Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - If the one of the main reasons you go to Italy is for the great pasta, here's some good news. You don't have to endure the lengthy plane ride anymore! You just have to go to a little trattoria, on Lazaro Cardenas here in Puerto Vallarta, called "Funiculi."

As I was passing by one afternoon, the wonderful smells coming from the open kitchen are what originally drew me in. Watching the cook adding fresh herbs and fresh tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and lots of garlic to the dish he was preparing, are what made me sit down for an early lunch. And I guess I'll go ahead and admit it; I went back that evening for another pasta fix!

The pasta was cooked to perfection and the pomodoro sauce was one of the best this side of Italy. The salad (included) was fresh and crisp, and the garlic bread was crispy with just the right amount of garlic.

The menu is small with several of you favorites, cannelloni, fettucini alfredo, and lasagna, as well as other authentic delights. Also, they are in the process of building a brick oven and soon, pizza will be offered.

The owner told us that she had spent many years in Italy with her husband, who is from Naples, and the cook is from Italy also!

The trattoria has a small inside area and there is a lovely small garden with several tables for a quiet dinner. Soft Italian music plays in the background and, on Friday and Tuesday from 7:00 until 9:00, they have live entertainment. "La Boquita" plays soft music to add to the ambiance and your dining experience.

As for the service, it was very good and did not make you feel rushed. Everyone we came into contact with was very friendly and accommodating.

You aren't going to cancel a trip to Italy just to go there, but until you get the opportunity to go to La Penisola, Funiculi will provide you with a wonderful, authentic pasta experience!

Funiculi is located at Lazaro Cardenas #292, esquina Constitucion. For more information call (322) 222-2206.