Top 4 Places to Eat in Santa Catalina

Written by Maria Gaulto, Roberto Gonzalez
03/08/2025
Der Red Frog Beach ist Teil des Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park.
Dronepicr, Wikimedia Commons

Santa Catalina offers a relaxed and inviting culinary scene, with open-air establishments serving a diverse array of fresh seafood and international flavors, catering to surfers, divers, and families alike.

1. Fonda La Arena

Cuisine: Traditional Panamanian

For an authentic taste of local cuisine, one can discover delicious and freshly prepared Panamanian dishes. The food is well-seasoned, offering a rustic dining experience, ideal for those seeking local flavors at an accessible price point. One can expect generous portions of dishes like coco rice and shrimp in red sauce.

Price: USD 7-12 per person

Getting There: Located on the main street, it is easily walkable from most accommodations in the central area.

2. Pizzeria Jammin'

Cuisine: Italian (Pizza)

This established eatery is a favorite among both locals and travelers, known for its thin-crust, stone-oven pizzas. The cozy garden setting, often surrounded by palm trees, provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a meal, especially with their delicious homemade chili oil.

Price: USD 10-20 per pizza

Getting There: Situated along the road leading towards Playa Estero, it is a short walk from the town's main area.

3. Restaurante Pinguinos

Cuisine: Italian and Panamanian Seafood

Perched with a terrace overlooking Playa Santa Catalina, this restaurant provides an ideal setting for enjoying a meal while watching the sunset. The menu features authentic Italian-made pasta and grilled fresh seafood dishes, such as fish with rice and beans, offering a delightful and relaxed dining experience.

Price: USD 10-25 per person

Getting There: Found at the end of the main street, directly across from the town beach, it is conveniently accessible on foot.

4. Pescao Restaurant

Cuisine: Caribbean and Latin Seafood

Located within Hotel Santa Catalina, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views, creating a memorable backdrop for dining. The focus is on fresh, local seafood prepared with a tropical gourmet touch, blending Panamanian heritage with Caribbean and Latin influences. Signature dishes include tuna filet with passion fruit sauce, and white fish with garlic and coconut rice.

Price: USD 20-40+ per person

Getting There: Situated oceanfront at Hotel Santa Catalina, it is a short walk from the main beach and central area.

Check out our other pages on Santa Catalina

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