italian. Here you can Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 121

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From left: Fettucine at Pan di Bacco comes topped with shrimp and butter-lemon sauce; a tuna fillet is grilled and served wrapped in bacon at Pancho’s Restaurant.

Pancho’s Restaurant This downtown Cabo San Lucas restaurant has been a local favorite for many years. One of the reasons 122

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have a croissant filled with chocolate; a fagotto (a crispy pastry with Nutella); or a banana, chocolate, or carrot and zucchini sweet bread, the perfect accompaniment with an Italian espresso. Waffles with cream cheese and caramel sound sinful (perhaps I’ll get it next time). Start with a mimosa (two for the price of one) or a smoothie of orange with honey, mango. The Green & Green is made with spinach, pears, parsley, and orange. Cabo San Lucas: Marina Boulevard and Lázaro Cárdenas, (624) 143-3508, www.pandibacco .com. Sun.–Thurs. 9 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 9 a.m.–midnight. San José del Cabo: El Merkado at Koral Center, km 7.55 on the tourist corridor, (624) 145-8160. Daily 8:30 a.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

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Prawns top a tower of portabello mushroom and mashed potatoes at Pastafrolla.

becomes obvious once you’ve entered the colorful and inviting interior with photos of its namesake, Pancho Villa, on the walls and decorated papel picado (paper cutouts) hanging from the ceiling. The real test is the food. A large grill occupies an open corner of the main dining area, and it is put to good use nightly. Not only are the steaks, chicken, or pork chops cooked to perfection, but octopus with its smoky flavor cannot be resisted served with a side of avocado salsa. The succulent lobster tails, whole red snapper, and baby back ribs are also in demand. The menu boasts that the chile relleno is the best in town; try it, and you’ll agree it can’t be beat. Those who savor tequila will be awed by the 500 varieties and are welcome to sign up for one of three tastings in the tequila room and receive a certificate. Reservations suggested. Hidalgo and Zapata, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2891, www.panchos.com. Daily 8 a.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Pastafrolla The motto of this astounding casual Mediterranean restaurant Pastafrolla is “for the pleasure of being together,” and it’s one that holds true for couples, families, and anyone dining here. Located in downtown Cabo San Lucas—right across from the Puerto Paraiso shopping center—Pastafrolla is a passion project for chefs José Rubén Beltrán and César Jesús Ruíz, who have been with the venture from the very start.

(They even assembled the tables and chairs!) The cuisine is built on a foundation known as “triada”: wine, olive, and wheat. The chefs take the most representative dishes from select Mediterranean countries (Italy, Greece, and Turkey among them) and bring them to Los Cabos, applying their own culinary style along the way. Steaks, seafood, pasta, and pizza are among the offerings. The signature dessert is the eponymous Pastafrolla, which is a delicious artisanal pie. The chefs make the dough Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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This Pitahayas taco is packed with color and flavor: pork belly and scallops with guacamole, radishes, and a sweet-chile cream sauce (left); Romeo & Julieta showcases fresh seafood and pasta in its linguine pescatore (right).

Pitahayas The Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar’s signature restaurant was one of the region’s first fine dining establishments, and it remains one of Los Cabos’ very best. In addition to a stunning views of the Sea of Cortés and an established record of expert customer service, Pitahayas boasts a tradition of innovation. This was demonstrated once again in 2015, when the restaurant and the menu underwent makeovers. In addition to a more modern look for Pitahayas, chef Volker Romeike made over the menu to blend Mexican and Asian flavors. The results have been palpable. He demonstrates his inventiveness with dishes like smoked pork tamal with yellow mole; jicama taquitos with shrimp and char siu; and seafood tortilla soup. The fresh octopus salad is a revelation, while the tuna poke is a delightful summer bite: fresh tuna is paired with watermelon, jalapeño, Tajín, and taro. Give yourself over to the chef’s eclectic yet unerringly delicious combinations: Filipino-style lumpia spring rolls with Mexican pork carnitas and Southeast Asian Kaffir lime, for exam124

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ple, or jalapeño-and-honey-glazed pork belly plated with sweet potato plantain mash, Hawaiian barbecue sauce, and Asian ratatouille. For a special occasion, consider the La Cava de Santiago wine cellar, which houses more than 400 wines. A variety of music is offered nightly. The Pitayitas bar offers Social Fridays, with limitless drinks for $550 pesos. Km 10 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-8010, www.pitahayas.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–11 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$ A.A.

Presto Italian Ristorante Sometimes you want something fast and easy—and delicious. That’s what you’ll find at Presto, a delightful little bistro on the Cabo San Lucas Marina. Chef Roberto Macciadris’s menu is made up of timeless Italian favorites— pastas, pizzas, focaccia, soups, and salads—with the occasional Cabo twist. At Presto, you’ll love the added je ne sais quoi cream cheese (here sometimes known as “filadelfia”) brings to dishes like salmon carpaccio and pizza; the Viale features bacon, spinach, mozzarella, and cream cheese. The Caprese salad is a celebration of fresh, quality ingredients (tomato, mozzarella, basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil), while the Caesar uses the original recipe that was created in Tijuana, México, several decades ago. Each is a perfect accompaniment to the bruschetta appetizer. Can’t resist those pasta cravings? The

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from scratch, then they shape this culinary art piece with tenderness; the main ingredient is the quince. Lázaro Cárdenas Boulevard, between Leona Vicario and Morelos, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 115-2316 and 247-0408, www .facebook.com/restaurantepastafrolla. Daily noon–11 p.m.

MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ A.V.

D I N I N G Marinara spaghetti is a fantastic showcase of the sea’s bounty: It comes topped with shrimp, mussels, and squid.

Ask your server for suggested wine pairings. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6020, www .goldenzonecabo.com. Daily noon–11 p.m. Major credit cards accepted. $–$$$ A.A.

Romeo & Julieta The secret to Romeo & Julieta’s continued success is consistently good food, attentive service, and a moral code that is conscientiously adhered to. Much of that can be attributed to Italian-born chef Matias Forte, who has been with the restaurant for eight years now. Everything is made fresh, and greens must be organic. Forte says he feels responsible for the health of his patrons, and he makes only periodic changes to the menu; try the pasta alla Norma, a popular Sicilian recipe. The fish is always fresh because Forte checks the whole fish before purchasing in order to see the eyes and gills. A favorite is local tuna, encrusted with sesame seeds and seared to perfection. When in season, fresh mussels in white wine or a delicious tomato blend are a great appetizer. Classic Caesars prepared tableside are a must. The Romeo &

Julieta combo combines an Angus tenderloin with sautéed shrimp. Save room for one of the decadent desserts: Chocolate fondant or pear strudel are exceptional. To Forte, cooking is an art. “It stimulates all senses,” he says, “taste, smell, and the presentation is pleasing to the eye.

Add live music for listening and you have the complete experience.” Live music is offered nightly. Not only is the food artistic, but the surrounding walls and alcoves of the restaurant are adorned with powerful works of art, including sculpture, by Hector Herrera whose original works shown were inspired by the restaurant. Boulevard Marina and Camino del Cerro, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-0225, www.restaurantromeoyjulieta.com. Mon.–Sat. 4 p.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.–11 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $$–$$$$ S.A.B.

Solomon’s Landing Whether you’re looking for a breakfast spot, sports bar, or date night destination, you’ll find what you’re after at Brian Solomon’s exceptional Cabo San Lucas Marina restaurant. What began as a small taco bar has grown into a sprawling Cabo San Lucas Marina restaurant with an international following and a menu so large it should have

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a table of contents. This is a great spot to grab a beer and a burger and watch some football or a big fight.

Come on date night to nosh on creative, flavor-packed sushi and quaff a potent elixir. Or, do as Guy Fieri of the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives did, and come for breakfast. On his show, Fieri raved about the strawberry-banana French toast on an episode of his hit show, and for good reason. It’s divine. But it’s only one of many must-try items in the six-page breakfast menu. The chilaquiles were also featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and we can’t get enough of the green version. A new addition to the breakfast menu, the drowned eggs (huevos ahogados) are served in juicy black beans with queso fresco, jalapeños, and chopped nopales. The aptly named Benedict from the Sea is like a benediction with two poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, Jack cheese, and sautéed shrimp. Have a sweet tooth? Try the cinnamony apple waffle that comes topped with warm apple compote and fresh whipped cream. Cabo San Lucas Marina (behind Tesoro resort), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3050, www.solomons landingcabo.com. Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ A.A.

Named one of the world’s most romantic restaurants, Sunset Mona Lisa impresses on all levels. The Mediterranean menu shines, especially against the dramatic backdrop of a Technicolor sunset over the Cabo San Lucas Bay and arch at Land’s End. You’ll be blown away by outstanding food, service, and ambience. Burrata cheese oozes when cut; here the ball is wrapped with a bow and served with pesto and tomatoes, a great start for what is yet to come. Another starter is raw beef fillet shavings drizzled with olive oil and served with arugula and shaved Parmesan, 126

Sunset Mona Lisa (top) specializes in Italian flavors. Sunset Point is located on the same property as Sunset Mona Lisa and offers a focus on wine, pizza, and tapas (bottom).

Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

FROM TOP: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; SERGIO MARTÍNEZ

Sunset Mona Lisa

D I N I N G perhaps followed by organic arugula salad with pears, cranberries, and honey Champagne vinaigrette. Specials may include chocolate clams, softshell crab skewers, or a five-tuna platter. Pastas and risotto might be paired with white clams, gnocchi with diced salmon, or ravioli stuffed with lamb. Seafood includes roasted salmon, local sea bass, or octopus braised with mushrooms. A unique dining experience can be had with beef fillet or pork chops cooked tableside on hot lava rock. Desserts are not to be missed, no matter how indulgent your dinner. Try the “Almost Cappuccino,” a chocolate-formed coffee cup filled with coffee ice cream, milk foam, and crunchy cocoa. If a fan of the famous Three Tenors from the ’90s, visit on a night when the trio Divo performs live. Valet parking. Km 6.5 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1458160, www.sunsetmonalisa.com. Nightly 4 p.m.–10:30 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$–$$$$ S.A.B.

Sunset Point Sunset Mona Lisa has become an international landmark celebrated for not only its ingredient-forward menu but, even more so, its spectacular views of the Cabo San Lucas Bay and Land’s End. The property that houses Sunset Mona Lisa is actually home to three restuarants; in addition to Sunset Mona Lisa, there’s the Champagne bar Taittinger Terrace and the tapas and wine bar Sunset Point. Here, at Sunset Point, you can expect those same epic views as well as an expertly curated menu of pizza, tapas, and wine, not to mention a more relaxed—while still sophisticated—ambience. For a casual date night or evening out with friends, come to Sunset Point to take advantage of the 180-degree vistas and the inspired Italian menu. The tasting menu is an easy and enjoyable way to explore the Sunset Point menu; the three-meal includes tapas or a salad or fresh mozzarella followed by terrina di terracotta (oven-baked pasta) or a gourmet pizza and a dessert (there are straightforward desserts and cocktail versions). Sunset Point appetizers include a selection of mozzarella specials such as Pettole (a prosciutto roll served with arugula and cherry tomatoes) as well as other favorites like tuna tartar, meatballs with a mushroom sauce, or fried calamari. Pizzas are king here; they come straight from a wood-burning oven with a nice variety of toppings from which to choose. For something different, opt for the tuna sashimi pizza with arugula, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan. There’s also a classic napoletana with mushrooms, salami, mozzarella, and tomato sauce.

The mini magnum—a trio of three desserts—is perfect for those who have trouble deciding. Dessert drinks available include prosecco and port wine. Km 5.5 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas (624) 145-8160, www.sunsetmonalisa .com. Nightly 5 p.m.–10 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$ A.A. Y Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018 127

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Los Cabos Magazine | Spring 2018

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