May, 2007

Rating : 10 out of 10

Tariff : Dinner for 2

• 2 entrees
• 2 margaritas
• appetizers
• tip
• $70

Atmosphere

A mad cab ride over cobblestone roads, amid heavy traffic, all across the long narrow town of Puerto Vallarta (actually around the town due to a presidential visit) brought us to the front door of the hotel La Siesta under its portico. This hotel, known for its view of the city, is set into the hill that rises up into the mountains behind the city. Friendly ushers and bartenders greeted us an offered us drinks right there in the lobby. (I sure needed one after that cab ride!). We wandered out to the balcony by the pool to check the view and were awestruck by the sight below us.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Grabowski

The entire town with its red tile roofs fell away to the ocean where the sun was just starting to turn a beautiful shade of pinky orange. At this point a very pleasant employee, possibly a maitre de, came to tell us respectfully that we were welcome to remain where we were but that he was sure we'd enjoy the view even more from the rooftop restaurant that was our ultimate destination. We acquiesced and shuttled by one small elevator to the roof where we exclaimed in delight how right he had been once we saw the sun setting fully from that higher vantage point. Throughout the evening we enjoyed a seemingly unending stream of fresh cocktails, numerous musicians, the warm evening air, friendly conversation, and finally a sumptuous meal.

Service

Even though we were with a large party, the service was excellent. From the time our cabs dropped us off by the lobby and friendly bartenders offered us our choice of several complimentary mixed drinks, to the recommendations of heading upstairs to the rooftop restaurant for the optimum sunset view, to our drink and dinner service on the balcony we were treated like royalty.

Food & Drinks

Among us we sampled calamari in garlic and wine, which was just delicious--sounds simple and maybe that's why, but this calamari was some of the most flavorful I've ever tasted. One diner had the baked lobster--very plain but wonderful. Another had the filet of Red Snapper sautéed in garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. The restaurant is known for its shish kabobs. Other specials that are dramatically prepared table side include Caesar salad and the flambéed prawns and beef.

Dessert

After eating and drinking all evening we were in no position to try desserts much to our disappointment. We enjoyed the music, night air, and conversation instead.

El Panorama Restaurant
Puerto Vallarta
Jalisco, Mexico
52 (322) 222.18.18