Panorama Restaurant In Coconut Grove

I was looking at my archives and realized that I never shared my experience at Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge with you. I went there a long time ago and originally posted a review for Miami Culinary Tours. The restaurant is still there, in the same location. The view is still spectacular. The food is currently getting mixed reviews. I think it is worth going to visit, even if it is to have a cocktail while contemplating Coconut Grove from above while the ocean breeze caresses your face.

Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge is situated on the 8th floor of the Sonesta Bayfront Hotel in Coconut Grove. Panorama was a charming Peruvian establishment virtually sitting on the sky: the view of Coconut Grove from the outdoor terrace was just stunning.

Mr. H and I visited on a very hot day but the cool breeze was soothing, and the heat seemed to disappear after we sat down to begin our lunch.

Traditional Fish Ceviche

The selection changes daily. This time, it was fresh fish, lime juice, cilantro, red onions, generously garnished with choclo (Peruvian giant corn) and cancha which is something like popcorn without “ the pop” and agreeably seasoned with salt. It was served in a Martini glass which was original. The dish was palatable, but I must confess that I was not too keen on the corn and cancha covering the fish as I think that the fish is supposed to be the “star” of the ceviche as should not have been over-shadowed by the taste and texture of the cancha.

Arroz Chaufa de Pollo

This is the Peruvian version of Chinese Chicken Fried Rice and consisted of golden pieces of chicken breast, green onions, red bell peppers, peas, zucchini and eggs. Quite a tasty and colorful plate of rice that was also very filling.

Lomo Saltado

This is one of my favorite dishes in the whole world so it is hard for me to be partial to this – the mixture of flavors and textures are always so interesting. It is basically stir-fried beef sliced in strips with onions, parsley and tomatoes served with guess what? Fries in a lake of gravy and then eaten all together with rice. Double-starch I know, but the servings at Panorama were not massive, so it was okay to indulge.

Crème Brûlée

Crème Brûlée is not exactly Peruvian, is it? But it was on the menu and Mr. H, and I could not resist. We were not displeased by this choice of desert, on the contrary, this creamy little pot of heaven made our hearts soar with such a delight that we started a little fight as who got to take the last bite. We were nice to each other in the end though and shared the strawberry which was ripe with sweetness.

All in all, this was a gratifying experience: the views, the food, the pleasant atmosphere. I bet it is really romantic at night, with the Grove’s gentle city lights keeping you company while you dine.