
Foodie Road Trips Across the World in Panama City, Panama
1. Metropolitan Natural Park
Explore a city park filled with wildlife and scenic views, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
- Urban Wildlife Experience: Unique opportunity to observe monkeys, sloths, and various bird species in the heart of a bustling city.
- Scenic Viewpoints: Stunning vistas of Panama City's skyline and the Pacific Ocean from multiple lookout points.
- Accessible Wilderness: Easy access by public transportation, making it an affordable adventure for travelers.
2. Casa Bruja Chocolates
Indulge in handcrafted artisanal chocolates made from organic cocoa beans.
- Organic Ingredients: Unique focus on using only organic and ethically sourced ingredients.
- Tasting Workshops: Interactive chocolate-making workshops to learn the process behind these delectable treats.
- Sustainable Practices: Commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable production methods, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.
3. Mercado de Mariscos Veraguas
Savor fresh seafood at this bustling market known for its variety and affordability.
- Authentic Seafood Experience: Unique chance to sample local favorites like ceviche, sushi, and grilled fish.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with local vendors and learn about traditional fishing methods and recipes.
- Cost-Effective Dining: Affordable prices for a diverse selection of delicious seafood dishes.
4. Casco Antiguo Food Tour
Discover Panama City's rich culinary history through a guided food tour of Casco Viejo.
- Historical Context: Learn about the influences and stories behind Panama's diverse cuisine in a historic setting.
- Authentic Eateries: Visit family-owned restaurants serving traditional dishes, not found in tourist areas.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage with local guides and fellow food enthusiasts while exploring this vibrant neighborhood.
5. Panama Hat Factory Tour
Learn about the art of Panama hat making at a traditional factory in Casco Viejo.
- Craftsmanship Demonstration: Witness the intricate process of weaving these famous hats by skilled artisans.
- Design Variety: Choose from a wide selection of designs, each with its unique weave and color patterns.
- Sustainable Production: Support environmentally friendly practices by choosing eco-friendly straw alternatives.
6. El Trapiche Restaurant
Savor traditional Panamanian cuisine in a charming colonial house turned restaurant.
- Home-style Cooking: Authentic dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Historic Atmosphere: Dine in a beautifully preserved colonial home, providing a glimpse into the city's past.
- Wide-ranging Menu: Variety of dishes showcasing Panama's diverse culinary heritage, from coast to jungle flavors.
7. Casa Pestana Cooking Class
Learn traditional Panamanian cooking techniques and recipes in a hands-on class at Casa Pestana.
- Interactive Experience: Hands-on instruction to learn various dishes, such as sancocho or arroz con pollo.
- Cultural Immersion: Gain insight into local cooking customs and the stories behind traditional recipes.
- Recipe Book Included: Take home a recipe book to continue recreating these dishes long after your trip.
8. Casa Maitén Wine Tour
Embark on a wine tasting adventure at Casa Maitén, Panama's first vineyard.
- Pioneering Vineyard: Experience the innovative winemaking process in Central America's first vineyard.
- Tasting Room Experience: Sample award-winning wines, including cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, in a cozy tasting room.
- Pairings and Tours: Enjoy wine pairings with locally sourced cheese and charcuterie or take a guided tour of the vineyard.
9. The Fish Market (Mercado de Mariscos)
Experience the hustle and bustle of Panama's largest fish market in Balboa.
- Seafood Variety: Wide selection of fresh seafood, including tropical fish, shellfish, and local favorites like octopus.
- Local Interaction: Engage with local vendors to learn about the day's catch and traditional recipes.
- Cost-Effective Meals: Affordable prices for freshly prepared seafood dishes, cooked while you wait.
10. Casa Otochoman Restaurant
Savor traditional Panamanian and Caribbean flavors at this colorful restaurant in Casco Viejo.
- Tropical Fusion Cuisine: Combination of local ingredients, cooking techniques, and Caribbean flavors.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Brightly colored interior and lively music create an inviting and festive atmosphere.
- Seafood Specialties: Focus on fresh seafood dishes, showcasing the region's abundance of marine life.
11. Arepa del Toro Food Truck
Satisfy your cravings with delicious arepas from this popular food truck.
- Street Food Experience: Authentic street food experience in the heart of Panama City.
- Variety of Fillings: Wide selection of fillings, including traditional cheese, beans, and meats.
- Affordable Street Food: Delicious arepas at affordable prices, making it a popular choice for locals and travelers alike.
12. La Esquina Bakery
Indulge in pastries and bread made fresh daily at this beloved bakery.
- Artisanal Pastries: Unique selection of artisanal pastries, cakes, and breads.
- Fresh Daily Baked Goods: Everything is baked fresh daily using high-quality ingredients.
- Wide Selection of Coffees: Extensive coffee menu featuring Panamanian and international options.
13. Tocumén Airport Food Court
Satisfy your hunger before or after your flight at Tocumen International Airport's food court.
- International Dining Options: Wide variety of dining options, including local and international cuisines.
- Convenient Location: Located within the airport for easy access before or after your flight.
- Affordable Prices: Reasonable prices, catering to travelers on a budget.
14. Casa Bruja Gelato Shop
Cool off with artisanal gelato made from fresh, natural ingredients.
- Small-Batch Production: Unique gelato made in small batches for optimal flavor and texture.
- Innovative Flavors: Creative flavor combinations, such as passion fruit and guava or coconut and rum.
- Eco-friendly Packaging: Commitment to sustainable practices by using eco-friendly packaging materials.
15. Casa Maitén Olive Oil Tasting Room
Discover the unique flavors of Panamanian olive oils at Casa Maitén's tasting room.
- Tasting Experience: Guided tasting sessions to learn about the different types of olive oil and their unique flavors.
- High-Quality Olive Oil: Premium quality olive oils, produced using traditional methods.
- Gift Shop and Cooking Classes: Purchase olive oil products and participate in olive oil-focused cooking classes.