The restaurants below have been grouped into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over $45)
$$$ ($25 to $45)
$$ ($10 to $25)
$ (up to $10)
The prices quoted are for an average three-course meal and for a bottle of house wine or cheapest equivalent per person; they include service charges and taxes but not tip.

Restaurante 1985
The city's best restaurant is this Panama City institution, which boasts exquisite Continental cuisine, flawless service, unparalleled elegance and a lengthy wine list to boot. The specials change daily, though every dish highlights the chef's incredible talents.

Chalet Suizo, Calle Eusebio A Morales
Tel: 263 8541.
Website: www.1985.com
Price: $$$$

Restaurante Las Bóvedas
Arguably the most atmospheric restaurant in the city, this French-Latin fusion spot is housed in the vault of a centuries-old fort. Although it used to be a prison, guests don't seem to be bothered once they dig into the gourmet cuisine.

Plaza de Francia
Tel: 228 8058.
Price: $$$$

Manolo Caracol
Adored by locals and tourists alike, this legendary tapas joint serves a prix-fix five course lunch and seven course dinner that can't be beaten. The menu is always imaginative, and draws on both local and international culinary themes.

Avenida Central and Calle 3 Oeste
Tel: 228 4640.
Website: http://manolocaracol.net
Price: $$$

Masala Indian Cuisine
If you're looking to spice things up a bit, this adorable restaurant will put a fire in your belly. If thing get a little too hot to handle, you can always wash down your curry with an ice-cold lager.

42E Este
Tel: 225 0105.
Price: $$

Brooklyn Cafe
Occupying a bustling street corner in the colonial district, this neighbourhood coffee shop specialises in gourmet coffees and rich pastries. If you're looking for a spot to take a break, this is the perfect place to slow down and soak up the buzz of the streets.

Calle 1a Oeste
Tel: 228 3432.
Price: $