The most authentic food experience in Panama City — a working seafood market on the waterfront where vendors sell ceviche, corvina, octopus, and fresh fish at plastic tables for $5–10. The fish arrived this morning; the ceviche is made to order. Go at lunch, eat at the market, and skip the tourist restaurants nearby.
Why It Belongs on the List
The Mercado de Mariscos is where Panama City eats — a covered waterfront market with stalls selling the freshest seafood in the city at local prices. The corvina ceviche is the standard order; the caldo de mariscos (seafood soup) is excellent; the whole fried fish is simple and exactly right. Arrive between 11am and 1pm for the best selection and the most authentic atmosphere.
What Stands Out
- Most authentic food experience in Panama City
- Corvina ceviche, caldo de mariscos, whole fried fish
- Market prices
- Arrive at lunch
- Waterfront location