Restaurants in Panama City

La Casa de Lourdes in El Valle de Anton is the quintessential “destination restaurant”. Located 1.5 hours from Panama City in the cool climes of El Valle, this three-room boutique hotel has a restaurant that is owned and operated by a famous Panamanian restauranteur, Lourdes Fabrega de Ward. In 1981, she opened a catering company in Panama City with Cuquita Arias de Calvo, who today is the head chef of the restaurant at The Bristol Hotel.  

Panama City is cosmopolitan and so offers a wide choice of restaurants of nearly every ethnic variety and to suit everyone’s taste and pocket. Below is a list of some of the finer restaurants and a “ready reference” guide to their specialties and other details.

In the list that follows, we offer a brief description of some of the restaurants, which will assist your choice.

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The Londoner Pub – is the only real British pub in Panama City. Upon entering its portals you are immediately transported to the authentic, friendly, lively atmosphere of any high street pub you would find in any town or city across the UK and that have been replicated across the globe with so much success. From the colours and the seating to the framed pictures, photos, pub bric-a-brac, wood paneling, the decoration is typically British with international and domestic rugby and soccer jerseys hung on every wall aside from the other decor synonymous with a UK pub. The heartbeat of The Londoner is owed to a great mix of locals, expats and visitors. [ more ]  

• The Londoner is open from 5 p.m. onwards every day except Sundays.

Address: Midway on Calle Uruguay Phone: (507) 214 – 4883

Location: Panama City Video: Click Here Reviews: (*)

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Habibis – is a hip restaurant and lounge located at the center of Panama’s most popular night-strip, Calle Uruguay. The atmosphere is very comfortable and welcoming with a relaxing environment. The restaurant features two large seating areas, one inside and the other outside under a high ceiling, with fantastic service and an energetic ambience. Habibis comfortably accommodates diners and drinkers, with mellow music, promoting an enjoyable and soothing setting. The menu offers a wide variety of delicious options, from light appetizers to full mouthwatering meals. The extensive menu is strongly Mediterranean influenced. Habibis also offers a large amount of beverage possibilities as well as fine tobaccos to smoothly smoke from a Hookah. Address: : Bella Vista, calle 48 y Calle Uruguay E-mail: habibispanama@cableonda.net Phone: (507) 264-3647

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Chris Pizza & Café – Panama’s newest restaurant cafe by Chef Chris Herrera and her husband Luis Herrera, this pizzeria-California style, features wood fired oven pizzas (BBQ chicken, Caesar, Filet Mignon Pizza, etc), Swiss burgers, salads, and tons of appetizers-Buffalo wings, Popcorn shrimp, Nachos, Mozzarella sticks, Fries, etc. International cuisine Mexican quesadillas, Italian pastas, American burgers and fries, Chinese wonton, and a $4 lunch special daily with two choices of a FULL meal! Lunch specials available from 11:30- 2 pm for dine in or take out. A daily Happy Hour from 5-8 pm with 2-for-1 drink specials Mojitos, Margaritas, Sangria. Chris Pizza Café is also a great place to eat before heading out to the Clubs, and featuring live bands on Fridays.  

• Open Monday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 12 pm.

Address: Calle 50, close to La Galeria discoteque – opposite the old Medcom building E-mail: info@chrispizzacafe.com Web Address: Chris Pizza & Café Phone: (507) 391-1111

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CASABLANCA Restaurant and Bar – Casablanca is a cozy restaurant, set in a rustic-urban environment situated on a small plaza, located in the historic center of Panama City. Founded in September 2005, Casablanca offers a wide variety of dishes to their clients, with ethnic mixtures of the Pacific and Caribbean, in creative portions, as well as a wide variety of wine. Address: Calle 4ta San Felipe, Casco Viejo, Panama City E-mail: carolinagcure@hotmail.com Web Address: CASABLANCA Restaurant and Bar Phone: (507) 212-0040

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Segundo Muelle – Is recognized internationally as the best Peruvian food restaurant chain, 2 time winner of the prize for best cebiche in Peru (Lima-Peru), and also has been chosen as the best cebiche in Panama City by “The Cocina de Sofy”, culinary magazine. Segundo Muelle not only offers the best Peruvian seafood in Panama, but also has an excellent service, a pleasant atmosphere, and the incomparable Pisco Sour. We specialize in Peruvian food, recognized as one of the best in the world; our gastronomic variety is partly a legacy of many cultures such as the Italian and the Oriental. Our main chef Dani Manrique has merged with creativity this legacy, based on the wide variety of products found in Peru. But our creativity is not only in our world famous cebiches, Tiraditos and Saltados, but also in our desserts, like the Suspiro a la Limeña or Crocante Lúcuma, which are the perfect end to a special dining experience. We offer:

• Terrace – Smoking Area
• Vallet Parking – In our own parking lot
• Services for the disabled available
• A bar with the best cocktails based on the traditional Pisco and Pisco Sour (You should try also the Pisco Sour of Passion Fruit)
• Acclimatized cellar with an excellent selection of red and white wines
• Private settings

Address: Crisantemos Street N° 16, on the corner with 68th Street, Corregimiento de San Francisco, Panama City; entering right at Larosch Motors on Calle 50 E-mail: sanfrancisco@segundomuelle.com Web Address: Segundo Muelle Map: See Location Phone: (507) 391-9234 Fax: (507) 391-9235

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Indigo Lounge & Bazaar – The Indigo Lounge & Bazaar is a Moroccan Riad that offers a high quality culinary experience fusioning mediterranean and middle eastern flavors. Indigo invites you to travel around Morocco´s bazaars and its colorful streets by combining 4 different atmospheres:

• The Restaurant-Bar with formal sitting arrangement
• Interior Patio with Wooden Floor and Buddha Fountains
• Moet-Chandon Lounge with decadent decor, puffs and sofas
• The External Patio facing the ¨Arco Chato¨ monument and a mediterranean vibe

Come for a different experience. Sensual foods, Cocktails, Wine, Art, Live Music with Resident DJ Murli Daswani and Live Percussion, Belly Dancers and Finish with a ¨Sex on the Beach¨ Narghile. Namasté! Address: Avenida Central, San Felipe, Panama City E-mail: kcroston@indigopanama.com Web Address: Indigo Lounge & Bazaar Phone: (507) 228-1822 Fax: (507) 228-1824

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Limoncillo ‘Pony Club’ – From the innovative team of Limoncillo comes a chic, urban sequel to their renowned original, Limoncillo PONY CLUB. Chef Clara Icaza continues to turn-out exceptional menus for both lunch and dinner, focusing on robust, original dishes and fresh, local ingredients. With its rustic-blond wood furnishings, original ceramic-tile floors and black and white photos dating back to Panama in the 1920’s, the room echoes of the past, rekindling it in a modern way. Whether you’re up for a 4-course dinner and an Argentinean Malbec, or perhaps just Lychee Martinis at the bar with some coconut-breaded shrimp or baked feta cheese with preserved lemon, this cosmopolitan eatery covers all bases and really delivers. Hostess and Co-owner, Jennifer Spector, guides you through the menu and helps select that perfect bottle of wine to complement the food.

• Lunch: Monday -Friday: 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm
• Dinner: Monday -Thursday: 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm
• Friday + Saturday: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
• Closed Sundays
• Reservations recommended
• Dining Room available for private functions by request

Address: Calle 69 Este, San Francisco – Panama City, Panama E-mail: limoncillo@cwpanama.net Web Address: Limoncillo PONY CLUB Map: See Location Phone: (507) 270-0807     Angel – The owner of this excellent restaurant on Vía Argentina, Sr. Angel Martinez M., is a talented chef totally dedicated to his restaurant. He is Spanish and his menu reflects his national cuisine, especially in fish and seafood, with the exquisite flavors of northern Spain. Address: Vía Argentina (in front of the Andrés Bello Park) E-mail: angelmartinezm@yahoo.es Web Address: Angel Restaurant Phone: (507) 263-6411 / (507) 263-6868 Fax: (507) 223-2080

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Caffe Pomodoro – A trendy “spaghetteria” beside Aparthotel Las Vegas and close to the Hotel El Panamá, specializing in pasta and Mediterranean food served in a sophisticated setting with pastel shades and wicker furniture. Address: Calle Eusebio A. Morales – Ground Floor of the Hotel Suites Las Vegas E-mail: chefwilly@1985.com Web Address: Pomodoro Caffe Phone: (507) 269-5836

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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El Meson Del Prado – This excellent restaurant chain is at three locations in Panama City. The largest is at Edificio Alcala on the Via Ricardo J. Alfaro (Tumba Muerto) on the right if you are on your way out of town towards El Dorado. The dining room serves Spanish cuisine and seafood. Well run, comfortable and not overly expensive. Address: Edificio Alcala, Vía Ricardo J. Alfaro (Tumba Muerto) Phone: (507) 260-9227 / (507) 260-9466

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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El Patio Mexicano – The reputation of Mexican cuisine has had to survive the onslaught of the fast food age and the “Taco rápido” image. In Panamá, true Mexican cuisine is not only surviving but flourishing, at El Patio Mexicano run by the Uribe family from Guadalajara. At El Patio Mexicano you will get the best of the flavors for which Mexico is famous. The restaurant is authentic down to the hand-painted crockery and “equipale”, leather covered furniture. Historic photos of México form a keynote of the attractive country-style decor. Interesting dishes include “Enchiladas divorciadas”, in red and green; Cochinta Pibil, a pork dish from Mérida, featuring orange juice and achote. A final tip: ask for “mole poblano”. Address: Via Argentina, El Cangrejo E-mail: mail@elpatiomexicano.net Web Address: El Patio Mexicano Phone: (507) 263-5684

Location: Panama City

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El Trapiche – On Via Argentina, specializes in Panamanian cooking in the style of the Central Provinces. The decor motif is a “trapiche”, the Panamanian name for an old-world sugar mill, still used in some country areas to squeeze the juice or guarapo from sugar cane. This restaurant is popular and is highly recommended for visitors interested in getting to know the country. Specialties you might like to try are sandwiches en hojaldra (flour fritters with meat or chicken fillings). Address: Via Argentina, El Cangrejo Phone: (507) 269-4353 Fax: (507) 269-2063

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Eurasia – This restaurant is exquisite in decor, atmosphere and food. The cuisine is a supremely good example of what has become known as “fusion” – in this case an artful blend of the best of European and Asian. It can be difficult to identify the source of the flavors and textures, sometimes subtle, sometimes gloriously strong. What you do know for sure is that there is a good brain at work back there in the kitchen. Eurasia is on the first floor of a mansion of elegant proportions with high ceilings and windows. Spectacular paintings and artfully-placed foliage complete the comfortable ambiance. Address: Bella Vista, Calle 48, entre el Parque Urraca y Ave. Federico Boyd E-mail: eurasia_restaurant@hotmail.com Web Address: Eurasia Restaurant Phone: (507) 264-7859 Fax: (507) 264-1396

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Il Boccalino – As you enter, the first glance tells you: “this a comfortable place”. Tiffany lamps provide a warm light and the decor is designed for relaxation. The best Italian fare is presented in a very comprehensive menu featuring, of course, every type of pasta in a surprisingly large selection of dishes (17 spaghetti choices and as many pizzas as you could wish for). Fish and seafood feature prominently, the grill is a popular option, antipastas, salads, soups and pizza bread are offered in plenty; and if you have saved any room, the dessert trolley brings further delights. Address: Calle 49, Bella Vista E-mail: boccalino@cableonda.net Web Address: Il Boccalino Phone: (507) 223-8521 Fax: (507) 223-8531  

Istmo Brew Pub – Istmo Brew Pub is all about the art of making beer – and the good food and conviviality which goes with it. Guests can learn about the entire beer elaboration process and enjoy a large variety of grilled meats, snacks and hamburgers. All are invited to its “Beer Lunches” and “Happy Beer Hours”, which take place every day. Beer can be ordered “by the yard”. Located on Avenida Eusebio A. Morales, next to Hotel Sevilla Suites in El Cangrejo, Istmo Brew Pub opens daily from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Address: Ave. Eusebio A. Morales (next to Hotel Sevilla Suites in El Cangrejo) E-mail: macvalderrama@hotmail.com Phone: (507) 265-5077

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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La Esquina de Van Gogh – This is a most attractive restaurant, whose name and decor reflects the owners’ passion for art. Within walking distance from many hotels, La Esquina de Van Gogh is located on Via Veneto opposite Las Vegas apartment hotel in El Cangrejo. It is popular among the residents of the area who form a lively part of the clientele. Vibrant paintings cover the walls, and Brazilian music plays softly. The restaurant is informal, offers internet access and has a good selection of pastas, wraps and wings through to dishes like pollo chombito (blackened chicken), trout, seafood and steaks. Address: Ave. Veneto, El Cangrejo (Torres de Alba Building) Web Address: Van Gogh Restaurant Phone: (507) 200-0011 / (507) 200-0023

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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La Folie – A touch of Europe is offered in a sophisticated environment where nouvelle cuisine combines Panamanian fruits and vegetables with the best imported ingredients. The speciality of the house is the lamb, cooked to perfection and served in a bed of vegetables. You should also try the octopus salad, a creation of the Peruvian chef, César Podestá. The wine list is extensive. A special gourmet offer is Chef´s Table, – eight different dishes served by chef Podestá himself. Reservations should be made the day before. The cost is $80.00 per person. The restaurant also has every Sunday a Peruvian brunch, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It also has happy hours from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. La Folie restaurant is located in Multiplaza, Paitilla. Address: Multiplaza-Local 127A, San Francisco, Ciudad de Panamá Phone: (507) 302-6280

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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La Papa – The name means “The Potato”. In case you are thinking this must be an ethnic Irish restaurant we must hasten to say that it is well-known for its varied international menu. La Papa is in the restaurant area of Bella Vista on Calle 51 about 50 yards from Ave. Federico Boyd. It is a large, cavernous place but manages to be warm and inviting at the same time which is attested to by its popularity. Its clientele goes there for dishes like the Mediterranean Bean Soup; Ajiaco (a Colombian soup served with a side plate of ingredients to mix in); Panama Jumbo Shrimp with crisp yucca; Pasta Primavera; Chicken Wrap or the memorable Mixed Grill. Address: Calle 51, Bella Vista E-mail: estapapa@cableonda.net Web Address: La Papa Restaurant Phone: (507) 265-5800 Fax: (507) 264-8916

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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La Posta – Make a reservation to dine at this most excellent restaurant because it is nearly always full. New York veteran restauranteur David Henesy’s skill is evident in every aspect, from comfortable and elegant ambiance through impeccable service to memorable food. Try the Risotto Arborio, a seafood marvel, the Chuleton de Cerdo Chiricano, the Corvina Baked in Paper, the Nicoise Salad and for a most unusual side-dish, fried watercress. Address: Calle 49 con Calle Uruguay , Bella Vista E-mail: mail@lapostapanama.com Web Address: La Posta Panama Phone: (507) 269-1076 Fax: (507) 269-4225

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Las Tinajas – A piece of the countryside translated to the city . . . an oasis of flavor and folklore downtown. This is a restaurant offering creole food in comfortable and elegant surroundings. Carimañolas, frituras, tamales, sopa borracha (translation: intoxicated soup) and many more are available at very reasonable prices. International food is also featured. Shows with typical dance groups are presented Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 9:00 p.m. Closed Sundays. Address: Calle 51, Bella Vista E-mail: tinajas82@hotmail.com Web Address: Las Tinajas Phone: (507) 263-7890 / (507) 269-3840 Fax: (507) 264-4858  

Los Cedros or “The Cedars” – Offers truly excellent Lebanese and Mexican cuisine (Its owner Rodicio Boulos spent 25 years in Mexico). One of the most popular dishes at this small, unpretentious but attractive restaurant is called “Lebanese Table”, a dish for two (but which could feed four) which offers a wide sampling of the best of that country’s food. The humus is made fresh and you should try the custom-blended Lebanese cheese, available only at Los Cedros. The Mexican food is not to be ignored, with a large selection of enchiladas, fajitas, tacos and meats. Los Cedros is on Via Argentina in the same building as the well-known “Manolos”. Address: Via Argentina, El Cangrejo Phone: (507) 214-8278

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Madame Chang – We recommend a visit to Madame Chang’s, one of the best and most beautiful Chinese restaurants in Latin America. Siu Mee Chang and her daughter Yolanda have improved on the conventional concept of Chinese restaurants. They have knowingly combined 30 years of experience in inter-regional Chinese food, good service, moderate prices and a decor that falls halfway between two cultures, combining the old with the new and resulting in a remarkable and welcoming environment. We suggest you try: San Blas crab with ginger, Peking-style duck, fish cut in the shape of a bunch of grapes, Wo-Tip, Coquinas in blackbean sauce, among other delicious options. Madame Chang is located in the banking center, only 100 meters from Panama Bay. Address: Calle 48, Bella Vista E-mail: madamechang@cableonda.net Phone: (507) 269-1313 / (507) 269-9654 Fax: (507) 269-7863

Location: Panama City Video: Click Here Reviews: (*)

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Marbella – Spanish chalet-style restaurant with a strong following of Panamanian “bonvivants” who appreciate the paella and above all, the seafood. Fresh local oysters are nearly always available. The almejas (mussels) are a favorite. So are the cazuela de mariscos (seafood stew) and you can choose corvina prepared in one of no less than 11 different ways. All the special seafood like conch, gambas, roe, octopus and squid are always available. Langostino (Caribbean lobster) however, is the pride of the house in eight different dishes. Address: Ave. Balboa y Calle 39 E E-mail: marbella@sinfo.net Web Address: Marbella Restaurant Phone: (507) 225-9065 / (507) 227-1986 Fax: (507) 225-9191

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Martin Fierro – Named after the Argentinian folk hero, this restaurant serves the kind of meal you appreciate after riding on the Pampas since sun-up or a hard day doing business or sightseeing in Panama City. Close to the Hotel Granada just a block from Vía España in the El Cangrejo district, Martin Fierro is also elegant and popular. The grilled meats are, of course, a specialty and there is a great salad bar. Address: Calle Eusebio A. Morales Phone: (507) 264-1927 Fax: (507) 223-1333

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Masala – A delightful Indian restaurant on Calle 42, two blocks from Ave. Balboa. The name is appropriate since it is a term used in Indian cooking to describe a mixture of many spices. Masala’s proprietor, Koreena Bajwa, is from Northern India and personally supervises the restaurant. She makes a specialty of vegetarian dishes. Address: Calle 44 y 45 Bella Vista Phone: (507) 225-0105

Location: Panama City Video: Click Here

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Piccola Italia – The culture of fine food, for which Italy is famous, is nowhere better expressed that at Caffe Ristorante Bar Piccola Italia in the El Cangrejo sector of the city. It would be hard to find a more agreeable decor than at Piccola Italia, which offers a terrace under a cheerful white awning or a comfortable dining area inside where cunning use of color delights the eye. Owner Flavio Falcone has brought original recipes from Rome and Southern Italy. Apart from lunch and dinner, Piccola Italia serves expresso, cappuccino, panini, supplí and other appetizers from 10:00am to 11:00pm every day except Sunday. The restaurant is on Calle Alberto Navarro only one block from Vía España, Via Argentina or the Hotel Granada. Address: Calle Alberto Navarro. El Cangrejo. Phone: (507) 391-2838

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Pizza Piola – This tiny restaurant of Argentinean provenance has three unique characteristics. Choosing a pizza is like cracking a code – there are no less than 91 pizza combinations to choose from; the prices are extremely reasonable and if you go on Thursday night you can have a tango lesson thrown in. A nice feature of the food is a dozen varieties of Argentinean empanadas —all at a dollar apiece, and a selection of mini pizzas. Sandwiches, salads and a small but adequate list of Italian main dishes will satisfy everyone. Pizza Piola is in Bella Vista in the restaurant area opposite the parking lot of the Hotel Executive. Address: Av. Balboa, Calle 50, Via España, San Francisco Web Address: Pizza Piola Phone: (507) 264-4668     Sushi Itto – Is operated by the Mexican chain whose specialty is to offer classic Japanese cuisine plus international and Latin fare – such as curries, brochettes and pastas. Sometimes the cultures are combined, so among the traditional rolls of smoked salmon, fish, octopus, shrimp and Japanese vegetables, you may find “fantasy rolls” with local ingredients like mango, avocado and even cheese. Tempura with vegetables, shrimp, gyoza (Japanese dumplings), stuffed baby squid and mushrooms are among the appetizers available. Sushi Itto has two branches, one at the side of Plaza Obarrio, near the El Santuario church and the other in Multiplaza Mall.
Address: Calle Samuel Lewis, Plaza Obarrio, Bella Vista (also at Multiplaza Mall) Web Address: Sushi Itto Restaurant Phone: (507) 265-1222 / (507) 265-1136 Fax: (507) 265-1138

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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Taj Mahal – Named after a building whose timeless beauty has probably never been surpassed, this restaurant reminds us that India is famous also for its exotic cuisine, based on the spices which their chefs deploy so cunningly. Panama’s Taj Mahal restaurant is on Calle 42 two blocks from Ave. Balboa. (Its owners also have a restaurant of the same name in Costa Rica). The decor is exquisite and the menu extensive but well-ordered, featuring 101 items. The cuisine is North Indian and specialises in Tandoori (clay oven) dishes and also a wide variety of curries, biryanis (rice dishes) accompanied by chutneys, yoghurt dips, Tandoori naan bread and all the other specialities. Surprisingly there are no desserts on the menu but if you ask, the chef will send you a sweet delicacy.
Address: Calle 42, Bella Vista E-mail: tajmahal@cableonda.net Phone: (507) 225-7844

Location: Panama City Video: Click Here : (*)

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Ten Bistro – Perhaps ten is your lucky number. In any case, you can’t go wrong to pay a visit to Ten Bistro where you can choose from ten different main dishes created each day by Chef Fabien Migny. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of the Hotel de Ville on Beatriz Miranda Street just off 50th St. Chef Migny is assisted by his sister Agnes who prepares the fabulous desserts. Ten Bistro presents “a new culinary philosophy created for the trend-seeking, fast-paced and demanding people of the 21st century”. Are you one of those?
Address: Hotel Deville, Frente al Towerbank, Calle Beatriz Miranda Cabal y Calle 50 Phone: (507) 213-8012   La Scala – La Scala  is situated in Plaza California in El Dorado.The Italian chef and manager, Antonio Cioffi, takes great pride in the authenticity of his dishes. Try the Insalata di Frutti di Mare, with shrimp, olives, octopus, squid and onions  or the Gnocchi alla Funghi, potato gnocchi with a rich mushroom sauce. This is informal dining at its finest. Address: Vía Ricardo J. Alfaro, Panamá Phone: (507) 236-7146

Location: Plaza California, El Dorado Reviews: (*)

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Viso Fifty Two – Viso Fifty Two is a small but elegant restaurant situated in Galeria Punta Paitilla, opposite Multicentro Mall. The colorful décor is dominated by a glass wall overlooking the kitchen where guests can watch chef Mario presiding over the production of memorable dishes.  For something unusual try the Salad with Goat Cheese, Dates and Dijon Mustard Sauce. The Imported Rack of Lamb is another dish worth sampling and the  Pecan Pie and Flourless Chocolate Cake will leave dessert lovers more than satisfied. Address: Vía Italia Paitilla, Panamá E-mail: visofiftytwo@yahoo.com Phone: (507) 215-0349 / (507) 215-2072

Location: Galeria Punta Paitilla, opposite Multicentro Reviews: (*)

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Shihan Sushi – Shihan Sushi  If you are a sushi lover you won’t want to miss this elegant, upscale restaurant. Their slogan is ” The Masters of Sushi” and we have to agree.  All the sushi rolls are delicious but outstanding is the Unagui Fried Roll filled with cream cheese, crab and salmon, bathed in a rich Unagui sauce and fried.  The Yakimono dishes ( rice or noodle bowls with chicken, fish, vegetables or shrimp) are excellent. As are the Tempura combinations. Address: Calle 51 Obarrio, PH Magna Corp, al lado de las oficinas de Movistar Web Address: Shihan Sushi Phone: (507) 264-1824 / (507) 264-5401

Location: Calle 51, Obarrio (next to Movistar) Video: Click Here Reviews: (*)

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Pompei – Pompei  is a small restaurant in Paitilla, family-owned and run The food is fresh, the atmosphere informal and the service friendly.  As the name suggests, the cuisine is Italian. Their Pasta Pesto with Shrimp is truly delicious. Follow it with Tiramisu for dessert and you have a meal to remember. Address: Paitilla, Panamá E-mail: attilioreale@hotmail.com Phone: (507) 399-9728   Bar Restaurante 1985 – is renowned for its French cuisine and seafood. Once a private townhouse, the “1985″ is now a place of gentle lights, copper antiques, original paintings, candlelight and fresh flowers. Ask for the jumbo shrimps with cognac sauce, the lobster Provencal, the corvina with spinach, the filet mignon with morilles and for the exquisite wines selected personally by owner Chef Willy Diggelman. The restaurant features a dining room strictly for non-smokers, very European in decor like the rest of the restaurant and featuring posters of France and the Mediterranean area. Address: Calle Eusebio A. Morales (next to Hotel Suites Las Vegas) E-mail: chefwilly@1985.com Web Address: 1985 Restaurant Phone: (507) 263-8571

Location: Panama City Reviews: (*)

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La Rioja – Step into this attractive, small restaurant and you could be in Madrid or Barcelona, so accurately have the owners  copied the décor and ambiance of  the cafes of their native country.  The food lives up to the expectations aroused by the décor. You can make a meal out of the wide variety of tapas on offer or enjoy main courses such as the excellent Spanish Rissoto or The Chicken Breast with Fresh Mushrooms. Live music from a Spanish guitar complements the meal. Address: Calle Uruguay, Bella Vista, Panamá E-mail: info@lariojapanama.com Web Address: La Rioja Restaurant Phone: (507) 264-7310

Location: Calle Uraguay Reviews: (*)

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Scena – Scena is situated in the Casco Viejo, the old, colonial part of Panama City which houses a number of good restaurants. Scena, with its fine, Mediterranean cuisine, is one of the best.  Stuffed Chicken Breast with Bacon and Cheese is a winner.  The restaurant is deservedly popular. Address: Casco Antiguo, frente al Antiguo Club Unión E-mail: scenaplatea@cwpanama.net Web Address: Scena Restaurant Phone: (507) 228-4011

Location: San Felipe, in front of the Old Union Club. Contact: 221-0157

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Mar del Sur – This small, Peruvian restaurant more than lives up to Peru’s fine tradition of seafood cuisine.  Situated on Boulevard El Dorado, close to Do-it-Center, Mar del Sur is informal in ambiance but its menu is gourmet, presented by a chef who obviously knows what he is doing.  Try the Peruvian version of Surf & Turf or the Corvina Thermidor, both dishes are out of the ordinary. Address: Boulevard El Dorado, Panama. Phone: (507) 223-1892

Location: “Boulevard” El Dorado Contact: 279-1604 Reviews: (*)

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The Palms – The Palms restaurant, situated on Calle 48, Bella Vista is easily recognisable by the two grand palm trees which guard its entrance.  Inside, the dining room is elegant and inviting, easily one of the most beautiful in the city.  And the menu lives up to the decor.  The Prawn Chowder with Fish and Seafood should not be missed, assembled as it is, with flair, right at you table.  Beef Medallions in a Three Pepper Sauce is another excellent dish. Address: Calle 48 Bella Vista E-mail: palmsrestaurant@cableonda.net Web Address: The Palms Phone: (507) 265-7256 Fax: (507) 265-7256

Location: Calle 48, Bella Vista. Contact: 265-7256 Reviews: (*)

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Twist – Situated on Federico Boyd Avenue, Twist has a varied menu which will satisfy any taste.  Hamburgers, Pad Thai, Pasta, Steak, Fish – they’re all there, and all are tempting. Start with Steamed Shrimp Dumplings, move on to Roasted Pork Tenderloins in Mango Chutney and finish off with any of their delicious desserts. Address: Avenida Federico Boyd Phone: (507) 302-7997

Location: Ave. Federico Boyd. Contact: 302-7997 Reviews: (*)

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Astrid & Gaston – Situated on Calle Guatemala, just off Via Argentina is the newest in  a chain of upscale Peruvian-Fusion restaurants.  There are several dining areas, dominated by a glassed-in kitchen where the diner can watch the chefs at work.  You can’t go wrong with the Piqueo Criollo appetizer tray which offers a variety of delicious bites.  The Rib Eye a la Criolla is served over a potato and pepper pie with a Creole saute of mushrooms and egg – a unique combination. Address: Calle Guatemala, El Cangrejo Phone: (507) 209-3323