When it comes to global destinations celebrated for their culinary prowess, Panama might not immediately spring to mind. However, do not be misled by this relatively undiscovered culinary gem. Panamanians have long relished the wealth of delectable, must-try dishes and beverages the country offers, and now, travellers are beginning to catch on as well. Whether you’re navigating the vibrant streets of Panama City or heading straight for a tropical beach escape, here are the 11 finest Panama food delicacies that demand your attention.
Destinations To Get The Flavours Of The Best Panama Food
Here are the top destinations where you can taste all the delicious food Panama City Beach.
Guacho
Wondering what constitutes a typical Panama food? Begin your dining journey through Panamanian cuisine with a hearty bowl of Guacho (pronounced Wah-cho.) Resembling a risotto in style, Guacho is a slightly soupy rice dish teeming with local vegetables, yucca, and a choice of meat or seafood. This Panamanian specialty can be found on the menu of most local eateries. However, the seafood Guacho with coconut at Maito—recognized as one of the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America—is undeniably the pinnacle of culinary delight in Panama City.
Carimañola
Traverse Panama, and you’ll swiftly encounter a prevailing love for fried fare throughout the region. Embrace this delectable culinary tradition, and trust that you’ll have the opportunity to burn off those extra calories during your Panama adventures. Among the many delightful deep-fried options, Carimañola stands out as one of the most beloved. This panama food craft with small, handcrafted yucca balls are filled with ground meat or cheese before they undergo the frying process, resulting in a golden, crispy perfection. Just remember to order more than one—there’s a reason why Carimañolas reign as one of Panama’s most cherished foods.
Sancocho
When in pursuit of authentic Panamanian cuisine, nothing quite compares to the country’s quintessential dish: Sancocho. Broth, vegetables, chicken, and a side of rice are the fundamental components of this classic Panamanian soup, but it’s the abundant use of local cilantro spice that truly elevates it. Distinguished from cilantro the food Panama City beach, culantro possesses a more robust aroma and flavour profile, with subtly sweet undertones. Sancocho is best savoured after a night of indulgence; locals attest to its unrivalled efficacy as the ultimate hangover remedy. Should anyone inquire about Panama’s national dish, you are now equipped with the answer.
Ceviche
While ceviche may not be an exclusively panama city beach food creation (most historians concur that it originated in Peru), it remains one of Panama’s most adored seafood offerings. Here, the ceviche is typically crafted from Corvina, a local Sea Bass, or succulent shrimp. Its tangy and citrusy notes make it the perfect choice for a light, invigorating lunch on a sweltering day in the tropics. When in Panama City, make a beeline for the Mercado de Mariscos, an open-air fish market renowned for serving some of the freshest and most affordable ceviche in the city.
Ropa Vieja
Among all the emblematic dishes Panama has to offer, Ropa Vieja may well be the most renowned. In this panama food shredded beef simmers with tomato, garlic, onion, cumin, and oregano, typically served alongside white rice and fried, smashed plantains. Legend has it that Ropa Vieja (which translates to “old clothes”) traces its origins to Spain, where a destitute man, devoid of food, was compelled to fashion a stew from aged, shredded garments. While Ropa Vieja can be found throughout Central and Latin America (it holds the distinction of being Cuba’s national dish), the local rendition remains a savoury staple and an absolute must-try in Panama.
Tamal De Olla
If your travels lead you to Panama during the Christmas season, seize the opportunity to savour Tamal de Olla, a flavorful Panamanian dish infused with European elements like raisins, olives, and capers—a testament to the country’s Spanish colonial heritage. In contrast to traditional tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, Tamal de Olla takes the form of a casserole-style creation baked in the oven. The finest Tamal de Olla is often prepared at home during the holidays, though select local restaurants in Panama City offer a delectable rendition year-round; establishments like El Trapiche and Tinajas have earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence.
Arroz Con Pollo
When it comes to quintessential Panamanian fare, a few Panama city beach food rival the classic appeal of arroz con pollo. Recognizable for its golden hue and tender shredded chicken, this simple yet gratifying rice dish graces nearly every local menu in Panama. While it’s a staple that also makes appearances throughout Latin America, there’s no denying that Panama food, often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World,” presents a particularly exceptional local variation.
Patacones
Serving as a ubiquitous accompaniment to numerous Panamanian dishes, Patacones are firm green plantains that undergo a process of frying, smashing, and then undergoing a second round of frying. They emerge warm, salty, and slightly chewy, and reach the pinnacle of mouth-watering when crowned with meat, cheese, and local sauces. For an elevated take on this hearty essential, Peach Fuzz International offers Patacones with Garlic Octopus—an exquisite flavour combination that lives up to its promise.
Empanadas
A deep-fried panama food delight bursting with flavour, empanadas are savoury pastries generously filled with ground meat, potatoes, or cheese. Countless hole-in-the-wall bakeries cater to your empanada cravings, but some of the finest specimens are found at Artisana, an esteemed cafe in the Bohemian neighbourhood of El Cangrejo.
Hojaldre
For a customary Panamanian breakfast, seek out a Hojaldre. This round, flatbread undergoes a transformation through frying, resulting in a crispy and airy delight that can be adorned with sausage or cheese, or adorned with cinnamon or sugar. This Panamanian culinary obsession is unexpectedly light and airy, making it the perfect complement to a steaming mug of velvety hot chocolate.
Raspao
Panama’s rendition of a snow cone, a raspao consists of shaved ice crowned with sweet, flavoured syrups. Follow the locals’ lead and enhance this decadent dessert with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for an unparalleled indulgence. Raspao street vendors are ubiquitous, so seize the opportunity to cool off with this revitalising treat while exploring the highlights of Panama City.
Bottomline
If you are searching for the best options for food Panama City Beach. You can try all available options. Each of these destinations offers delicious Panama City beach food. Whether you are with your partner, friends or family you can visit these places and plan your evening with a delicious meal.
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