Grocery Shopping in Panama: What to Expect & What to Look For and Which Stores to Shop
- Brownie
- Jun 4
- 3 min read
Whether you’re staying in Panama for a few days or a few months, a trip to the grocery store offers more than just essentials—it’s a great window into everyday life. Grocery shopping in Panama is easy, affordable, and often filled with small surprises worth noting.
🛒 Main Grocery Store Chains in Panama
There are three major grocery chains you’ll see throughout the country:
1.Riba Smith
Often considered the highest-end of the three
Carries a wide range of imported products and international brands
Known for their bakery section, deli items, and prepared foods like tamales
Note: Riba Smith’s tamales often contain olives—a common twist here but not for everyone.
El Rey
A solid, well-stocked chain that falls between Riba Smith and Super 99 in terms of price and selection
Offers both local and international goods
Their private-label items are generally reliable and good value
Super 99
Slightly more local and budget-friendly in feel
Still carries most of what you’ll need, from olive oil to fresh produce
Expect less variety in imported brands, but plenty of staples
🥛 Noteworthy Finds
• Panamanian Yogurt (Try “Dos Pinos” or “La Chiricana”)
You’ll find drinkable yogurt-style bottles in tropical flavors like guanábana and maracuyá
Local favorite: Yogurt de Austria—thick, tangy, and delicious
• Fresh Juice Selection
The refrigerated juice sections are often overflowing with local blends—pineapple, papaya, tamarind, and more
• Eggs Are Not Refrigerated
That’s normal here: eggs are unwashed and retain their natural protective coating
If you’re used to refrigeration, store them chilled when you get back to your rental
• Panamanian Hot Sauce (Ají Chombo)
Look for it near the condiments—spicy, vinegary, and great on eggs, empanadas, and rice
• Dried Herbs & Spices
Often inexpensive and high quality—think whole cinnamon sticks, local oregano, and chamomile
I often bring a few packs back to the U.S.—they’re beautifully fragrant and easy to pack
•Pepper Grinders from Spain
A small but great find: flavored pepper/herb/salt grinders, often by Spanish brands, usually near the spices or specialty foods section
• Argentinian Wine
Panama imports a wide selection of South American wine—look for good bottles at very fair prices
Yes, wine and liquor are sold right in the grocery store
💧 A Quick Note on Water
The tap water in most of Panama is safe to drink—especially in Panama City and larger towns. However, some travelers prefer to buy bottled water, especially if staying in more remote areas. Grocery stores carry everything from 1-liter bottles to multi-gallon jugs.
🛍 Shopping Customs to Know
• Reusable Bags
Panama has banned single-use plastic bags. Bring your own reusable bag or purchase one at checkout—most stores sell them near the register.
• Tipping Your Grocery Helper
In nearly all grocery stores, an employee will pack your bags and walk your cart to your car.
It’s customary to tip them $0.25 to $1, depending on how many bags you have. It’s a small gesture that’s appreciated.
🧺 Bonus: Panama’s “Costco” Equivalent
Panama has its own version of a wholesale club: PriceSmart.
Membership required (similar to Costco or Sam’s Club)
Multiple locations around Panama City
Great for families, bulk buys, or long stays
Whether you’re popping in for breakfast essentials or loading up for a beach week, grocery shopping in Panama is convenient, well-stocked, and often filled with little details that make the everyday feel special.