PANAMA 9°80° A EDITION 27 Hotel Ciudad David Feature Hotel NIGHTLIFE IN PANAMA FOOD FINDS
Mar 14, 2016
Panama 9°80° AEdition 27
Hotel Ciudad DavidFeature HotelNIGHTLIFE IN PANAMA
FOOD FINDS
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HOTEL CIUDAD DAVID
DINNER AND A MOVIE
LIVE MUSIC PANAMA
www.locationpanama.com
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GOING BANANAS
LIONFISH INVASION
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PANAMA
CHIRIQUI
BOCAS DEL TORO
PEDASI
FOOD FINDS
RANDOMLY GOODPART 3
BOQUETE NIGHTLIFE
THE BEST OF PEDASI
NIGHTLIFE IN PANAMA
TOUR AROUND BOCAS
BOCAS NIGHTLIFE
BOOK A TOUR CHIRIQUI
RAINY DAY FUN
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Panama 9°80° 7
panama’s lifestyle & travel magazine
The name 9°80° is derived from the country’s location on the world
map – 9 degrees north of the equator, 80 degrees west of the
prime meridian.
GENERAL MANAGERIrma Marengo
GRAPHIC DESIGNFalina Pérez de Valverde
WRITERSChristin Fjeld Roberts
Daniela DelvalleJoan CrabtreeIrma Marengo
PHOTOGRAPHYIrma Marengo
PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
CONTACT INFORMATIONPhone: (507)394-3452
Panama 9°80° es publicada por Avenue A. Publications, Inc.Las opiniones y recomendaciones de los autores y artistas que aparecen
en Panama 9°80° no necesariamente reflejan las opiniones de la empresa. Panama 9°80° no asume responsabilidad por los productos o servicios que
se anuncian en la revista, ni por errores de contenido impreso.No está permitido reproducir, total o parcialmente en contenido de esta publicación sin previo permiso escrito de Avenue A. Publications, Inc. ©
2012 Todos los derechos reservados.RUC: 1119547-1-564065 D.V. 92
Impreso por Panamericana Formas e Impresos, S.A. quién solo actúa como impresor.
Impreso en Colombia2012 Todos los derechos reservados.
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HOTEL CIUDAD DAVIDTHE HUB OF CHIRIQUIHotel Ciudad de David is arguably the best city center hotel outside of Panama City offering all the comforts and amenities of a city hotel combining two major concepts, the best business facilities in town, and the best family experience.
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Whether you are planning a business trip, need a relaxing weekend away from it all, or decide to explore all that Chiriqui has to offer, Hotel Ciudad de David is the place for you.
The hotel’s key location in downtown David gives you access to the overwhelmingly expanding David commercial and banking area, conveniently located 5 minutes away from Chiriqui province local airport and, best of all, a short drive from Chiriqui’s most coveted mountain destinations: Boquete and Volcán, and gorgeous pristine beach destinations such as Boca Chica and the Gulf of Chiriquí islands.
The moment you step into the lobby, you understand why Hotel Ciudad de David has been chosen as a winner of Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award 2012 as one of the trendiest hotels in Central America.
The hotel’s design, modern architecture, posh furnishings and swanky music, evoke a cool, relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The lobby bar is the perfect setting for a casual business meeting or to hang out with your friends and just relax and enjoy conversation and great cocktails.
A haven in the middle of the city:Hotel Ciudad de David has a large pool area to relax and enjoy the sun while admiring the views of the Chiriqui highlands and the Pacific Ocean. If you are thinking about nurturing your body, the hotel’s fitness center offers great exercise facilities with top of the line equipment including a sauna.
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After a long day shopping or going in and out of business meetings, nothing beats relaxing in your elegant and comfortable room and ordering room service. All aspects were considered when designing the rooms, from LCD TV’s, fast internet service to luxury toiletries, fully stocked mini bar, controlled air conditioning and, best of all, a thermo acoustic system that isolates noise making your stay a quiet one and helps conserve energy while maintaining optimal room temperature.
Stylo Resto-BarWith a twist of Spanish influence and contemporary cuisine, Stylo Resto-Bar serves an extensive menu with a great selection of wines from all over the world to enjoy with your meal. The restaurant is perfect for family celebrations, discussing business, or to simply enjoy great food with great company.
During our visit we tried some of the most popular dishes:We started our meal by sharing dishes tapa style with the sea bass and apple ceviche served in ceramic spoons with a plantain chip, very refreshing. Then the all-star “pulpo a la Gallega” Galician octopus arrived, perfectly cooked and seasoned, one of those dishes that when executed well is simply outstanding. The Cajun salad was a pleasant surprise, fresh herbs, generously dressed and served with deliciously stuffed Cajun chicken pita bread.
We moved on to the main dishes, and tried one of the house specialties, sea bass rolled in bacon and stuffed with melted cheese, very rich and savory.
Any meat lover will stop browsing the menu after discovering that lamb chops are available- we ordered these juicy, tender beauties served in an aromatic rosemary sauce, stuffed with bacon, simply self-indulgence.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; besides ordering a la carte, breakfast and lunch buffet are available from Monday to Saturday, and brunch is served on Sundays.
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Hotel Ciudad de David´s most valuable asset is its staff, and this translates to the best service possible in order to make your stay not only a pleasant one but one to remember and cherish.
As a hub, this is where business, leisure and family meet comfort, luxury and great service.
“Business without stress, for many reasons and occasions the best place”
Facilities & amenities:89 Executive rooms
2 Handicapped friendly rooms
10 Jr. Suites
2 Master Suites
Indoor private parking with 24 hour security
Fitness center
Sauna
24 hour room service
Lounge bar
Buffet breakfast
Restaurant
Business center
3 event rooms totaling 405 square meters / social or business events
1 Executive conference room
Audio/Visual equipment
High speed internet
Laundry services
In-room LCD TV
Minibar
Hair dryer
Safe box
Cable TV
Energy efficient A/C
Contact information:Tel: (507) [email protected]
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In our world today you are constantly bombarded by information from the mainstream culture and current world affairs. You are told what’s cool, what to wear, what to like, who to listen to and what you must have. A lot of pre-packaged mindless, robotic information overflow meant for you to consume massively, never think, just follow.That being said, it is so refreshing to find a place like Diablo Rosso, an art gallery, a café and a concept store where creative minds are free to express their talent, where clever meets witty, where hunger is not just related to great food, but the need to constantly learn and explore the work and minds of brilliant people and most of all to be surprised and see the world through other eyes.
A few weeks ago I decided to go Diablo Rosso’s “Cena Cine” where every Tuesday they feature an independent movie at the café. The incredible selection ranges from movies awarded by film authorities like the Berlin film festival, New York Critic’s Circle, British Independent Film Awards and Cannes Film Festival to mention a few of the worthy.
It’s been a while since my last visit to Diablo Rosso and this was my first time visiting their new location, so my first time there was very sensorial.
When I stepped into the café I was amazed and amused by the décor, if indeed eclectic and eccentric, to me it made so much sense. The café reflects the heart and soul of the neighborhood culture in Panama; each piece was carefully selected to create the right ambiance without a single drop of pretentiousness, better said it was an artistic expression dignifying the poor and humble. Every single piece of furniture , every single artwork here and there was a fun discovery, a playful amusement for my mind. The café itself could be considered an artistic installation.
While waiting for my friend to arrive and before the movie, I took a peek at the art gallery which was currently featuring the work of a Mexican contemporary artist, ARTEMIO. A beautiful display of pieces in neon, print and glazed tile inspired by weapons turned into art and is likely to be this year’s most important contemporary exhibition in Panama. To learn more about this artist, just Google ARTEMIO Mexican artist.
I liked the unadorned, unpretentious and straightforward truth that is written on the café’s wall: “Comida rica”, meaning tasty food, and that is exactly what you should expect.
We ordered some snacks before the movie started and got a little bit carried away as the menu has such personality that is hard to leave behind some characters.
It is apparent that the same thought and attention to detail dedicated to the décor was used to create a menu that is appetizing and at the same time entertaining.
DINNER AND A MOVIE+ ART+ CULTURE + TALENT
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We ordered the DIP PACK CHOPRA, a lentil, walnut and balsamic vinegar dip that really stood out, a smoked trout, cream cheese and sour cream dip served with toasted bread, the SALMON DICE, toasted focaccia bread with smoked salmon, goat cheese, tomato and pesto. Well…on a roll as we were, we ordered the Devil soup, a Thai red curry soup with noodles, grilled chicken and eggplant, one of the best noodle soups in Panama. To make sure we had enough to nibble on during the movie, we ordered the 1, 2, 3 Pan y Queso, a sandwich named after a children’s game, but made for grownups with Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and guava jelly on focaccia, then last but not least...the Notorious P.I.G, a pork loin sandwich with coriander, a jalapeno mayonnaise and pickled cabbage. I think we got carried away because the names of the dishes were so hilarious that we wanted to try them all.
Lights out!...all quiet!We enjoyed our meal and a great movie and, as always, independent films have a way of portraying the beauty of life as real people live it, our fears, our dreams, our defects and virtues, and the celebration of exceptional people in exceptional situations.
We left filled with the joy and satisfaction that comes from a successful evening and the opportunity to see and experience something new and exciting, yet relaxed, laid back and rewarding.
Definitely not your average dinner and movie night!
6th Street and A Ave., Casco AntiguoPanama, Republic of PanamaTuesday-Saturday, 11am-7:00pmClosed Sunday, MondayPhone: (507) 262- 1957Facebook, [email protected]
Diablo Rosso is currently working with the most sought-after artists in the continent.
Recently Vogue named Diablo Rosso one of the 5 most important art galleries in Latin America.
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LIVE MUSIC IN PANAMALive rock and Djs in Panama City
bioraven / Shutterstock.com
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Pavo RealBritish PubLive Rock
Via ArgentinaTel: (507) 394-6853www.elpavoreal.net
Hard Rock HotelLive rock & DJs
Stage BarBalboa Avenue
Tel: (507) 294-4000www.hrhpanamamegapolis.com
Relic BarLive DJs
Thursdays, Fridays & SaturdaysCasco Antiguo
Tel: (507) 262-1540www.relicbar.com
Lum’sFridays Live Rock
Corozal Oeste, DiabloTel: (507) 317-6303
*(beware of the Jukebox, you may be at the mercy of the coin holder
and end up listening to another genre)
Balboa Yacht ClubLive rock
Fridays, Saturdays & Sunday’sAmador CausewayTel: (507) 228-5196
Isabella391-6008
DJsLive bands
Terrazas Multiplaza PacificTel: (507) 391-6008
www.isabella.com.pa
Hangar 18Live rockEl Dorado
www.hangar18panama.es.tlTel: (507) 6243-1139
El SotanoLive rock
Live music Federico Boyd Avenue
Tel: (507) 269-7877
For more information about rock bands and live rock in Panama go to www.panamarock.com
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GOING BANANASBy Christin Fjeld Roberts
Well I still do, because for the last ten years I have lived in Panama on an island in the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, surrounded by bananas.
I was born in Norway, very far from here, however I came as soon as I could.
Living here you find out why Panama among other countries, like Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica is called a banana republic.
The banana is the world’s fifth most traded agricultural commodity.
Much money, power and bananas have influenced the development of Central America.
The banana economy has helped build railroads, towns, schools and hospitals, and also has undermined and destroyed, helped crooked politicians and dictators gain power. And history shows, gambling with bananas has never been easy.
In 1975 after the Panama disease, beset by unions, hurricanes in Central America, and political scandal, the United Fruit Company suffered terrible loses and the chairman, president and CEO Mr. Eli Black jumped from the 44th floor of the Pan-Am building in New York.
After Black’s suicide, billionaire Carl Lindner Jr. bought into United Brands , taking leadership in 1984 and renamed it Chiquita Brands International. After filing chapter 11 in 2002, the company was re-named as Chiquita Brands and currently it is one of the largest employers in the area, with thousands of hectares of bananas grown and exported to many countries.
Backstory..The banana is one of the oldest cultivated plants on the planet dating back from 5000 to 8000 years BC.
Bananas are native to the tropical south and southeast Asia and were brought to the western world by Alexander the Great in the year 327 B.C. after invading India.
Dr. Antonius Musa, a Roman, made the banana famous by curing the Emperor Octavius Augustus´ illness by applying banana cold compresses. Subsequently, the banana genus was named after the Emperor’s physician, and to this day all banana name varieties start with Musa.
The name banana also comes from the Arabic word for finger; a cluster of bananas is called a hand and has approximately 25 fingers.
When I thought of the Caribbean, I used to think of coconuts, sandy beaches, rum and of course bananas!
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The banana is an annual plant and it is a close relative of the lily and orchid family, growing up to 25 feet in a year.
There are more than four hundred known varieties with many sizes and colors.
The banana plant is cultivated in more than 107 countries; the best bananas grow within twenty degrees on either side of the equator.
Bananas to the rescue pre-packaged by nature.We all need a little help staying healthy and energetic, and the banana has much of what we need to stay balanced. Just watch out where you throw the peel.....
•Bananas are the best source of potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining normal blood pressure and heart function. The potassium in the banana maintains and restores fluids, bananas also balance our electrolytes.
•Potassium is also needed to absorb calcium for our bone health.
•The banana is an excellent antacid and protects us against ulcers, a mixture of bananas and milk significantly suppresses acid secretion.
•Bananas are definitely recommended as an after party remedy.
•Bananas also have protease inhibitors and help eliminate bad bacteria in the stomach. To achieve the highest antioxidant effect, the riper banana the better.
Banana tips…•If too green, put the banana in a paper bag with an apple to ripen faster.
•If ripe, store it in the fridge, the skin will darken and the banana will last many days, or peel and freeze the bananas for smoothies and cakes.•The banana leaf is excellent to use as a wrapping for baking or steaming fish, meat or seafood.•The inside of the banana peel can also be used to shine shoes.Here are some of my favorite banana recipes.•Caribbean banana cake.•Fried bananas.
•Grouper in banana leaves.
Advice from the author:Let’s not all go bananas at once....at least let’s take turns....
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FOOD FINDS PANAMA
MontecristoSandwich
Costa Azul Ricardo Arias StreetTel: (507) 269-0409
Passion fruit Mojito
Vieja HabanaCasco Antiguo
Tel: (507) 212-3873
Almond bubble tea
Master Bubble TeaEl Cangrejo Mini Mall
Tel: (507) 398-1134
Cheese Fondue
SteinbockVia CincuentenarioTel: (507) 270-2784
Rocky Road
GranclementCasco Antiguo
Tel: (507) 208-0737
Churros
Churreria ManoloVia Argentina
Tel: (507) 214-9386
Malted Milk
Boulevard BalboaBalboa Avenue
Tel: (507) 225-0914
Organic chocolate
nib fudge barsSuper GourmetCasco Antiguo
Tel: (507) 212-3487
Lobster Cocktail
Public Fish Marketceviche stands
End of Balboa AvenueTel: n/a
www.locationpanama.com
Taro frozen yogurt
Guavaberry Yogurt Cafe
Belen Street and 50th Street
Tel: (507) 226-0106
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Red velvet cupcake
Vanille Cupcake Boutique. Bake Shop
75th Street San FranciscoTel: (507) 391-4428
Siu Mae
Golden UnicornSan Francisco
Evergreenbuilding, 4th floorTel: (507) 226-3838
Alaska specialConos Tamakeria
69 East StreetSan Francisco
Tel: (507) 270-0807
Vegetable pizza
Napoli57 Street Obarrio
Tel: (507) 263-8800
Pork rinds “Chicharrón”
Delicias Margot10 km off the Arraijan –
Chorrera highway – heading north.
Interamerican road.Arraijan - Panama
Tel: (507) 6617-3432
Shaved ice carts “Raspado”
Sold on the streets ofPanama City
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NIGHTLIFE IN PANAMABy Daniela DelvallePanama City has everything you are looking for when it comes to nightlife. Whether you are here on business, for leisure, with the family, or just exploring the city by yourself, you can’t miss out on Panama’s nightlife. You will find everything from dress-down breweries to stylish nightclubs in the heart of the city and a rooftop bar with spectacular views.
Encima at Tantalo HotelOn the fourth floor of Tantalo Hotel overlooking the city you’ll find the Roofbar Encima. Tantalo Hotel opened its doors in early 2012 in the famous area of the Casco Antiguo and it has become one of the “places to go” in Panama. The hotel has twelve rooms, each with a different design and style, a delightful restaurant, and their well-known roofbar. Encima was the first rooftop bar in Panama and in its short time has become the sensation of the Casco Antiguo. It has an amazing panoramic view of the city’s skyline and it has become one of the most popular bars in Panama for both locals and tourists. Famous for its diverse crowd, inviting atmosphere, and excellent music, Encima attracts the attention of people from all around. Whether you are looking for a place to watch the sunset and enjoy one of their famous “Zen-jito” cocktails or looking to meet new people and enjoy a fun night out, Encima is
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a great place to go. The lantern balls that hang across the bar create a relaxed atmosphere making it the perfect place to go to chill out with friends. On the weekends invited DJs pick up the mood creating a livelier scene and with its wide-ranging bar in the center, it’s easy to get drinks and get the party going. The hotel’s distinctive and singular look attracts the attention of everyone around whether to check out its elaborate and unique decoration, to eat in its delicious restaurant or to enjoy the beautiful view and have drinks at the bar, Tantalo is always full of different crowds of people. So go and enjoy some of the tasty and inventive dishes at Tantalo Kitchen and stay for some drinks up at the bar, meet some new people and have a great time.
Address: Avenue B & 8th StreetPanama City, San Felipe(507) 262-4030
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IsabellaPanama city is known for its vibrant nightlife and nonstop beat. Isabella is the finest and most exclusive nightclub in Panama. Located in “Las Terrazas” of Multiplaza Pacific, the most popular mall in Panama, Isabella has one of the most desirable locations in all of Panama. Unlike most clubs in Panama, Isabella has a large parking lot available and also valet parking services. Because it is located inside the shopping mall, it provides a more secure location . The club has both an indoor and an outdoor area. Indoors you will find a vast and elegant club that fits up to 600 people, an impressive bar, a VIP area with bottle service, and a dance floor that create the perfect atmosphere for a fun night in the city. Chic, stylish, and elegant, Isabella is the hottest clubs in town. There is a different theme every day of the weekend starting on Thursdays with their famous “Thursdays of Youth” that goes from 10:00 pm to 12:00 am which offers free entrance and open champagne for the ladies. They also bring famous DJs and live bands to their events to make it all the more exclusive. If you are looking for a more laid back and casual atmosphere, Isabella also has a spacious terrace with comfortable tables and a bar for those who want to enjoy a nice conversation, take in the beautiful view of the city, and even grab a bite to eat. Although Isabella is pricier than most nightclubs in Panama, it is worth what you pay. With a great location, more safety, excellent service, exclusive events, and a variety of atmospheres, Isabella gives you the best nightclub experience in Panama.
Address: “Las Terrazas” of Multiplaza PacificPunta Pacifica(507) 391-6008
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La Rana DoradaKnown for its freshly handcrafted beers, Cerveceria La Rana Dorada is an excellent place to grab a bite and enjoy some beer. Called by many the best pub in Panama, La Rana Dorada offers some of the best beers, food, and atmosphere . With its two locations , one in the famous Casco Antiguo and another in El Cangrejo and open seven days a week from noon until 2:00 am, La Rana Dorada is great for lunch or dinner. It is also very popular among the after-work crowd and those looking for a place to watch sporting events. To introduce you to their craft beers, and as part of their excellent service, you are presented with a beer boat that offers a free sample of their four types of beer, La Rana Pale Ale, La Rana Pils, La Rana Porter and La Rana Blanche. The beer sample sets the mood helping you unwind while listening to good music and enjoying the laid back atmosphere. Although they are famous for their home brewed beers, La Rana Dorada has a wide variety of cocktail drinks and appetizing dishes. When deciding which location to visit, it really depends on what you are looking for because they have different menus and ambiance. Their Casco Antiguo pub offers a more limited menu, mainly stone oven pizzas. This one has a small indoor space but it has a larger terrace for those of you who prefer to sit outside and enjoy the neighborhood vibe of Casco Antiguo. La Rana Dorada in El Cangrejo has a larger inside area and also has a terrace; it offers a more extensive menu including their delicious hamburger, chicken wings, the Rana nachos and much more.
Address: Casco Antiguo: Eloy Alfaro Avenue and Calle 11 (next to Habana Panama)Phone (507) 212-2680 & (507) 212-2681Via Argentina and Arturo Motta, El CangrejoPhone (507) 269-2989 & (507) 269-2990
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
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8º58’ Lounge at the Bristol HotelThis new bar and restaurant opened its doors just a few months ago but it has been quite the sensation. In the heart of the bustling financial district, located on the fifth floor of the North Tower of the exclusive Bristol Hotel, you will find 8º58’ Lounge. A sophisticated spot with an elegant and intimate atmosphere, this lounge has the perfect ambiance for romantic dates, casual gatherings, or even business meetings. They have a grand piano and on occasions they’ll host talented players to sing and play the piano as background music creating a more romantic ambiance. Its tapa style, small plate menu, created by the renowned Panamanian chef Cuquita Arias, is a well-thought production of fusion cuisine including elements from the Asian, Spanish and Panamanian kitchen. They offer everything from Dim Sum delights to veal and shrimp mini-burgers to their amazing truffle oil with Parmesan french fries (a must have!) and of course mouth-watering desserts like their acclaimed Baked Alaska. As for drinks, their special drink is the “Chichita Bristol”, one of Cuquita’s inventions. However, they have a well-stocked bar with as much liquor variety as you can ask for. The Bristol Hotel has always taken pride in offering the best customer service and such is the case at the 8º58’ Lounge. The bartenders are more than happy to create new drinks from their wide array of options or prepare any of the classic international drinks like Blue Lagoon, martinis and so on.
A dashing lounge with great service, authentic food, and wide variety of liquors, the 8º58’ Lounge offers a unique experience at an exceptional hotel.
Address: Avenida Aquilino de la Guardia, 5th floor North Tower507) 264-0000
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Hard Rock HotelThe striking 66-story Hard Rock Hotel is a great place to visit, whether it´s just to take a look at the amazing décor and collection of famous musical instruments, to enjoy a nice dinner at one of their restaurants, or have a good time while savoring a cocktail. Creating the perfect mix between Rock and Roll with an urban chic touch, the Hard Rock Hotel is everything you’d expect it to be offering excellent drinks and different environments.Currently with four bars and two restaurants (and more on the way) the hotel has enough variety to suit all tastes. In the lobby you will find the Base Bar, with a more relaxed atmosphere, background music, and diverse crowd. The mezzanine level is an open space with a restaurant and two bars welcoming visitors to move easily from bar to bar. Here is where most of the partying happens. Many people start by having some tapas or pizzas at their delicious Ciao restaurant and then stay for some drinks at one of the two bars, Mamie Lee’s and Stage. Mamie Lee’s is a stylish cocktail lounge with a very spacious and elegant bar creating a more cosmopolitan and chic look. Next to it is Stage, with a more rock star look, dark leather couches and a pool table that creates a more casual atmosphere. During the weekends, Stage hosts live rock bands to set the mood especially on Friday nights when the mezzanine gets packed with people from all over. And to top it off, on the 12th floor you’ll find the Float Pool Bar that opens until 11:00 pm and on the weekends invites guest DJs to set the stage for the ultimate pool party.
So whether you are looking for a relaxed setting to have a drink and watch as people walk by, a stylish place to enjoy a cocktail and socialize, enjoy some rock and roll, play some billiards, or have some fun by the pool, the Hard Rock Hotel has the place for you.
Address: Avenida Balboa, next to Multicentro (507) 294-4000
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
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RANDOMLY GOODpart 3
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LA RANA DORADAMicro-brewing in Panama.Jacky Yaffe, managing partner of La Rana Dorada, felt it was time to introduce Panama to the craft beer culture. Jacky is proud of his Panamanian heritage and wanted to expose Panamanians to a new and exciting concept - a local microbrewery with craft beer made in Panama.
In addition to Jacky´s expertise, one of his business partners owns The Bogota Beer Company, a longstanding successful business in Colombia with more than 14 years in the brewery industry.
In 2010 they opened La Rana Dorada in Panama City, named after Panama’s Golden Frog, one of the most emblematic species and endemic to the country.
La Rana Dorada’s first location on Via Argentina is a mix of a British and Irish pub serving up to 15 varieties of beer, including both local and international. The menu has a variety of traditional pub dishes such as fish and chips and barbeque wings among other delicious house recipes.
Brewing the concept!In 2011 they produced and imported their very first bottled beer “La Rana Dorada”, rapidly accepted by the public.
In 2012 La Rana Dorada opened its microbrewery in the hip Casco Antiguo neighborhood following the traditional “Reinheitsgebot” (The Bavarian purity law), meaning that beer could only be produced with water, barley and hops. In their beer production process neither additives nor preservatives are used.
The house master brewer is Brad Kraus, a beer expert with more than 30 years of experience in the field. For over 19 years, Brad has been a regular judge in beer competitions all over the world, including the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup.
Brad studied chemistry at Rice University in Houston since he wanted to be a research chemist, and as he jokingly says “with beer I found a research avenue I like…beer is a blind science, but it is not only a science, it involves creativity”.
Brad guided us through the whole beer making process and we talked about the difference between lagers and ales, aging time, fermentation temperatures and quality imported ingredients.
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
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“We have created a really nice distinctive beer for Panama, we want people to think this is their local brewery, we do, we make it right here, it’s made fresh, you won’t get any beer fresher than this because you are right at the brewery. We want to establish a new beer culture, we produce very good and enjoyable products for everyone, and people love coming here.”
About the beer:The ales are more complex because they are fermented at a warmer temperature, around 20°, so there are more flavors produced by the fermentation, less so with the lager. The house lager takes 30 days to produce. Lager in German means to age or to store, so the lager beer undergoes a long aging period at 1°, so it gets very smooth, very crisp and the flavors come through very well.
Currently the micro-brewery produces 4 different types of beer, 3 ales and 1 lager; all visitors are presented with a sampling vessel for their enjoyment.
La Rana Pale Ale: A fruity typical British ale with an amazing flavor and a reddish color.5% / 30 IBU – British style - ale, - 15 days fermentation
and aging.
La Rana Blanche: a refreshing extravagant Belgian style beer created with large amounts of malted wheat. In addition to the hops, they add coriander, dried orange and lime zest, a very refreshing and delightful beer, considered the top selling house beer.4% / 18 IBU – Belgian blanche style, ale - 15 days fermentation and aging.
La Rana Porter: A London style beer, produced with a variety of dark and toasted malts resulting in a rich, complex and refined flavor.5% / 30 IBU – London style, ale - 15 days fermentation and aging.
La Rana Premium Pils: The traditional German beer, produced with Hallertau hops, it is crisp, elegant and refreshing.5% / 21 IBU – German style - Lager - 30 days fermentation and aging.
(There are future plans to create new beers)
Since they are going to start doing brewery tours, we will not explain the process and we invite you to visit La Rana Dorada micro-brewery in Casco Antiguo.
Worth mentioning is the fact that the menu at Casco Antiguo is less extensive than the one in Via Argentina, however it is awesome, try the Chocao Pizza, an exotic combination of ripe plantain, bacon and coconut, you will go nuts, it is surprisingly amazing. They also serve traditional pizzas, ceviche and hot dogs.
“La Rana Dorada, cerveza con personalidad” - The Golden Frog, beer
with personality!On behalf of beer and food lovers all over the world, we thank La Rana Dorada for providing great homemade Panamanian beer, a great setting and delicious food with excellent service.
Location:Casco Antiguo, Ave. Eloy Alfaro & 11 StreetTel: (507) 212- 2680 / 81Facebook: La Rana Dorada PubTwitter: @laranadorada1
Location:Vía ArgentinaTel: (507) 269-2989 / 90Facebook: La Rana Dorada PubTwitter: @laranadorada1
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
Panama 9°80° 31
www.locationpanama.com
On November 2012, Super Gourmet Casco Viejo celebrates its 5th anniversary and Panama 9°80° is proud to say that Super G, a term of endearment, has always been an important part of our lives.
We met Blayne Ladner, Super Gourmet owner, at Casa Testa, a business incubator in Casco Antiguo. We used to laugh and share our funny and not so funny car stories. His brand new truck was lost in Campana where he stopped at the lookout, got out and it sailed off a cliff! Then the same week he had a rental car stolen! I could not fall behind, I poured diesel in my brand new gasoline SUV! We were on a roll, good old days!
Little did Blayne know that he would end up owning Super Gourmet, the deli next door, formerly owned by another good friend Lorelei Kusin, who happened to be a close friend of Blayne’s family back in the States.
For many years Panama 9°80° and Super G were neighbors in the same building and they were responsible for our breakfast, lunch, our daily sugar intake and the occasional celebration with beer or wine.
For the past 5 years Super G has catered the Casco Antiguo neighborhood, not only acting as a grocery store and deli, but also serving as a meeting point for all Casco businessmen and women.
The Deli is a casual place where fresh food, dedication and quality ingredients are key. I have seen Blayne work and not only is he a great entrepreneur but also a team builder and an exceptional teacher to his valuable staff! Yazmina, Blayne’s wife is also an important part of the business, always on top of things and putting that extra mile into great customer service.
To celebrate Super Gourmet’s 5th anniversary we decided to try some of the popular sandwiches and salads, some named after loyal customers, all involved in one way or another in Casco Antiguo and part of the community.
The Casco Veggie: An English muffin sandwich served with eggs, Muenster cheese, roasted veggies, tomato, onions and homemade pesto.
Miss Moss: A plate of smoked salmon, cream cheese, a toasted baguette, capers, red onions and tomato.Named after Leanne Moss, owner of Miss Moss Consulting, British, born and bred in fashion capital London, has been living in Panama for 4 years most of them spent living and working in Casco Viejo where her second office has been Super G deli and, having many meetings there with all the most talented and creative people in Panama to make magic happen.
SUPER GOURMETPhoto by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
32 Panama 9°80°
Hydes Benedict: Super G’s version on Eggs Benedict, two eggs, ham, red onions and tomato topped with the special Super G Bechamel sauce, served over English muffins.Named after Andrew Hyde, originally from NY who has lived, worked and invested in Casco Antiguo since 2007. He has created Hyde Historic Properties to help and preserve Casco’s heritage.
Paint Craft Club: A triple decker, turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on Pulman loaf.Named after our dear friend and former Panama 9°80° editor Asia Sherman’s painting company, Asia lived and currently works in Casco Antiguo.
Veggie Matt: Roasted veggies, avocado, sun dried tomatoes and hummus served on a baguette.Named after Matt Landau, “Owner of ThePanamaReport.com and a Casco Antiguo addict”
The Arco: Grilled chicken filets, Gouda cheese, avocado and roasted red peppers on a baguette.Named after: Carlos Vega who invented this sandwich 5 years ago when he worked with Arco Properties.
Buffalo Chicken Salad: Roman lettuce, celery, grated carrots, boneless chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, topped with blue cheese and ranch dressing.
9°80° BLT: Bacon, lettuce and tomato served with the house avocado spread.Named after our repetitive consumption, it is the oldest “named after” item on the menu and still a very popular one. Add cheddar if you feel like it.
There are many other delicious dishes at Super Gourmet; we also recommend the organic chocolate nib fudge bars.
Super Gourmet serves breakfast all day!Location:Avenue A between 6 & 7th street
Hours: Monday to Saturday: from 8:00am to 5:00pmSunday: 10:00am to 4:00 pmTel: (507) 212-3487 www.supergourmetcascoviejo.com
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
Panama 9°80° 33
The Dock restaurant is one of those hidden gems that people stumble upon while exploring the Caribbean coast of Panama. Conveniently located at Shelter Bay Marina in Fort Sherman, Colon, is a regular hangout for boaties who dock at the marina, are in transit through the Panama Canal, people lodging at The Marina Hotel, and those who visit the lush San Lorenzo National Park and the historic landmark, Fort San Lorenzo, a Spaniard settlement often visited by pirates and buccaneers.
When you step in The Dock, you are greeted by a big sign that reads “It’s five o’clock somewhere” meaning it’s always happy hour at The Dock. And indeed at The Dock there is always something brewing… a Luau, live music, an Easter Keg scavenger hunt, the drunken sailor Olympics, you name it - if it’s fun, it’s happening here.
The Dock menu was thoughtfully created to satisfy local and traveling taste buds of all ages.
On this occasion, we decided to go for some of our favorite dishes and to try some of the new menu additions; we could not wait to cruise through the menu.
The new kid in town, the rich and savory Caribbean octopus is a local specialty cooked in coconut milk and served with coconut rice and killer house hot sauce. They should bottle and sell it!
The Panama beer battered fish and chips are one of the most popular dishes at The Dock- golden, crispy, delicious, served with the indulgent homemade dill sauce inspired by Ranch dressing.
We were very excited to try the new blue cheese grilled salmon, a perfectly cooked salmon steak topped with blue cheese crumble, served over a velvety decadent bed of spinach tossed in browned butter, and finished with smoky bacon. A must have!
Wherever we see a rotisserie oven, rotisserie chicken we have! Sometimes it is a real pleasure to have a dish that is just a marriage between fire and poultry. The Dock’s juicy tender chicken is rubbed with a special mix of herbs and spices and served with potato wedges and roasted garlic, made fresh every day!
We could not visit The Dock and not have the Buffalo Chicken salad, it is our dish! They serve the spicy “Rockin’ Chicken Bites” in a flour tortilla shell, topped with blue cheese, carrots, celery and lettuce, with a creamy garlic dressing.
When in Colon, you should not miss visiting this laid back and unpretentious restaurant and enjoy a meal by the sea.Location:30 Bunter Street, Fort Sherman, Colón.Tel: (507) 433-0471
Hours:Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 9:30 pmFriday and Saturday: 7:30 am to 10:00 pmwww.thedockrestaurant.com
THE DOCK
34 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
In a laid back and very casual atmosphere conveniently located in the center of Panama’s banking area, we found the missing link of Asian cuisine in Panama, Sukhi, specializing in Vietnamese, Thai and overall southeastern Asian cuisine.
Chef Robert Lamont was born in South Africa to British parents; hospitality has always been in his blood as his parents owned a hotel in Scotland. Robert decided to study the culinary arts so he went to Lausanne Hotel Management School in Switzerland where he met Alexandra, his Panamanian girlfriend. Alexandra, her parents and Robert are the owners of Sukhi. Chef Robert says that Thai food has always been an important part of his life; he has traveled extensively through Thailand having the opportunity to experience the whole country and its food.
Our visit:The restaurant was packed with an eclectic local and international crowd enjoying a meal while escaping from the mayhem of a crazy Thursday night with multiple traffic jams and heavy tropical rain.
Starting to unwind from the hectic pace outdoors, we began with the Vietnamese summer rolls, a refreshing summer roll with vegetables, mint and coriander, served with a hoisin sauce. We had the option of adding shrimp or pork, but we knew our journey had just started and we needed to further explore the menu.
Love at first bite! The lettuce Wrap: the freshest butter lettuce ready to load up with rice noodles and nuts with a selection of 3 dipping sauces, garlic, soy, and Siracha. Such a simple and delicate dish with so many layers of flavors and aromas...glorious!
SOUTHEASTERN ASIAN CUISINE IN PANAMA.SUKHI
Panama 9°80° 35www.locationpanama.com
The Cashew Chicken: a juicy tender chicken in a savory rich sauce served with cashews, onions and peppers, accompanied by jasmine rice topped with chives.
We entered the comfort food department with the Pad Thai, perfectly cooked fresh prawns with rice noodles , bean sprouts, tofu, eggs, peanuts and a touch of lemongrass.
Calling all carnivores out there! The Sukhi Steak is out of the ordinary, succulent thin crusted slices of steak served with sweet soy, ginger and garlic sauce, sesame seeds, accompanied by jasmine rice and bok choy.
We ended with the “prima donna” yes! The Ramen soup, did I mention Ramen Soup, I believe I did! The real thing! This soup carries all the love and dedication of Sukhi’s kitchen and takes around 24 hours to prepare. The complexity of the production process emerges at the end in a gratifying, wholesome and delicious meal that becomes the mother of all comfort food. The aromas… the textures… all awesome. The ingredients range from pork and chicken stock to noodles, pak choi, fish slices, boiled eggs, bean sprouts and fresh herbs. It takes a team to accomplish and just a few minutes to satisfy a grownup.
Sukhi serves healthy approachable wholesome food sending you on a journey through South East Asia. Hours:Monday to Saturday from 11:30am to 10:00 pm
Location:Ave. Ricardo Arias, America Building, ground floor.
Tel: (507)395-6801www.suhkionline.com
36 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Hard Rock Hotel is one of the coolest places to be in Panama, offering great nightlife and good eats!
Sometime ago a good friend and a well-known chef recommended Ciao, so I put it on my bucket list, but due to a hectic agenda, I kept postponing it until now.
Just stepping in the hotel becomes a playful and upbeat experience, the modern décor interlaced with pop culture memorabilia just sets the ambiance for an enjoyable time.
Ciao’s menu is very provocative and exciting; they have put together a well-rounded selection of dishes for people to enjoy the tapa style concept in a great atmosphere.
The setting is warm and cozy and much appreciated, the seats are very comfortable, and so you can really relax and feel at home.
We started with the Spicy Popcorn shrimp in Siracha mayonnaise and shallots. Addictive - we could not stop eating them; perhaps they should call them the Joplin’s…Too much?
The Roasted Pernil Tacos, one of those dishes that you take a bite and you instantly want to call all your friends and tell them about it and you leave wanting to come back for more. The whole thought process takes about 5 seconds after the first bite. Simply outstanding.
Ciao Lobster Roll - delicate and elegant, the perfect balance of flavors in a puffy seed bread, served with chips.
ROCK STAR TAPAS
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
Panama 9°80° 37
The Peking Duck Quesadillas - a sweet and creative twist on the traditional Peking Duck, served with Fontina cheese, piquillo peppers, corn and a lemon mayonnaise.
Another rock star was the Kiora Farm Goat Cheese, a trio of goat cheese topped with tomato jelly and crunchy chorizo over Pommes Anna (Anna potato). A new favorite.
The Ciao Skirt Steak Stir Fry with Asian vegetables, potato and dragon fruit was very ingenious and savory, elegantly served in a mini chafing-like-dish.
We did not have the opportunity to try the highly rated smoked chicken pizza, the spinach salad, or the mini burgers, therefore we will definitely return to Ciao to continue exploring their creative cuisine.
Hours:Lunch and dinner from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Location:Mezzanine level at Hard Rock HotelTel: (507) 294-4000http://www.hrhpanamamegapolis.com
While we were there, we took a peak at Bazaar restaurant, a well-stocked buffet beyond the ordinary, their salad bar was generous and included not so common items like radish, pixbae, beets, cherry tomatoes and arugula, also the dressing options were beyond the conventional.
The buffet offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and ceviche, 12 different kinds of bread, a pasta bar, a beef carving station, dips, finger sandwiches and a huge selection of desserts.
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
38 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Panama 9°80° 39
This cozy and rustic lodge located in downtown Boquete offers 6 comfortable cabins each with a fully equipped kitchen, living room and a dining room, LCD TV, cable television and wireless internet.
The new and refurbished terrace surrounded by a creek and lush nature, has beautiful views of the mountains and it is the perfect setting for family gatherings, and business meetings while enjoying the cool mountain breeze.
Guests have access to the barbeque and bar where they can relax and share a meal with friends and family making the spacious terrace their own.
The hotel was designed with materials such as stone and brick to reflect the mountain location, still having the comforts of the city.
Stone Cabins is a family business, and it is very easy to feel at home.
STONE CABINS BOQUETE
For more information contact:Tel: (507) 720-1750 Cell.: (507) [email protected] www.stonecabinsboquete.com
40 Panama 9°80°
Breakfast burrito
Sugar & SpiceBoquete
Tel: (507) 6967-7933
Country breakfast
Panamonte Inn & SpaBoquete
Tel: (507) 720-1324
Parihuela soupLa Casona del Cuzco
BoqueteTel: (507) 730-9709
Fish taco
Big Daddy’s GrillBoquete
Tel: (507) 6683-3354
FOOD FINDSHIGHLANDSOF CHIRIQUIBaby Back ribs
The RockBoquete
Tel: (507) 720-2516
Kalamata Olive Hummus
Bona FoodieBoquete
Tel: (507) 720-2369
Panama 9°80° 41
Mountain of fire pizza
Baru Restaurant BarBoquete
Tel: (507) 730-9294
StrawberriesSold on the side of the
road.Cerro Punta, Bambito.
Tel: n/a
Kale & spinach salad with
gooseberriesCerro Brujo
VolcanTel: (507) 6669-9196
SausageSold on the side of the road, intersection of Volcan and
Cuesta de Piedra.Tel: n/a
Grilled octopus
Machu PichuBoquete
Tel: (507) 720-1502
Pizza burger
Bistro Boquete Restaurant
BoqueteTel: (507) 6677-4289
Fried chicken
NelvisBoqueteTel: n/a
Beer battered fish
Boquete Fish HouseBoquete
Tel: (507) 6677-4289
42 Panama 9°80°
BOQUETENIGHTLIFE
The Rock Boquete
Live musicMonday jazz
Wednesday swingTel: (507) 720-2516
www.therockboquete.com The Rock Restaurant
Panama 9°80° 43
Baru Restaurant & Bar
Live musicJazz, rock, salsa
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
Tel: (507) 730-9294www.Restaurantebaru.com
Baru Restarant Bar
Amigos Boquete Panama
Tel: (507) 720-1135
Zanzibar
*Live MusicSaturdays
[email protected] Zanzibar Boquete
Mike’s Global Grill
*Live MusicSaturdays
Tel: (507) 730-9360www.mikesglobalgrill.com
Mike’s Global Grill
*Occasional live music
44 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
ABUELA
Panama 9°80° 45
JAZZ & BLUESThe beautiful Chiriqui highlands have long been one of Panama’s most favorite vacation and retirement spots, and the jewel of Chiriqui province is beautiful Boquete, home of about 19,000 including some 1500 retired expats from all over the world. Tucked into a luscious green valley at an elevation of 3000 ft at the foot of dormant volcano Baru ( Panama’s highest mountain at almost 12,000 ft) it is also the home of some of the best coffees in the world. The abundant tropical flora and fauna plus the closeness to the islands and endless beaches of two oceans attract visitors from all over the world.
Right from the start, the Boquete Jazz&Blues Festival has gained wide-spread national and international recognition as being a very important event in the music scene of Panama and Central America, second only to the famous Panama Jazz Festival!
With 49 musicians from Panama, the US and Europe performing in 16 shows plus a fantastic, colorful New Orleans-style street parade, it was the best and biggest-ever music festival in the Chiriqui highlands
The 2013 festival will take place from February 28th until March 3rd with an even more exciting program mix of Panamanian, Caribbean and New Orleans Jazz plus great Blues bands from Chicago, Memphis, Portland and San Francisco. Check our website for the actual line-up, tickets and more details:
www.boquetejazzandbluesfestival.cominfo@boquetejazzandbluesfestival.comPhone: 6519-7876 or 6682-5204
Jazz has always been popular in Panama, and this caused festival founder Antonio Singh to create the first Boquete Jazz Festival in 2007. Since then, the event has steadily grown and this year the reins were turned over to Hans-J. Lebuser, a retired Lufthansa pilot who has been involved in the blues festival business for many years. In 2012, world-class blues artists were added to the agenda and the festival was renamed the Boquete Jazz & Blues Festival
The 2012 Boquete Jazz & Blues Festival brought its unique blend of Blues and Jazz to Panama for the first time and it was an overwhelming success!
“The 2013 Boquete Jazz & Blues Festival is presented by Panamonte Brands,
makers of the smoothest rum on earth ™ ”
have a new destination: Panama!
46 Panama 9°80°
Photo by Noël Burgos
BOOK A TOUR IN CHIRIQUI
Coffee toursNature walks
River raftingHorseback riding•For more information about tours
contact our page sponsors
Panama 9°80° 47
ATV adventure
tours
Rock climbing Bird watching Thermal springs
Orchid farm Canopy zip lining Hiking Mountain biking
48 Panama 9°80°
LIONFISH INVASIONWhat broken hearted teen hasn’t heard the adage,
“There’s plenty more fish in the sea!”
Well, when it comes to lionfish, it is all too true.
By Joan Crabtree
Panama 9°80° 49
These stony faced, uniquely striped and ethereally finned astonishing beauties are invading and overpopulating reefs around the world, including our Caribbean waters as well. They are graceful swimmers, and as they are not usually aggressive, they are delight to observe while snorkeling, but do not touch!!!
Needle sharp slender spines on their fins contain a venomous combination of protein, a neuromuscular toxin and a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. A sting from a lionfish can cause intense pain; redness and swelling around the wound site.... and keeps them safe from all other fish eating predators.....except humans.
Lionfish are not indigenous to the Caribbean and are believed to have been released to the Atlantic waters from Florida aquariums during hurricane Andrew.
They are overpopulating the world with the ability to reproduce year round and the females are able to lay up to 30,000 eggs every 7 to 30 days!!!
The lionfish have voracious appetites and are consuming small native reef fish and crustaceans in alarming quantities. Marine biologists are concerned that the over consumption of small and young native fish is already disrupting the natural balance in the Caribbean reef ecosystem and may ultimately have drastic consequences.
Concerns of Ciguatera poisoning are unfounded in the cleaner waters of the western Caribbean. Ciguatera poisoning is caused by eating fish, usually larger predators such as grouper, snapper and barracuda, that live by reefs and accumulate toxins by eating smaller fish that feed on a poisonous algae that grows on reefs. This algae has NOT been detected in our waters. The toxins in the lionfish spines are completely unrelated to Ciguatera and are totally eliminated when the spines are removed or heated.
In Bocas del Toro, the annual “I Spear Lionfish Roundup” has gained popularity and has enjoyed great support and fun camaraderie while attempting to rid the region of this unwelcomed intrusion. It has also helped to educate the local community about the invasive characteristics of lionfish, and how to catch or spear and prepare the lionfish safely.
The toxins located only in the spines are neutralized with heat.
Properly handled and prepared, lionfish is a delicately flavored, very tender white meat fish and is safe to eat in Panama.
Lionfish is the new exotic seafood now being served in top restaurants around the world at prices commonly between $25.00 and $30.00.
Joan Crabtree, author of the article and owner of The Cosmic Crab Cafe in Bocas del Toro, is a firm believer that the best way to help solve the lionfish problem is to put them in our food chain....and eat them, grilled, sautéed, smoked or baked.
The Cosmic Crab serves “help save the reef specials”, a variety of recipes featuring lionfish: lionfish ceviche with lime, orange juice and pineapple, grilled lionfish with passion fruit butter, the pecan & panko encrusted lionfish fillet and the banana leaf wrapped baked lionfish fillet, topped with fresh vegetables.
www.locationpanama.com
50 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Italian Sub
Super GourmetIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 757-9357
Slow Roasted beef stew tacos
Gringo’s Mexican FoodIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 6739-0749
Pig tail & rice
Beso del DragoSaigon Beach
Isla Colon6505-9872
Seafood Salad
The ReefIsla Colon
Tel: n/a
Gazpacho
Guari GuariIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 6627-1825
FOOD FINDS
BOCASOctopus with fried plantain
Bar-Restaurante RootsIsla Bastimentos
6702-1389
Smoked Pig
Pickled ParrotIsla Carenero
757-9093
Seared Tuna
Ultimo RefugioIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 6726-9851
Tuna Tartare
Paki PointPunch beach
Isla ColonTel: (507) 6948-6562
Chocolate truffles
Up in the HillIsla Bastimentos
Tel: n/a
Panama 9°80° 51
Buffalo wings
Toro LocoIsla ColonTel: (507)
Steak
Carlos’ Steak HouseOutside Gran Hotel Bahia
Isla ColonTel: (507) 6518-9627
Crab Benedict
Isla Colon Lili’s Cafe
Tel: (507) 6829-4688
Red Sapper
YarisnoriBoca del Drago
Isla ColonBocas del Toro
Tel: (507) 6613-1934
Hot Passionate
Rita(Margarita)
The Cosmic CrabIsla Carenero
Tel: (507) 757-9157
Quesadillas
Buenavista Bar & GrillIsla Colon
Tel: (507)757-9035
Vindaloo Chicken
OM CafeIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 6516-3857
Grilled Fish Filet in
a passion fruit sauce
Hotel Bocas del Toro
Isla ColonTel: (507) 757-9771
52 Panama 9°80°
BOCAS NIGHTLIFE
Panama 9°80° 53
*Raw Sushi +
Martini BarIsla Colon
Tel: (507) 6938-8473
*Voodoo Lounge
Isla ColonTel: n/a
*Lemon Grass
Isla ColonTel: (507) 6721-6445
◊Lili’s Cafe
Isla Colon Tel: (507) 6829-4688
*Toro Loco
Isla ColonTel: (507) 757-7011
∞ Aqua Lounge
Isla CareneroTel: n/a
www.bocasaqualounge.info
* ∞La Iguana
Isla ColonTel: n/a
The Bocas Wine Bar
Isla ColonTel: (507) 6452-9279
*Occasional live music DJ◊ Montly jam sessions Chill & relax∞Dancing
54 Panama 9°80°
TOUR AROUNDBOCAS
Panama 9°80° 55www.locationpanama.com
Surfing
La BugaIsla Colon
Tel: (507)757-9534www.labugapanama.com
Carriage ride
Horse carriageMain StreetIsla Colon
Tel: n/a
Rent a bike
Bicycle rentalsall over town Isla Colon
Tel: n/a
Scuba Diving:
Starfleet ScubaIsla Colon
Tel: (507)757-9630www.starfleetscuba.com
Sailing
Isla ColonBocas Sailing.comTel: (507)757-7048
www.bocassailing.com
Chocolate tour
Oreba ChocolateRio Oeste
Tel: (507)6649-1457
Island circuits
Jampan ToursIsla Colon
Tel: (507)757-9619www.jampantours.com
56 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Coconut lemoncupcake
Mamallena’sCupcakeTel: n/a
Chicken fajitas
Pedasito Cafe & Wine BarPedasi town
Tel: (507) 6584-4847
Breakfast(for guests)
Casa de Campo PedasiMain street Pedasi
Tel: 995-2733
Pulled pork sandwich
Smilley’sMain road
Pedasi townTel: n/a
Fried fish
Smilley’sMain road
Pedasi townTel: n/a
Paella
BoboréEco Venao Reforestation
& LodgingPlaya Venao
Tel: (507) 836-7868
FOOD FINDS
PEDASICoconut cream
shrimp
Bull Beach Restaurant-Bar
Playa El ToroTel: n/a
Shrimp ceviche
Playa Venao Bar & Restaurant
Playa Venao main surf breakTel: n/a
Carrot and nutsCupcake
Mamallena’sOpposite to Pedasi
town parkTel: n/a
Molten chocolate
The BakeryMain road
Pedasi townTel: (507) 995-2878
Panama 9°80° 57
58 Panama 9°80°
Panama 9°80° 59
This 5 acre luxury villa perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean is located in one of the most exclusive communities in Panama, the avant-garde Azueros Development located on Destiladeros beach in the town of Pedasí.
Villa Esplendorosa is the vacation destination for those who treasure quality time, comfort, and privacy and expect nothing but the best.All rooms are ample and carefully decorated with soothing colors and equipped with all the modern amenities.The villa is rented exclusively for a single party, with a capacity for 10 people and two additional beds for children and includes a staff of two housekeepers, a chef and a villa manager.
The different settings of Villa Esplendorosa permit a feeling of relaxation and hominess.
The family living room unites the crowd with the aromas coming from the kitchen, comfortable and unique furnishings and views to the pool area and the Pacific Ocean.
The entertainment lounge is equipped with a home theater with a 100” screen Dolby surround sound system, Sky TV, a collection of movies, comfortable leather seating that accommodates up to 12 people, a pool table, a poker table, a bar and a popcorn machine. The entertainment lounge has immediate access to the garden and swimming pool area.
Relax in the sun in your private 20 meter swimming pool overlooking the ocean or enjoy the 360° views from the thatched roof BBQ lounge.
To top it all, the villa is close-by an array of beaches, exotic islands and rivers.
Request a quote at www.villaesplendorosa.comOr call: (507) 994-3177
VILLA ESPLENDOROSA
Photo by: PEPPOPHOTOGRAPHY
www.locationpanama.com
60 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Kite Surfing
Playa Arenal isthe perfect
place to practicethis exciting sport.www.shokogi.com
Nature
Pedasi is great for Humpback whale andsea turtle observation,
bird watching,awesome coral reefs,
hectares of mangrove, and is
home to crustaciansand iguanas.
Real estate
Pedasi is a greatemerging locationto relocate, own a
secondhome or open
a new business.
Culture
Pedasi is locatedin Los Santos
province, knownto be the richestcultural province
of Panama.
THE BEST OF
PEDASISurfing
Playa Venao has some of the
best wavesin Panama.
Taylored handcraftedPanamanian
hats
Eulgio Dominguez PerezTel: (507) 6512-9904
Isla Iguana Wildlife Reserve
Take a boat tripto this pristine
island. Snorkel, dive,paddle board, or just relax in the
sun.www.islaiguana.com
Paddle boarding
Isla Iguana is the perfect setting topaddleboard withcristal clear watersand colorful coral
reefs.www.shokogi.com
Architecture
Adobe thatchedhomes with tiled
roof tops.
CakesDulceria Yeli
Pedasi town mainStreet.
Tel: (507) 995-2205
Panama 9°80° 61
Pedasi boasts of being one of the most culturally rich towns in Panama, and celebrates at least 50 festivals throughout the year.
Although Pedasi has been recently discovered in the past 6 to 7 years as a tourist and second home destination, it has always been very popular with the local and international surfing communities for its incredible waves and hospitality.
62 Panama 9°80°www.locationpanama.com
Co-working is a movement that was born out of independent professional’s needs; people who after working alone from home for a long period of time, realize that it’s no longer the most comfortable or productive way to get things done, because it’s such a lonely experience.Co-working´s mission is to create a community of professionals who can maintain synergy at work, that help each other solve problems, work together on different projects, create new business ventures for themselves, or simply share different experiences as co-workers or friends; all this under the same roof: the co-working office.
The co-working model offers new entrepreneurs or freelancers a space where they can develop their business or personal projects, without having to invest in monthly fees that come along with renting your own office. Plus, they have the advantage of having meeting rooms, spaces where they can collaborate with team members, screens, whiteboards, WiFi and even free coffee.
CASCO STATIONTravel Co-working By Harold Maduro
The internet, along with new communication and collaboration tools are allowing more professionals to go mobile each day, since they can work from home or any other place in the world, without the need to be physically confined to a main office. This has opened up a world of possibilities for people who want to travel the world while they keep working on their projects, operating from a laptop with WiFi in hotels, cafés and hostals all over the world.
Co-working is an excellent option for members of this traveling workforce, offering the proper infrastructure in the country they visit, in order to provide a certain level of comfort and better work tools than those you get from a lobby or café.
Panama is one of the first countries in Central America that has jumped on the co-working bandwagon. CascoStation is a co-working space, born in the heart of Panama City’s Historic Quarter, which has been hosting local freelancers as well as travelers from all over the world, since April 2011.
In 2011, we had a visit from David Owen Greenberg, a Systems Engineer and Software Developer who was traveling all over Latin America working on web development projects for his clients from each one of the countries he visited. David commented on his trip:
“My main project is to create a world-wide work-travel social network, allowing travelers to find work projects, small and large, anywhere they want to travel, thus allowing them to contribute more to the world while exploring. Those who hire them can meet and host travelers, thus creating a cultural exchange while getting their projects done.
Co-working is far superior to working from a cafe, due to the great people and facilities. Even when quiet and not speaking, the other folks help generate a certain momentum that allows work to move forward more easily.”
If you’re planning to visit Panama to get to know the country, work and learn the language and the culture, consider adding a membership for a co-working space to your budget. We’re located in Casco Viejo, on 5th Street and Avenue A, in the city’s cultural center. If you want to learn more about our co-working space, visit http://cascostation.com/
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64 Panama 9°80°
POOL ANYONE?
The Londoner Pub
Uruguay StreetTel: (507)214-4883
Pavo Real
British PubVia Argentina
Tel: (507)394-6853www.elpavoreal.net
Lum’s
Corozal Oeste, DiabloTel: (507)317-6303
Isthmus Brew Pub
Eusebio A. Morales AvenueEl Cangrejo
Tel:(507)205-5077
BOWLING
Albrook Bowling
Fun, Food & BarAlbrook Mall, 3rd level
kangaroo entranceTel: (507)395-6235
www.albrookbowling.com
Sky Bowling
Extreme PlanetBalboa Avenue
Tel: (507)501-4731
Bolos El Ñeke
City of KnowledgeTel: (507)317-0211www.elneque.com
SHOPPING
Multiplaza Mall
Punta Pacificawww.multiplaza.com/visitenosPAN
Multicentro Mall
Balboa Avenuewww.multicentropanama.com.pa
Albrook Mall
Albrookwww.albrookmall.com
Metro Mall
Close by the TocumenInternational Airport
www.metromallonline.com/incio-PA
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THE MOVIES
*Cinepolis Multiplaza
Pacific
Multiplaza MallPunta Pacifica
Tel: (507)302-6262www.cinepolis.com.pa
Cinemark
Albrook Mall Albrook
Tel: (507) 314-6001www.cinemarkca.com
Cinemark
Multicentro MallBalboa Avenue
Tel: (507) 208-2507www.cinemarkca.com
*Extreme Planet
Balboa AvenueTel: (507) 214-7022
*VIP theatre available
ART GALLERIES & MUSEUMS
Diablo Rosso
Casco AntiguoTel: (507)262-1957
www.diablorosso.com
MAC
Contemporary Art MuseumSan Blas Street, Anconwww.macpanama.org
Interoceanic Canal Museum
Casco AntiguoTel: (507)211-1649
www.museodelcanal.com
Miraflores Visitor Center
Panama CanalTel: (507)276-8325www.pancanal.com
Museum ofAnthropology
Juan Pablo II Avenue, Curundu
Tel: (507)501-4731
66 Panama 9°80°