Meson de Los Laureanos

Dr. Marcos Osuna got it right. His picturesque eatery is more like a trip home than just a restaurant experience. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, in the little village of El Quelite, only a stone’s throw from Mazatlán, he serves breakfast with fresh-squeezed OJ, locally made cheeses and café de olla (cinnamon-kissed coffee) in what has always been his family home. There’s no seafood on his menu; only authentic ranch-style food - the kind his mother made - rich meats cooked over coals or in the ground, just to give you an idea. Definitely ask for a sampling of the desserts, because you shouldn’t leave without trying leche quemada, a cross between crème brûlée and old fashioned custard.

The atmosphere is undeniably one of the most beautiful in all of Mazatlán. Enjoying your meal in the gardens or on the covered porch, your senses will be wildly excited by the colors, sounds of the birds, smells of fabulous Mexican cuisine and usually a handshake and personal welcome from the Doctor himself. Original artwork and touches of the family’s rich history are everywhere. Be sure to tour the entire establishment before wandering the cobblestone streets of this fairytale village. Meson de Los Laureanos serves breakfast, lunch and an early dinner and is open daily from 8am to dusk. –Lisa Lankins