A Local’s Guide to Fine Dining in Panama City

Panama City has emerged as one of Latin America’s most exciting culinary destinations, blending indigenous Panamanian ingredients, Afro-Caribbean traditions, global techniques, and a new generation of chef-driven creativity. Neighborhoods matter here, and knowing where to eat—and where to stay nearby—can dramatically elevate your experience. This guide highlights the best fine dining and elevated local restaurants in Panama City, organized by neighborhood for seamless planning.

Shrimp tempura and edamame appetizers with cocktails at Makoto

One of Panama City’s great advantages for travelers is how compact and vertical it is. The city stretches along the Pacific coastline, with modern towers rising beside historic neighborhoods, making it easy to experience both old and new in a short time. Rideshares are plentiful and reliable, private car service is readily available, and the Metro provides a modern and efficient way to move through popular areas. Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo or dining along Avenida Balboa, getting around is surprisingly straightforward despite the typical city traffic.

• Casco Viejo: Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is Panama City’s historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its walkability, nightlife, and cultural energy, it’s ideal for first-time visitors who want architecture, atmosphere, and standout dining within a few cobblestone blocks along the waterfront.

• Fonda Lo Que Hay: Contemporary Panamanian cuisine. A cornerstone of Panama’s modern culinary movement, Fonda Lo Que Hay elevates traditional Panamanian flavors through creativity and seasonality. The menu changes frequently but always remains deeply rooted in local ingredients and cultural identity. Expect bold dishes, a lively atmosphere, and a true taste of modern Panama.

The incredible tuna crispy rice at Makoto

• A to Z Chef’s Kitchen: Contemporary international cuisine. A to Z Chef’s Kitchen delivers globally inspired dishes with creative presentation and bold, well-balanced flavors. The experience is intimate and thoughtfully paced, with a limited number of seats that create a sense of exclusivity without pretension. It’s a standout choice for refined, relaxed evenings and is often cited by diners as deserving of international recognition. Michelin, are you listening? Truly one of Panama City’s most quietly exceptional tasting experiences.

• San Francisco: San Francisco is a favorite neighborhood for culinary travelers and repeat visitors, home to some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants.

• La Tapa del Coco: Afro-Caribbean Panamanian cuisine. La Tapa del Coco celebrates Panama’s Afro-Antillean heritage through comforting, deeply flavorful dishes rooted in coconut, spice, and tradition. The menu reflects the culinary identity of the Caribbean coast and offers travelers an authentic cultural experience beyond fine dining.

• Maito: Modern Panamanian fine dining. Consistently ranked among the top restaurants in Panama City, Maito offers a refined interpretation of indigenous ingredients, creole preparations, and regional traditions. Each dish reflects Panama’s biodiversity and cultural influences. A must-visit for travelers who want to understand the country through cuisine.

• Restaurante r.i.c.h.a: Contemporary fusion cuisine. r.i.c.h.a is intimate and quietly inventive, focusing on balance, originality, and high-quality ingredients. The understated setting allows the food to take center stage, making it ideal for diners who appreciate thoughtful, chef-driven cooking without formality.

With access to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, seafood shines on Panamanian menus: here the Langostinos a las Brasas at r.i.c.h.a

• Ciboulette: French fine dining. Ciboulette delivers classic French technique in an intimate, elegant setting that feels timeless rather than formal. Refined sauces, careful execution, and attention to detail make it a favorite for couples enjoying romantic dinners and quiet, sophisticated evenings.

• Costa del Este and Santa María: Polished, modern, and upscale, this area appeals to luxury travelers, expat executives, and guests who prefer a refined setting away from the historic core.

• ACHA: Spanish and Basque cuisine. ACHA is known for pristine seafood, premium sourcing, and classic Spanish preparation. Calm and refined, it’s a top choice for unhurried, elegant meals frequented by local families.

• Mai Mai: Contemporary Asian fusion. Located in Costa del Este, Mai Mai combines Asian-inspired cuisine with a stylish, high-energy atmosphere. Known for vibrant plating and creative cocktails, it’s ideal for lively group dinners and modern nights out.

• Benny’s Bistro: Steakhouse and American classics. Benny’s is known for premium cuts, generous portions, and a polished yet comfortable setting. Popular with Panamanians and expats alike, it’s an excellent choice for celebratory dinners or travelers craving high-quality meat.

• Avenida Balboa: Avenida Balboa is Panama City’s iconic waterfront corridor, offering ocean views, luxury towers, and polished dining experiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk along the Cinta Costera boardwalk after dinner for epic views of the city skyline on one side and illuminated ships in the bay awaiting their turn to cross the Panama Canal.

• Azahar: Contemporary international fine dining. Located in the YOO Panama building on Avenida Balboa, Azahar is known for its impressive selection of wines, elegant atmosphere, and refined service. The menu emphasizes premium ingredients prepared with classic techniques, making it ideal for business dinners and upscale evenings.

Modern take on apple pie dessert at Azahar

• Filomena: Italian fine dining. Also located in the YOO Panama building, Filomena pairs classic Italian cuisine with a glamorous dining room and polished service. Handmade pastas, rich sauces, and elegant presentation make it a favorite for celebrations and indulgent nights out. Don’t miss the handcrafted Negroni cocktails!

Steak tartare alla Italiana flanked by classic margherita pizza at Filomena

• Bella Vista and Obarrio: Central and sophisticated, Obarrio is ideal for elegant, ingredient-driven dining.

• Market: International market cuisine. Market offers globally inspired dishes in a relaxed yet refined setting. Approachable and consistently well-executed, it’s a dependable favorite for diners seeking quality without formality. Their fresh oyster selection and variety of preparations is impressive!

• Makoto: Modern Japanese fine dining. Widely regarded as the best Japanese restaurant in Panama City, Makoto offers pristine sushi and refined hot dishes executed with precision. A favorite among luxury travelers and expats with sophisticated, global palates.

Warm, contemporary interior space at Makoto

• El Cangrejo: A lively, authentic neighborhood known for local flavor and cultural diversity.

• Lucca Trattoria: Italian and Mediterranean cuisine offered at multiple locations across the city. Warm, inviting, and consistently excellent, Lucca offers relaxed fine dining with Mediterranean flair. Ideal for repeat dinners and travelers who appreciate a more casual setting with consistently delicious food.

• Versailles and Costa Sur: Located just east of downtown, Versailles and Costa Sur are modern residential suburbs, an easy rideshare away from the skyscrapers.

• Saga by Ricardo Lee: Contemporary Chinese cuisine and dim sum. Located in the Versailles neighborhood, Saga offers a refined expression of Panama City’s Chinese heritage through beautifully executed dim sum and modern Cantonese dishes. It’s an excellent choice for travelers interested in experiencing the city’s multicultural identity through food.

Wrap up your meal at Filomena with a slice of Piemontese Chocolate Cake

Panama City is a cosmopolitan destination where local insight truly matters, especially when it comes to dining, neighborhoods, and reservations. As an expat travel advisor who lives in Panama, I help travelers experience the city beyond the obvious—pairing the right restaurants with the right hotels and designing itineraries that reflect how the city is actually enjoyed by those who live here. If you’re planning a trip to Panama City and want a local’s take on what’s really good, I’d love to help you plan it well. Reach out to plan your Panama City itinerary with local insight from someone who lives here.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Panama page.