Dining & Food costa-del-este Expat Life Panama Casco Viejo RestaurantsApril 3, 20236 min read2,130 views

Nazca 21: Panama City's Premier Peruvian Culinary Experience Across Three Strategic Locations

Adam Phillips

Nazca 21: Panama City's Premier Peruvian Culinary Experience Across Three Strategic Locations

Nazca 21 stands as Panama City's leading authentic Peruvian restaurant, operated by Chef Aristóteles Breña Jaime across three prime locations in Casco Viejo, Costa del Este, and Coronado. According to Panama's Restaurant Association, Peruvian cuisine ranks among the top 3 most popular international cuisines in Panama City, with Nazca 21 consistently rated as TripAdvisor's #1 Peruvian restaurant in the country.

Chef Aristóteles Breña Jaime: Authentic Peruvian Heritage

Chef Aristóteles Breña Jaime, a native of Salcabamba, Huancavelica, Peru, brings decades of culinary expertise to Panama's dining scene. His commitment to authenticity means sourcing the finest local and imported ingredients to recreate traditional Peruvian flavors that transport diners directly to Lima's bustling culinary districts.

The chef's philosophy centers on the meticulous selection of fresh ingredients combined with time-honored Peruvian cooking techniques. This approach has earned Nazca 21 recognition among Panama's expat community, particularly Peruvian nationals who validate the restaurant's authenticity.

Peru's gastronomy industry generates over $2.4 billion annually

Source: Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism

Signature Dishes: From Traditional Ceviche to Innovative Creations

Nazca 21's menu showcases Peru's diverse culinary landscape, with ceviche leading as the most requested dish. The restaurant's Sautéed Loin (Lomo Saltado), Shrimp Causa, and Special Seafood Appetizer represent the holy trinity of Peruvian comfort food that has conquered international palates.

Other standout dishes include Ají de Gallina, featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce, and Grilled Octopus prepared with traditional Peruvian marinades. The Shrimp Chupe and Corvina a lo Macho showcase the restaurant's mastery of Peru's coastal cuisine, utilizing Panama's abundant fresh seafood.

To complement the food experience, Nazca 21 offers authentic pisco sours in multiple preparations, alongside carefully curated wine selections that pair perfectly with Peruvian flavors.

Ceviche accounts for 35% of all orders at Nazca 21

Source: Nazca 21 Internal Sales Data

Three Strategic Panama City Locations

Nazca 21's three locations serve distinct demographics while maintaining consistent quality and authenticity:

Casco Viejo Location: Situated in Panama's UNESCO World Heritage district, this flagship location attracts tourists, history enthusiasts, and locals exploring the colonial quarter. The historic ambiance complements the traditional Peruvian dining experience.

Costa del Este: Located in Panama's modern financial district, this branch serves the business community and affluent residents. The contemporary setting appeals to professionals seeking authentic international cuisine during business lunches and evening dining.

Coronado: The beach community location caters to Panama's expat population and weekend visitors. This coastal setting provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for leisurely Peruvian dining experiences.

Costa del Este has over 50 international restaurants within a 2-mile radius

Source: Panama Tourism Authority

Affordable Excellence: Premium Dining at Accessible Prices

One of Nazca 21's key advantages in Panama's competitive restaurant scene is its commitment to affordable pricing without compromising quality. Main dishes typically range from $12-18, making authentic Peruvian cuisine accessible to both locals and expats.

The restaurant's pricing strategy particularly appeals to Panama's growing expat community, where dining out forms a significant part of the social lifestyle. For retirees and relocating professionals, Nazca 21 provides an affordable way to experience world-class cuisine regularly.

Average dinner cost at Nazca 21 is $25 per person including appetizer, main course, and drink

Source: DoPanama Cost of Living Analysis 2024

Nazca 21 represents more than just a dining destination - it's a cultural bridge that connects Panama's diverse population with Peru's rich culinary heritage. Whether you're an expat settling into Panama City life or considering relocation, experiences like Nazca 21 demonstrate the international lifestyle quality available in your new home. For personalized guidance on Panama's dining scene, neighborhoods, and relocation process, contact DoPanama at +507 6443-3341 for expert consultation.

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Expert Insights

“For expats relocating to Panama, discovering restaurants like Nazca 21 becomes part of the cultural integration process. The quality of international cuisine available here often surprises newcomers who expect to compromise on dining experiences.”
— Austin Hess, COO of DoPanama

“Panama City's restaurant scene has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Having three locations of a restaurant like Nazca 21 demonstrates the city's sophisticated palate and the economic viability of authentic international cuisine.”
— Nalini Navarro Guardia, President of DoPanama

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Nazca 21's locations in Panama City?

Nazca 21 has three locations: Casco Viejo (historic district), Costa del Este (financial district), and Coronado (beach community). Each location serves different demographics while maintaining the same authentic Peruvian menu and quality standards.

What are the most popular dishes at Nazca 21?

The most requested dish is traditional ceviche, followed by Sautéed Loin (Lomo Saltado), Shrimp Causa, Ají de Gallina, and Grilled Octopus. All dishes use fresh, meticulously selected ingredients and traditional Peruvian cooking techniques.

How much does it cost to eat at Nazca 21 in Panama?

Main dishes typically range from $12-18, with an average complete dinner costing around $25 per person including appetizer, main course, and drink. This makes authentic Peruvian cuisine very affordable compared to similar restaurants in North America or Europe.

Who is the chef at Nazca 21 Panama?

Chef Aristóteles Breña Jaime, a native of Salcabamba, Huancavelica, Peru, leads Nazca 21's culinary operations. He specializes in traditional Peruvian cuisine while incorporating fresh local and imported ingredients to ensure authentic flavors.

Can I make reservations at Nazca 21?

Yes, you can make reservations by calling the specific location: Casco Antiguo +507 393-7262, Costa del Este +507 386-5002, or Coronado +507 344-3427. You can also reach them at +507 6504-3838 or through their social media @nazca21restaurant.

What drinks does Nazca 21 serve with Peruvian food?

Nazca 21 specializes in authentic pisco sours prepared in different variations, which are the traditional Peruvian cocktail. They also offer carefully selected wines that pair well with Peruvian cuisine flavors.

Is Nazca 21 good for expats living in Panama?

Yes, Nazca 21 is particularly popular among Panama's expat community due to its authentic international cuisine, affordable pricing, and multiple convenient locations. It provides a high-quality dining experience that often exceeds expats' expectations for international food in Panama.

Which Nazca 21 location is best for tourists?

The Casco Viejo location is ideal for tourists as it's situated in Panama's UNESCO World Heritage historic district. The colonial ambiance enhances the traditional Peruvian dining experience and allows visitors to explore Panama's cultural heritage.