Panama City

Restaurants

The economic boom and influx of foreign investment in the Panamanian capital over the last 10 years has been accompanied by the growth of the restaurant scene. Cuisine has always been fairly international because of the mix of nationalities drawn to this international crossroads so it's not hard to find good Chinese, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Italian, French or Caribbean fare, but in recent years the culinary offer has grown to reflect the interest in new Panamanian cuisine, the Western farm-to-table trend, microbreweries and gastro pubs.

Local cuisine is also a product of this combination of influences, mixed with fresh tropical produce and fresh seafood. For a taste of the staples, try the fried hojaldra bread for breakfast, ceviche at one of the Seafood Market stands off the Cinta Costera, patacones (fried green plantains) and carimañolas (fried mashed yuca root stuffed with meat) and a whole fried fish at Mi Ranchito on the Amador Causeway or at one of the Veracruz fish shacks.

The average dinner will be about $15 to $20 per person although expect to pay international prices for some at the more upscale restaurants.  The budget-minded and adventurous may want to try one of the local fondas that serve up a selection of meats and sides for around $3 to $5.

Standard tipping on food is 10% but be sure to check that it is not already included on the bill. Dining hours are pretty standard with breakfast from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., lunch from noon to 2 p.m. and dinner from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It's good to check restaurant hours beforehand though, since not all are open everyday of the week and for lunch.