With an average temperature between 30 - 35 degrees Celsius (86 - 95 degrees Fahrenheit), there is always a good reason to fire up the BBQ and drink a cold beer. However, you need to know where to find quality meat.
Finding good quality meat in Panama isn't so common. Local restaurants and stores will offer local beef from Panama, which has rather tough and lacks flavor compared to imported cuts.
The best quality meat you can find in Panama is imported from Argentina or the United States. Panama has a few options where you can purchase your beef, pork, chicken, and more. In this article we highlight the following shops:
These options have been selected by personal experience. Do you have additional recommendations? Let us know!
Meat House
Meat House has an incredible variety of meat products. Most of which are imported. Make sure to check their combos and promos. Their shop is located in Marbella, downtown Panama City. Besides great quality beef, pork and fish, they also have liquors and salsas. In short: a perfect spot to get everything for an amazing BBQ.
Website: Meat House website.
Corte Argentino
Corte Argentino is a supplier for both consumers and businesses when it comes to quality imported meats. Their shop is located in Costa del Este, but their products are also available at Foodie Market. On their website, you will find their wide variety of cuts and promos.
Website: Corte Argentino website.
Casa de Jamon
La Casa del Jamón is specialized in food products at the best market prices. They import products from Spain, the United States, Chile, Italy, and the Netherlands, among many other countries, and also have a wide range of national products. Brands you can find at Casa de Jamon are El Pozo, García Baquero, Harris Ranch, La Asturiana, Serrano, Torre de Nuñez, Agnesi, Pomilia, Oro del Desierto, and Beyond Meat. Aside from the amazing Serrano and Iberian hams they also have a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Fun fact: Every December they bring natural Christmas trees from Canada.
Website: Casa de Jamon Panama website.
Quick fix: Chorizos from Foodie Market Panama
In case you have some friends coming over last minute, you can head to foodies to buy some chorizos and meat. However; it's frozen. But especially the chorizo is excellent for a shared platter. Foodie Market is a store where you can find the more exclusive products that are often unavailable in regular supermarkets. Foodie Market is located throughout Panama City, in Marbella, Patillia, Punta Pacifica, and also in Costa del Este. These are all upscale neighborhoods.
Website: Foodie Market Panama website.
Conclusion to places to buy quality meat in Panama
As Panama is evolving quickly we see new shops opening up every now and then. All of the above have been our favorites over the last couple of years. Especially Casa de Jamon in case you are looking for more groceries than only for your BBQ. If you have any additional recommendations by experiences in Panama please let us know!