Fonda Lo Que Hay is chef Jose Olmedo Carles’ buzzing, neon-lit reinvention of the traditional Panamanian fonda — the humble neighborhood eatery. Set in a corrugated-metal dining room in Casco Viejo, it swaps white tablecloths for cocktail-bar energy while taking street and market food seriously, earning a spot on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
The menu changes constantly to spotlight whatever is fresh and local — “lo que hay,” or “whatever there is.” A near-permanent signature is the toasted yuca with tuna and onion, joined by rotating ceviches, grilled seafood, and elevated versions of Panamanian comfort classics. The vibe is loud, fun, and unmistakably local.
Perfect for a lively dinner with friends or a first taste of contemporary Panamanian cooking without the formality, Fonda Lo Que Hay rewards those who go with an open mind. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
Modern Panamanian fonda-style cooking with a constantly changing menu built around fresh local ingredients; the toasted yuca with tuna is a signature.
On Calle Jose de Obaldia, ground floor of Edificio El Colegio, in Casco Antiguo, Panama City.
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August, 2026
Tuesday
9:00 pm - 9:15 pm
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August 26,2019
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Fonda Lo Que Hay is a restaurants in Panama City, on Panama’s Pacific coast in the Coronado beach corridor (Playa Coronado area, Panamá Oeste / Coclé). On this page you’ll find its location on the map, contact details, phone number and reviews. You can call +507 202-6892 or use the contact button to get in touch.
Serving: Panama City and the nearby Pacific beach towns of Coronado, Nueva Gorgona, San Carlos, El Palmar, Santa Clara, Punta Chame and Playa Blanca.
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