Offering an eclectic menu selection between Via Espana and Calle 50, Red String Cafe is a sure hit with carnivores and vegetarians alike. This kabbalah life-style restaurant has a sampling of menus ranging from fresh-made pastas to hand-rolled sushis that are sure to delight even the pickiest eaters.
Exploring Panama City, this gem was easily missed on the typical walking tour. Distinguished only by its gorgeous outdoor patio arrangement, I was enticed by a large blue crystal chandelier hanging from one of Panama's beautiful banyan trees under a glass-roofed patio. With such an artistic eye for what appeared to be Bohemian chic, this restaurant could already easily be a must-do on any top ten list.
The menu contains an interestingly wide variety of appetizer and entree selections ranging from large piled plates of Mexican appetizers to dainty quiches to pasta that could easily have been made by my Italian grandmolther had I had one. One is instantly welcomed by a warm and happy staff that makes the restaurant goer interested in what they must be putting in the water. Indeed the "house water" is a slice above the rest served in a glass pitcher with slices of apple as an interestingly refreshing choice of flavoring. Solid glasses and heavy silverware lets the diner know that this chef means business. Tables are tastefully decorated with mini fresh flower boquets and drinks are a meal in their own right. Wait staff is delightfully professional and welcoming if a little slow in execution.
A seemingly simple choice, their nachos are piled high with beans, veggies and deliciously melty cheese served with plenty of salsa and sour cream (no need to embarrass yourself asking for a sour cream refill). An excellent sized appetizer for four that leaves the diner satisfied with rich flavor and craving their main dish. The pastas are fresh made daily with organic and local ingredients ensuring a sweet delicious flavor that can only from simply prepared finely chosen ingredients. The Salmon in Basil Butter brought on a bed of shoestring vegetables leaves me in love with the notion of becoming a mermaid, salmon eternally at my grasp. Their seared tuna has become an equal obsession with a sesame crust and a drizzle of sweet teriyaki.
For those craving a hard to find "really big salad", I present to you the house specialty, Red String Salad. Served in a dinner plate and large enough for leftover lunch, this delicious combination of roasted peppers, creamy goats' milk cheese and onions will have you begging them to tell you where does their garden grow. While Panama City certainly isn't lacking in the fresh fruit department, a salad of this size and quality is truly a prized discovery.
Open for lunch and dinner Red String is delightfully decorated with Kaballah books, stone walls and dark wood tables. Be sure to stick around for the chocolate souffle that easily coaxes my healthy salad into a cheat day. Served warm and with a side of vanilla ice-cream, you cannot help but close your eyes and dream of eating this for breakfast in the morning.
Pricier for Panama, appetizers run from $4-$12 for some of the fancier sushi cones. Entrees start at about $9 - $15. Drink prices are average and made from fresh fruit to order. A delightful option for the business entertainer or getting together with a group of friends, be sure to allow extra time for service, the moto seems to be, perfection cannot be rushed... at all.
Red String Cafe is locataed at Calle 52 Este and Federico Boyd in the neighborhood of Bella Vista.
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