Grocery Shopping in Panama: The Ultimate Guide
Grocery shopping in Panama might feel very different in comparison to the country that you are coming from. There is a strong production of local produce, but specific items are only available imported. We are aiming to give you the best overview for grocery shopping in Panama to make informed decisions about freshness, availability, and cost. Scroll to the bottom to find a conclusion and all links.
Local Produce
Panama’s tropical climate supports the cultivation of various fruits and vegetables. Common local produce includes:
- Tropical Fruits: Pineapples (piña), bananas, papayas, mangoes, and plantains are widely grown and available year-round. These fruits are typically fresh and affordably priced.
- Vegetables: Root crops like yucca (cassava), ñame (yam), and otoe (taro) are staples in the Panamanian diet. Leafy greens, peppers, and squash are also locally farmed.
Purchasing these items from local markets or directly from farmers often ensures the best prices and freshness. For instance, a pineapple might cost around $1 when bought from a local farmer, compared to higher prices in supermarkets.
Imported Produce
Due to climatic limitations, certain fruits and vegetables are not cultivated in Panama and thus are imported. These include:
- Temperate Fruits: Apples, grapes, pears, and berries are brought in from countries with suitable growing conditions. As a result, they are more expensive than local fruits. An exception are locally grown strawberries from Cerro Punta in Chiriqui, but they are pricy, too.
- Vegetables: Some varieties of lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower are imported to meet local demand, leading to higher prices compared to locally grown produce. There are local options like hydroponics that can come at a considerable cost.
Price Comparisons
Imported goods generally carry a premium due to transportation and import duties. While local bananas might sell for $0.19 per pound, imported fruits can be significantly more expensive.
Shoppers in Panama can enjoy a variety of fresh, locally grown produce at reasonable prices by frequenting local markets and understanding seasonal availability. Being aware of which items are imported can help in making cost-effective choices, especially for those mindful of their grocery budgets.
Riba Smith
Riba Smith is a high-end grocery store in Panama with a broad selection of local and imported products. It is known for carrying international brands that are difficult to find elsewhere. The store stocks fresh fish, meat, cheese, vegetables, and a variety of packaged foods. The selection of berries is considered the best among supermarkets in the country.
The pricing is significantly higher compared to other grocery stores. Imported goods, organic items, and specialty foods contribute to the premium pricing. Many of the products cater to expatriates and those seeking international food options. The aisles include goods from North America, Europe, and Asia, offering a range of sauces, snacks, and pantry staples not commonly available in other supermarkets.
Riba Smith locations feature bakeries and delis with fresh bread, pastries, desserts, and a variety of cured meats and cheeses. They include pre-prepared meals, popular among those seeking a convenient alternative to cooking at home. These sections maintain frequent restocking throughout the day. Patrons can find meal packages for lunch or dinner.
The store offers home delivery, which is useful for those who prefer to avoid in-store shopping. The delivery service covers major areas, though availability may vary based on location. Online ordering is an option, allowing customers to browse and purchase products from their homes.
Though prices are high, Riba Smith remains popular among shoppers seeking quality ingredients, specialty foods, and imported brands. The variety and freshness of the products set it apart from other supermarkets in Panama.
El Rey
El Rey is a well-established supermarket chain in Panama, offering a mix of local and imported products. It operates as a mid-to-high-end grocery store, providing a fresher and more modern shopping experience compared to some alternatives. Prices are lower than Riba Smith yet remain high, especially for imported goods. The brand attracts a broad customer base.
The store has a broad selection of products, covering fresh produce, meats, dairy, and packaged foods. The selection of imported brands is extensive, catering to expatriates and locals looking for international options. The stores are well-maintained, with organized aisles and consistent restocking.
A distinguishing feature of El Rey is the presence of Metro Plus Pharmacy inside its locations. This supports customers who need to purchase prescription medication or health-related products during grocery runs. The pharmacy section is well-stocked, carrying local and international brands of over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
El Rey offers delivery through the Tipti app, which allows customers to shop online and have groceries delivered to their homes. This service covers major urban areas, providing a practical alternative to in-store shopping.
El Rey is known for its variety and quality, yet prices remain relatively high, particularly for imported items. Shoppers seeking a midpoint between selection and cost often choose El Rey over Riba Smith, though budget-conscious customers may prefer lower-priced supermarkets.
Super 99
Super 99 is one of the most recognizable supermarket chains in Panama, offering a wide selection of groceries at lower prices than El Rey and Riba Smith. Founded by former president Ricardo Martinelli, who studied at the Sam M. Walton College of Business in Arkansas, Super 99 is built on a model similar to Walmart, focusing on affordability and efficiency.
The store provides a broad range of products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy, and household basics. A key feature is its selection of own-brand products, which are priced competitively compared to imported alternatives. The availability of budget-friendly items makes it a preferred choice for cost-conscious shoppers.
Though it focuses on affordability, Super 99 still carries imported goods, but the selection is smaller than at higher-end supermarkets. Shoppers can find international brands alongside local alternatives, allowing for a mix of price points. The layout is straightforward, designed for quick, convenient shopping.
Super 99 stores are widely distributed across Panama, making them accessible to a large portion of the population. Locations are often open late, providing extended shopping hours compared to some other supermarket chains.
The supermarket does not emphasize premium services like home delivery or gourmet selections, but it remains a strong option for those looking for a well-stocked, reasonably priced grocery store. Its combination of affordability, convenience, and a solid product range makes it one of the most visited supermarkets in the country.
Super Xtra
Xtra Market is one of the most affordable supermarket chains in Panama, focusing on budget-conscious shoppers. It offers lower prices than Super 99, El Rey, and Riba Smith, making it a popular choice for those looking to maximize their grocery budget. The store carries a wide range of practical products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy, packaged goods, and household supplies.
The selection includes both local and international brands, though the emphasis is on affordability. There are fewer high-end or specialty items compared to more expensive supermarkets. Many of the products come in bulk or economy-sized packaging, further reducing costs for shoppers. Store-brand items provide additional savings.
Xtra Market locations are designed for efficiency, with simple layouts and minimal frills. The focus is on offering the best possible prices rather than premium shopping experiences. The stores are typically larger than convenience stores but do not emphasize high-end aesthetics or specialty services.
The supermarket is widely accessible, with locations throughout the country. Some stores are open 24 hours, making it a convenient choice for late-night or early-morning grocery shopping. Unlike Riba Smith and El Rey, Xtra Market does not offer home delivery, reinforcing its position as a no-frills, in-person shopping destination.
For those prioritizing savings over imported brands and premium selections, Xtra Market provides a strong alternative. The store remains a go-to option for everyday grocery shopping at the lowest possible prices.
El Machetazo
El Machetazo is one of Panama’s most affordable and diverse retail chains, combining a supermarket with a department store. It offers a broad selection of groceries, household items, clothing, toys, tools, and even musical instruments in larger locations. The combination of low prices and a wide product range makes it a preferred option for many shoppers.
Grocery sections include fresh produce, meats, dairy, and packaged goods. The selection is practical, with a focus on affordability rather than high-end or specialty items. Imported products are available, but selection is limited compared to supermarkets like Riba Smith or El Rey.
The Nuevo Tocumen location operates 24 hours, making it one of the few around-the-clock supermarkets in the country. This is useful for late-night shopping and those with irregular schedules. The Calidonia branch is one of the largest, offering a broad range of products. The surrounding area may feel rough, but the store is well-stocked and remains a key destination for low prices on both groceries and general merchandise.
Unlike high-end supermarkets, El Machetazo does not focus on premium shopping experiences. The stores are designed for practicality, often resembling a warehouse layout. Customer service and store organization can vary by location, but the main attraction remains the low pricing and extensive product selection.
For those looking for one-stop shopping at budget-friendly prices, El Machetazo remains a top choice in Panama. The combination of groceries and general goods makes it a convenient alternative to specialized stores.
PriceSmart
PriceSmart is a membership-based warehouse club in Panama, modeled after Sam’s Club and Costco. For an annual fee of $42.80, members gain access to bulk discounts on a limited but well-selected range of products. The store focuses on larger quantities, making it a cost-effective option for families, businesses, and long-term residents who prefer to stock up on staples.
The selection is narrower than traditional supermarkets, but the store carries high-quality goods, including a strong lineup of USDA organic products. Prices on organic items are often lower than those found in standard grocery stores, making it an attractive option for those seeking better food quality at a lower cost.
Fresh beef is a standout offering at PriceSmart. All meat is sourced locally, with Panamanian cattle raised on grass, and most farmers do not use antibiotics. Pork follows a similar pattern, with many pigs raised without expensive feed additives. Chicken options include both commercially produced brands like Melo and better-quality alternatives from local family farms. Shoppers seeking cleaner meat sources at bulk pricing often prioritize PriceSmart over other supermarkets.
For those who buy in large quantities, PriceSmart provides significant savings. Single shoppers or frequent travelers may find it less practical, as bulk packaging requires storage space and a higher upfront cost. The store is a strong option for those looking to reduce grocery bills and still enjoy high-quality items. There is also a pharmacy department in each PriceSmart store.
Organica
Organica is a specialty grocery store in Panama focused on organic and health-conscious products. Comparable to Sprouts or Whole Foods in the U.S., it operates on a smaller scale, similar to European stores like Alnatura or Reformhaus. The store carries a curated selection of organic foods, natural supplements, and specialty health products, catering to those with dietary restrictions or a preference for clean-label ingredients.
All major American organic brands are available, covering categories like packaged foods, snacks, dairy alternatives, and superfoods. The supplement section is extensive, featuring niche products that are difficult to find in conventional supermarkets. This makes Organica a preferred choice for those looking for specific vitamins, herbal remedies, or specialty wellness products.
Prices are high compared to other supermarkets, reflecting the premium nature of the products. Affordability is not a major focus, and the store distinguishes itself through product quality and knowledgeable staff. Employees are generally well-trained, offering guidance on supplements, dietary choices, and product benefits. As in any store, service quality may vary, but the overall level of expertise surpasses what is typically found in Panama’s grocery chains.
For shoppers focused on organic and health-oriented products, Organica provides the best selection in Panama. Though costly, the combination of specialty foods, expert staff, and exclusive brands makes it the go-to option for those prioritizing quality over price. There are alternatives to Organica, like markets and delivery-only options, discussed in this article.
https://organicastore.com/
Super Kosher
Some people say, Super Kosher, located in the Pacific Center Mall in Panama City, is the largest kosher supermarket outside of Israel. It provides a wide selection of certified kosher foods, including fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and imported items from the U.S. and Israel. The store features a bakery and both meat and dairy restaurants, catering to various dietary needs. Super Kosher offers online shopping for customer convenience with delivery options for the same day if you order early in the day. Its comprehensive range and quality service make it a preferred choice for those adhering to kosher dietary laws in Panama.
PedidosYa
PedidosYa is Panama’s leading on-demand delivery platform, offering fast delivery from restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmacies. The service is part of Delivery Hero, a company well known in Europe for its dominance in the online food delivery industry. Availbel
Unlike traditional grocery stores, PedidosYa functions as a logistics service, connecting users with retailers rather than stocking products itself. The app allows customers to order from major supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty shops, making it a flexible alternative to in-person shopping. In addition to groceries, it provides access to pharmacy products, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Delivery times are fast, often within an hour, depending on location and store selection. Service availability varies by region, with better coverage in urban areas. Fees are added based on distance and retailer pricing, making costs higher than shopping in-store. Discounts and promotions are sometimes available, particularly for frequent users or during special campaigns.
It does not replace the experience of browsing a supermarket, but the ability to order groceries, meals, and pharmacy products from a single app makes it a practical solution for busy schedules.
Village and Corner Shops
Small grocery shops, commonly referred to as “chino” by locals, are found throughout Panama, including in the most remote villages. These convenience stores, almost all operated by Chinese owners, provide basic household goods, packaged foods, snacks, and beverages. Many also stock fresh produce, dairy, and meat in limited quantities. Prices are generally higher than in supermarkets, but the convenience and accessibility make them a vital resource, especially in rural areas where larger grocery chains are unavailable. Most “chinos” operate long hours, often from early morning until late at night, ensuring that essential goods are always within reach.
Conclusion
Grocery shopping in Panama offers a variety of options depending on budget, selection, and convenience. Ordering online can save time, but visiting each store at least once helps to understand product availability and pricing differences.
For the best selection and specialty products, El Rey, Riba Smith, and Organica provide a wide range of imported goods, organic products, and premium groceries. These stores cater to those looking for international brands and high-quality ingredients.
For lower-cost shopping, El Machetazo, Xtra Market, and Super 99 offer affordable groceries, including store-brand products and bulk packaging. These options are ideal for those prioritizing savings over premium selections.
For bulk purchases at the lowest prices, PriceSmart is the best option. The membership-based warehouse store provides discounts on large-quantity items, making it suitable for families and businesses looking to stock up.
For fast and convenient grocery delivery, PedidosYa connects customers with supermarkets and pharmacies, offering same-day service in urban areas. This is the most efficient way to shop without visiting a store.
If you are looking for kosher products, Super Kosher, offers the broadest selection of kosher products in Panama City. If you order early enough in the day they deliver same day after 7:30pm.
Each supermarket serves a different purpose, and understanding the strengths of each can make grocery shopping in Panama more efficient and cost-effective. Find here a separate article specifically about organic produce that will include information about local markets, too.
