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There are so many great places to eat in Panama City that it was impossible for me to cover all the places I had hoped to visit. This post will cover everywhere I had a chance to eat. For my entry on Panama City’s nightlife and bars, click here.
In Casco Viejo
First, let’s focus on the Casco Viejo area, which is Panama City’s old town. There are some incredible places located there. There are several traditional Panamanian restaurants serving food at reasonable to touristy prices along with some international cuisine mixed in. The best restaurant we tried was Manolo Caracol (permanently closed).
Super Gourmet
For a great lunch of gourmet soups, salads, and deli sandwiches, Super Gourmet is the place to go. They also have all day breakfasts and free wifi. I had one of the best sandwiches I could imagine and a good drink. This is a good place to go if you’re on a budget but still looking for quality food.
Café Coca-Cola
A Casco Viejo classic is Café Coca-Cola. This gritty diner, complete with sassy waitresses, has been a local favorite since 1875, making it the oldest café in Panama City. It’s located in a bit of a rough area but worth a visit to get a real authentic local experience. You can get a very cheap meal there.
In El Cangrejo
The El Cangrejo area is a heavily residential area with some hotels and lots of restaurants and bars to choose from. Just up and down Via Argentina you’ll probably find the type of cuisine you’re looking for and on any budget. I wish I had more time to sample more of the restaurants in the area.
Sugoi
If you’re looking for sushi, Sugoi in El Cangrejo was excellent. Service was a bit slow but I really enjoyed all of the rolls I ordered. My favorite was the signature Sugoi roll (pictured on the right). It wasn’t a cheap meal.
Zulé
For gourmet pasta and pizza, try Zulé. This Italian restaurant had very friendly service and even better food. I had a thick and creamy tomato soup, pasta, and a drink.
Del Prado
A greasy spoon 24 hour diner with a huge menu, Restaurante y Cafetería Del Prado serves up just about anything you can crave. Food quality was fair and service was slow and a little edgy, but if nothing else is open, this is pretty much the only choice.
Niko’s Café
Niko’s Café is a cafeteria style restaurant with Greek, Panamanian, and international food. It’s open 24 hours and there are several locations around town. I ate at the one in El Cangrejo. I ate a gyro combo and rice pudding. It was ok. I’ve had much better for a lower price in Chicago.
Aires del Mediterraneo (Permanently Closed)
Aires del Mediterraneo is a Spanish restaurant near the Marriott Hotel. They have very good food, especially the paella, but avoid the ceviche.
Ciao
Ciao, located in the Megapolis Hotel (formerly the Hard Rock Hotel), is a tapas and pizza restaurant. Everything was excellent, but make sure you get the burger. It’s massive and succulent.
Mi Ranchito
Finally, Mi Ranchito, located on the Amador Causeway, is a popular Panamanian restaurant. Reasonably priced seafood and meat dishes populate the menu. Service is excellent and the food is delicious.
