3 hours
Mobile ticket
This activity comes out differently because the guest shall learn how to cook with the spices and come up with tasty Panamanian and African dishes.
The guests shall be cooking with fresh ingredients as they learn new cooking skills. These new cooking skills make my experience unique.
Public transportation options are available nearby
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
All the cooking utensils and ingredients shall be provided by the host
We shall all prepare the meals together using fresh ingredients as we socialize and meet other travelers. Afterward, we shall sit at the dining table and share the food we all made.
starter
Empanadas
starter
Patacones
main
Coconut rice
main
Jollof rice
main
Pilao rice
main
Biryani
main
Bacalao
main
Pollo guisado
main
Seafood curry
dessert
Mkate was sinia
116 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
N4399JVbriannas,
Nov 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Chef Dave hosted one of the most welcoming and intimate cooking experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, his relaxed energy made us feel right at home, like we were cooking with an old friend. The atmosphere was warm, personal, and filled with stories that brought the flavors of Afro-Panamanian culture to life. The experience was not just fun—it was genuinely educational. Chef Dave explained the history behind each ingredient and technique, making every step meaningful. You don’t just learn to cook; you learn the why behind the dish, and that made it all the more special. If you’re looking for a unique, soulful, and memorable experience, this is the one. Chef Dave is the heart of it all, and you can feel his passion in every detail. Highly recommend!
A1332SLtonib,
Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had the best experience with Chef Dave and his personalized cooking experience. He confirmed early about allergies and had all fresh ingredients waiting upon arrival. The amount of flavor he was able to naturally produce was amazing. The final product was an excellent accomplishment I knew we produced together. I’d 100% recommend this cooking class to anyone wanting AfroPanamanian knowledge, a fun atmosphere and an incredible meal at the end!


Veronika G,
Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
Dave is doing such an amazing job! He has both the sophisticated cooking skills and the ability to make everyone feel comfortable and welcomed, so it's a whole amazing experience. Plus, the food was delicioussss and I learned a lot. Definitely recommend :)
Emily H,
Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
Cooking class with Chef Dave is an absolute must for anyone visit the city. He is extremely talented, knowledgeable, funny, and kind. In a few hours Dave felt more like family and we were learning about the blend of cultures here over the best meal ever. If you miss this experience you’ll be sorry!




robertrT2202BX,
Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
During my trip to Panama, I scheduled two cooking classes. This was the BEST of the two. Chef Dave was funny, warm, welcoming, and made sure I was always as comfortable as possible. He didn’t just show us how to cook particular dishes, he taught us techniques, skills, and how to get the best out of each ingredient. I highly suggest booking a class with Chef Dave when you are in Panama! By the way, the food was amazing! I am definitely booking with him the next time I am in Panama!


Lavalle W,
Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
I booked the 3.5-hour Afropanamanian Cooking Experience through Viator, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable activities of my trip to Panama. From start to finish, everything was well-organized, and the hosts made the experience feel both welcoming and authentic. We learned about the history and cultural influences behind Afropanamanian cuisine while preparing traditional dishes step by step. The instructions were clear, hands-on, and engaging, which made it easy to follow along even if you don’t cook often. The best part, of course, was enjoying the delicious meal we created together—it was full of flavor and truly a taste of Panama’s rich culture. This wasn’t just a cooking class—it was a cultural exchange that gave me a deeper appreciation for Panama’s heritage. Booking through Viator was quick and convenient, and I’d absolutely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a unique and flavorful experience in Panama City.
Niya J,
Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
Chef Dave was absolutely amazing! Not only was he incredibly clean and organized, but also extremely knowledgeable. He patiently taught us various cooking techniques, including proper knife skills and more. I had originally booked a different cooking experience, but when Chef Dave's availability opened up, I didn’t hesitate to cancel the other and rebook with him, and I’m so glad I did! We celebrated my birthday during the class, and the entire experience was truly unforgettable. From the hands-on learning to the fun, laughter, and fellowship, it was everything I hoped for and more. Highly recommend—100/100!
Journey30663981022,
Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a marvelous evening with chef Dave and our fellow cooking amigos. Dave had everything washed and ready ahead of time with each of us brandishing a sharp knife and cutting board. Dave taught us many details about the delicious meal we made. He carefully explained all the steps and provided us with the recipes afterwards. It was entertaining, educational, delicious and super fun! We highly recommend!
bendY7978NL,
Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had an absolutely amazing time on this tour — it was more than just a cooking class, it was a full-on cultural and culinary experience! Chef Dave was incredible — warm, knowledgeable, and super attentive. He answered all of our questions with patience and enthusiasm, and you could tell he genuinely loved sharing his craft. There was so much laughter and good energy throughout the session, it felt like cooking with friends. I walked away with tons of new knowledge, useful cooking tips, and some delicious recipes I can’t wait to try at home. And the best part? We got to eat everything we made — and it was so good! I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Panama. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for something unique and fun, this is an experience you won’t regret. A true highlight of my trip!
Brandon R,
Aug 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
One of my favorite of excursions ever. Recipes were amazing, Food was amazing and our group was amazing. We made oxtails, yuca fries, coconut rice with all types of Panamanian dipping sauces. Chef was very thoughtful and took the time to teach us new techniques and the proper ways of how to cut, cook and season properly, not only for the dishes but in genera and I learned alot. If you are on the fence just book it you will not regret it.
Operated by Afropanamanian cooking experience