Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the food and social fabric of Panama as the locals do, from the simple to the elegant, with a local that has roamed the streets of Panama extensively. This tour will provide the best tour for low level to high class in both food and drink, with a cultural immersion that will tantalize the senses. As a person who has traveled, the focus of all my tours is to provide clients with the best tour for the best value. It will be a pleasure to share my passion with you! My preference is to keep the groups small for greater enjoyment for both the client and myself.
Be aware that this experience is primarily in the Santa Ana neighborhood (a Panamanian low middle class area) with about 5 blocks on the edge El Chorrillo (the folks are very welcoming) that is different and with locals of darker complexion. The neighborhoods have many unique odors. All food stops follow local health code but they are not tourist food locations. The experience prioritizes safety throughout.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
for people 18 years of age and over
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
A country’s food says a lot about the culture and the people. Learn about the local food, in tandem with learning about the culture and social issues the country faces today. I talk about and show the areas many people who visit will never see of the three original neighborhoods. With this food and society tour, you will explore the local food and a hidden bar, with a stop at the best local seafood (not the touristic fish market) for ceviche, local beer, and other goodies. At the local cafe we will taste the best food in Santa Ana. We will go to my favorite fonda (local restaurant) The Black Door that has the best fried chicken around. On the way to these places, I tend to take side routes for small tastings of other foods (my favorites are a unique pastry to the Las Tablas area and Chinese with a Panamanian flare). We will see how the locals shop for food on the journey and then then head into Casco Viejo for an evening cocktail. Be prepared to eat quite a bit! All the food and drinks ordered by the host are included in the ticket price. I customize the trip for people who have dietary restrictions.
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Coffee
both are a favorite stop on my other tour Half-Day Casco Viejo The Real City Guided with a Local Touch Tour
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Chocolate tastings
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Fonda "the black door"
Best fried chicken!
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Local Pastries
From Las Tablas area and Panama.
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Chinese food sample
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Local seafood
The best seafood isn't at the fish market. Great fried yuca also!
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Popular but less known local Cafe
Try the 24 hour cafe!
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Local ice cream
Italian approved local Ice cream.
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Closing Drinks
Try the best mojitos (or something else).
Anything the host purchases.
Anything the client wants to purchase separately from the host.
21 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amy F,,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
I absolutely loved this tour because it’s not the typical tour! Jon is a very friendly host, and you can tell he is passionate about the experience he provides. I was very appreciative he did this tour for a solo traveler! This tour is NOT about 5-star dinner or famous chefs. It is the true heart of the city of Panama and it’s people. Such a wonderful fusion of different types of food. It is obvious Jon has created very special relationships with the fonda and tienda owners. He is respectful and provides a special insight to each place. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who loves food and wants to get past the “tourist” stops. You will walk the streets and learn about areas not offered on other tours. Plenty of places to stop and rest, but it is Panama City, so it's hot! You will EAT and LOVE it!




Ben L,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
Fantastic guide who has built solid relationships with various spots in the community. There’s big portions of great authentic food. Highly recommend.
jrkrqbpmxt,,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
Very knowledgeable and personable. Had deep knowledge and insight into current and past neighborhoods. 10/10 would recommend!
Shenz89,,Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
If you’re looking for a tour that lets you taste authentic local food, I highly recommend this one. Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking through different areas and truly experiencing Panamá. The tour guide was friendly, informative, and offered great insight into the local culture. I tried so many delicious foods that by the end of the tour I was full and even had to take some home. Overall, this tour is perfect for anyone seeking adventure and a deeper look into local Panamanian life.
601alvinj,,Sep 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Supervisor has attitude problem. And play victim after you confront her attitude problem… worst customer service to go with.
Vaughn B,,Sep 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
Jon is an EXCELLENT guide for coffee, chocolate, and food that is off the beaten path and perhaps not so easily found otherwise. He has established great relationships with the community and genuinely cares about his guests, their comfort, and the locals. His knowledge of coffee is unmatched and his chosen food destinations are a fantastic way to see how the locals love and eat. We were very pleased and impressed with his tour and wouldn't hesitate to take any other tour he might offer. Simply amazing!
meatrap,,Aug 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Well done dynastic you are fantastic! From housekeeping to bar staff to cooks , and teo on reception was so welcoming and friendly, food was brilliant so tasty and something for everyone, location amazing, room was so clean and comfortable, first time to benidorm and it was more than I could imagine! Any problems with this hotel i can't understand, we'll done to all the hard workers will definitely see you again
Cliff P,,May 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
This is a great experience. Jon will take you to local places that you would never find as a tourist. He gives honest opinions about food (good and bad) and you get to try quite a few different kinds.
kellybS686QT,,Mar 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The tour was really a good learning experience. Our tour guide, Jon Shumaker is extremely knowledgeable on the Panamanian food scene as well as the history of Panama and he made the tour fun for my wife and I. I’d highly recommend this tour with Jon if you visit Panama. What intrigued me the most about Jon is the love that the Panamanian people give to him in their neighborhoods. He was recognized wherever we went and that tells me a lot. Again, do this tour with Jon and you will thank yourself.
yhough,,Mar 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
OMG! I would call this an off the beaten path food tour, that I l really enjoyed. Jon was a great guide who will take you to neighborhoods that you probably wouldn’t discover on your own. Where the food is truly made by locals. Do NOT eat before the tour. I feel like i sampled so many dishes and desserts, that I lost count. This food tour is worth every dollar. Thank you Jon, for making my solo experience wonderful!






Operated by Jon Shumaker