Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 269-1076;
www.lapostapanama.com
; Calle Uruguay, Bella Vista; mains US$12-42;
noon-2:30pm & 6:30-10pm Mon-Sat)
A staple on the Panamanian food scene, with seasonal
menus and lovely presentation. The tropical setting says hacienda, with a breezy dining
room decked with white linens and big wicker chairs. Start with octopus three ways or a
beet salad with crisp bacon vinaigrette. Organic chicken and fresh pastas stay in the com-
fort zone but ultimately satisfy.
TOP OF CHAPTER
5
San Francisco & Punta Paitilla
Caminito de la Empanada
ARGENTINE $
(Punta Paitilla; mains US$2; 7:30am-7:30pm Mon-Sat)
Cheap and tasty, with a selection of
tiny savory Argentine empanadas, filled with meat, cheese or veggie mixes, or
medi-
alunas
(crescent rolls).
Parillada Jimmy
PARRILLA $$$
( 226-1096; Av Cincuentenario, San Francisco; mains US$9-15; 11:30am-11:30pm)
The long,
open porch with high ceilings and wrought-iron chandeliers lends a farmhouse feel to
this Panama City institution. An open grill sears some serious cuts of beef, chicken and
country-style sausage. Located in the San Francisco district just east of the Multiplaza
Mall, Parillada Jimmy packs in lunchtime diners and an after-work crowd.
Maito
PANAMANIAN $$$
$$$
( 391-4657;
www.maitopanama.com
;
Av 3M Sur, San Francisco; mains US$8-27; noon-3pm
Mon-Fri, 7-11pm Mon-Sat)
With style and pedigree, Maito toys with the classics, tinkering in
everyday Caribbean, Latin and Chinese influences. While results are mixed, it's still
worthwhile. Start with a watermelon Waldorf salad. Ribs glazed in passion fruit prove
tender but lack the crispness of the duck chow mein. Seafood risotto in squid ink proves
divine. There's garden seating and impeccable service.
TOP OF CHAPTER
5
Canal Zone
Country Store
CAFE $
