---
title: Eat like a local: Traditional Food in Panama
description: Panama is not known internationally for its cuisine, yet Panama's traditional food scene has a wide variety of delicious meat, fish, and veggie options.
image: https://www.residepanama.com/hubfs/PFL%20-%20Eat%20like%20a%20local.jpeg
---

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# Eat like a local: Traditional Food in Panama

[Reside Panama](https://www.residepanama.com/en/reside-panama-blog/author/reside-panama)

Panama is not well-known for its cuisine yet, but there are a variety of delicious options available for those who want to try it.

 

![15](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/15.jpg?width=1440&name=15.jpg)

Ceviche  
Ceviche is a seafood dish that is cooked in a mixture of lime juice, peppers, onions, and cilantro for 24 to 48 hours. It is served alongside crackers or fried plantains. Enjoy your ceviche on a tropical day in combination with a cold local beer such as Balboa.

![14](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/14.jpg?width=1440&name=14.jpg)

Sancocho  
Sancocho is a soup that consists of chicken, ñame, and cilantro. There are many variations in which corn or other vegetables are added. It is often served in combination with white rice. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or after a night of drinking.

![13](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/13.jpg?width=1440&name=13.jpg)

Carimañolas  
These deep-fried crunchy rolls are simple to make and delicious. They are especially popular as breakfast, and can be found at local restaurants, take-outs, and street vendors.

![18](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/18.jpg?width=760&name=18.jpg)

Hojaldra  
The Hojaldra is a fried bread that can be eaten at most traditional restaurants or cafes. It is usually accompanied by local cheese, cinnamon sugar, or with "salchicha."(Sausage). 

![10](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/10.jpg?width=1440&name=10.jpg)

Tamales  
In Panama, the tamale is usually made from banana leaves and is cooked with corn dough mixed with raisins and a little broth. Then it is stuffed with chicken or pork.

![12](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/12.jpg?width=1440&name=12.jpg)

Patacones  
Patacones are slices of fried plantains that are often used as a side dish. However, there are a variety of options. Our personal favorite is the patacones with garlic shrimp.

![11](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/11.jpg?width=1440&name=11.jpg)

Empanadas  
Fried pastries are a delicious way to start your day or to snack. They are filled with meat, chicken, or cheese, and are a great option for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.

![17](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/17.jpg?width=1440&name=17.jpg)

Raspao  
Panama's traditional shaved ice is made with condensed milk and flavored syrups. It is mostly available from street vendors across the city, on Avenida Balboa, Amador, and other tourist places.

![16](https://publications.panamaforlife.com/hs-fs/hubfs/16.jpg?width=1440&name=16.jpg)

Arroz con Pollo  
Arroz con Pollo literally means Rice with Chicken and is nothing more than that. Panamanians are definitely the best at preparing it. You will find local variations of this dish in restaurants and family homes. 

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