Riesen - Panama

I've never had such an incredible or holistic experience at a restaurant as I did tonight! The food was the best I've ever had and I can't believe this is not on the list of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America when it far surpasses the ones in Panama City that are. Honestly it could be in the top 50 in the world. Not only is the food incredible but there are so many lovely touches a tour of the research kitchen, some olives and a small cake to take home, and a delicious cocktail to close the night. I highly recommend a night at Riesen to anyone visiting Panama City!

Astounding experience. Incredible food. Great service. Outstanding drink pairings. Takes on food that I had never thought of or experienced before. Worth every penny and I was in a state of pure bliss by the end. Will be back next time I'm in Panama!!!

The service and the food was exceptional. Every dish was delicious and presentation was exquisite. Farm to table. Very homey and personal feel. Friendly hostess. I am a fan and will be returning back to the restaurant on my next visit to Panama City.

I’m not sure whether to stick with 3 or do 2 stars. Even though the food was interesting and the flavor combinations were unique and the presentation of the food was beautiful, the TIMING of the food was AWFUL. WHO in their right mind wants to eat their main course after MIDNIGHT?! Truly, prepare yourself to be here for a minimum of 5 hours. Me and my partner got here at 7:30 for my birthday and I didn’t get the candle until 12:45am the following day. We left at 1am, it was torturous eating the food at the end. Not only that, they DOUBLED their price in the last 8 months. I know about restaurants increasing their price but doubling is ridiculous. They used to charge $60 for the tasting menu and $40 alcohol pairing, NOW it’s $125 for the tasting menu and $75 for the pairing. Janet was kind and attentive but service isn’t a huge factor when it’s overshadowed by the cost of my time. Overall, not worth it. I’ve been to many beautiful tasting menu restaurants and this one was only memorable for how LONG the food took in between. I hope this helps your decision making.

I have been to more than my fair share of incredible restaurants, including many with Michelin stars. I can’t think of any that offered a better experience than Reisen. Each course was more like a beautiful sunrise or sunset than a bombastic fireworks display… the flavors incredibly complex, layered, and nuanced. And not just the food… the entire experience was perfect. Friendly, warm, and attentive service. Beautifully simple dining room. And probably the best wine pairings I’ve had anywhere. I can’t wait to come back to Panama and have another dinner at Reisen. Please do yourself a favor and GO.