The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Panama City

Panama City, the city that sits between two oceans alongside the famous canal, is also home to Central America's largest Jewish community - around 20,000 Jews, most descended from Syrian and Eastern European immigrants who arrived over a century ago. The result: kosher infrastructure that's surprisingly extensive.

Super-K - the World's Largest Kosher Supermarket

In Punta Paitilla, one of the city's upscale neighborhoods, Super-K operates - a massive kosher hypermarket with thousands of products from around the world, under the supervision of Shevet Ahim synagogue, which oversees all meat kashrut in Panama. The practical tip: it's not just a store - there's also a prepared-meals section, convenient if you don't want to cook in your hotel room.

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Shevet Ahim - the Sephardi-Orthodox Community

Shevet Ahim, Panama's largest synagogue, is the heart of the Sephardi-Orthodox community - alongside it, Beth El (Orthodox) and Kol Shearith Israel (Reform) also operate, so nearly every background has a natural home. The practical tip: security is taken very seriously - contact in advance and send ID details before visiting for a Shabbat or holiday service.

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Casco Viejo - the Old Town Reborn

Casco Viejo, the historic colonial neighborhood from the 17th century, has undergone impressive restoration in recent decades and become the city's most sought-after tourist district - plazas, ornate iron balconies, and restaurants on every corner. The practical tip: walking is the best way to get to know the neighborhood, but avoid empty streets after dark.

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Between the massive Super-K, the well-established Shevet Ahim community, and historic Casco Viejo - Panama City proves that a Central/South American destination can offer kosher infrastructure that easily rivals much larger cities.