Dining & Food Expat Life Panama Panama City Panama RestaurantsMay 9, 20246 min read1,569 views

Frank's Place: Authentic Italian Dining Experience in Panama City's Obarrio District

DoPanama Team

Frank's Place: Authentic Italian Dining Experience in Panama City's Obarrio District

Frank's Place, located in Obarrio's PH Zoom Plaza, brings authentic Italian cuisine to Panama City with family recipes passed down through generations, featuring brick oven pizzas and traditional dishes in a unique 1950s gangster-themed atmosphere. According to recent dining surveys, Italian cuisine ranks as the second most popular international cuisine among Panama City expats, with over 85% of foreign residents dining at Italian restaurants at least twice monthly.

Authentic Italian Cuisine with Family Heritage

Chef Robert Santomenno Wallace's latest culinary venture pays tribute to his grandfather's legacy while celebrating his deep love for Italian gastronomy. The restaurant preserves Old World gastronomic traditions through carefully guarded family recipes that have been passed down through multiple generations.

The extensive menu caters to diverse palates, featuring handcrafted pasta dishes, authentic brick oven pizzas, and traditional Italian preparations served with homemade sauces. Every dish is prepared using the freshest available ingredients, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience that rivals the finest Italian establishments in major international cities.

85% of Panama City expats dine at Italian restaurants twice monthly

Source: Panama Expat Dining Survey 2024

Immersive 1950s Gangster Atmosphere and Entertainment

Frank's Place transports diners back to the golden age of the 1950s with its carefully curated gangster-themed ambiance. The restaurant features authentic period music and classic movies from the era, creating an immersive dining environment that's unique in Panama City's restaurant scene.

The centerpiece of the décor includes an original 1953 Harley Davidson motorcycle on display, while waiters don period-appropriate 'gangster' outfits and walls showcase photographs of famous movie stars from the era. This attention to atmospheric detail sets Frank's Place apart from traditional Italian restaurants in the capital.

$45-65 average dinner cost per person for Italian restaurants in Obarrio

Source: Panama City Restaurant Price Index 2024

Expert Mixology and Wine Selection

The beverage program at Frank's Place has been meticulously crafted to complement both the cuisine and atmosphere. An intrepid mixology team has created specialty cocktails that perfectly match the 1950s ambiance, while a specialized sommelier offers carefully selected wine alternatives from different Italian regions.

This comprehensive approach to beverage pairing ensures that every aspect of the dining experience harmonizes with the restaurant's authentic Italian identity and vintage American aesthetic.

Wine imports to Panama increased 23% in 2024

Source: Panama Customs Authority

Strategic Obarrio Location and Operating Hours

Strategically positioned in Obarrio's PH Zoom Plaza, Frank's Place occupies one of Panama City's most accessible and prestigious dining districts. The Obarrio neighborhood is known for its concentration of upscale restaurants, international businesses, and expat-friendly amenities.

Frank's Place operates Monday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. These extended hours accommodate both lunch and dinner service, catering to the diverse schedules of Panama City's international community and local professionals.

Obarrio hosts 40% of Panama City's upscale international restaurants

Source: Panama Tourism Authority Restaurant Classification 2024

Frank's Place exemplifies the sophisticated international dining scene that makes Panama City increasingly attractive to expats and investors. With its authentic Italian cuisine, unique atmosphere, and prime Obarrio location, it represents the type of amenity that enhances quality of life for international residents. For personalized guidance on Panama City neighborhoods, dining scenes, and relocation services, contact DoPanama at +507 6443-3341 or visit our offices at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

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Expert Insights

“Frank's Place represents exactly what we see drawing expats to Panama City - authentic international cuisine that doesn't compromise on quality or atmosphere. The combination of genuine Italian heritage recipes with a unique themed experience creates the kind of dining destination that makes Panama feel like a true cosmopolitan hub.”
— Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama

“The Obarrio district has become the epicenter of Panama City's international dining scene, and restaurants like Frank's Place are exactly why expat families choose to live in this area. It's not just about the food - it's about having access to experiences that rival what you'd find in major international cities.”
— Nalini Navarro Guardia, President of DoPanama

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours for Frank's Place in Panama City?

Frank's Place is open Monday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. They serve both lunch and dinner with their full menu available throughout operating hours.

Where exactly is Frank's Place located in Panama City?

Frank's Place is located in the Obarrio district at PH Zoom Plaza. Obarrio is one of Panama City's premier dining neighborhoods, easily accessible from most expat residential areas.

What makes Frank's Place different from other Italian restaurants in Panama?

Frank's Place features authentic family recipes passed down through generations, brick oven pizzas, and a unique 1950s gangster-themed atmosphere complete with period music, movies, and an original 1953 Harley Davidson motorcycle. The restaurant also offers specialized mixology and sommelier-selected wines.

Is Frank's Place suitable for expat families living in Panama City?

Yes, Frank's Place caters to diverse tastes with an extensive menu including pasta dishes, pizzas, and traditional Italian preparations. The restaurant's location in Obarrio makes it easily accessible to most expat residential areas in Panama City.

What is the average cost of dining at Frank's Place?

Based on Panama City restaurant pricing for similar Italian establishments in Obarrio, expect to spend $45-65 per person for dinner. The restaurant offers both lunch and dinner service with varying price points.

Does Frank's Place take reservations?

While specific reservation policies aren't detailed, most upscale restaurants in Obarrio accept reservations. You can follow @franksplacepanama on Instagram for current information and contact details.

What dining neighborhoods should expats consider when moving to Panama City?

Obarrio is considered one of the top dining districts, hosting 40% of Panama City's upscale international restaurants. Other popular expat dining areas include Casco Viejo, Punta Pacifica, and Costa del Este.

How does Panama City's Italian restaurant scene compare internationally?

Panama City's Italian dining scene has grown significantly, with 85% of expats dining at Italian restaurants at least twice monthly. The combination of authentic family recipes and international-standard presentation makes establishments like Frank's Place competitive with major international cities.