Casco Antiguo is home to many amazing restaurants serving everything from Italian and Mexican cuisine to sushi. These restaurants boast elaborate and exquisite menus with prices to match. However, many of our students are backpackers and are passing through Panama City on a budget. Casco has a restaurant to suit every need and budget.
There are many “cafeterías” here in Casco that serve up delicious meals for under $5 dollars. One of our favorites is located next to “el chino” on the corner of Avenida Central and Calle 9. They sell everything from chow mien and fried rice to mashed potatoes and chicken. You can get a generous portion of protein and starch for around $3. Eating at a “cafetería” is a perfect way to practice the Spanish you have been learning here in Panama. There are many small independently owned “cafeterías” scattered around Casco Viejo. One on the corner of Avenida A and Calle 6 and another at the end of Calle Cuarto. If you are traveling on a budget be sure to give one or two of these a try!
If you are in the mood for something sweet, try the ice cream at Granclement. They have a wide array of rotating flavors served in a house made waffle cone or bowl ($2.50). They serve traditional flavors such as Vanilla and Chocolate but be sure to try some of the more exotic flavors like Basil and Espresso.
You can get a delicious fruit smoothie at a tiny chino called the VIP. They are only $1.50 and the perfect way to cool off from the Panama City heat. Flavors include passion fruit, guayaba, strawberry, banana, melon, and whatever is fresh and in season.
If you happen to be near the Plaza Bolivar around lunch time be sure to check out the BBQ Chicken. Only available for lunch in a secret tent, government workers line up outside for the delicious BBQ Chicken and Ribs. For $3 you get a chicken, rice with guandú (traditional Panamanian), plantains, and salad!
A must see and eat place here in the city is “El Mercado de Mariscos.” Ceviche at the fish market couldn’t get much fresher. Enjoy a cup of delicious corvina ceviche for only $1.25; other favorites include mixed ceviche, shrimp, calamari, and octopus ($2 /cup). Take in the views of the local fisherman and Casco Antiguo itself while you munch.
Be sure to ask about our “walking tour” of Casco Viejo! One of our professors will walk around Casco with you and show you all the must see places. Our walking your is another perfect opportunity to practice what you have learned in Spanish class. We will even take you to our favorite spots to dine!