Cevichera La Bendición — Restaurant in Santa Ana

Rating this was tough, because after all my complaining about price and portion sizing of touristy restaurants in Panama, I actually paid the most here (19.50usd including tip) of anywhere I've visited so far. Leaving aside that the price was inflated after I accidentally ordered an extra side dish (my fault), how can I justify giving 4 stars to a place like Mahlo, but 5 to this one?

All I can tell you is that at Mahlo, all I could think about was how little food I was eating, for such a large price. Here? Nothing interfered with my enjoyment and demolition of a huge fried fish, side salad, chips and tostones (or whatever they call them here in Panama).

So yes, I paid more, but I also got a LOT more, and to be honest, I probably enjoyed it more as well. Combine this with extremely patient and quick service in an absolutely packed local restaurant and I think my rule has survived the day: when in doubt, skip the tourist friendly restaurants and eat where...

A lot of locals go here but I can't see a reason to really recommend it. Seafood place when there's much better at the market across the street. Drinks and food take forever. Staff is standing around like they're being attentive, but actually takes their sweet time doing anything. We were super polite and still couldn't get hardly two words or any gratitude from the server... she forgot our orders and got things wrong, then when we still tipped the standard rate, she acted like it was an insult. We said "gracias" repeatedly and she never once responded. Not the worst restaurant experience I've ever had, so I'm not complaining too much, but there's just so many better...

Chill spot with friendly, efficient service. They're busy so they won't chat to your ear off, but they're always ready to grab you another beer with a hand wave or a nod. Get a balboa and a ceviche and you're out the door for under $5.

Also, gluten allergy note. My wife has Celiac. All the ceviche is safe, so is the arroz con coco, she hasn't tried anything else. If you're looking for a gluten free snack this is a good spot. The ceviche does come with crackers. But they're in a plastic wrapper and you can tell them you...