Why Panama Is a Kosher Travel Paradise
Panama City has more kosher establishments per capita than almost any city outside of Israel and New York. With 80+ certified kosher establishments, multiple kosher supermarkets, an established Jewish community, and an eruv covering the main residential neighborhoods, Panama is one of the easiest destinations in the world for observant Jewish travelers.
Whether you keep strict chalak bet yosef or simply want kosher options available, Panama City delivers—from fine dining and sushi to pizza, burgers, Chinese food, and bakeries.
Kosher Restaurants by Cuisine
Panama's kosher dining scene spans an impressive range of cuisines. Here are some highlights:
Fine Dining & Steakhouses
Upscale kosher restaurants for special occasions, featuring grilled meats, creative cocktails, and elegant atmospheres. Many are located in the Obarrio and Punta Pacifica neighborhoods.
Asian & Sushi
Multiple kosher sushi and Asian fusion restaurants serve fresh rolls, poke bowls, and stir-fry dishes. A standout category in Panama's kosher scene.
Italian & Pizza
Kosher pizzerias and Italian restaurants offering wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and calzones. Family-friendly options with dairy and pareve menus.
Middle Eastern & Israeli
Shawarma, falafel, hummus, and Israeli-style grills are well-represented in Panama City's kosher dining options.
Cafes & Bakeries
Kosher cafes serving coffee, pastries, fresh juices, and light meals. Great for breakfast or an afternoon break between sightseeing.
Kosher Supermarkets & Markets
Need to stock up for Shabbat, buy snacks for a tour, or find kosher groceries? These markets cater to the kosher community:
Super Kosher
The largest kosher supermarket in Panama. Wide selection of imported kosher products, fresh meat counter, bakery, and deli. Located in the San Francisco neighborhood.
Deli K Market
Kosher deli and market with prepared foods, deli meats, salads, and Shabbat meal packages. Conveniently located near the synagogues in Obarrio.
Soho Market
Gourmet kosher market in Obarrio with fresh produce, imported cheeses, wines, and specialty items. A favorite for Shabbat shopping.
Foodie Market
Modern kosher market with a good selection of snacks, drinks, and ready-to-eat items. Convenient for quick shopping runs.
Shabbat Logistics
Panama's Jewish community makes Shabbat observance remarkably easy for visitors:
- Eruv: An eruv covers the main Jewish neighborhoods (Paitilla, Obarrio, parts of San Francisco)
- Synagogues: Multiple options spanning Sephardi, Ashkenazi, and Chabad traditions
- Shabbat meals: Order from Deli K, Club Hebreo catering, or join Chabad for communal meals
- Hotels: Several offer Shabbat elevators, kosher breakfast, and key alternatives
- Walking distances: Hotels in Obarrio and Punta Pacifica are 5–15 minutes walking from synagogues
For the complete Shabbat guide including synagogue listings, eruv map, and zmanim, see our Shabbat & Jewish Life page.
Kosher Tour Options
All Go Beyond tours can accommodate kosher travelers with advance notice. Some highlights:
- Beach & Kosher BBQ—includes a full kosher BBQ lunch on the beach
- Jewish Heritage Tour—explore synagogues, kosher markets, and community life
- Casco Viejo Food & Culture Walk—architectural tour with kosher-friendly food stops
- All other tours can include kosher lunch arrangements—just let us know when booking
Seasonal Kosher Programs
Go Beyond offers organized programs during Jewish holidays and school breaks:
- Yeshiva Week—late January. The biggest kosher travel week in Panama
- Panama Pesach—community seders, hotel programs, and tours
- Summer Break—family-friendly summer programs and tours
- Sukkot—holiday celebrations and community events
Plan Your Kosher Trip to Panama
From restaurant reservations to Shabbat logistics, Go Beyond handles every detail of your kosher travel experience in Panama.