Lunch Ladies venture off beaten path at Pantrucas Chilean Restaurant
The Lunch Ladies visited Pantrucas Chilean Restaurant in Provo on their latest excursion.
Janell enjoyed the Fried Fish Lunch Special at Pantrucas.
Jennette ordered the Ave Palta and Mango juice at Pantrucas.
Gabby enjoyed her Steak With Fries and Green Salad order at Pantrucas Chilean Restaurant in Provo.
The other day we were at Jennette’s graduation party. (Yay Jennette!!) And so, of course, we were chatting and chowing down.
The topic of food and restaurant recommendations unquestionably came up, and I was surprised that we had multiple friends recommend Pantrucas Chilean Restaurant in Provo.
I had never heard of it. Was I the only one in the dark? I had to have them repeat the name multiple times. At first I thought they said “Pachucos,” to which I treated them to my stellar rendition of “Hey, Pachuco!” from Jim Carrey’s classic movie “The Mask.” At which point they spelled it for me. P-a-n-t-r-u-c-a-s. So, apparently my singing was unnecessary … good thing I had saved my corresponding dance moves as a grand finale.
After establishing the correct name of the restaurant, I was equally dense as to the location. When I was told it was by Day’s Market, I immediately responded, “In Heber?” But apparently there is also a Day’s Market in Provo. Now some of you are probably also sighing at me. That’s OK, I take my shame in stride.
Since I had become so enlightened that evening on a small sector of Provo that apparently I have been neglecting, I felt it was my duty to head that direction for our next food review. We headed down Canyon Road and kept going, and kept going, until we finally arrived at our destination.
We were immediately greeted by the friendly owner, who kindly arranged tables for our large party (because of course the Lunch Ladies travel in style with an entourage). We perused the chalkboard menu, as we simultaneously surveyed the cute interior that was decorated like a little café, complete with hanging vines, fabric tablecloths, and other endearing fixtures.
We finally made our decisions and placed our orders. Here is what the Lunch Ladies went with:
Janell: Fried Fish Lunch Special $10.99
Well, usually I go for the steak meal. However, for this lunch I was feeling a little fishy. I went for one of the specials. The Fried Fish special came with a choice of salad, rice and fries. I was very happy that it actually came with fries so that I could choose either the salad or the rice. During this lunch I was trying to increase my leafy greens, so I went with the salad. The salad was fresh and a perfect start for lunch. Then I got into the fried items. The fish was very flavorful and there was so much of it. It was just what you want in a white fish. The fries were crisp and were served with fry sauce. It made for a happy Friday lunch.
Jennette: Ave Palta $9.99 and Mango Juice $4.99
I have been on a fresh fruit kick lately. I think it might be because I am so ready for summer and warmer temperatures. I have tried many different kinds of fruit drinks this year, but my favorites have been the ones with fresh mango. A friend of mine mentioned that Pantrucas serves fresh fruit drinks daily, so I knew I had to try one! Today, much to my delight, mango was one of the choices, and I was so thrilled. I decided to have a sandwich to accompany my giant glass of thick, fresh juice and chose the Ave Palta sandwich. The thin, delicious homemade bread was topped with chunks of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes and avocado. Very delicious! The sandwiches came with a side of fries as well. Sad to say they don’t offer Diet Coke, but you won’t miss it one bit if you try the fresh fruit juice.
Gabby: Steak With Fries and Green Salad $11.99
When I saw the lunch specials, I was really tempted by the steak. I thought, $12 is more than I’d typically spend on lunch, but it isn’t bad at all for a steak, and I really wanted to give it a try. So in the end, I went for it! I am glad I did. This meal was very tasty. The dish comes with two large cuts of steak that are very thinly cut, which allowed for them to be very marinated and seasoned. The tender steak was served on a bed of French fries that were crispy and wonderful. It also came with a mixed-greens salad which had a tangy, vinaigrette dressing on it. I could have had rice as a side instead of fries or salad, but I am happy with the options I chose. It was a delicious meal, and I was happy with my choice.
Well, a round of applause to our friends for the great restaurant recommendation. Thank you for opening our eyes to a place that was apparently not even slightly on our radar. And thank you, Pantrucas, for the great food and friendly atmosphere. Our lunch was terrific. In fact, it was “Smokin’ ” … please, at least someone get that reference.
– Pantrucas Chilean Restaurant: 3161 N. Canyon Road, Provo. Open Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Saturday noon to 3 p.m., 5-7 p.m. Closed Mondays and Sundays.