San Felipe Neri Market

"The Mercado has a large selection of native fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats. Some of the vendors mark their prices while others do not. So be wary on being up charge if you’re a foreigner. They have typical Panamanian food that is sold at the fondas. Stand number 14 is the most honest with all food plates that comes with rice, meat or seafood and salad sold for $3.50 regardless if your Panamánian or a foreigner. She does not up charge. There is also a stand that sells natural drinks and their prices are marked. There is an older man next to the natural juice stand and he sells coconut water but he is a classic example of a deceitful Panamanian who tried to upcharge and sell me a dry brown coconut for $2, in addition to the coconut water for $1, when I approached him about it civilly, he got an attitude with me, and gave me back the $1 took his coconut water back and ended up trashing the dry brown coconut. Another vendor tried to double charge me for a produce, when I told her that I will look around and come back. I saw her following me and then telling the other vendors how much she told me the price was so that they can say the same price. Lucky for her, I was able to get the true price of the item before she spread her deceit."

Stephanie Judah

"We had a very nice experience visiting the San Felipe Market. There are plenty of vendors offering a wide variety of fresh meats, along with lots of other options to browse through. We picked up some drinks and fresh fruit, which were excellent. The market also has lots of outdoor seating, making it easy to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Another plus is that there are plenty of taxis available right outside, so getting to and from the market was very convenient. Overall, a great stop to experience the local flavor and energy."

Jeanette Salgado

"I came to this place to look at fruits, vegetables and meats not knowing about the prepared food. Upon entering through the parking lot entrance, I was amazed to find a narrow food court. And that most of the eateries were serving traditional Creole food. Very authentic in its presentation. Visually, you could see the difference between the food here and the food in any other fonda nearby or throughout the country. The offerings here look like they were given an extra touch. Everything seems to be cooked with lots of spices to give it a darker more delicious look. For example, the stewed shrimp looked heavier, making it look more delicious than at any other place. I even found pigeon pea rice which is not easy to find. The food was delicious.

Aside from the mini kiosks offering fruits, vegetables, meats and fish, there are several selling herbs, spices, coffee, sweets and candies. Yes it could serve as a one-stop shop for all your cooking needs. Overall, this is an ideal place for anyone who likes shopping in a modern environment.

The place has undergone a renovation so it is new and beautiful. The market is massive, all indoors and air conditioned. There is a paid parking lot. I love the location since it is located on historic Avenue B. This is where the original Chinatown resides, with small remnants of it remaining but way past its glory days."

Panama George