(Panama Gringo) Spotlight this week on the relatively smaller city of Chitre, on the eastern coast of Panama’s Ezuero Peninsula. Though it’s smaller than the more popular destinations like Panama City and Colon, Chitre has plenty to keep you entertained.
Where to eat – Pan & Cake
I’d suggest you start with breakfast at the Pan & Cake, located on Calle Belarmino Urriola. This popular little shop has delightful pastries that will set your day in the right mode. They are also well known for their ice cream, so either plan on having dessert with your breakfast, or else plan on coming back later during the day.
Salsa y Carbon
A great spot for lunch is Salsa y Carbon on Calle Francisco Corro, right across the from the stadium. You might want to check for events at the stadium, just before or after an event you may find yourself waiting for a table. The atmosphere here is casual and friendly. The chef is willing to select your meal for you if you’d like to be surprised. There’s also a playground for the children, so either bring your own or be prepared to eat to the sounds of children playing.
Acacia
Wrap of your three meals of the day with Chinese, the best Chinese you’ll find. Located on Avenida Julio Arjona, right around the corner from Salsa y Carbon, just on the other side of the stadium.
Hotel Bali Panama
If you’re looking for a place to sleep that’s close to the town center at the end of your busy day in Chitre, check out Hotel Bali Panama. It’s an older establishment, but well maintained and quite popular. They offer Indonesian food which is a nice treat and the beds are comfortable. If you aren’t accustomed to living like the locals, prepare yourself for a cool shower. Lack of hot water is normal in many places, and if you’ve had a long day exploring the area, you’ll find the shower refreshing.
Gran Hotel Azuero
A different option for rooming would be the Gran Hotel Azuero located on Calle Manuel Maria Correa, Highway 2. This is a larger hotel with a delightful swimming pool and many of the rooms overlook the pool.
While you are in the area be sure to visit the beautiful coastline and bring your camera.