An ancient wooden panga (small skiff) hangs above the door at this intriguing restaurant, located just across from San José's historical mission which is hundreds of years old. Tastefully decorated, La Panga has tables on a series of patios, one with a faded mural, another with a burbling fountain. Chef Jacobo Turquie prepares a superb catch of the day, drizzled with basil-infused oil and served with sautéed spinach and mashed potatoes. His regional seafood dishes, pollo con mole, gazpacho, and creamed carrot soup are also exceptional.
Reviewed by Eric_H from Chicago, IL on 2/13/07
As a New York transplant now living in Chicago, I would never have expected to find a personal top-5 favorite restaurant in San Jose. Thanks to the recommendation of our concierge, my wife and I were fortunate to "discover" La Panga. The unmatched al fresco setup they have alone can make the experience. But it's the food that set this place apart. This is quite a distinction for me to make considering that my wife and I dined at Trotter's C in the One & Only just the night before. The chef's "Catch of the Day" preparation is simply out of this world! Meanwhile, the service is as polished and knowledgible as you'll find at any top restaurant in NY or Chicago.
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