If you’re traveling or living in Panama, sooner or later you’ll need to visit a grocery store. Whether you’re a backpacker cooking in a hostel kitchen, an expat settling in for a longer stay, or a traveler stocking up for a road trip through the mountains and beaches, grocery shopping in Panama can be a fun and sometimes surprising experience. While the country has modern supermarkets comparable to those in North America or Europe, it also has traditional markets, small neighborhood stores, and local produce stands that offer a completely different way to shop.
One of the first things travelers notice when grocery shopping in Panama is the mix of familiar international products and local specialties. Imported foods from the United States, Europe, and other parts of Latin America sit alongside tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and traditional Panamanian ingredients. Many supermarkets carry American brands, making it relatively easy for foreigners to find things like cereal, peanut butter, pasta, and snacks. However, the real joy of grocery shopping in Panama comes from discovering the local foods that are part of everyday life.
Fresh produce is widely available throughout the country, and Panama’s tropical climate means there is always something in season. Markets and grocery stores are filled with fruits such as pineapple, papaya, mango, passion fruit, and plantains. Vegetables like yucca, otoe, squash, and chayote are staples in Panamanian kitchens. Prices for locally grown fruits and vegetables are often very affordable, especially if you buy them from roadside stands or farmers markets instead of large supermarkets.
In many cities and towns, you will also find traditional public markets known as “mercados.” One of the most famous examples is Mercado de Mariscos, a bustling seafood market where locals and visitors can buy freshly caught fish, shrimp, and ceviche. These markets offer an authentic glimpse into everyday Panamanian life and often have better prices than supermarkets for fresh ingredients.
For travelers who prefer the convenience of large supermarkets, Panama has a number of modern grocery store chains that operate throughout the country. These stores are generally clean, well organized, and stocked with a wide range of products including fresh food, imported goods, household supplies, and even electronics.
One of the most recognizable grocery chains in the country is Super 99. Founded by the family of former Panamanian president Ricardo Martinelli, Super 99 stores are found across much of the country. These supermarkets are known for having good prices and a wide variety of everyday items. Many locals consider Super 99 a reliable place for affordable groceries.
Another extremely popular supermarket chain is Rey. Rey supermarkets are often a little more upscale than some other chains and tend to carry a wider selection of imported foods. If you are looking for specialty items, international cheeses, or harder-to-find ingredients, Rey is often a good place to start.
For travelers who want a very modern supermarket experience, Riba Smith is one of the most famous grocery chains in the country. These stores are known for their high-quality products, excellent bakeries, and large selection of imported foods. Riba Smith is especially popular with expats and travelers looking for American or European products, although prices can be higher than other supermarkets.
Another well-known chain is El Machetazo. These stores are unique because they combine a supermarket with a department store. In addition to groceries, shoppers can buy clothing, electronics, household goods, and appliances all in the same building. It’s essentially a one-stop shop for many everyday needs.
Budget-conscious shoppers often visit Xtra. These supermarkets focus on low prices and basic groceries. The selection may not be as large or as international as some of the higher-end chains, but they are excellent places to shop if you are trying to keep costs down.
Another common chain throughout Panama is Romero. Romero supermarkets are particularly common in the western provinces such as Chiriquí and are very popular with locals. They offer a solid mix of local products, fresh produce, and everyday groceries.
For travelers staying in mountain towns like Boquete or passing through cities like David, Romero is often the most convenient and commonly visited supermarket chain.
In addition to large supermarkets, Panama also has many small neighborhood convenience stores called “mini supers.” These stores are usually family-run businesses and are found in almost every neighborhood and village. While the selection is smaller than in a supermarket, mini supers are perfect for buying snacks, drinks, beer, basic groceries, and household items without having to travel far.
Another interesting part of grocery shopping in Panama is the presence of roadside produce stands. Along highways and rural roads you will often see small wooden stalls selling fruits, vegetables, and sometimes homemade foods. These stands usually sell produce that was grown locally, and the quality is often excellent.
Many travelers are surprised by how affordable fresh food can be in Panama when it is locally grown. Pineapples, bananas, avocados, and mangoes are often extremely cheap compared to prices in North America or Europe.
Seafood is another highlight of grocery shopping in a tropical country surrounded by two oceans. Fish, shrimp, and other seafood products are commonly available in supermarkets and markets. In coastal regions the seafood is often incredibly fresh because it comes directly from local fishermen.
Bread and baked goods are also easy to find throughout Panama. Most supermarkets have bakeries that produce fresh bread, pastries, and cakes daily. Local bakeries also exist in many towns and often sell delicious traditional treats.
When it comes to meat, supermarkets usually have butcher sections where customers can buy chicken, beef, pork, and sometimes specialty cuts. Imported meats are also available in larger supermarkets.
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are widely available as well. However, some imported cheeses and specialty dairy products can be expensive due to import costs.
International foods are relatively easy to find in Panama compared to many countries in the region. Large supermarkets often have sections dedicated to imported products from the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Payment methods in supermarkets are straightforward. Most large grocery stores accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Contactless payment is becoming more common in bigger cities.
Opening hours are generally convenient. Many supermarkets stay open late, and some operate nearly 24 hours a day in larger cities.
One thing travelers should keep in mind is that plastic bag policies vary. Some stores charge a small fee for bags, while others encourage shoppers to bring reusable bags.
Another tip is to always bring small bills or coins when shopping at markets or roadside stands, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Shopping at grocery stores in Panama can be both practical and enjoyable. It offers travelers a glimpse into everyday life while also providing access to familiar foods and exciting new ingredients.
Whether you’re browsing the aisles of a modern supermarket, bargaining at a local market, or buying fresh fruit from a roadside stand, grocery shopping in Panama becomes part of the adventure of traveling through this vibrant country. 🥭🛒🌴