Planning a visit to Chiriquí and considering a move to Panama? You’re in for a treat when it comes to the food! Panama’s rich cultural history has created a blend of flavors that make it a culinary paradise. If you’re settling in Chiriquí, exploring the local dishes is a perfect way to dive into Panamanian culture. Here’s a list of must-try traditional foods, including some that are unique to this lush, mountainous region.
1. Fresas con Crema
Thanks to Chiriquí’s cool, fertile highlands, fresh strawberries are a specialty here. Served with cream, this simple yet delightful dessert is a local favorite. You’ll find it especially popular in Cerro Punta, Boquete and Volcan where strawberry stands offer fresh berries with a dollop of rich, homemade cream.
2. Arroz con Guandú
This beloved rice dish features pigeon peas (guandú) cooked with spices and often combined with coconut milk for a rich, creamy flavor. A holiday favorite in Panama, it’s typically paired with stewed chicken (pollo guisado), pork chops (chuletas), or shredded beef (ropa vieja). For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside avocado, fresh salad, and crispy fried plantains (tajadas) for a flavorful, satisfying experience.
3. Plátanos en Tentación
Plátanos en Tentación, or “Temptation Plantains,” are a sweet side dish that pairs perfectly with a hearty meal. Ripe plantains are baked with sugar and cinnamon, creating a tender, syrupy texture. Often served alongside rice, chicken, beans, and salad, these plantains offer a delicious balance of sweetness and savoriness, making them a delightful complement to your meal.
4. Bienmesabe con Queso Blanco
Bienmesabe is a delicious corn pudding with a creamy texture, typically served with a slice of salty white cheese. For an authentic experience, we recommend trying this dish at Bienmesabe Chiriquí, a local favorite that brings out the best of this comforting Panamanian treat.
5. Chicharrón
Chicharrón is crunchy, seasoned pork that’s fried to golden perfection. Often served with patacones (fried plantains) or as a topping on other dishes, chicharrón is both flavorful and incredibly popular in Panama. It’s a perfect indulgence for meat lovers.
6. Sopa de Costilla
This hearty beef rib soup, seasoned with root vegetables, herbs, and spices, is a beloved comfort food in Panama. It’s nourishing and full of flavor, making it a go-to meal for cooler days or as a filling midday dish.
7. Patacones
Patacones, or twice-fried green plantains, are a must-try. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft inside, making them a popular side dish for many Panamanian meals. Often topped with a sprinkle of sea salt or ketchup. Patacones are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with many main courses. Along the coast, however, they are often served alongside freshly fried fish and seafood, making for the perfect beachside meal.
8. Sancocho
Sancocho is Panama’s national dish, a chicken soup rich with local herbs, ñame (a type of yam), and other root vegetables. It’s known for its flavorful broth, often made even more comforting with a side of white rice or fresh avocado. Each region puts its twist on sancocho, so you’ll find unique takes on it in Chiriquí.
9. Empanadas (Cheese, Beef, Chicken, Pineapple, and More)
Empanadas in Panama come in a variety of flavors and types. You’ll find both corn-based and flour-based empanadas, which can be fried or baked to crispy perfection. They’re either sweet or savory, with popular fillings like cheese, shredded beef, chicken, pineapple, plantain, guava, and more. A delicious snack or meal on the go, empanadas offer a taste of local flavors wrapped in a warm, satisfying pastry.
10. Tajadas
For a slightly sweeter side, try tajadas, which are ripe plantains fried. This side dish is often served with meals to add a hint of sweetness, balancing out the flavors of savory dishes like arroz con pollo. You can find it at most restaurants as an add-on to their main dishes. At some places you will even find it inside hamburgers and sandwiches.
For those looking to dive deeper into Chiriquí’s food scene, Boquete is home to an array of dining options, from traditional Panamanian eateries to international cuisine. For more on Boquete’s restaurant offerings, be sure to check out our guide to the best local dining spots here: Boquete Restaurants.
From comforting soups and savory fritters to sweet plantains and creamy strawberry treats, Chiriquí’s culinary offerings have something to please every palate. So, dig in and enjoy these authentic flavors as you settle into your new home in Panama.
