The Mercado de Mariscos is Panama City’s beloved seafood market, sitting on Avenida Balboa at the edge of Casco Viejo where the fishing boats come in. One side is the working market, where the day’s catch arrives fresh from the sea starting before dawn, while the other side is lined with casual eateries and stalls cooking that same seafood just moments later, a rare chance to eat catch this fresh at street-food prices.
The star attraction is ceviche, Panama’s citrus-cured seafood, sold in cups for pocket change from busy counters and available in numerous styles from classic corvina to shrimp, octopus, and mixed versions. Alongside it you will find fried fish, hearty seafood soups, and cold beers, all served in a loud, salty, utterly authentic setting that is a rite of passage for visitors and a daily habit for many locals.
Part market, part open-air food hall, the Mercado de Mariscos is as much an experience as a meal. The energy, the smells, and the constant activity of vendors and diners make it one of the most memorable places to eat in the city, and one of the cheapest.
Come hungry and dressed casually, ideally around midday when everything is freshest and liveliest, for a genuinely local seafood feast. It is a great fit for adventurous eaters, budget-minded travelers, and anyone wanting the real thing over a polished restaurant. Note that the market is open daily except the third Monday of each month, when it closes for cleaning.
At a glance:
Open daily from around 6am to 5pm, except the third Monday of each month when it closes for a thorough cleaning.
On Avenida Balboa at the entrance to Casco Viejo, Panama City, next to the Cinta Costera.
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August 26,2019
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Mercado de Mariscos is a restaurants in Panama City, Panama. On this page you’ll find its location on the map, contact details and reviews.
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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