1739
Panama
1739 brings French cooking to one of the most atmospheric corners of Hotel La Compañía in Panama City's Casco Antiguo. The restaurant occupies a former chapel associated with the San Xavier university complex, beside the ruins of the old Jesuit church. High ceilings and substantial calicanto walls give dinner an unusually tangible connection to the neighbourhood's past. The kitchen takes classical French cuisine as its starting point, introducing contemporary touches within a recognisable bistro tradition. This is a considered hotel restaurant for a leisurely meal, with the architecture providing a memorable backdrop to the food. Wine is central to the experience. The hotel's extensive collection supports the restaurant, while a historic cellar offers a more secluded setting for private dining. That intimate space adds another dimension for small celebrations and gatherings built around a shared interest in wine. For visitors exploring Casco Antiguo, 1739 makes a natural evening destination after time among its plazas and historic buildings. Its appeal lies in the combination of French culinary character, a substantial wine offering and a setting that belongs unmistakably to old Panama.