Panama City’s cooking classes offer authentic ways to learn Central American cuisine firsthand. The standout experiences include a spirited 10-recipe class featuring national favorites like arroz con pollo and carimanolas, complete with local drinks. I’m especially fond of the 4-hour market-to-kitchen tour, where you’ll shop with experts before preparing fresh ceviche and pollo guisado. Chef Dave’s 3-hour Afropanamanian cooking session provides an intimate look at the country’s rich cultural heritage through its food.
These hands-on classes work well for both novice cooks and kitchen veterans, with instructors who really know their stuff and speak good English. You’ll leave with practical skills and genuine understanding of Panama’s food traditions.
Check out these top cooking experiences in Panama City:
Key Points
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Panamanian cooking classes in Panama City offer a range of options, including boozy, guided, and Afropanamanian experiences, catering to various skill levels and cultural interests.
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Classes are priced between $70 to $85 per person and last 3 to 4.5 hours, with a maximum of 8-10 participants for personalized attention.
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Hands-on learning opportunities focus on traditional Panamanian dishes, such as arroz con pollo, carimanolas, ceviche, and Pollo Guisado, along with the use of local ingredients.
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Cooking classes provide a chance to immerse in Panamanian culture through market visits, interaction with vendors, and exposure to traditional cooking techniques like hand-grinding maíz.
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Experienced and engaging instructors, such as Tanya, Winnie, and Chef Dave, deliver high-quality classes with a welcoming atmosphere and positive participant feedback.
10-Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class
The Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class offers an engaging culinary experience in the heart of Panama City. Priced at $85 per person, the class promises a hands-on exploration of traditional Panamanian dishes, including the beloved arroz con pollo and carimanolas.
Participants can expect a maximum of 10 travelers per session, ensuring an intimate setting that fosters interaction and personalized attention from the friendly chefs, such as Tanya and Winnie.
The 4-hour class is available in English and two additional languages, ending back at the original meeting point. Guests can look forward to learning how to prepare a variety of Panamanian specialties, including mojitos and sauces to complement the meals.
With a focus on understanding local ingredients and their uses, the class provides an opportunity to develop practical cooking skills suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced cooks.
Read our full review: 10-Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class Review
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4-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience
Set out on a captivating Panamanian culinary adventure with the 4.5-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience. Priced from $85 per person, this hands-on class offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Explore the vibrant markets, interact with friendly vendors, and select the freshest ingredients for your authentic Panamanian dishes.
The cooking class itself is an engaging, educational experience. Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll learn traditional recipes like Ceviche, Pollo Guisado, and Carimanolas, using techniques like hand-grinding maíz.
Savor your creations, including a starter, main course, and dessert, complemented by unlimited cocktails, sodas, and juices. With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized and comfortable learning environment.
Participants consistently praise the quality of the food, the knowledgeable instructors, and the overall culture.
Depart with newfound cooking skills and a deeper appreciation for Panamanian cuisine.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience Review
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3-hour Afropanamanian Cooking Experience in Panama
After the vibrant Panamanian cooking class, dive into a captivating 3-hour Afropanamanian culinary experience.
Led by the charismatic Chef Dave, this interactive class encourages participation from novices to experienced cooks. The focus is on hands-on learning, cultural connection, and culinary education, with an emphasis on using fresh, local ingredients typical of Panamanian cuisine.
Participants will learn to prepare traditional Afropanamanian dishes, taste their creations, and explore various cooking techniques.
Chef Dave’s comprehensive knowledge, especially in Panamanian and Latin American cuisine, shines through as he provides patient guidance and encouragement, even for beginners. The welcoming and familial environment, along with Chef Dave’s humor and storytelling, foster a sense of community and enjoyment among the participants.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 40 reviews, this experience is a must-try for those seeking an educational and delightful culinary adventure in Panama City.
The starting price of $70 per person comes with a lowest price guarantee, making it an accessible option for travelers.
Read our full review: 3-hour Afropanamanian Cooking Experience in Panama Review
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The Sum Up
Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Panama City through engaging cooking classes. From boozy Panamanian fare to traditional Afro-Panamanian dishes, these hands-on experiences offer a delectable dive into the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, these classes promise to elevate your cooking skills and palate, leaving you with lasting memories of Panama’s flavorful delights.