Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Av 3a Sur, Bella Vista; mains US$3-8; 7am-9pm Mon-Sat)
Breakfasts are pretty conventional
(ie bagels and eggs), but it's worth delving into Korean staples such as
bulgolgi
(rice
with the tenderest beef) or seaweed rolls. The small cafe is strewn with lovely travel pho-
tos on clothespins. There's live jazz twice a month on Saturday evenings.
Athens
GREEK $
(Calle 50, Bella Vista; mains US$5; 11am-11:30pm Thu-Tue)
Fresh and casual, this Greek eat-
ery serves warm pitas with hummus, satisfying Greek salads, gyros and pizzas. It's ideal
for families and large groups, with long hours and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
Crêpes & Waffles
CREPERIE $
( 269-1574; Av 5a B Sur, Bella Vista; mains US$5-10; noon-10pm Mon-Sat, 9am-10pm Sun;
)
Ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up or a quick bite before clubbing, this salad bar and
crêpe factory has something for everyone. Spinach, ricotta and tomato are a good
standby, but the sweet crêpes, with fillings such as cheese, apples, chocolate and caramel,
are delectable. There's also a salad bar.
Niko's Café
CAFETERIA $
(Calle 51 Este near Vía España; mains US$3-8; 24hr)
Spawned from a Greek immigrant who
once sold food from a cart, Niko's has become one of Panama City's most successful
chains, with locations throughout the city. These sprawling 24-hour cafeterias serve
hearty portions of inexpensive food ranging from made-to-order breakfasts, Panamanian
dishes and desserts.
La Mar
PERUVIAN $$$
( 209-3323;
www.lamarcebicheria.com
; Calle Guatemala s/n, El Cangrejo; mains US$9-18;
11am-3pm & 6-11pm)
Serving Peruvian classics in high style, La Mar is part of superchef
Gastón Acurio's empire. Start with a tart pisco sour - they pack a punch (in a good way).
The
degustación
plate lets you try four varieties of
causas
(like burgers) or
ceviche
.
Potato
causas
come delicate and creamy. For timider palates,
arroz chaufa
(fried rice) is
fluffy and flavorful.
The setting is sleek. Dress well and reserve ahead - it gets busy.
