Coffee Lover's Guide to Panama City: The Best Shops You Can't Miss
- Brownie
- Mar 15, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 4
Since I started visiting Panama City in 2003, the coffee culture has undergone a tremendous transformation. It used to be that it was a challenge to find a decent cup of coffee. Today, specialty coffee shops are scattered throughout the city, offering unique and flavorful blends to locals and visitors alike. Panama is not commonly known as a major coffee-producing country, but its Boquete region is recognized for its exceptional coffee beans, particularly the expensive and highly sought-after Geisha variety, which some people call the "Champagne of Coffee". To truly appreciate this delicious (and expensive) coffee, I suggest visiting one of the city's growing number of third-wave coffee shops, which provide an artisanal coffee experience. Here are some of my favorites for the best coffee shops in Panama City.
Mentiritas Blancas
Mentiritas Blancas is a hidden gem located in the vibrant Via Argentina neighborhood of Panama City, and the name means . When you enter, you're transported to a warm and welcoming space that feels like home. One wall is lined with bar stools occupied by digital nomads, while a comfy couch in the corner is perfect for catching up with friends. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries permeates the air, making it difficult to resist ordering a cup. What truly sets Mentiritas Blancas apart is their unparalleled customer service. The passionate owners and skilled baristas are always on hand to guide you in choosing the perfect cup of coffee. Their Geisha is fabulous.
Address: Via Argentina
Sisu Coffee Studio
When talking about good coffee in Panama, one must mention the Lamastus family, who has over a hundred years of history producing coffee and striving for the highest quality in everything they produce. In 2022, Sisu Coffee Studio opened in Panama City's historic Casco Viejo, a new project of Lamastus Family Estates, created to offer a specialty coffee experience along with the cuisine of chef Ariel Zebede, known for his work at AtoZ Kitchen. The place's conceptualization, by Simi Benzadon, is like being transported to a European café in the style of the great cities of the world. Its variety of coffee, modern location, and attention to detail make it a hot spot to visit in Panama City.
Address: Casco Viejo
Unido Coffee Roasters
Unido's chic and cozy cafes provide the perfect ambiance to savor a delicious cup of coffee in Panama. In early 2014, the brand opened its first café in the Panama City neighborhood of Coco del Mar, and since then it has expanded to ten different locations around the country and two in Washington, DC. Apart from featuring unique blends of gourmet roasted coffee from Panama, Unido also serves scrumptious breakfast, sandwiches, and salads.
Address: Many throughout Panama
Cabrera Coffee Brewhouse
While this coffee shop is outside the City in the area of Costa Verde in Panama Oeste, it is worth a mention especially if you are driving by. Set in a large shopping center it is a great spot for a pour-over, which is their specialty.
Address: Costa Verde, La Chorrera
