Last night I took a trip out to Panza's on Saratoga Lake for dinner.
Panza's is another one of those Saratoga gems that is tucked away
outside of town but SO worth the short drive. With that being said, the
all around experience was outstanding.
The restaurant itself has a ton of history, dating back to the 1800's when Ma Panza traveled over from Italy and without even being able to speak English, made a name for herself with her cooking. Since then, her great grandsons have taken over the family business, and I'm sure are making their great grandma proud.
Enough about the history, time to talk food. As I promised, I didn't forget my camera this time, so prepare to salivate upon viewing the following pictures.
Very often, I'll ask the waitress what her favorite item on the menu is. Last night, I was told the Penne Alla Jillian, (named after Chef Tony's wife) was the golden ticket. I was not mislead. This dish is served with sauteed broccoli, chicken, sausage and sun dried tomatoes topped with basil leaves and reggiano cheese.
Yum. How beautiful is that presentation? You better believe it was as good as it looks. The chicken and sausage complemented each other along with the freshness of the broccoli and the sweet taste of the sun dried tomatoes. I'd also like to mention the cheese to garlic ratio was pretty phenomenal as well. Oh and I almost forgot - the portions are huge. This is the half size.
Here's a look at what my dining companions had to eat --
Rigatoni Alla Michael: Homemade sausage, tomato sauce with a splash of cream.
Definitely my kind of sauce, with a great balance of acidity, herbs and sweetness.
Long Island Duck a'La Flicke: Crispy, semi boneless duckling with a fig honey glaze.
This meal was bomb - meaning well, it blew me away. I was 100% content with my Penne Alla Jillian, but next time I will without a doubt be getting this duck. The skin was so crispy and delicate while the inside was so moist and tender. The honey fig sauce drizzled on top really pulls it all together giving it a sweet and tangy addition to the already perfect meal.
One thing I really love about Panza's is that while Tony and his crew do a great job with the food itself, they consistently impress me with their simple yet lovely presentations.
Enter the Mississippi mud pie with oreo crust, drizzled with caramel and chocolate.
No words.
And for the grand finale, I present to you the famous fallen chocolate lava cake:
When the waitress came back over to ask how everything was all I had to do was look up and smile at her and that was it. No one deserves to go through life without trying this. Beneath the chocolate swirl is a warm, gooey, delicious piece of chocolate cake filled with more warm and gooey chocolate.
After I finished this I sat back in my chair and sighed because I was truly sad that it was over. I couldn't have chosen a better place to start off the new year with. A big high five to Panza's for being truly fantastic. I can't wait to go back again.
The duck looks specquacular!!!!!