Finding a food tour in Panama City during Christmas week was harder than expected. Many tours were fully booked or not ideal for families with young children. After comparing options on Airbnb Experiences and Viator, we chose a private tour through Withlocals.
Withlocals offered a private experience for our group of five adults and two toddlers, with no extra charge for the children. We were paired with Daly, and communication was clear and helpful from the start.
She replied promptly through the app, answered our questions, and assured us the tour could proceed at a comfortable pace for the kids and adults alike.
The Tour Overview
We booked The 10 Tastings of Panama’s Old Quarter, which takes place in Casco Viejo. The neighborhood requires a fair amount of walking on uneven streets, so it’s wise to be prepared—especially with children.
We met at the entrance of the Panama Canal Museum, and Daly opened the tour with a concise history of Panama. She connected the country’s past to its food traditions, explaining how trade, geography, and migration shaped local cuisine. That context made each tasting more meaningful.
Although the itinerary is listed as three hours, Daly was flexible and patient, allowing extra time for breaks and a slower pace. We never felt rushed, which made the whole experience much more enjoyable for everyone.
Food Stops and Highlights
The tour included ten tastings, from savory dishes to sweets, with drinks served along the way. We sampled classic Panamanian fare like empanadas and ceviche, plus other local favorites Daly selected for us.
One memorable stop was Mercado San Felipe Neri, where we enjoyed fresh fruit juices. The options were abundant and delicious; I had soursop juice while others tried lemon and pineapple. We even bought extra to take with us—easily one of the tour’s best drinks.
We also visited the Mercado de Mariscos, the city’s main fish market. After viewing the fresh seafood stalls, we sampled freshly prepared fish and ceviche nearby. The fried fish was outstanding—simple, fresh, and perfectly cooked.
The tour also took us through Panama City’s Chinatown, which highlighted the city’s cultural diversity and its influence on local cuisine.
Connection to the Community
What stood out most about Daly was her genuine commitment to the community. She went beyond guiding, intentionally supporting local businesses and vendors. Each stop had a purpose, and she explained why particular places mattered—not just for their food but for the people behind them. That emphasis on local support made the experience feel authentic and grounded.
Tips for Taking a Food Tour in Panama City
- Bring an umbrella or poncho – Light rain is common, so packing something small for showers makes walking more comfortable.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – Casco Viejo has uneven streets and the tour covers a fair amount of ground.
- Eat lightly beforehand – The tastings add up, so arrive with a small appetite to enjoy everything offered.
- Communicate needs in advance – Let your host know about kids or dietary restrictions through the booking platform’s messaging system.
- Stay hydrated – Panama’s heat and humidity can be surprising; bring water, especially for children.
- Expect flexibility – Tours with kids or larger groups may run longer; a good host will adapt the pace.
Final Thoughts
This Withlocals food tour was a highlight of our Panama City visit. It combined food, history, and local insight in a relaxed, personal way. Traveling with young children didn’t feel limiting—Daly’s flexibility and care made the tour easy and enjoyable.
If you want to explore Panama City through its food and learn about the culture behind the dishes, this tour is a thoughtful, family-friendly option.