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Panxa Cocina
Master Critic Review
Panxa Cocina
8.5
New Mexican cuisine specialist founded by Chef Arthur Gonzalez brings authentic Hatch chiles and blue corn to Southern California. Chef Richie Ramirez continues the legacy with dishes like Navajo Tacos and stacked enchiladas rarely found outside New Mexico, complemented by mezcal-forward cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Stacked Enchiladas, Navajo Taco, Green Chile Panxa Burger
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Rare authentic New Mexican cuisine with Hatch chiles in SoCal
Who should go: New Mexico expats and adventurous eaters seeking regional specialties
When to visit: Weekend brunch for chilaquiles, dinner for full menu
What to order: Anything with Hatch chile, lamb shank, Frito Pie
Insider tip: Ask server Taisa for recommendations on authentic New Mexico preparations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 4th Street and side streets, typically available but competitive during peak hours. Public lot half block away on 3rd Street
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and nice top perfect, neighborhood vibe
Noise level: Moderate - cozy space gets lively but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 7pm
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including blue corn enchiladas, calabacitas, and posole. Chef accommodates modifications
Vegan options: Limited but doable - bean-based dishes can be modified, ask about chile preparations (some use lard)
Gluten-free options: Yes - blue corn naturally gluten-free, corn tortillas throughout menu, staff knowledgeable about modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate without being stuffy, interesting menu sparks conversation, and unique enough to show you put thought into it. Patio especially romantic
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6:30pm) usually fine for walk-ins. Weekend dinners book up - reserve ahead or expect 30-45 min bar wait
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (8+) who eat adventurously - Frito Pie and tacos work well. Not ideal for toddlers due to small space and adventurous flavors. Brunch more family-friendly than dinner
What if I've never had New Mexican food? Start with Frito Pie or stacked enchiladas - familiar formats with authentic Hatch chile. Server Taisa excellent at guiding newcomers. Note: New Mexican ≠ Tex-Mex, expect earthier, chile-forward flavors
Is the patio open year-round? Yes - heated in winter, shaded in summer. First-come basis, can't reserve patio specifically but worth requesting
Best For
Better for: Authentic regional New Mexican cuisine impossible to find elsewhere in Long Beach - if you crave real Hatch chiles, blue corn, or want New Mexico flavors without flying to Santa Fe, this is your only option. Also superior for mezcal cocktails and adventurous brunch
Skip if: You want Tex-Mex, margaritas and chips, or classic SoCal Mexican - this is regional New Mexico cooking with different flavor profiles. Also skip if you need quick casual dining or have picky eaters