Panza's Restaurant

I've been wanting to share this for a while, but every time we dine at Panza's Restaurant, I forget to take pictures of the food because it looks so amazing that it's gone before I even think about it. So here it goes: this is a photo of the outside of the restaurant. Inside, it's even more spectacular, with multiple dining areas. My favorite is the Cove, a cabaret lounge, piano bar, and full dining room. From the moment you step foot into the elegance and style, you can see that Michael Panza himself has curated every aspect of the restaurant to transform you into something you can only find in northern Italy—a flashback to 1983. Lights, camera, action! Get ready for an evening you will never forget when you walk in. We started with a dirty martini, stirred not shaken, with blue cheese olives, and listened to some tunes at the piano bar before sitting down for dinner. Now, let’s talk about the food. The fried calamari with hot cherry peppers is a must, followed by Chef Dan's Utica greens (insider tip: ask for the crumbled sausage if they haven't added it), and then there are Ma Panza's Meatballs, which are a classic. Amongst incredible friends Wendy Lawrence Chip Lawrence Meredith Woolford Jim Woolford, we dined the evening away with lots of laughter and stories to celebrate. For dinner, they have all the classics like chicken parmigiana and piccata, truffle mushroom risotto (which is to die for), a perfectly cooked New York strip steak, and rigatoni ala Michael. But my favorite is the penne pasta ala Jillian with gluten-free tortellini. Yes, that’s right! Gluten-free tortellini, which is to die for. In fact, they have tons of gluten-free options and will pretty much accommodate anything you wish. Now let’s talk about the service, which is beyond exceptional. Brandon and Jake, along with everyone else who works there, go above and beyond to make your dining experience a night you will never forget—not to mention, they’re cute AF. And don't skip dessert, even though we're always so full by then, because the desserts are spectacular. Michael Panza truly is inspirational like nobody else, and Panza's is a must-try institution in Saratoga. There are lots of restaurants in the area, and no shortage of Italian ones, but it doesn’t get any better than Panza's, for sure. Panza's also hosts special events and live performances, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your dining experience. The ambiance is enhanced by carefully selected decor and lighting, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or just enjoying a night out, Panza's provides an unforgettable experience.

Amazing service, atmosphere, food, wine and dining experience! Such a gem of a spot inside. Both times we have been there we had the pleasure of live music as well. The interior aesthetic is lovely and romantic - a perfect date night spot. I have gluten and tree nut allergies and they are very accommodating too! I highly recommend a stop here and can't wait to go back!