Dining & Food Panama Culture Expat Life Panama Panama RestaurantsNovember 21, 20245 min read2,990 views

1739 Restaurant Panama: Award-Winning French Cuisine in Historic Jesuit Chapel

DoPanama Team

1739 Restaurant Panama: Award-Winning French Cuisine in Historic Jesuit Chapel

1739 Restaurant in Panama City offers an extraordinary fine dining experience inside the historic walls of an 18th-century Jesuit chapel at Hotel La Compania in Casco Viejo. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage site, this award-winning establishment combines French culinary excellence with sustainable local ingredients, with average dinner prices ranging from $75-120 per person according to local dining surveys.

A Historic Setting Like No Other

The flagship dining room of Hotel La Compania, 1739 takes its name from the year the adjacent Jesuit church was erected. The restaurant occupies the ancient chapel of San Xavier University, featuring magnificent Calicanto stone walls and soaring elaborate ceilings that transport diners through centuries of Panamanian colonial history.

This UNESCO World Heritage location in Casco Viejo provides an unparalleled backdrop for fine dining, where every meal becomes a journey through time. The preservation of these 18th-century architectural elements creates an atmosphere that seamlessly blends Panama's rich cultural heritage with contemporary luxury dining.

Casco Viejo receives over 2.5 million tourists annually

Source: Panama Tourism Authority

French Culinary Excellence Meets Local Sustainability

1739's kitchen philosophy centers on French culinary techniques enhanced by Panama's abundant local ingredients. The restaurant sources 80% of its produce from local sustainable farms within a 100-kilometer radius of Panama City, supporting regional agriculture while reducing environmental impact.

The menu showcases the precision and artistry of French cuisine while celebrating Panama's biodiversity. From fresh Pacific seafood to highland vegetables from Chiriquí Province, each dish reflects the restaurant's commitment to quality and sustainability. The wine program features over 300 selections, with a focus on French vintages complemented by emerging Latin American labels.

Panama's restaurant industry grew by 12% in 2023

Source: National Statistics Institute of Panama

Exceptional Service and Ambiance

Beyond the culinary experience, 1739 meticulously crafts every aspect of the dining journey. The restaurant maintains a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:3, ensuring personalized attention throughout the evening. The team actively solicits feedback both in-person and through digital platforms, using this input to continuously refine the dining experience.

The restaurant's commitment to excellence extends to every detail, from the carefully curated ambiance that honors the historic setting to the precision in food preparation and presentation. This attention to detail has earned 1739 recognition as one of Central America's premier dining destinations.

Fine dining restaurants in Panama City average 85% occupancy rates during peak season

Source: Panama Restaurant Association

1739 Restaurant exemplifies Panama City's emergence as a world-class destination, combining historic significance with culinary excellence. For expats and investors considering Panama, such establishments demonstrate the sophisticated lifestyle and cultural richness available in the country. Contact DoPanama at +507 6443-3341 for personalized guidance on relocating to Panama and discovering the best the country has to offer.

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Expert Insights

“1739 represents the pinnacle of Panama's culinary evolution, where world-class French techniques meet our incredible local ingredients in a setting that honors our colonial heritage. It's exactly the type of sophisticated dining experience that attracts discerning expats to Panama City.”
— Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama

“For our clients considering relocation to Panama, restaurants like 1739 demonstrate the high quality of life available in Panama City. The combination of UNESCO heritage settings with world-class cuisine creates a dining scene that rivals any major international city.”
— Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes 1739 Restaurant special in Panama City?

1739 is located inside an authentic 18th-century Jesuit chapel within Hotel La Compania in UNESCO World Heritage site Casco Viejo. The restaurant combines award-winning French cuisine with sustainable local ingredients in this historic setting dating from 1739.

How much does dinner cost at 1739 Restaurant?

Dinner at 1739 typically ranges from $75-120 per person, reflecting its position as one of Panama City's premier fine dining establishments. The price includes the complete culinary experience in the historic chapel setting.

Where is 1739 Restaurant located in Panama City?

1739 is located inside Hotel La Compania in Casco Viejo, Panama City's UNESCO World Heritage district. The restaurant occupies the former chapel of San Xavier University, adjacent to ruins of the original Jesuit church.

What type of cuisine does 1739 Restaurant serve?

1739 specializes in French cuisine prepared with sustainable local Panamanian ingredients. The menu showcases traditional French culinary techniques while celebrating Panama's biodiversity and regional agriculture.

Is 1739 Restaurant good for special occasions?

Yes, 1739 is ideal for special occasions with its historic 18th-century chapel setting, award-winning cuisine, and exceptional service. The unique atmosphere and world-class dining make it perfect for anniversaries, celebrations, and romantic dinners.

Do I need reservations for 1739 Restaurant?

Reservations are highly recommended for 1739 due to its popularity and limited seating within the historic chapel. The restaurant maintains high occupancy rates, especially during Panama's peak tourism season.

What is the dress code at 1739 Restaurant?

1739 maintains an upscale dress code appropriate for fine dining in a historic setting. Business casual to formal attire is recommended to match the elegant atmosphere of the 18th-century chapel location.