Maito
The flagship restaurant of Chef Mario Castrellón, ranked 18th in Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025, telling Panama's multicultural story through a tasting menu.
Located on Calle 50 in the San Francisco neighborhood, Maito became the first Central American restaurant to enter Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants list in 2016, ranking 18th in 2025 and named the best restaurant in Panama that year. Chef Mario Castrellón blends Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous, Asian, and Creole flavors to offer a 9- to 11-course tasting menu, alongside an à la carte menu. Shrimp wontons and Chombasia fish are frequently praised dishes. Reviews are mixed regarding its value for money. The storefront is relatively inconspicuous; booking in advance is recommended, and taking a taxi from the city center is the most convenient way to get there.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat approx. 12:00–22:00 (some sources state until 22:30), closed Sun
Nearby sights
- Panamá Viejo
- Metropolitan Natural Park
- Mercado de Mariscos
- Palacio de las Garzas
- Casco Viejo
- Metropolitan Cathedral, Panama City
- Panama Canal Museum
- Plaza de Francia & Las Bóvedas