Pampano

I’m usually wary of overly presented and overpriced Mexican food, much preferring the stuff I can buy from the taco trucks in east Harlem. Pampano, however, does things with Mexican ingredients, especially seafood, that no taco truck has ever done—and the lovely, lush town house location is much more comfortable. The fish is the highlight of the menu. Start with the tasting of either three or four ceviches; they are all spectacular, especially the halibut bathed in lemon juice, cilantro, chilies, and mango. For a rare and special treat, try a lobster taco—you won’t find that at your local taqueria. Of the entrees, it would be difficult to order anything but the fantastic camarones pompano, shrimp in a pepper-tomato sauce resting on an Anaheim chili stuffed with goat cheese, but you won’t suffer too much if you settle for the tuna with cilantro-ginger pico de gallo, in a chile de arbol sauce. Save room for chocolate flan and maybe a cleansing shot of one of the restaurant’s many excellent tequilas. Pampano is a scene, but a festive one with a lively bar and a beautiful upstairs dining area.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Back to Top