Panama Expat Life: Bar Culture
Rethinking Happy Hour in Panama City
Rethinking Happy Hour: When in Panama...
Drinking in the US can be regarded as a sport in itself. It is not uncommon for Americans to walk into a restaurant, head straight to the bar with the sole intent to drink, and then maybe eat if they get hungry.
Here in Panama? Not so much!
Drinking here almost always accompanies eating, which is done with friends and family. It's a social activity through and through. The first time I showed up alone to a restaurant, made a beeline for the bar, and ordered "just a drink," I got a look that suggested, "Are you okay, sir? Did your dinner companions abandon you?" 😂
Where's My Neighborhood Dive Bar?
The nightlife scene in Panama isn't what many Americans might expect. If you're picturing streets lined with neon-lit bars, music pumping through open doors, and groups of revelers spilling onto sidewalks... you might want to adjust your expectations!
That's not to say Panama City doesn't have amazing spots to enjoy a drink. I've become a regular at Pedro Mandinga, which has two fantastic locations—one in the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood and another in trendy El Cangrejo. Their rum is spectacular (more on Panama's rum in a bit!). Another gem I've discovered is a small, laid-back spot called "Mangle" where you can sip premium spirits around trendy young Panamanians and feel less old (but you still old, but its OK).
And yes, for those moments when you must watch your team play while surrounded by fellow sports enthusiasts, there's a Hooters (please, I'm begging you, don't) and a Buffalo Wild Wings (locally known as B Dubs).
But that's not why you moved to Panama, is it?
The Drinking Culture Comparison
Having traveled extensively through Latin America, I've noticed some fascinating differences. In São Paulo, Brazil, I literally couldn't walk two blocks without stumbling across botecos (bars) with tables spilling onto sidewalks and passionate fans arguing about the latest futbol match guzzling Chopp (light beer). Panama offers a completely different vibe.
I wouldn't classify Panama as having a heavy drinking culture at all, which is actually refreshing after living in the US where "grabbing drinks" was practically a prerequisite for any social or business interaction. Panamanians generally enjoy their alcohol in moderation, typically with meals or during special celebrations, rather than making it the central focus of their evening. In my opinion, this is how it should be, and I feel Panama gets it right in this respect.
Take an Uber if you are going to drink
One thing Panama takes extremely seriously? Drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit here is 0.05%—significantly lower than the 0.08% we're accustomed to in the States. Since Panama implemented stricter enforcement in 2018, DUI-related accidents have dropped by about 25%, though they, unfortunately, still account for roughly 15% of traffic fatalities nationwide.
My advice? Take an Uber, they are cheap and literally arrive in minutes.
Panama's Liquid Gold: All About the Rum
Panama has a rich rum-making tradition dating back to the early 1900s, and the tropical climate here creates perfect conditions for aging premium spirits. Ron Abuelo's 12-year and 15-year varieties have won multiple gold medals at international competitions, putting Panama on the global spirits map. But what's really exciting is the emergence of boutique distilleries like Pedro Mandinga (yes, my favorite rum bar is named after their rum brand, try their Geisha coffee rum), which are bringing innovative approaches to traditional rum-making by incorporating local ingredients and unique barrel finishing techniques.
The Global Melting Pot
Despite the more reserved drinking culture, what makes Panama's bar and restaurant scene truly special is the incredible diversity of people you'll meet. On any given night at my favorite haunts, I've shared tables with retirees from Canada, digital nomads from Australia, investment bankers from Germany, and of course, wonderful local Panamanians eager to share their culture.
Everyone's story about what brought them to Panama is fascinating—whether it's the banking industry, the Canal, the hot climate, tax benefits, or simply falling in love with the country while passing through.
Ven si puedes!