Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The mere mention of Italian food conjures up very specific images, dishes and aromas. The stereotypical Italian restaurant in America, and pretty much any country outside of Italy, usually serves up plates of hot pasta with tomato or cream-based sauces or a big slice of pizza.

This is far from true Italian cuisine, which encompasses a variety of cooking styles and tastes. The differences in Italian cooking really shows up between the northern and southern parts of the country. Each region has its own traditions that reflect the history and culture of that area.

You have a chance to sample innovative Italian food during the Winter Weekly Specials Menu at Daiquiri Dick's Restaurant in sunny Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Every week visit a different country and Italy is the chosen culinary destination, through March 1, 2015.

Executive Chef Ignacio Uribe and his team have come up with some great dishes. This is an a la carte menu, and dinner is served from 5 to 11 pm. Reservations are highly recommended. To secure the time and table you desire, call (322) 222-0566.

The Flavors of Italy

Starters

• Grilled Peach Salad with Arugula, Mozzarella Cheese, Focaccia Croutons and Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Bruschetta with Brie, Toasted Pecans and Orange Marmalade

• Melanzane alla Parmigiana - Eggplant baked with cheese

Entrées

• Pork Ossobuco, oven roasted in White Wine, served with Soft Polenta and Gremolata

• Chicken Saltimbocca with Serrano Ham and Swiss Cheese with Marsala Sauce

• Orecchiette with Pancetta, Cannellini Beans and Spinach

Dessert
• Tiramisu
• Italian Gelato with Biscotti

The staff at Daiquiri Dick's will uphold the Italian tradition of enjoying prolonged, multi-course meals that celebrate life and cuisine as equal partners at the table. Buon Pasto!

Open daily from 9 am to 11 pm, Daiquiri Dick's offers elegant dining in a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Visa, MasterCard and Banamex accepted. Reservations are recommended and can be made online at ddpv.com.