Panama City, the bustling metropolis of Central America, is a culinary haven that offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Panamanian cuisine to international flavors, the city’s vibrant food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity. As a traveler, finding the best places to eat in Panama City can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through the city, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries that you must try during your visit.
The Best Restaurants in Panama City
Panama City is home to a wide range of restaurants that serve everything from fine dining to casual eats. Here are some of the best restaurants in the city:
Traditional Panamanian Cuisine
For a taste of authentic Panamanian cuisine, head to La Posta, a popular restaurant located in the heart of the city. This cozy eatery serves up traditional dishes such as sancocho, a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and root vegetables, and tamales, steamed cornmeal filled with meat or vegetables. Another great option is El Trapiche, a rustic restaurant that offers a range of traditional dishes, including empanadas, fried plantains, and grilled meats.
| Restaurant | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| La Posta | Calle 12, Panama City | (507) 223-3333 |
| El Trapiche | Calle 5, Panama City | (507) 223-4444 |
International Cuisine
Panama City is also home to a range of international restaurants that serve cuisine from around the world. For a taste of Italian cuisine, head to Bella Italia, a popular restaurant located in the upscale neighborhood of El Cangrejo. This cozy eatery serves up a range of pasta dishes, pizzas, and risottos, all made with fresh ingredients and a touch of Italian flair. Another great option is Le Comptoir, a French-inspired bistro that offers a range of dishes, including escargot, duck confit, and steak tartare.
| Restaurant | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Bella Italia | Calle 50, El Cangrejo | (507) 223-5555 |
| Le Comptoir | Calle 8, Panama City | (507) 223-6666 |
Cafes and Bakeries
Panama City is also home to a range of cafes and bakeries that serve up delicious treats and coffee. For a taste of traditional Panamanian coffee, head to El Café de la Catedral, a cozy cafe located in the historic district of Casco Viejo. This charming cafe serves up a range of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte, all made with high-quality beans. Another great option is La Bicicleta Verde, a popular bakery that offers a range of delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads. (See Also: Where to Eat Cao Lau in Hoi An – Hidden Gems Revealed)
| Cafe/Bakery | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| El Café de la Catedral | Calle 1, Casco Viejo | (507) 223-7777 |
| La Bicicleta Verde | Calle 10, Panama City | (507) 223-8888 |
Street Food and Markets
Panama City is also home to a range of street food stalls and markets that offer delicious and affordable eats. One of the most popular street food markets is La Plaza de la Independencia, a bustling market located in the heart of the city. This market offers a range of street food options, including empanadas, tamales, and grilled meats. Another great option is La Feria de las Flores, a weekly market that takes place every Saturday in the historic district of Casco Viejo. This market offers a range of street food options, including fresh fruit, vegetables, and baked goods.
Food Tours
If you’re looking to experience the best of Panama City’s food scene, consider taking a food tour. There are a range of food tours available, including guided tours that take you to some of the city’s best restaurants and eateries. One popular option is the Panama City Food Tour, a 3-hour tour that takes you to some of the city’s best restaurants and eateries. This tour offers a range of dishes, including traditional Panamanian cuisine, international flavors, and street food options.
Recap
Panama City is a culinary haven that offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Panamanian cuisine to international flavors, the city’s vibrant food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, casual eats, or street food, Panama City has something for everyone. In this article, we have highlighted some of the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the city, as well as some of the top street food markets and food tours. We hope that this article has been helpful in planning your culinary journey through Panama City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around Panama City?
The best way to get around Panama City is by taxi or ride-sharing service. Many restaurants and eateries are also within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city on foot. (See Also: Where to Eat Onion Soup in Paris? Top Picks Revealed)
What is the best time to visit Panama City?
The best time to visit Panama City is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is the coolest and driest time of the year, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.
What is the best way to experience Panama City’s food scene?
The best way to experience Panama City’s food scene is by taking a food tour. This will give you the opportunity to try a range of dishes and drinks, as well as learn about the city’s culinary history and culture.
What are some of the best restaurants in Panama City?
Some of the best restaurants in Panama City include La Posta, El Trapiche, Bella Italia, and Le Comptoir. These restaurants offer a range of dishes, including traditional Panamanian cuisine, international flavors, and street food options. (See Also: Where to Eat in Vatican? Hidden Gems)
What are some of the best street food markets in Panama City?
Some of the best street food markets in Panama City include La Plaza de la Independencia and La Feria de las Flores. These markets offer a range of street food options, including empanadas, tamales, and grilled meats.