5 Restaurants You Must Visit in Panama City

Visitors coming to Panama City are often amazed by the its modern and advanced look, but this is not the only cause to praise the city. Panama is well covered with all kinds of foods, from street-food to the most exotic and traditional cuisine, there is no excuse to enjoy a nice meal during your stay.

Though Panama is still a developing country, people have a lot of options for recreation, medical treatment, fine dining, and many more services, sometimes at fairly costs. People around are very friendly and welcoming; there are lots of good restaurants where you can get the best local and international cuisine.

It is nearly impossible grasp the best dining experiences in Panama in just 5 restaurants, but we surely recommend the following places if you come for a visit or if you are new living in the city.

Here are 5 restaurants you must visit in Panama City:

1. El Trapiche

One of the best dining locations for any visitor is El Trapiche, which was founded in 1983, its name translates as “a mill that squeezes a sugar cane juice out of it.” The restaurant is one of the best in town, which serves lots of local and international dishes, in fact, it is the choice of excellence for experiencing Panamanian food. You will enjoy your meal whether you sit outdoors or the interior, the whole atmosphere is friendly, comforting, and relaxing.

2. Makoto

Makoto atmosphere blows guests away, this restaurant in Obarrio has an elegant look and its very attractive. The hospitality and the service are of high standards. Makoto has a great dining environment, which is on the 11th-floor rooftop of Kenex Plaza, surrounded by a charming garden. The interior of the restaurant is also exceptional, and the menu setting can’t be beaten.

Their chefs are highly skilled, and they come up with breathtaking dishes. Extra glass of wine or Japanese tea is offered after the meal.

3. The Fish Market

The Fish Market was established in 2011, and they also became one of the most popular places in Panama City, where tourists and guests can’t stop visiting. Located near the entrance to Casco Viejo, the fish market is the place to go for finding fresh seafood, and everyone around wants to have a taste of their fresh fish. If you haven’t tried ceviche, this is a perfect place to do it, and you can order it with some local side dishes for a very low price.

4. Juana Tranquila

Juana Tranquila is an environment full of friendliness, warmth, and color. Here you breathe and live in Mexico. This restaurant prepares its tortillas with original Aztec ingredients, and their menu contains lots of special dishes. Do you want to enjoy dinner with friends or family? then Juana Tranquila is the perfect place to go. The restaurant staff is very welcoming, and the place as a very cool atmosphere.

5. Donde José

Donde José serves you more than just a meal. the experience at this place is one of its kind. They serve a nightly fixed menu with optional wine pairings. Donde José offers two seating’s per night, at 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm, and it has a very intimate environment, so is one of the ideal restaurants for couples.

So, if you are in the city for the first time, and you want to take someone on a date, Donde Jose is a perfect choice.

For those that are budget conscious and want to explore some restaurants in Panama City, there are numerous choices besides these 5 restaurants. Tripadvisor.com and Degusta.com.pa are two great websites where you can see endless choices for fine dining, fast food and nice coffee places with tasteful snacks.