Makoto Panama: The Ultimate Japanese Dining Experience for Foodies in Panama City (aka the best Japanese restaurant)

Brownie
Jun 3
2 min read

Updated: Jun 4

Tucked high above the city buzz in Obarrio, Makoto Panama isn't just another sleek sushi spot—it’s a temple of Japanese craftsmanship, where every bite tells a story of precision, patience, and deep culinary roots. For foodies chasing bold flavor, meticulous technique, and the quiet thrill of discovering something exceptional, Makoto is a must-visit and why many consider it to be the best Japanese restaurant in Panama City.

Meet the Master Behind the Magic: Chef Makoto Okuwa

If you know sushi, you know Makoto Okuwa. Trained in the Edomae tradition and sharpened in the kitchens of Morimoto, Chef Makoto brings a razor-sharp vision to every plate. His Panama City outpost continues the legacy of his restaurants in Miami and Mexico City—balancing heritage with a modern edge. Think omakase with attitude, robata skewers kissed by flame, and wagyu so rich it melts mid-sentence.

Why Food Lovers Flock Here

The menu at Makoto Panama is layered, deliberate, and almost impossible to tackle in one sitting. Highlights include:

Edomae Sushi – Ultra-fresh, delicate, and precise. Each piece arrives like a whisper: understated but unforgettable.
Wagyu on Hot Stone – A moment of theater for meat lovers. Sizzle it tableside to your perfect doneness.
Charcoal-Grilled Robata – Skewers of tender beef, juicy chicken, or sweet corn, finished over Japanese binchotan charcoal.
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice – A cult favorite for a reason: the crunch-to-creamy ratio is addictive.

And the drinks? No filler. A tight edit of premium sakes, Japanese whiskies, and cocktails with backbone—wasabi, yuzu, shiso—designed to match the food, not just sit beside it.

The Vibe

Set on the 11th floor of Kenex Plaza, the dining room hums with low conversation and clinks of cutlery. There's a buzz of confidence here—no gimmicks, just good taste. Nab a seat at the sushi bar if you want front-row action. Or head to the outdoor terrace for skyline views and a little breeze with your sashimi.

Need-to-Know Details

📍 Avenida Samuel Lewis & Calle 59, Piso 11, Edificio Kenex Plaza, Obarrio, Panama City🌐 makotopanama.com📸 Instagram📅 Hours:

Mon–Tue: 12PM–10PM
Wed–Sat: 12PM–11PM
Sun: 12PM–8PM
🎽 Dress Code: Casual Elegant
🅿️ Valet Parking Available
📞 Reservations: Strongly recommended (Book on OpenTable)

Makoto Panama isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination for people who live to eat and eat to explore. Whether you're deep into Japanese cuisine or just dipping your toes into omakase, this spot will seduce your palate and raise your bar. Come hungry, stay curious.