Panama City FOOD Tour

Exploring Panama City through its flavors offers a delightful window into the country’s vibrant culture and culinary traditions. For just $65, this 3-hour guided tour takes you through the heart of Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic old town, with visits to lively markets, local breweries, and rooftop bars. Led by knowledgeable guides like Jorge or Gonzo, you’ll sample Panama’s best organic chocolate, renowned Geisha coffee, fresh ceviche, craft beers, and aged Panamanian rum.

We love the diverse tasting experience — from the rich, smooth chocolate to the crisp, refreshing beers — and the scenic vantage points where you can toast your discoveries with panoramic city views. It’s a well-rounded way to get a taste of Panama’s culinary scene, especially if you’re curious about local flavors and want to see the city from a foodie’s perspective.

One thing to consider is that the tour is more beverage-heavy than food-heavy, which might disappoint those expecting full meals at each stop. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy sampling local drinks and snacks while walking through a historic neighborhood. It’s perfect for curious food lovers, first-time visitors wanting a city overview, or those who appreciate a lively, social atmosphere with friends or family.

Key Points

• Authentic tasting of Panama’s local products including chocolate, coffee, ceviche, beer, and rum.
• Led by engaging, knowledgeable guides who share insights about Panama’s culture and food scene.
• Includes a short walking tour of Casco Viejo, with scenic views and visits to markets and rooftop bars.
• More beverage-focused than a typical food tour, with plenty of drinks and snacks.
• Great value for the price considering the variety of tastings and the guided experience.
• Limited food samples mean you might want to plan a dinner afterward if you’re hungry.

Exploring Panama City through a food tour is one of those experiences that balances cultural insight with delicious bites. This 3-hour journey, costing around $65 per person, offers a compact taste of Panama’s rich culinary traditions. Led by guides like Jorge and Gonzo, you’ll wander through the historic streets of Casco Viejo, sampling some of the country’s most iconic foods and beverages — all while soaking in spectacular skyline views from rooftop bars.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on authentic local products like organic chocolate and Geisha coffee, which are among Panama’s most celebrated exports. Second, the inclusion of craft beers from Panama’s first brewery, RANA DORADA, paired with local ceviche from the famous seafood market. These details appeal to curious travelers who want more than just surface-level sightseeing — they crave genuine tastes and stories behind what they’re eating and drinking.

A little caveat: the emphasis on drinks might leave those who are truly hungry a bit wanting. Several reviews comment that the tour feels more like a beverage sampler with a few bites than a full-on food experience. Also, since there’s no hotel pickup, you’ll need to meet at the starting point near Avenida Central, which is easy if you’re already exploring Casco Viejo.

Who is this for? If you’re interested in a lively, social tour that combines food, drinks, scenic city views, and local insights, this will suit you well. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy tasting several beverages and snacks while learning about Panama’s cultural flavors. However, if your goal is a full meal or a comprehensive culinary immersion, you might find this tour a bit light on the food side.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Barefoot Panama – Walking and Market Visit

The tour kicks off in Casco Viejo at the American Trade Hotel’s CAFE UNIDO, where you get your first taste of local flavor — Panama’s first brewery, Rana Dorada, and the bustling seafood market. This quick walk through the old town offers a chance to take in the lively atmosphere, with guide Jorge sharing stories about the neighborhoods and the significance of each stop.

Many reviews praise the personable guides — Jorge, in particular, is described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share Panama’s stories. During this segment, you’ll sample two of Panama’s most sought-after products: high-quality Geisha coffee and organic chocolate, which are notable for their smoothness and unique flavor profiles. The tour description states this is a key part of the experience, and many guests appreciate the chance to taste these along with the vibrant street life of the seafood market.

Stop 2: La Rana Dorada – Craft Beer Tasting

Next, the tour moves to La Rana Dorada, Panama’s first brewery, where you sample several of their micro-brews. This is a highlight for beer aficionados, with many reviewers calling the beer tasting “original” and “well curated.” The small glasses and friendly atmosphere make it conducive to conversation, and you can pick your favorite to toast with the skyline as your backdrop.

Some reviews note that this stop offers a variety of Panama’s best local beers — up to 8 different types on some occasions — making it a good introduction to Panama’s burgeoning craft beer scene. The beer samples are paired with local snacks, but as some reviewers mention, the focus leans more toward the drinks than full meals.

Stop 3: Mercado Publico del Marisco – Ceviche and Seafood

Your next stop is the famous seafood market, featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.” Here, you can try fresh ceviche, a staple in Panama’s coastal cuisine. Expect a flavorful, tangy dish made with local seafood, which many guests describe as the “highlight” of the tour.

This stop provides a fun, vibrant atmosphere, with stalls bustling with locals. It’s a chance to see Panama’s seafood scene in action and enjoy a classic dish that pairs well with the tropical climate. The ceviche is served fresh, and many reviewers comment on how authentic and delicious it is.

Final Stop: Rooftop Bar and Skyline Views

The tour concludes at a rooftop bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Panama City’s skyline and ocean while sampling aged Panamanian rum — known locally as “Abuelo Rum.” The setting is often praised for its stunning vistas and relaxed vibe, perfect for reflecting on the day’s flavors.

Guests often describe the final stop as a “beautiful” way to end the tour, with some noting the guide’s knowledge about local drinks and history. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and toast your new knowledge of Panama’s culinary treasures.

What Travelers Say: Authenticity and Value

The reviews range from glowing to critical, but most agree that the tour offers good value for money given the variety of tastings and the scenic, historic context. Many highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which elevate the experience far beyond just tasting.

For some, the tour’s focus on beverages can be a plus or a minus. If you love trying craft beers and local rum, you’ll be in heaven. But if you’re expecting a full meal or more extensive food sampling, you might feel a bit light on the eats. That’s reflected in reviews that note finishing hungry — but then again, the tour ends in Casco Viejo, where dozens of restaurants await your dinner.

Several guests also praise the scenic views from the rooftop bar, making it a memorable way to cap off the experience. The walk through Casco Viejo is another plus, offering great photo opportunities and an authentic neighborhood atmosphere.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price is reasonable, especially considering the variety of drinks and snacks included — organic chocolate, specialty coffee, local ceviche, craft beers, and aged rum.
• Duration is approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable option even for those with tight schedules.
• Meeting point is in Avenida Central, close to public transit, which is convenient if you’re already exploring the Old Town.
• Group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized vibe.
• Age restriction is 18+, due to alcohol tasting, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with minors.
• Weather considerations: since the tour is outdoors and involves walking, good weather provides the best experience. Tour providers will offer rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to rain.

Final Thoughts

This Panama City Food Tour offers a lively, friendly way to get a taste of Panama’s local flavors and culture. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy sampling drinks as part of exploring, with the added bonus of scenic city views and lively markets. The guides’ local knowledge and engaging personalities bring the experience to life, making it more than just a tasting — it’s an introduction to Panama’s vibrant neighborhoods and traditions.

While it may not satisfy someone seeking a full-fledged culinary feast, it’s a perfect choice for curious travelers wanting a quick, flavorful snapshot of Panama’s tastes and sights. It’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy some relaxed, social moments in the city’s historic district.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines local culture, scenic vistas, and enjoyable tastings, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a beverage-heavy experience, and plan to find a hearty dinner afterward!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, but keep in mind that the tour includes several alcohol tastings. If you don’t drink, you might want to skip the alcohol stops or just enjoy the snacks and the scenery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since it involves walking through Casco Viejo’s streets. Also, bring sun protection if it’s a sunny day, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it doesn’t. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point near Avenida Central, which is accessible by public transportation.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be 18 or older due to alcohol consumption.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
The main focus is on local snacks, ceviche, and beverages. While specific dietary restrictions aren’t detailed, it’s wise to communicate with the tour provider beforehand if you have special dietary needs.

This Panama City Food Tour offers an accessible, enjoyable way to connect with the city’s flavors and history. Whether you’re a curious traveler eager to sample Panama’s best or someone wanting a scenic, social outing, it’s likely to add a flavorful touch to your visit.