Panama City Markets and Local Flavors Food Tour
About this experience
Savor local food and drink in Panama's vibrant markets, located in less touristy areas that most visitors never discover. This culinary adventure takes you through the authentic heart of Panama City with a guide who holds a degree in food tourism. Your host Ana Patricia was born and raised in Panama with a deep passion for gastronomy. She believes food is a connector for people and cultures. Having lived and learned throughout the country, she is now ready to share the flavors of her beautiful homeland with you. Begin at the legendary Cafe Coca Cola, one of Panama's oldest and most iconic establishments. Taste traditional snacks, food, and drinks that have been served here for generations. Then walk through Salsipuedes Street, where the local vibe and true Panamanian flavors come alive in the bustling street food scene. Discover Panama City's Chinatown and embark on a culinary journey through Chinese-Panamanian cuisine, a unique fusion that reflects the history of Chinese immigration to Panama. Learn about the cultural influences that shaped this distinctive cuisine. Explore local crafts markets where artisans sell unique handmade items. Then visit a traditional fish market to taste delectable, freshly caught seafood dishes prepared in authentic Panamanian style. This tour is perfect for food lovers who want to experience Panama beyond the tourist areas. Come hungry and leave with a deeper understanding of Panama's diverse culinary heritage. Guests ages 8 and up welcome.
What you'll do
268 reviews
Karen
Philadelphia, PA
A very unique opportunity to see a side of the city you wouldn’t see without such an experienced and confident tour guide. We walked through local markets and stores I would never have been brave enough to wander to. But the host seemed to know everyone and created such a warm and friendly environment with the local merchants and artisans. It was fantastic. Highly recommend.
Ellen And Jim
San Clemente, Ecuador
Ana Patricia was enthusiastic, organized and shared her country’s history , culture, and food in a very interesting and engaging way. She was sensitive to my dietary needs. We had a lot of fun with her. When we return we would love to take a cooking class from her. Food tourism is such a great way to get engaged with the culture you are visiting. Highly recommend. Our day flew by.
Kim
Tampa, FL
The tour was perfect. Ana was so informative and taught me and my two kids alot about Panamá. We learned so much about different types of foods that were in the market. We tried lots of foods as well and bought souvenirs. The food was great and very tasty. I highly recommend booking this tour ! I’m so glad I did!
Grant
Nebraska, United States
Incredible tour with Ana and a perfect introduction to Panama! You will not only find places you'd never discover on your own but will learn a bit of history and how it connects to food. Don't miss it!
Isckar C.
Washington, DC
Great food, great energy and I learned a ton. Ana is an excellent tour guide! Perfect way to start my visit and get familiar with the food culture!
Karen
Philadelphia, PA
A very unique opportunity to see a side of the city you wouldn’t see without such an experienced and confident tour guide. We walked through local markets and stores I would never have been brave enough to wander to. But the host seemed to know everyone and created such a warm and friendly environment with the local merchants and artisans. It was fantastic. Highly recommend.
Ellen And Jim
San Clemente, Ecuador
Ana Patricia was enthusiastic, organized and shared her country’s history , culture, and food in a very interesting and engaging way. She was sensitive to my dietary needs. We had a lot of fun with her. When we return we would love to take a cooking class from her. Food tourism is such a great way to get engaged with the culture you are visiting. Highly recommend. Our day flew by.
Kim
Tampa, FL
The tour was perfect. Ana was so informative and taught me and my two kids alot about Panamá. We learned so much about different types of foods that were in the market. We tried lots of foods as well and bought souvenirs. The food was great and very tasty. I highly recommend booking this tour ! I’m so glad I did!
Grant
Nebraska, United States
Incredible tour with Ana and a perfect introduction to Panama! You will not only find places you'd never discover on your own but will learn a bit of history and how it connects to food. Don't miss it!
Isckar C.
Washington, DC
Great food, great energy and I learned a ton. Ana is an excellent tour guide! Perfect way to start my visit and get familiar with the food culture!
Shonen
Berkeley, CA
And Patricia was a wonderful guide through the markets of the old town. She is very knowledgeable about the history of the area and about food in Panama. She was able to tell me a lot about the history of food there and also how and what people are eating today even the various groups who have arrived in Panama and what they brought to the cuisine of the area, such as the Chinese, the French, The Italians. She made it quite interesting and made it possible for me to taste quite a few things which I have never had before, so I really appreciated that. It was quite interesting to go into a Chinese convenience store, and see the products available there in Panama! Also her patience and kindness during the tour was exceptional.
Meet your host
Carlos
Local Guide
Reviews
Rating
I'm a biologist and Certified Nature Specialist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority. Living near Panama City, I've spent 10+ years studying the biodiversity of Soberania National Park. Join me to spot monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and unique plants around Gatun Lake. My passion is sharing Panama's incredible wildlife with visitors from around the world.
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
About your guide
To protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the Bandits website or app.
I'm a biologist and Certified Nature Specialist accredited by the Panama Tourism Authority. Living near Panama City, I've spent 10+ years studying the biodiversity of Soberania National Park. Join me to spot monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and unique plants around Gatun Lake. My passion is sharing Panama's incredible wildlife with visitors from around the world.
Where you'll be
Panama City, Panama Province, Panama
Meet at Cafe Coca Cola in the historic district. Exact address and directions sent after booking confirmation.
Every experience on Bandits is covered by our Bandit Guard protection. If something goes wrong, we'll help make it right.
Learn more about Bandit GuardFree cancellation
Cooking & Food vetted for quality
Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure quality, safety, and authenticity. Learn more
Vetted for quality
Every experience on Bandits is reviewed by our team to ensure it meets our quality standards. Learn more