Primitivo: Casco Viejo's Premier Steakhouse Redefining Fine Dining in Panama City

Chef Frank Escalona has revolutionized Panama City's steakhouse scene through his mastery of precision cooking techniques at Primitivo. His signature sous vide preparation method involves cooking suckling lamb for exactly 50 hours at a controlled temperature of 70°C using specialized Roner equipment, creating unparalleled tenderness and flavor depth.

The restaurant's menu showcases premium cuts including Tomahawk steaks, Rib Eye, and the acclaimed vacuum-packed lamb, all prepared using modern culinary techniques combined with traditional Panamanian ingredients. Primitivo's approach to fine dining has established new standards for steakhouse excellence in Central America's most dynamic culinary market.

Situated in Panama City's UNESCO World Heritage Casco Viejo district, Primitivo capitalizes on the area's colonial charm and cobblestone streets to create an intimate dining atmosphere. The restaurant's location places it within walking distance of major hotels like the American Trade Hotel and Casa Casco, making it easily accessible to both tourists and Panama City's growing expat community.

Casco Viejo has experienced significant gentrification over the past decade, with restaurant revenues in the historic district increasing by an estimated 40% between 2019 and 2023. Primitivo's establishment as a premier steakhouse has contributed to the area's reputation as Panama City's primary fine dining destination, attracting visitors from across Central America.

Primitivo's menu extends beyond exceptional steaks to include international appetizers featuring Panamanian ingredients and an extensive wine selection. The restaurant's Tuna Tartar has become emblematic of their approach to modern cuisine, combining fresh Pacific seafood with contemporary presentation techniques.

The establishment operates as both a casual lunch destination and an intimate dinner venue, with a magical cocktail bar that serves premium spirits and craft cocktails. Average dinner prices range from $45-85 per person, positioning Primitivo in the upper tier of Panama City's dining scene alongside establishments like Maito and Donde José.

For expats and relocators considering Panama City, Primitivo represents the high-quality dining options available in established neighborhoods like Casco Viejo. The restaurant's proximity to luxury residential developments and boutique hotels makes it particularly appealing to North American and European expatriates who value sophisticated dining experiences.

Panama City's restaurant scene offers over 2,000 dining establishments, with Casco Viejo alone hosting more than 150 restaurants and bars within its compact 0.5 square kilometer area. This concentration of dining options provides expats with diverse culinary experiences comparable to major metropolitan areas in North America and Europe.