THE BEST MICROBREWERIES IN PANAMA CITY
Nothing drives one to drink like a dramatic, unexpected breakup. Being the the practical girl that I am, I figured I’d turn lemons into lemonade by setting out on a tour of some of Panama City’s best microbreweries while I am in “drowning my sorrows” mode. Seriously though, I really love good beer, a chill atmosphere and supporting local businesses, so win, win, AND win. Here in Panama City, the microbrewery landscape has transformed dramatically over the past few years, with local brewers blending international brewing techniques with distinctly Panamanian flavors and ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or simply curious about sampling local flavors, Panama City’s craft breweries offer something special. From tropical fruit-infused ales to local coffee-infused stouts, these cervecerías showcase the innovative spirit and rich cultural influences that make Panama unique.
Join me as I explore my top picks for the best microbreweries in Panama City, Panama.
Casa Bruja
Award winning brews out of Costa del Este
Cervecería Central
Neighborhood favorite: El Cangrejo & San Francisco
Founded in 2013, Casa Bruja is one of Panama’s original microbreweries. With over 60 recipes and 40 medals, Casa Bruja serves up signature beers like Chivoperro IPA and Sir Francis Drake English Porter out of their expanded taproom in the heart Costa del Este. Weekend brewery tours offer behind-the-scenes insights into their brewing process and philosophy. Rotating seasonal offerings often incorporate local Panamanian ingredients like tropical fruits and coffee. Check instagram.com/casabrujabrew for live music, promotions and cultural events.
Cervecería Central is the little microbrewery that packs a mighty punch. In fact, it’s one of my local favorites for many reasons: amazing beer, awesome music,delicious food and a vibe that’s on point. I love grabbing a table outside on Vía Argentina, ordering a Arribada Kolsch or Inmortal Red Lager and watching the world go by. Each location has a lineup of weekly events from live music to karaoke and stand up to trivia. For event updates and more information, check instagram.com/cerveceriacentral. Salud!
La Rana Dorada
Something for every taste around every corner
3 Gatos Cervecería
Expat and pet friendly
La Rana Dorada operates a whopping 11 brewpubs throughout Panama City, each with its own unique atmosphere. Their core lineup includes an acclaimed Pale Ale, Pils, Porter, Belgian-style Blanche and my favorite, citrusy Radler. The Spanish colonial Casco Viejo location offers warm a environment and full menu specifically designed to complement their beer offerings. Special releases showcase experimental brewing and limited-edition collaborations starring the flavors of Panamá. Take a behind the scenes tour in Tumba Muerto, where you can check out the process and go home with four of your favorite picks.
Cozy 3 Gatos Cerveceria in El Cangrejo is known for their adventurous flavor combinations, super-attentive staff and weekly events that draw in the crowds. Come for Wednesday $2 draft beers, watch for food truck pop ups or check out their instagram feed for an assortment of live music on the weekends with rock, jazz and disco just to name a few. The owners at 3 Gatos speak excellent English and are very popular with the expat crowd. With a pet friendly policy, you can grab your amigos, your favorite fur baby and plan to stay a while. If you are looking for something a little different, I highly recommend trying a glass of their yummy cider.
La Fabrica
Steam punk vibes on Amador Causeway
Cervecería Clandestina
Available in restaurants and Pedidos Ya
Steam punk La Fabrica on the Amador Causeway is always brewing up fabulous, entertainment as well as delicious beer. With plenty of open air seating and a nice breeze, this is my favorite watering hole away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Menu staples like Dictador IPA and Mama Yo Quiero Hefe Belgium are crowd pleasers and pair perfectly with a yummy burger or tacos and good friends. If you can’t choose, just one, you can always order a flight. Keep an eye on their IG for fun promotions and events like the beer mile, bottomless beer night, Oktoberfest and live music.
Cerveceria Clandestina, like its name suggests is a hidden gem known mainly to local beer enthusiasts and industry insiders. This microbrewery specializes in Belgian-inspired ales with tropical Panamanian twists. No fixed taproom – operates as a “nomadic brewery” with pop-up events. There is a strong following for their limited-release barrel-aged offerings. Their unique offerings are available at select craft beer bars, through Pedidos Ya for home delivery. Monthly subscription service delivers experimental brews directly to your door.
Each brewery I’ve explored brings something unique to the table: distinctive brewing philosophies, commitment to local ingredients, or community-focused taproom experiences. As a visitor or resident, supporting these local microbreweries contributes directly to Panama’s growing reputation as a craft beer destination. The next time you find yourself in PTY, skip the mass-produced brews and dive into this vibrant beer culture instead!
Have you visited any of these exceptional Panama City breweries? Which one sounds most appealing to you? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below, and don’t forget to bookmark this guide for your next trip to Panama City!