Machu Pichu- As you might have guessed, Machu Pichu is a Peruvian restaurant. The décor is simple and the location obscure, but this is definitely one of Panama’s hidden gems. While it’s on the more expensive end of Panama’s nightlife scene, you can still get out of there with a full meal in your belly for less than fifteen bucks. Location: El Cangrejo Phone: 264-9308

Ego- Ego would not be out of place in a trendy US city. The menu is fashionably minimal but the food packs a punch. The brochettes (small skewers) of herbed meats and shellfish hit the spot and the entrée’s are all brilliant. Ego’s wait staff is perfectly discreet and their outdoor seating area uses Casco Viejo’s charm to captivate their customers. Location: Casco Viejo

Buffalos- From the outside, Buffalos appears to be the same touristy, over-priced, restaurant that the Causeway is notorious for. But surprisingly, the dining experience is up to par. They serve a terrifically-fresh ceviche and a variety of other sea and land creations to please anyone’s palate. The servers are very friendly and in case your Spanish is spotty, they are all bi-lingual. Location: Amador Causeway Phone: 314-1786

Xoko- The name Xoko is Euskera, from the Basque region of Spain, pronounced cho-ko. This intimate little Spanish restaurant will capture your taste buds, as almost any selection from their tableside menu is sure to please. It’s a family run affair and the paella is a favorite of the house. Location: El Cangrejo

Jap Jap- Jap Jap is an open-air rancho style restaurant with an extremely varied menu. The glistening rotisserie chicken is a sure bet and the basic combo platters are stellar as well. They offer up about 15 unpronounceable fruit drinks, all of which are fresh and sweet. Your meal there should be no more than $3 or $4. Location: El Carmen Phone: 221-1230

Madame Chang- The aesthetic and culinary delight that is Madame Chang, has over 30 years experience on the Panama food circuit. People regard it as not only the best and most beautiful restaurant in Panama, but also in Latin America. There’s simply no better Chinese food in the country. Location: Calle Uruguay Phone: 269-1313

Filed under: Panama on June 10th, 2008