Chivita Food House: Panama City's Premier Executive Dining Destination for Expats and Business Professionals

Founded by Emilio Núñez as a corporate catering business, Chivita Food House derives its name from the small food transport carts that inspired its delivery-focused origins. The concept evolved from serving various companies across Panama City to establishing a sophisticated brick-and-mortar location that combines the convenience of corporate catering with upscale dining.

The restaurant's unique positioning fills a crucial gap in Panama City's dining scene, specifically targeting high-profile executives and business professionals who require discretion and quality for their corporate meetings. With Panama hosting over 120 multinational corporations and a growing expat population of approximately 25,000 Americans alone, according to the U.S. Embassy in Panama, the demand for executive dining venues has skyrocketed.

Chivita Food House has earned recognition for its innovative approach to Latin fusion cuisine, with standout dishes including their renowned smoked octopus ceviche and their signature 36-hour slow-cooked lamb. These dishes reflect the restaurant's commitment to combining traditional Panamanian flavors with international techniques that appeal to the sophisticated palates of expat executives.

The menu pricing positions Chivita in the premium dining category, with main courses ranging from $35-65, making it comparable to high-end restaurants in Casco Viejo and Punta Pacifica. According to Numbeo, fine dining in Panama City averages $40-80 per person, placing Chivita competitively within the luxury market segment that serves Panama's financial district professionals.

The restaurant's design prioritizes privacy and exclusivity, featuring two dedicated private dining rooms that create an intimate, residential atmosphere rather than a typical commercial restaurant feel. The main hall accommodates up to 100 guests and includes a professional stage setup, making it ideal for corporate presentations, product launches, and business networking events.

This facility design addresses a critical need in Panama's business community, where according to the Panama Business Council, 78% of international companies regularly host client entertainment and corporate events. The private room concept is particularly valuable for expat executives who often need to discuss confidential business matters in a secure, professional environment.

Strategically positioned to serve Panama City's financial and business districts, Chivita Food House offers convenient access for executives working in the Banking District, Punta Pacifica, and Obarrio areas. The restaurant provides valet parking, a crucial amenity given that 89% of expat professionals in Panama City rely on personal vehicles for transportation, according to the Panama Expat Network survey.

The location also benefits from Panama City's robust infrastructure, with the restaurant situated within a 15-minute drive of major hotels like the Waldorf Astoria (where DoPanama maintains offices), making it accessible for visiting international clients and business partners.