Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
corvina with crab in Pernod, and jumbo shrimps in passion fruit sauce, to be savoured in
sleek surroundings, from the glass waterfall at the entrance to the piano-bar accompaniment
(Mon-Sat from 8pm).
Daily 11.30am-11pm.
Las Tinajas
C 51 at Av Federico Boyd 263 7890,
tinajaspanama.com
;
map
.
This de-
lightful colonial mansion in Bella Vista is a favourite destination of tour groups, who flock
here to experience authentic Panamanian food and a traditional dance show involving swish-
ing
polleras
and devil dances. Grab a table early to ensure a decent view of the tiny stage.
Shows are Tues-Sat at 9pm for $5 provided you spend at least $12 on food and drink. Try the
surtido de mariscos
, a platter of seafood appetizers.
Mon-Sat 11.30am-11pm.
quently billed as the place to go to try traditional food, such as
mondongo
(tripe) and
tamal de
olla
(local tamale without the leaf wrapping), though it attracts Panamanians too. Prices are
moderate (mains $8-13) and there's a lively atmosphere on the terrace, but the food quality
is variable.
Daily 7am-11pm.
FORMER CANAL ZONE
The Amador Causeway provides a cool, breezy setting with fabulous views across the bay.
The downside is that a taxi there and back (there are few and infrequent buses) will add an-
other $10-15 to your bill.
grilled chicken, wraps and salads - and fairly inexpensive. The best option in a neighbour-
hood lacking in restaurants.
Daily 10.30am-10pm.
looking the marina, this is by far the liveliest place in the area to enjoy a few sundowners with
friends accompanied by some sizzling grilled seafood (from snacks at $5 to a mixed grill for
two for around $12).
Daily noon-late.
Mi Ranchito
Amador Causeway, near the Punta Culebra Nature Centre 228 4909,
res-
taurantemiranchito.com
;
map
.
This restaurant's pleasant open-air tables are extremely popu-
lar with locals for enjoying cocktails, seafood and sunset city views. Mains from $9.
Daily
noon-late.
OTHER AREAS
Palacio Lung Fung
Transístmica and C 62 Oeste 260 4011;
map
.
Some way from the ac-
tion, in Los Angeles, but every taxi driver knows this vast oriental palace, whose thousand-
seater upstairs ballroom with its glittering chandeliers is packed at weekends with Panamani-
ans enjoying the dim sum breakfast (until 11.30am). The food is average but the social ex-
perience makes it well worth the trip.
Daily 7am-11pm.
