Panamainfo.com

Due to its unique geographical position as a land and ocean crossroads, Panama has a rich historical heritage. Near present day Panama City, the Spanish conquistador Vasco Nuñez de Balboa became the first European to view the Pacific Ocean. Columbus dropped anchor repeatedly on Panama's Caribbean Coast, taking advantage of the protected waters of Bocas del Toro and attempting to establish a colony there. President Theodore Roosevelt came to Panama to inspect progress on the construction of the Panama Canal, which he regarded as the greatest achievement of his presidency.

Panama has its own unique and rich cuisine. As a land bridge between two continents Panama is blessed by nature with an unusual variety of tropical fruits, vegetables and herbs that are used in native cooking. Also, as a crossroads of the world, Panama's cuisine is influenced by its diverse population of Hispanic, native Indian, European, African and even Chinese migrations.

The following are descriptions of some of Panama's most popular native dishes.