Mike L.
Yelp
Before all of my recent Sacramento adventures, I didn't know a ton about the growing food scene here, but the one thing I was absolutely sure about was how strong the beer scene is. Not in the "it's one big drinking town" sort of way, but, rather, that folks here both appreciate and support their local craft breweries. What's more, there seems to be no shortage of places around to enjoy said beers. Then again, with the likes of Pangaea around, how could anyone not want to come out to support spots like this?
First and foremost, being a bier cafe, Pangaea's beer selection is probably what will draw most folks here and I can say that it is quite impressive. Each time I've been here, their exact offerings have never been exactly the same (stuff will rotate on and off), but they always have a solid variety of options, featuring ales, lagers, sour beers, IPAs, double IPAs, ciders, and so much more. As for their food menu, it's no slouch either - it may not be super expensive, but just about everything they offer is enticing, whether it be their burger, fried chicken sandwich, nachos, or fries, among other things. Typical bar food, perhaps, but perfectly fine when you want to get down and dirty with something to go with your refreshingly cold beer!
-- FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH - Crispy Fried Chicken Thigh, House Made Slaw, Pickles, and Habanero Aioli with Garlic Fries (+$4)...$19
Aside from the bun's burnt edges, this was awesome! The chicken was crispy and not heavily battered on the outside while juicy on the inside. Also, I liked how there wasn't an overwhelming amount of slaw and how well it meshed with the pickles and aioli to go along with the chicken and bun.
-- PANGAEA BURGER - Grilled 1/2 LB Chuck and Brisket Patty, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Cheddar Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles and Special Sauce on Brioche Bun with Garlic Fries (+$4)...$21
Talk about a hefty boy! This is clearly a beefy burger, but what I loved most is how it wasn't the least bit messy/greasy. The cheddar and bacon perfectly complemented the patty and the veggies were incredibly fresh! I can see why so many folks rave about this!
As tasty as both the burger and chicken sandwich were (as well as our beers), I'd be remiss not to note that the $4 upcharge to go from fries (or coleslaw) to garlic fries does feel a bit heavy compared to what I've been charged at other places. That being said, the garlic fries here are legitimately some of the best I've had, so it just depends on how much you want some really good garlic fries (for the record, my wallet may not have been thrilled, but my stomach certainly was).
Upcharge aside, there's a whole lot about Pangaea that I like and not much that I don't. The food is great, the beer selection is terrific, and service was warm and friendly when we were here. Whether it's for a casual meet up with friends, happy hour, a low-key date, or just to cap an awesome/rough week at work, Pangaea is an awesome spot for a hangout of any kind!