Of canals and coffee: Panama 🇵🇦

Panama is home to the canal, of course, and to a Geisha that ranks among the rarest and most expensive kinds of coffee in the world. Yana moved here from Canada and, in the process of building Leto Coffee Brew Bar and Roastery, found home. Her Filter guide to her adopted city is a guide to the beaches and neighborhoods of a coffee-producing nation with a rich history and a vibrant contemporary scene.

*Yana helped create Leto Coffee Brew Bar and Roastery in Panama City, Panama. Photos courtesy of Yana*

Filter: What do you like to do for fun around Panama City?

Well, welcome to Panama City, guys—to a vibrant metropolis with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and great coffee, of course!

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or modern urban life, Panama City welcomes everyone with a diverse range of experiences and warm Latin American hospitality.

Having a blast in Panama City usually involves checking out the cool vibes in Casco Viejo with amazing restaurants such as Fonda Lo Que Hay (fusión Panamanian cuisine to die for 🤌🏼), hitting up the Panama Canal (must-see!), or chilling at the beach. Don’t forget to dive into some local bars, explore the nightlife, and maybe squeeze in some outdoor adventures like hiking, surfing, or island hopping! Lots of fun stuff to do around here!

Filter: Favorite bars and restaurants?

MANGLE, Amano Bar, Mai Mai, Miranda Bakery & Cafe, Tacos la Neta San Francisco, Casa Bruja Brewing Co., and Cervecería Legítima. Last two are my favorite beer breweries.

Filter: If a good friend came to visit, where would you be sure to take them?

Ufff, it’s hard to choose one place but I would love to take them to Contadora Island! For me it is like this little slice of heaven in Panama. The beaches are insane—powdery white sand and turquoise waters that make you feel like you’re in a postcard. Snorkeling is a must, the underwater scene is like a colorful aquarium.

The island is pretty small, but there are these cozy little places to stay, and the food is out of this world—Casa Tortuga is my favorite place to eat. Their pizza and carpaccio de atún are to die for! The island is not crowded, which adds to the whole relaxed vibe. If you’re into a quiet, tropical escape, Contadora is the place to be.

Filter: What do you like to do to escape the city?

To escape the hustle of Panama City, consider exploring the nearby rainforests, like Gamboa or relaxing at beaches such as Venao. Lots of sunscreen, insect spray, and a chill mindset are your best friends. Check the weather ‘cause tropical surprises happen. Also, grab some basic Spanish phrases 😝 locals love it.

Don't be in a rush—it's Panama time! 🦥

Filter: What touristy things in Panama City are worth the hype?

The Panama Canal is a must-see—the engineering is mind-blowing. Casco Viejo, as I said before—it’s a historic charm and cool cafes are worth the stroll. For a unique experience, check out Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry. And if you're up for a day trip, the vibrant indigenous market in Gamboa is a cultural gem.

Filter: Where are your favorite quiet corners?

Amador Causeway is a peaceful walk with a killer skyline view 👌 Clayton neighborhood is amazing for walking or riding onewheel (if you don’t have one, the bike works too!) These are my absolutely favorite places to have that perfect combo of tranquility and Panama's unique charm.

Filter: What's another coffee shop around there that you really admire, and what about them stands out to you?

In Panama City, the coffee scene is a whole vibe! Seriously, there are lots of cool and unique coffee joints. Café Unido, Mentiritas Blancas, Sisu—they're all about Panama's coffee diversity, and the atmosphere is just so cozy. But honestly, you can't go wrong exploring different spots, each coffee shop has its own charm and flavor. It's like a caffeine adventure around every corner!

Filter: What makes Panama City feel most like home to you?

To be honest it took some time for me to feel like home here in Panama. As a coffee business owner, Panama feels like home because it's a canvas for the perfect coffee culture. The diversity of coffee beans, the fusion of tradition with a modern twist—it's a reflection of what I love about Leto. The warmth of the locals and the energy of the city amplify the sense of belonging. Creating a space where people can taste unique Panamanian brews, chat, work, go for brunch and feel like home—that's what makes Panama City the heart of my coffee haven.

Filter: How did you get involved in the Panama City coffee scene?

Originally I am from Russia, but used to live in Canada for a long time. Fun fact: In Toronto I tried Panamanian Geisha for the very first time. At that moment I didn’t know that life going to bring me to Panama 😅

The first year in Panama was frustrating, I had a love-hate relationship with this country. Adjusting to Panama from Canada was a mixed bag. Navigating a new language and lifestyle is very challenging, yet the beauty of the country makes it worthwhile. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, embracing the unfamiliar while missing the comforts of home.

Long story short, but building a coffee business and being part of great community transformed it into a place that feels like home. It's amazing how time and determination can turn challenges into rewarding experiences.

Filter: If you could move to any place in the world just for the coffee scene, where would you move?

I think I got extremely lucky and I am where I wish to be! Panama, especially Boquete, steals the show with its Geisha coffee. The perfect blend of climate and altitude makes Panama my coffee haven, turning every sip into a journey through the lush coffee landscapes of this Central American gem.

Filter: Anything you’d like to add?

For the ultimate Panama experience, plan your visit during the dry season, from mid-December to mid-April. You'll soak up the sunshine, explore without rain interruptions, and make the most of the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.

Cheers to a fantastic Panama adventure!

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Leto Coffee Brew Bar & Roastery operates 3 locations across Panama City, Panama.

Leto - Obarrio

Leto - Costa del Este

Leto - San Francisco

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