Top 6 Places to Eat in Boquete

Written by Maria Gaulto, Roberto Gonzalez
03/08/2025
View from helicopter November 2014 of the town of Boquete, Panama
FranHogan, Wikimedia Commons

Boquete's dining scene offers a delightful blend of local Panamanian flavors and international gourmet experiences, with many establishments focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

1. Panamonte - T'ACH Restaurant

Cuisine: Gourmet Panamanian, International

Nestled within the historic Hotel Panamonte, this restaurant offers an unforgettable fine dining experience. The menu, curated by award-winning Chef Charlie Collins, celebrates Boquete's natural bounty with dishes like the signature cream of zapallo soup and local trout. The fireside lounge provides a warm, inviting ambiance, while the elegant dining room offers a more refined setting.

Price: High (USD $30+ per person)

Getting There: Located on Avenida 11 de Abril, it is easily walkable from most central Boquete accommodations.

2. The Rock

Cuisine: Innovative International, Local Ingredients

Perched along the scenic Palo Alto River, The Rock provides a picturesque setting for fine dining. Chef Charlie Collins crafts inventive dishes, blending indigenous flavors with international influences, featuring fresh local ingredients such as Black Angus beef and Caldera River trout. It was featured on Disney's 'Restaurants at the End of the World', highlighting its unique appeal.

Price: High (USD $30+ per person)

Getting There: Situated in Jaramillo Arriba, a short taxi ride (approx. 5 minutes) from the main town center is recommended.

3. RetroGusto Restaurant & Bar

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Farm-to-Table

RetroGusto offers a blend of old-school recipes and modern techniques, creating unique and flavorful dishes. The menu features artisan pizzas from a brick oven, pastas, and burgers, all with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere is inviting, making it a great spot for a relaxed yet upscale meal.

Price: Moderate to High (USD $15 - $30 per person)

Getting There: Located on Avenida Central in the heart of Boquete, it is a walkable distance from most town areas, though it may involve a slight uphill trek.

4. Donde Giselle

Cuisine: Panamanian with a Gourmet Touch

This restaurant is a top-rated favorite, offering Panamanian flavors crafted with a gourmet touch. Signature appetizers include crispy chicharrón and carimañolas de ossobuco. The guacho de guandú with chicharrón is a must-try main course. The welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for both visitors and locals, including families.

Price: Moderate (USD $15 - $25 per person)

Getting There: As a well-known Boquete favorite, it is centrally located and easily accessible by foot from most parts of town.

5. Sugar and Spice Boquete

Cuisine: Bakery, Cafe, Mexican, American

A beloved local favorite, Sugar and Spice is known for its freshly baked goods, including artisan breads, pastries, cakes, and pies. It's a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, offering a range of sandwiches, salads, and Mexican dishes. Many locals and expats frequent this charming bakery and cafe.

Price: Very Low (Under USD $10 per person)

Getting There: Conveniently located at 7th and Main in Bajo Boquete, it is easily walkable from the town center.

6. Central Park

Cuisine: Traditional Panamanian

Situated directly on the recently remodeled central park, this eatery provides a downhome, simple environment for authentic Panamanian breakfast and lunch. It’s a super budget-friendly option, perfect for experiencing local fare like chicken and tejadas, while observing the town's daily rhythm.

Price: Very Low (Under USD $10 per person)

Getting There: Located directly on the central park, it is in the heart of town and easily walkable from any central location.

Check out our other pages on Boquete

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