Supermercado El Rey - Costa del Este Food Court
About
Supermercado El Rey's Costa del Este food court offers traveling families a convenient one-stop destination for satisfying picky eaters of all ages. With multiple casual dining options ranging from local Panamanian flavors to familiar international chains, plus ice cream shops for dessert, parents can easily find something everyone will enjoy without the formality of a sit-down restaurant.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple dining options in one location to satisfy different tastes and dietary needs
- ✓Ice cream shops perfect for treating kids after shopping or exploring Panama City
- ✓Air-conditioned comfort, a welcome break from Panama's tropical heat
- ✓Casual, family-friendly atmosphere where kids can be kids
- ✓Opportunity to try local Panamanian snacks and foods in a low-pressure setting
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during weekday lunch hours (11am-1pm) to experience authentic Panamanian lunch culture, or come for an early dinner around 5pm to avoid the evening rush.
- 2.The supermarket accepts U.S. dollars (Panama's currency is the balboa, which is pegged 1:1 to USD), making transactions easy for American travelers.
- 3.Bring hand sanitizer and wipes, as food court facilities may be busier than expected, especially on weekends.
- 4.Let kids pick from different food stalls to try local specialties like empanadas or carimañolas alongside familiar favorites.
- 5.The air-conditioned food court provides welcome relief from Panama's heat and humidity, making it a great midday break spot.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10am-11am) or early evenings (5pm-6pm) are ideal to avoid the lunch and dinner crowds. The air conditioning makes this a perfect rainy season refuge when afternoon showers are common.
What to Know
Most vendors accept both cash (U.S. dollars) and credit cards, though having small bills is helpful. The food court has accessible seating and high chairs are typically available at individual restaurant counters.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Panama's dry season (December to April) brings more tourists, so expect slightly larger crowds during these months, especially on weekends.
More Activities Near Costa del Este
Biblioteca Presidente Roberto F. Chiari
This welcoming community library in Panama City's modern Costa del Este neighborhood offers a fantastic air-conditioned retreat for families with dedicated children's sections, engaging story time programs, and hands-on educational workshops. It's a wonderful way to introduce kids to Panamanian culture while enjoying free, enriching activities during your visit.
Causeway Amador
The Causeway Amador is a stunning 3.5-mile waterfront promenade connecting Panama City to four small islands, offering families breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, safe paved paths perfect for biking and scootering, and plenty of grassy areas for picnics and play. With its gentle sea breezes, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants dotting the route, it's the perfect spot for active families to enjoy outdoor time while taking in spectacular views of the city skyline and passing ships in the Panama Canal.
Foodie Market • Town Center Costa del Este
This vibrant community market in Costa del Este offers families a wonderful cultural experience with fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and engaging family activities. Kids will love exploring the colorful vendor stalls, sampling tropical fruits, and participating in community events while parents shop for authentic Panamanian goods and handmade crafts.
Piscina Municipal Carlos Lee de Pueblo Nuevo
Piscina Municipal Carlos Lee offers a refreshing escape from Panama City's tropical heat with dedicated family sections and shallow pools perfect for young swimmers. Located in the modern Costa del Este neighborhood, this well-maintained public facility provides an affordable and safe aquatic environment where kids can splash and play while parents relax in the recreational areas.