Chiriqui Province, Panama
Staples like rice, black beans, and plantains are foundational. Meats include chicken, beef, and pork. Boquete rivers yield fresh trout. Root vegetables like yuca and ñame are common. Tropical fruits abound, with strawberries a local highlight. Flavors are typically mild, emphasizing freshness.
Common seasonings include cilantro, culantro, garlic, onions, and bell pepper. Ají chombo pepper may add heat sparingly.
Boquete's agriculture drives a strong focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, and locally raised meats.
Freshly caught trout from local rivers is a delicacy, often grilled or pan-fried.
World-renowned for its high-quality coffee, especially Geisha variety, which is a foundational part of the region's identity.
Panama's national chicken soup, with root vegetables and culantro.
Find it at local "fondas".
Chicken and rice cooked with vegetables and spices, a complete meal.
Widely available in local eateries.
Freshly caught trout, often grilled or pan-fried, served simply with plantains and rice.
A local delicacy in Boquete.
Boquete is famous for high-quality arabica beans, especially Geisha coffee. Enjoy a fresh cup at any local cafe or farm. For home brewing, a Hario V60 Coffee Dripper can help.
Seco Herrerano is Panama's national sugarcane spirit. Local lagers like Balboa, Atlas, and Panama are widely available.
Refined experiences with gourmet international cuisine in elegant settings.
Comfortable dining with diverse menus and inviting atmospheres.
Inexpensive, traditional Panamanian meals and quick snacks.
Increasingly available, especially in cafes and expat-friendly restaurants. Many traditional dishes can be meat-free.
Look for places highlighting fresh produce.
Awareness is growing but not universal. Learn Spanish phrases (e.g., "sin gluten" - without gluten) for clear communication.
Self-catering is an option for severe allergies.
Some operators or farms offer hands-on classes.
Coffee, chocolate, and strawberry farm tours are popular.
Many restaurants sit on hillsides, offering panoramic views.
Many establishments offer great coffee and light meals.
Varied menu with international and American comfort food, often with live music on weekends.
A social hub.
Mercado de Boquete provides fresh produce and some prepared foods. Larger supermarkets offer groceries.
Not a large food hall like major cities.
Farm-to-table dining with fresh, local ingredients. A strong coffee shop culture offering excellent coffee and light meals.
Fresas con Crema: Fresh strawberries with cream or condensed milk.
Options are increasingly common, especially in cafes and restaurants catering to the expat community. Many traditional dishes adapt well without meat.
Food options are extremely limited. Travelers with these specific needs should plan to self-cater extensively.
Awareness is growing but not universal. Learn Spanish phrases to communicate clearly.
Many restaurants sit in the hillsides, offering spectacular panoramic views of the valley and river.
These locations elevate the dining experience.
Some restaurants source fresh, local ingredients directly from surrounding farms, ensuring high-quality, seasonal dishes.
This highlights Boquete's rich agricultural output.
Held annually in January, this major national event showcases floral displays, coffee exhibits, artisan crafts, and numerous food vendors.
Usually in February, this festival attracts international and local musicians.
An annual Scottish-themed event celebrating unique cultural heritage with traditional sports and music.
Boquete's food scene highlights fresh local produce and high-quality coffee. It blends traditional Panamanian dishes with international flavors. Dietary accommodations are more accessible than in smaller towns.
