Salomas Panamanian Cuisine Menu offers a vibrant journey through the heart of Panama’s culinary traditions, seamlessly blending indigenous roots with Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. At Salomas, every dish is a celebration of heritage, prepared with passion and the freshest local ingredients.
From the bustling markets of Panama City to the tranquil coasts and lush countryside, Panamanian cuisine is a testament to the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. Guests at Salomas are welcomed with warmth and hospitality, experiencing flavors that evoke stories of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and the rhythms of daily life.
Each menu item is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the depth and diversity of Panama’s gastronomy, inviting diners to explore both beloved classics and innovative interpretations. Whether you are new to Panamanian food or a devoted aficionado, Salomas promises an unforgettable dining experience that delights the senses and stirs the soul.
The menu serves as both a culinary map and a bridge, connecting traditions of the past with the creativity of today’s kitchen. Step inside, and discover why Salomas Panamanian Cuisine Menu has become a favorite destination for food lovers seeking authenticity, warmth, and a taste of Panama’s vibrant spirit.
Starters and Small Plates: A Tasteful Introduction
The starters at Salomas offer a perfect introduction to the depth of Panamanian cuisine. Each appetizer is designed to awaken the palate, featuring bold flavors and a medley of textures that pay homage to the country’s varied culinary heritage.
These small plates are ideal for sharing, inviting conversation and discovery around the table.
One of the standout starters is the Carimañolas, crispy yuca rolls filled with savory ground beef or cheese. Served with a tangy homemade sauce, this dish exemplifies the resourcefulness of Panamanian cooks, who turn humble ingredients into delicacies.
Diners are also treated to ceviche de corvina, a refreshing blend of fresh fish marinated in lime juice, sweet peppers, and cilantro. The sharp citrus and subtle heat make it a perennial favorite.
Beyond these classics, Salomas offers innovative bites like Patacones con Hogao—twice-fried green plantains served with a rich tomato and onion sauce. The contrast between the starchy crunch of the patacones and the savory-sweet topping creates a delightful harmony.
For those seeking lighter fare, the Ensalada de Feria features a vibrant mix of local vegetables, dressed simply with olive oil and lime.
- Carimañolas: Yuca rolls with beef or cheese
- Ceviche de Corvina: Citrus-marinated fish with peppers and cilantro
- Patacones con Hogao: Fried plantain rounds with tomato-onion sauce
- Ensalada de Feria: Fresh vegetable salad
“Every appetizer is a doorway into Panama’s culinary soul, where tradition and creativity meet on a single plate.”
Sopas y Caldos: Hearty Soups and Stews
Panamanian soups and stews are renowned for their heartiness and depth of flavor. At Salomas, these soul-warming dishes are crafted with time-honored techniques, simmered slowly to extract every nuance of taste from fresh, local ingredients.
The menu features both light broths and robust stews, ensuring something for every appetite.
Among the top choices is the Sancocho Panameño, a beloved national dish. This chicken and root vegetable stew is seasoned with culantro and bursting with homely flavors.
Traditionally eaten during gatherings and celebrations, it embodies the communal spirit of Panamanian dining. Accompanying the sancocho is a side of fluffy white rice, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Another highlight is the Crema de Mariscos, a luxurious seafood chowder brimming with shrimp, clams, and fish in a creamy, aromatic base. For those seeking vegetarian options, the Potaje de Lentejas offers a protein-packed lentil stew infused with aromatic herbs and spices.
Each soup is served piping hot, ideal for comforting the soul on cool evenings.
- Sancocho Panameño: Chicken and root vegetable stew
- Crema de Mariscos: Creamy seafood chowder
- Potaje de Lentejas: Hearty lentil stew
Comparing Panamanian Soups
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Sancocho Panameño | Chicken, root vegetables, culantro | Herbaceous, savory, comforting |
| Crema de Mariscos | Shrimp, clams, fish, cream | Rich, briny, aromatic |
| Potaje de Lentejas | Lentils, vegetables, spices | Earthy, hearty, spiced |
“A good soup is the heart of every Panamanian kitchen, nourishing body and spirit alike.”
Main Courses: The Heart of the Menu
Main courses at Salomas reflect the diversity and abundance of Panama’s land and sea. From succulent meats to fresh fish, every entrée is a tribute to the country’s rich agricultural and maritime resources.
These dishes are portioned generously, meant to satisfy and sustain.
The signature Arroz con Pollo is a must-try, featuring saffron-infused rice cooked with tender chicken, sweet peas, and red peppers. This one-pot wonder delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Another icon is the Pescado Frito, a whole fried fish served with patacones and a zesty slaw. The crispy exterior and flaky interior make it a standout favorite.
For meat lovers, Salomas presents Bistec Picado, a savory beef stir-fry with onions, peppers, and a splash of tomato sauce. Served with rice and beans, it captures the essence of home-style Panamanian cooking.
Vegetarian guests can indulge in Guiso de Vegetales, a medley of seasonal vegetables simmered in a flavorful tomato broth.
- Arroz con Pollo: Saffron rice with chicken and vegetables
- Pescado Frito: Whole fried fish with sides
- Bistec Picado: Beef stir-fry with onions and peppers
- Guiso de Vegetales: Seasonal vegetable stew
“Every main course at Salomas is a story on a plate—a blend of tradition, family, and bold Panamanian flavor.”
Key Ingredients in Main Dishes
- Rice: The foundation of many meals, versatile and satisfying
- Plantains: Used fried, boiled, or mashed for texture and flavor
- Fresh seafood: Sourced locally for peak freshness
- Herbs and spices: Culantro, achiote, and oregano add depth and aroma
Signature Sides: Complementing Every Plate
Salomas understands that the right side dish can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable. The menu’s selection of sides celebrates the staples of Panamanian dining, offering a harmonious balance of flavor, color, and texture.
Each side is carefully crafted to enhance the main courses without overpowering them.
A perennial favorite is the Arroz con Coco, fragrant coconut rice that pairs beautifully with seafood and grilled meats. The subtle sweetness of coconut complements savory flavors, creating a memorable contrast.
Another staple, Porotos Guisados, features slow-cooked beans infused with herbs and spices, a satisfying accompaniment to any entrée.
No Panamanian meal would be complete without plantains. Salomas offers both tajadas—sweet, ripe plantain slices fried until golden—and patacones, green plantain rounds twice-fried for a crisp finish.
For a lighter option, diners can choose Ensalada de Repollo, a tangy cabbage slaw that refreshes the palate.
- Arroz con Coco: Coconut-infused rice
- Porotos Guisados: Stewed beans
- Tajadas: Fried sweet plantains
- Patacones: Twice-fried green plantains
- Ensalada de Repollo: Cabbage slaw
“A well-chosen side is the supporting actor that makes the star shine even brighter.”
Comparing Plantain Preparations
| Preparation | Flavor | Texture |
| Tajadas | Sweet, caramelized | Soft, slightly crisp edges |
| Patacones | Salty, starchy | Crisp, crunchy |
Street Food Inspirations: Casual Eats and Local Favorites
Panama’s streets are alive with the aroma of sizzling snacks and handheld treats, and Salomas brings this energy into their menu. Street food is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience, reflecting the ingenuity and spirit of the people.
These casual eats are perfect for a quick lunch or a shared platter among friends.
One standout is the Empanada de Maíz, a golden corn pastry filled with spiced beef, chicken, or cheese. Crispy on the outside and tender within, they are a beloved snack throughout Panama.
The menu also features Chicheme, a sweet, creamy corn drink often enjoyed alongside savory bites.
For a taste of the Caribbean coast, try the Almojábanos, chewy cheese breadsticks made from cornmeal and local cheese. These are served fresh from the oven and make an irresistible side or snack.
The Arepitas Dulces—sweet mini corn cakes—offer a delightful finish, pairing beautifully with a cup of strong Panamanian coffee.
- Empanada de Maíz: Corn pastry with savory fillings
- Almojábanos: Chewy cheese breadsticks
- Arepitas Dulces: Sweet mini corn cakes
- Chicheme: Creamy corn drink
“Street food is the heartbeat of Panama—each bite is a celebration of resourcefulness, flavor, and community.”
Popular Panamanian Street Foods
- Empanadas: Found at every corner, stuffed with endless possibilities
- Almojábanos: Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a midday snack
- Arepitas Dulces: A sweet treat for all ages
Seafood Specialties: From Ocean to Table
Panama’s coastline stretches along both the Pacific and Atlantic, offering an abundance of fresh seafood. At Salomas, these ocean treasures are showcased with respect and creativity.
Each seafood dish is prepared using traditional techniques, ensuring the true flavors of the sea are front and center.
A highlight of the menu is the Pescado a la Veracruzana, a fillet of locally caught fish simmered in a vibrant tomato, olive, and caper sauce. This dish marries the flavors of the Caribbean and Mediterranean, resulting in a symphony of taste.
Another favorite is Camarones al Ajillo, succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and white wine, served with coconut rice for a tropical flair.
For those seeking something unique, Salomas offers Langostinos Guisados, large prawns stewed with peppers and herbs in a savory broth. Each bite delivers a burst of fresh, briny flavor, reminding diners of Panama’s close relationship with the sea.
The seafood selection is rounded out by Filete de Corvina a la Plancha, a simple yet elegant grilled fish fillet dressed with citrus and herbs.
- Pescado a la Veracruzana: Fish fillet in tomato-olive sauce
- Camarones al Ajillo: Garlic shrimp with coconut rice
- Langostinos Guisados: Stewed prawns with peppers
- Filete de Corvina a la Plancha: Grilled fish with citrus
“Panamanian seafood is a testament to the abundance and generosity of our coastal waters.”
Comparing Seafood Preparations
| Dish | Cooking Method | Accompaniments |
| Pescado a la Veracruzana | Simmered | Rice, plantains |
| Camarones al Ajillo | Sautéed | Coconut rice, salad |
| Langostinos Guisados | Stewed | White rice, beans |
| Filete de Corvina a la Plancha | Grilled | Citrus, herbs |
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights: Inclusive and Flavorful
Salomas takes pride in offering a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that showcase the bounty of Panama’s farms and gardens. These menu items are crafted with the same care and creativity as their meat-based counterparts, ensuring every guest feels welcomed.
A popular choice is the Tamal de Olla Vegetariano, a hearty casserole of cornmeal, vegetables, and savory spices, baked to golden perfection. This dish draws from Panama’s indigenous and Afro-Caribbean roots, providing comfort and sustenance.
The Salteado de Vegetales—a vibrant stir-fry of seasonal produce—offers a lighter yet equally satisfying option.
For those seeking a protein-rich meal, the Porotos Negros con Arroz Integral delivers black beans simmered with garlic and herbs, served over nutty brown rice. Rounding out the vegetarian offerings is Ensalada de Quinoa Tropical, a colorful salad with mango, avocado, and fresh greens, tossed in a citrus vinaigrette.
- Tamal de Olla Vegetariano: Baked cornmeal and vegetable casserole
- Salteado de Vegetales: Stir-fried seasonal veggies
- Porotos Negros con Arroz Integral: Black beans with brown rice
- Ensalada de Quinoa Tropical: Quinoa salad with mango and avocado
“Panamanian cuisine celebrates the harvest—every plant-based dish is a tribute to nature’s abundance.”
Vegetarian vs. Vegan Options at Salomas
| Dish | Vegetarian | Vegan |
| Tamal de Olla Vegetariano | ✔ | ✔ |
| Salteado de Vegetales | ✔ | ✔ |
| Porotos Negros con Arroz Integral | ✔ | ✔ |
| Ensalada de Quinoa Tropical | ✔ | ✔ |
Desserts and Sweet Treats: A Sweet Finale
No meal at Salomas is complete without a taste of the menu’s decadent desserts. These sweet treats are inspired by the flavors and traditions of Panama, blending tropical fruits, creamy custards, and classic pastries.
Each dessert is crafted to provide a memorable finish to the dining experience.
A signature item is the Bienmesabe, a luscious coconut cream layered with sponge cake and dusted with cinnamon. This dessert transports diners to Panama’s Caribbean coast with every spoonful.
The Arroz con Leche, or rice pudding, is another favorite—simple yet deeply comforting, made with fragrant cinnamon and raisins.
For a refreshing end, the Flan de Maracuyá offers a silky passionfruit custard crowned with a golden caramel. Salomas also serves Buñuelos, small fried dough balls drizzled with sweet syrup, perfect for sharing.
These desserts capture the warmth and joy of Panamanian hospitality.
- Bienmesabe: Coconut cream and sponge cake
- Arroz con Leche: Creamy rice pudding
- Flan de Maracuyá: Passionfruit flan
- Buñuelos: Fried dough with syrup
“Desserts are the sweet punctuation at the end of a perfect Panamanian meal, leaving smiles and lasting memories.”
Comparing Panamanian Desserts
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Texture |
| Bienmesabe | Coconut, sponge cake, cinnamon | Creamy, soft |
| Arroz con Leche | Rice, milk, cinnamon, raisins | Silky, rich |
| Flan de Maracuyá | Passionfruit, eggs, caramel | Silky, delicate |
| Buñuelos | Dough, syrup | Light, crispy |
Drinks and Beverages: Toasting to Tradition
Salomas offers a curated selection of traditional Panamanian drinks, each crafted to complement and elevate the flavors of the cuisine. From refreshing non-alcoholic options to spirited cocktails, the beverage menu celebrates the country’s natural bounty and festive spirit.
A must-try is the Chicha de Saril, a ruby-red hibiscus punch flavored with clove and cinnamon. Often enjoyed during holidays, this drink is both tart and sweet, perfect for quenching thirst on a warm day.
For a creamy treat, the Batido de Maracuyá—a passionfruit smoothie—offers a tropical burst of flavor.
On the cocktail side, guests can savor a Ron Ponche, a creamy rum-based eggnog spiced with nutmeg and vanilla. The Seco con Limón—a refreshing blend of Panamanian seco liquor with lime and soda—is a local classic.
For coffee aficionados, Salomas serves robust Panamanian coffee brewed to perfection, ideal for pairing with dessert.
- Chicha de Saril: Hibiscus punch
- Batido de Maracuyá: Passionfruit smoothie
- Ron Ponche: Spiced rum eggnog
- Seco con Limón: Seco liquor with lime
- Panamanian Coffee: Locally sourced and brewed
“A great meal deserves a great toast—raise your glass to the flavors and friendships of Panama.”
Comparing Traditional Drinks
| Beverage | Main Flavor | Best Paired With |
| Chicha de Saril | Tart, floral | Light appetizers, desserts |
| Batido de Maracuyá | Sweet, tropical | Spicy dishes, snacks |
| Ron Ponche | Creamy, spiced | Desserts, festive meals |
| Seco con Limón | Bright, citrusy | Seafood, savory entrees |
| Panamanian Coffee | Rich, robust | Desserts, breakfast |
Conclusion: The Salomas Experience
Dining at Salomas Panamanian Cuisine is more than just a meal—it is an immersive experience that honors the country’s culinary heritage and contemporary creativity. Every dish on the menu, from vibrant starters to soul-satisfying stews and sweet endings, tells a story of tradition, resilience, and joy.
The chefs at Salomas blend time-tested recipes with fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that every bite is both authentic and exciting.
What sets Salomas apart is the genuine hospitality and attention to detail that permeate every aspect of the dining experience. The staff is passionate about sharing Panama’s flavors, eager to guide guests through the menu and offer thoughtful recommendations.
Whether you are indulging in a seafood feast, savoring a simple street snack, or discovering plant-based delights, Salomas delivers an atmosphere of warmth and celebration.
The menu is a dynamic reflection of Panama itself—diverse, welcoming, and full of surprises. Salomas invites you to gather with friends and family, raise a glass, and savor the rich tapestry of flavors that make Panamanian cuisine truly unique.
With each visit, you are not just enjoying a meal; you are becoming part of a vibrant cultural tradition. Join the community of food lovers who have made Salomas their go-to destination for authenticity, quality, and the unforgettable taste of Panama.
