5 unique restaurants to try in Panama City

Panama’s food, and the best of its showstopping restaurants, offer a true feast for the senses. It’s a place where cultures converge into a culinary melting pot like no other, drawing from Spanish, African, Indigenous, and Caribbean influences. From street vendors selling delicious tamales stuffed with meat and spices to high-end gourmet restaurants serving the freshest seafood.

If you’re wondering what kind of food is eaten in Panama City, start by imaging eating savory fresh ceviche at a laid-back eatery by the sea, where the catch of the day is transformed into a zesty masterpiece. Or picture yourself at a rustic family-run diner, indulging in a soul-warming sancocho, a soup made with chicken, sweetcorn and vegetables, as you’re serenaded by traditional music.

For a touch of modern flair, Panama’s burgeoning fusion restaurants offer innovative dishes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Whether it’s a taco bursting with root veggies or a modern cocktail infused with local spirits, Panama’s chefs are pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity.

You’ll want to make time in your Panama itinerary to explore the Casco Viejo district for cuisine that is combined with history and culture. The charming cobblestone streets are lined with prestigious fine dining spots, cozy eateries, and rooftop restaurants with glittering skyline views. If you want to try a truly local experience, order a glass of Panama’s national spirit, seco.

Keep in mind that small restaurants may close for an afternoon siesta between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. so plan your meals accordingly. As the city’s restaurants are hugely popular with both tourists and residents, we recommend making reservations where possible, especially during high season.

With its unique, rich tapestry of cultures and flavors, Panama food is a fascinating adventure. So, prepare your appetite to explore a city that serves not just food, but unforgettable experiences.

01

Kaandela, Casco Viejo

Where Panama’s produce, land, and people are celebrated

Within Panama’s historic center, Kaandela stands out as one of Panama’s best, and most unique, restaurants. Located within the glamorous Amarla Boutique Hotel, Kaandela seamlessly blends tradition with innovation to celebrate Panamanian cuisine.

The restaurant’s name, inspired by the Spanish word for candle, reflects its fiery passion for food. The open kitchen allows you to witness sensory magic, with chefs skillfully preparing dishes over an open wood fire. It’s perfect for food enthusiasts who love to see their meal come to life. High quality ingredients are prepared using traditional methods like fermentation, smoking, and pickling for maximum flavor that stays true to Panamanian roots. Add renowned chefs who have appeared on reputable shows like Top Chef Panama, and you have a winning combination.

An outstanding highlight from the reasonably-priced menu is the melt-in-your-mouth Pork Belly Pops served with kimchi and grapefruit ceviche. For something sweet, the sticky toffee, cashew nut, and cocoa rum aspects of the Buscando Guayaba will hit the spot.

You can experience the wonderful menu in the intimate patio shaded by palm trees and orchids or indoors to watch the chefs at work. We particularly love the modern Mediterranean decor, complete with warm wood paneling and a gorgeous turquoise mosaic. Whichever setting you choose, you can guarantee a delightful ambiance from which to enjoy the ever-changing chef’s specials.

From the moment you step inside this Panama restaurant, the tantalizing aromas set the scene for an unforgettable meal that connects produce, land, and people. Kaandela’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish tells a story of Panama’s cultural heritage. So, if you’re looking for food that captures the essence of Panama, Kaandela promises to delight your tastebuds and leave you with a deeper appreciation of Panamanian cuisine.

02

Fonda Lo Que Hay

Roadside street food with a modern twist

A hidden gem inside the Casco Viejo district, Fonda Lo Que Hay is a restaurant rooted deep into Panamanian culture and flavors. Its famous and dynamic menu is ever-changing, always showcasing the freshest ingredients and most innovative culinary techniques. It was founded by chef José Olmedo Carles Rojas, who is known for creative dishes that tell the story of Panama’s culinary evolution.

At Fonda Lo Que Hay, traditional Panama street food is reimagined with a modern and unique style that is sure to have you hooked. The restaurant’s name, which translates to “whatever there is,” reflects its philosophy of using seasonally and locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that speak to the heart of Panama. The corn Panamanian tortilla with melted cheese, chorizo, roasted onions, and chimichurri will have you licking your fingers and chasing every crumb. Diners also rave about how delectable the Sexy Clams are, and how the spiced rum cake with Madagascan vanilla ice cream is simply to die for.

Take a seat in the rustic dining room with warm, string lighting, huge windows, and eclectic decor and prepare yourself for a taste sensation. Alternatively, enjoy balmy evenings out on the terrace, underneath a marvelous towering tree. Making a reservation during weekends is strongly recommended, as is asking your server about availability of ingredients and dietary preferences. They’ll be all too happy to suggest cocktails and local beers, and recommend you visit their sister bar, Barcito de Enfrente, just across the road.

Fonda Lo Que Hay’s ever-evolving menu embodies the best of Panama with a seamless blend of old and new. Whether you’re a foodie seeking tempting treats or simply looking to enjoy a delightful meal in a pretty setting, Fonda Lo Que Hay is a must-visit.

03

The Vegan Shack

Wholesome plant-based cuisine in a serene environment

The family-owned Vegan Shack is a haven for plant-based food lovers. This snug café combines a cheerful atmosphere with a menu full of creative and delicious vegan dishes. It stands out for its commitment to wholesome cuisine, and the pleasant ambiance and zen-like setting make it a superb option for healthy Panama food. The restaurant’s dog-friendly policy adds to its inviting vibe, especially with the owner’s adorable dog, Peque, often greeting guests with a wagging tail. We’re not telling you to feed them tidbits, but we’re not not telling you, either. Just make sure you ask permission first.

The vast and diverse menu at the Vegan Shack is welcome. The freshly baked bread used in the TLT sandwich is pleasingly fluffy, while the chickpea omelet is packed with fresh veggies and herbs for a tasty way of contributing to your five a day. Nor can you go wrong with a Buddha Bowl bursting with grains, superfoods, and plant-based proteins drizzled with flavorful sauces. And one of the creamy and nutritious smoothies is an excellent way to start your day.

As you can expect, the Vegan Shack is extremely popular, so visit during off-peak hours if you’d like a more relaxed experience. This also gives you a chance to chat with the friendly staff, who will be more than happy to offer recommendations.

The convivial environment is complemented by a comfy seating area with an eye-catching mural and a serene garden, so it’s ideal for low-key social gatherings. Or choose a book from their huge selection and while away the hours with a coffee. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to try something unique, the Vegan Shack prides itself on meals that are both nourishing and delicious, while honoring Panama’s local ingredients in their purest form.

04

Restaurante Bucanero’s

One of the oldest restaurants in Amador

Set sail on a culinary voyage to the picturesque Amador Causeway. There you’ll find Restaurante Bucanero’s, a family-run maritime-themed restaurant that’s been a beloved Panama City fixture for over 20 years. Residents and tourists rave about it so much that Bucanero’s regularly features on lists of Panama’s best restaurants.

Its breathtaking Flamenco Island location features panoramic views of the canal, the marina, and the city’s incredible skyline. Bucanero’s verdant terrace and fairytale balconies create an inviting scene for a romantic dinner or a relaxing meal with friends. There’s no need to leave the kids behind, either, as they’ll love the treasure chest of activities just for them.

The bright Bougainvillea archway leads into a restaurant adorned with immersive nautical decor, featuring ship wheels, fishing nets, and maritime memorabilia that transports you to the high seas. Take a moment to admire the beautiful stained-glass portholes fixed into the bar.

Bucanero’s owners, who often greet their guests personally, ensure that every dish is artfully presented with care. As expected of Panama’s abundant shores, seafood is the star here. From succulent garlic prawns to tangy salmon fillets to classic lobster drenched in butter, each dish is a stellar example of the country’s love for the sea.

While the food alone is reason enough to visit, Bucanero’s also draws in crowds for its live music every weekend, frequent happy hours, and its uber popular Jazz Thursdays. Showcasing the best local talent alongside the best local ingredients makes this restaurant an adored community staple. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible and there’s ample parking, too.

So, set your course for Bucanero’s and embark on a mouthwatering journey through Panama’s rich coastal cuisine. It’s a unique dining destination that captures the spirit of the sea and offers a taste of Panama you won’t soon forget.

05

Maito Restaurante

A gourmet celebration of Panama’s multicultural gastronomy

A fine dining restaurant that undertakes a novel approach to Panamanian cuisine, Maito Restaurante consistently ranks high in lists of Panama’s best restaurants, including the prestigious Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants. It’s helmed by celebrated chef Mario Castrellón, whose creative vision brings together flavors from the land, sea, and mountains, resulting in a menu that is both diverse and loyal to Panamanian culture.

Maito Restaurante’s uniqueness lies in its dedication to using sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, many of which come from Indigenous communities or from the restaurant’s very own garden. This produces spectacular dishes such as coconut-infused dumplings, an aromatic sancocho soup, and a signature ceviche that’s prepared to perfection. The crown jewel of Maito’s menu, however, is the exquisite tasting experience. A curated selection of dishes that highlight the best of Panamanian cuisine, it demonstrates the full range of Castrellón’s awe-inspiring culinary artistry.

This gourmet restaurant’s convenient location at the end of Calle 50 in the Coco del Mare area means Maito’s is always a great choice for meals no matter the time of day, though we do recommend reserving a table in advance if you can. Its elegant and inviting atmosphere, elevated by a bright and cheerful garden dining area surrounded by bamboo and lush foliage, attracts plenty of diners who flock there for special events and themed dinners. Keep an eye on their website for further details.

Maito Restaurante really celebrates the essence of Panama, and a meal here will surely be a major highlight of your trip. With its pioneering dishes that lead the way in the country’s evolving gastronomy, it deserves a spot on your own list of culinary delights in Panama.

Lead image courtesy of Visit Panama.