What should I order at Panico's Bistro?
Panico's Bistro
Pork Chop with Gnocchi
Highly praised multiple times for being phenomenal, with tender, flavorful pork chop and pillow-like ricotta gnocchi. Considered out of this world by several reviewers and a must-try dish.
Wood Fire Pizza
Recommended as a must-try, with various types like Margherita, Vongole, and special pizzas with arugula and pancetta receiving accolades for fresh ingredients, excellent flavor, and an exceptional crust rivaling New Haven and NYC styles.
Garganelli & Pinot
Frequently highlighted as a top pasta choice, noted for perfect flavor and consistency. One reviewer mentioned ordering it repeatedly due to its excellence.
Linguine and Clams
Praised for having abundant crab meat and little neck clams, with pasta that melts in the mouth. Considered a decision well made and highly satisfying.
Octopus
Rated 5/5 and described as chargrilled then sautéed simply with olive oil, parsley, and lemon, making it a standout and favorite appetizer.
Pork Shank Osso Bucco
Rated 5/5 and highly recommended for its moist, tender meat that falls off the bone, cooked in true Italian style with marinara and vegetables.
Truffle Chicken Pasta
Mentioned for its creamy texture and plentiful shaved Parmesan, described as delicious though a bit under-salted by one reviewer’s preference.
Fried Mozzarella Balls
Noted for being crispy and perfectly melted inside, making it a popular appetizer choice.
Crab Special Pasta
Recommended for its good taste, mentioned alongside other pasta dishes as a satisfying option.
Eggplant (fried or thinly sliced baked)
Highly praised, with one reviewer calling it the best eggplant ever tasted, either fried perfectly or baked thinly with a sweet balsamic red sauce.
Mussels
Recommended as a spicy, tender appetizer served with bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, a favorite starter for repeat visitors.
Hours
| Monday | 5 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 5 to 9 PM |
| Friday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 5 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 5 to 9 PM |
About Panico's Bistro
Brick-oven pizza, classic Italian fare & BYOB are found in loud, lively surrounds of an old church.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Panico's Bistro known for?
Panico's Bistro is best known for brick oven pizza, especially pies like the Vongole pizza and margherita, plus classic Italian dishes such as linguine and clams and pork shank osso bucco. Reviewers also repeatedly mention the fresh bread, complimentary focaccia with dipping oil, and seafood-forward specials as reasons it stands out in Cape May.
What dishes are most recommended at Panico's Bistro?
Reviewers most often highlight the brick oven pizza, linguine and clams, pork chop, osso bucco, and eggplant dishes, along with pasta plates like Garganelli & Pinot and baked cavatappi with Italian sausage. The mussels, gnocchi appetizer, octopus, and cheesecake or peanut butter ball desserts also come up as strong picks.
What is the atmosphere like at Panico's Bistro?
The restaurant has a casual, cozy, historic feel inside an old church, with long windows, high ceilings, and a patio for nice evenings. It works well for groups and dinner outings, and the reviews suggest it can feel lively and a little echoey when full, which fits the busy, social setting.
Is Panico's Bistro good value, and what is the price range?
Panico's Bistro falls in the $20 to $60 range, and reviewers often describe the portions and quality as worth it, especially for dishes like loaded linguine and clams, pork shank, and specialty pizzas. Since it is BYOB, guests can bring their own wine or beer, which can help with overall value for a dinner in Cape May.
Do you need a reservation at Panico's Bistro?
Yes, dinner reservations are recommended, and the restaurant often has a wait, especially during busy times. Reviews mention fast service once seated, so planning ahead is the best way to enjoy dishes like the brick oven pizza, osso bucco, or seafood specials without a long delay.
Is parking available at Panico's Bistro?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Panico's Bistro have vegetarian options?
Yes, Panico's Bistro offers vegetarian options.
Is Panico's Bistro kid-friendly?
Yes, Panico's Bistro is good for kids.
Restaurants like Panico's Bistro in Cape May
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