Gourmet Pasta at Lake Atitlan:
Fata Morgana in San Pedro

Pasta is back at Fata Morgana in San Pedro, and it's better than ever! A key reason is the new Italian chef's handmade gnocchi, fettuccine, spinach ravioli and lasagna (spaghetti and penne are also available).

The gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce features a soft pasta and a subtle sauce that make this one of the top dishes to be had anywhere in Guatemala.

A dozen sauces, all made fresh, are on the new menu, everything from the traditional Carbonara and Pomodoro to the Gorbachov, which is made with vodka, of course. The Al Funghi is prepared with Porcini mushrooms; the olive oil enhances the authentic flavor.

The chef, Alfredo, has years of experience, after running his own restaurants in Xela and Antigua.For dessert, the Tiramisu is sensational. Alfredo's version of this classic Italian treat is like a cake layered with custard and flavored with coffee and chocolate.

The ambience at Fata Morgana adds to the dining experience. You can eat downstairs and watch the street scene in the zona viva, or in a more intimate setting upstairs. A good selection of wine and liquors are on hand, and a coffee or espresso is a fine way to finish an exquisite meal. (Those who prefer tea can choose from more than a dozen varieties.)

Fata also serves a big ham and cheese sandwich. The ham is right up there in quality with the freshly baked bread, nothing like what you get in the local tiendas. The pesto sandwich (made with extra virgin olive oil) is the meal for vegetarians. For breakfast, egg sandwiches are ready to go. Slices of pizza and focaccia make great snacks, while the personal pizza is a meal in itself.

Alfredo's handmade rolls stuffed with spinach and cheese or other tasty fillings are a new snack item.The restaurant recently began using water from its new well, demonstrating a commitment to quality by the owners, Andrew and Cody. So next time you're looking for a tantalizing meal, snack, or cup of coffee in San Pedro, Fata Morgana is worth the boat ride from anywhere on the lake.

Where: zona viva in San Pedro

When: 7:30 AM—10:00 PM, closed Wednesday