Panama is never short on Americanized conveniences such as fast food drive thrus and drinkable tap water. The food scene in Panama never fails to surprise either. In some neighborhoods you can get top quality sushi, traditional Panamanian food, killer pizza and vegetarian Chinese within walking distance of each other. For me this is one of the biggest perks of living in Panama City. El Cangrejo, which I have grown to admire, boasts hundreds of restaurants and bars to suit any budget or palette.
El Burger Bar in El Cangrejo serves better than average quality burgers and sides in a comfortable, clean atmosphere with surprisingly friendly staff and management. You can build your own burger from any type of cheese, toppings or bun that you prefer or order a predesigned burger from the menu. I recommend pairing your burger with their seasoned curly fries and cilantro salsa and ordering a Panama to wash it down. You may end up paying around $10 for the burger, fries and drink; but, you’re not getting the typical $1 Panamanian street burger either. The atmosphere is casual and the wait staff seems genuinely yet strangely happy all of the time. They also have several big screen TV’s throughout the entire restaurant which air nearly every major televised sporting event. Upstairs is a nice bar/lounge area which serves specials and half price drinks during happy hour (another reminiscent of home). If you’re looking for a place to relax have some good burgers and cold beer, watch a game or drink with friends El Burger Bar is ideal. They are located close to Via Espana en El Cangrejo.