Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama, is not just a destination for its spectacular skyline, rich history, and vibrant nightlife – it’s also a food lover’s paradise.
The city’s diverse gastronomic scene draws influences from Latin American, Caribbean, and traditional Panamanian cuisine, offering an enticing blend of flavors that caters to all taste buds.
Whether you’re craving gourmet sushi, local street food, or an international culinary gem, Panama City has it all.
In this blog post, we’re taking you on a scrumptious journey to discover the top 10 best restaurants in Panama City.
Table of Contents
1. Emotions Restaurant Theater & Sushi Bar
- Address: Hotel Hilton Panamá Level L2, Av. Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, Panamá, Panama
- Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 7 pm-12 am (closed on Sundays)
- Cuisine: Japanese Fusion
Emotions Restaurant Theater & Sushi Bar is a dining experience like no other.
This Japanese fusion restaurant combines spectacular live entertainment with a deliciously innovative menu.
The ambiance is elegant and intimate, providing the perfect setting for a memorable night out with friends or a special date.
The stand-out dish at Emotions is their Tuna Tartare with Avocado Sorbet, which perfectly balances the flavorful fresh tuna with the cool and refreshing sorbet.
This elegant dish is a must-try when visiting Emotions.
2. Fonda Lo Que Hay
- Address:Â Edificio el Colegio, Calle Jose de Obaldia, Panama City, Panama
- Hours of Operation: Tue-Sat 12 pm-11 pm, Sun-Mon 12 pm-10 pm
- Cuisine: Panamanian, Caribbean
Fonda Lo Que Hay is a hidden gem in Panama City, offering an excellent taste of local Panamanian cuisine in a cozy, colorful environment.
Founded by renowned Chef José Carles, this casual Fonda-style eatery is perfect for foodies looking to indulge in authentic flavors and delicious comfort food.
The Patacones con Pulpo al Ajillo (fried green plantains with octopus in garlic sauce) is the show-stopper here, boasting a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
3. Azahar Panama
- Address: Arts Tower, Av. Vasco Nuñez de Balboa Piso 7, Panama City, Panama
- Hours of Operation: Tue-Sun 8 am-11 pm, (closed on Mondays)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Vegetarian-friendly
Azahar Panama offers a beautiful fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, in a lovely location overlooking Panama City’s historic Plaza Catedral.
The contemporary design, greenery-filled terrace, and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a romantic dinner under the stars.
The Beet Hummus is a standout dish on the menu, offering a unique twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip with its vibrant color and sweet, earthy flavors.
4. El Trapiche
Address: Avenida Luis Alvarez Albrook Mall, frente a los estacionamientos pasillo La Cebra, Panamá, Panama
Hours of Operation: Tue-Sat 11 am-11 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm (closed on Mondays)
Cuisine: Panamanian, Latin American
El Trapiche is the perfect spot for traditional Panamanian flavors, combining regional ingredients with Latin American and Caribbean techniques.
This family-owned restaurant has been a favorite among locals since it opened in 1991, offering hearty plates of grilled meats and fish alongside homemade salsas and plantain dishes.
The standout dish here is the Bistec Encebollado (steak topped with caramelized onions), which is a traditional Panamanian favorite.
5. Concolon Panamanian Street Food
Address: C. San Lucas, Panamá, Panama
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 11 am-10 pm (closed on Sundays)
Cuisine: Panamanian, Latin American
Concolon Panamanian Street Food is the go-to place for authentic Panamanian flavors in a fun and laid-back atmosphere.
This popular street food spot serves up all the traditional favorites from burritos to ceviches with a modern twist.
The standout dish here is the Carimañola, which is a fritter filled with savory beef and topped with creamy guacamole.
It’s an unforgettable combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more!
The restaurant also has a selection of tropical drinks perfect for washing down your meal.
Of course, no visit to Concolon is complete without trying out their signature salsas – be sure to ask your server for recommendations!
6. Restaurante Santa Rita
Address: Av. Eloy Alfaro, Panamá, Panama
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thurs 11 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9 pm
Cuisine: Panamanian, Latin American
Restaurante Santa Rita is a traditional Panamanian eatery that offers an authentic taste of local cuisine in a casual yet elegant setting.
Boasting a menu full of classic dishes mixed with innovative new flavors, here you can find everything from hearty rice and bean dishes to fresh ceviches and grilled meats.
The standout dish here is the Sancocho de Gallina (a traditional Panamanian chicken stew).
It’s a rich and flavorful comfort food that will leave you wanting more!
And don’t forget to try out their signature Sangria – it’s sure to make any meal even more enjoyable.
7. Restaurante Tinajas
Address: Calle 51 Este, Panamá, Panama
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 12 pm-11 pm (closed on Sundays)
Cuisine: Panamanian, Latin American
Restaurante Tinajas is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Panama City.
This elegant restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring local favorites like Patacones con Huevo (fried plantains topped with an egg), as well as international dishes like wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood platters.
The standout dish here is the Chorizo con Yuca Frita al Vapor (chorizo sausage served with fried yucca).
It’s packed full of flavor and has just the right amount of spice to keep your taste buds tingling.
Be sure to try out the homemade mango daiquiris – they pair perfectly with this unique dish!
8. Segundo Muelle San Francisco
Address:Â Calle Crisantemos, Entre y 68, C. 67 Este, Panama City, Panama
Hours of Operation: Mon-Thurs 11 am-11 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-12 am, Sun 11 am-10 pm
Cuisine: Seafood, Latin American
Segundo Muelle San Francisco is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering a delicious variety of fresh catches from the Pacific Ocean right in the heart of Panama City.
This modern restaurant boasts a sleek design and stunning views of the waterfront, creating an atmosphere that is perfect for special occasions and romantic dinners alike.
The standout dish here is the Ceviche de Pescado al Coco (fresh fish marinated in coconut milk), which combines succulent flavors with a hint of sweetness from the coconut.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails – they’re sure to make your experience even more memorable!
9. La Vespa Ristorante Vista Mare
Address: Antiguo Trump, Ph TOC, area del ocean deck, Cl. Punta Colón, Panama City, Panama
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 12 pm-11 pm (closed on Sundays)
Cuisine: Italian
La Vespa Ristorante Vista Mare is a cozy Italian eatery located in the heart of Punta PacÃfica.
With its bright and airy atmosphere and picture-perfect views over the Pacific Ocean, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying an unforgettable night out with friends or family.
The menu here is full of classic Italian dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, but be sure to try out their signature dish – Lasagne alla Bolognese – for an authentic taste of Italy in Panama.
The mouthwatering combination of layers upon layers of pasta sheets filled with creamy béchamel sauce and savory beef ragù will have you wanting more!
10. LAZOTEA Restaurant & Rooftop
Address:Â Rooftop Av Eloy Alfaro y, C. 11 Este, Panama
Hours of Operation: Tue-Sun 5 pm-11 pm (closed on Mondays)
Cuisine: Seafood, Latin American
LAZOTEA Restaurant & Rooftop is the perfect spot for seafood lovers looking to experience an unforgettable night out in Panama City.
Located in a beautiful historic building with stunning views of the city skyline, this stylish restaurant offers a modern twist on classic Panamanian dishes using only the freshest ingredients.
The standout dish here is the Ceviche de Pescado con Coco (fresh fish marinated in coconut milk).
This delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Be sure to also try out their signature cocktails – they are perfectly paired with any meal!
For those looking for something unique, try the Rooftop Bar for some of the best views in town and an extensive selection of craft beers from around the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food is served at Concolon Panamanian Street Food?
Concolon Panamanian Street Food serves traditional favorites from burritos to ceviches with a modern twist. The standout dish here is the Carimañola, which is a fritter filled with savory beef and topped with creamy guacamole. The restaurant also has a selection of tropical drinks perfect for washing down your meal.
Is the Carimañola dish spicy?
No, the Carimañola dish is not spicy. It is a savory fritter filled with beef and topped with creamy guacamole.
What are the popular dishes at Restaurante Santa Rita?
Popular dishes at Restaurante Santa Rita include Sancocho de Gallina (a traditional Panamanian chicken stew), Patacones con Huevo (fried plantains topped with an egg), Chorizo con Yuca Frita al Vapor (chorizo sausage served with fried yucca) and Sangria. These hearty dishes are sure to please anyone’s palate!
Does Restaurante Tinajas offer international cuisine?
Yes, Restaurante Tinajas offers international cuisine including wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood platters in addition to classic Panamanian dishes.
What is the signature dish at Segundo Muelle San Francisco?
The signature dish at Segundo Muelle San Francisco is the Ceviche de Pescado al Coco (fresh fish marinated in coconut milk). This unique dish combines succulent flavors with a hint of sweetness from the coconut.
Is La Vespa Ristorante Vista Mare suitable for special occasions and romantic dinners?
Yes, La Vespa Ristorante Vista Mare is suitable for both special occasions and romantic dinners. With its bright and airy atmosphere and picture-perfect views over the Pacific Ocean, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a memorable night out with friends or loved ones.
Does LAZOTEA Restaurant & Rooftop have a rooftop bar with craft beers from around the world?
Yes, LAZOTEA Restaurant & Rooftop has a rooftop bar with an extensive selection of craft beers from around the world. For those looking for something unique, this is the spot to visit. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline while sipping on one of your favorite brews!
Are there vegan options available in Panama City restaurants?
Yes, there are vegan options available in Panama City restaurants. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes and some even feature entirely vegan-friendly menus. Popular vegan choices include veggie burgers, salads, noodle dishes, stir-fries, and various plant-based proteins such as tempeh or jackfruit. It’s best to check restaurant websites or call ahead to make sure there is something suitable for you to eat before visiting the restaurant.
Can I make reservations at any of these restaurants in advance?
Yes, you can make reservations at many of these restaurants in advance. It is best to check the websites or call ahead to find out the reservation policy and availability for each restaurant. This will ensure that you can secure a table for your desired date and time.
Do they serve alcoholic beverages in Panama City restaurants too besides drinks and cocktails?
Yes, many restaurants in Panama City serve alcoholic beverages in addition to drinks and cocktails. Most establishments offer a selection of local beers, wines, and spirits. Visitors can also find some international brands of alcohol at certain locations. It is best to check with the restaurant beforehand to find out what types of alcoholic beverages they serve.