Conoce mi Panama Authentic Panamenian Cuisine!

'We really enjoyed our dinner here! I went with my husband & another couple. We all started with empanadas (vegetarian) and they were very tasty. For dinner we each got something different. I had Tiras De Pollo Vegetariano (fake chicken strips w/bell peppers), which was delicious. The others had Arroz con Pollo, Pollo Guisado con Coco (chicken w/coconut sauce), and Lomo Relleno (stuffed roast beef) and everyone was really happy with their choice. All the food is served with rice, beans, plaintains, and your choice of salad or steamed veggies, so there is real bang for your buck. With the appetizers, we had an average tab of about $16 per person before tip. I would definitely go back & recommend.'

Gina F. - Chicago, IL

I'd give this place less stars based on a few things I am about to mention, but then I'd feel like Karma would sick it's hell hounds on me because the owner is SO awesome and nice, and the food is amazing. BUT. It smells (and looks) like someone set up shop in a tile floored basement. They need to get some air in that place, do something about the antiseptic smell (coming from the vents maybe?) and maybe even do something about the tile floor. I think one of the tables was even covered in plastic, but at this point my imagination may be filling in the blanks with whatever is left over from the subconsious. Outdoor seating would be a godsend. Then we'd go back! Because like I said before, the owner is the nicest man ever, and they may even have god cooking in the kitchen, the food is so good.

Monica S. - Chicago, IL

What an experience! Generally all the lower priced South American restaurants in Logan Square tend to taste the same because I think the chiefs all tend to be Mexican and the neighborhood was once mostly Mexican. This is not the case at Conoce Mi Panama where the owner Antionio's has nothing but Panamanians in the kitchen so the food is both super authentic and fresh. Once you enter Conoce Mi Panama its like entering the dinning room of a meticulous Panamanian Aunt serving up old school favorites with interesting names. The owner is an interesting character as well, a deep sea diver and welder who's passion is also South American politics. I hope they apply for a liquor license as I bet the drinks would be amazing, but for now its BYOB

Eric H. -Chicago, IL

Buenas! We were greeted as we walked into this cozy little spot. I think that set the tone of our dining experience. You can't help but smile when greeted by the eager host/owner/server. I wanted to start with a nonalcoholic drink that was distinctly panama so I went with the Saril. As the server explained, this hibiscus drink is an aphrodisiac. Apparently no need for Viagra when you've got this (his words). Is it true? hmmm We decided to nosh on the fried bread appetizer while we waited on our entrees. Pretty good but you can't eat too much or you'll be stuffed quickly. As an entree I chose the Cornish hen with Culantro sauce, rice, lentils, plantains and veggies. I really enjoyed the chicken, lentils, rice and plantains. My biggest complaint is the veggies. Obviously frozen, flavorless and an after thought. Do away with those and you'll be aces in my book. BONUS Points: BYOB

Rhonda G. -Chicago, IL

"I don't know anything, but I do know that EVERYTHING is interesting if you go into it deeply enough," Richard Feynman, 1965 winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics. This is one of my favorite quotes and I will be applying it to my dinning experience at Conoce Mi Panama. Let's look at this place a little closer. First of all, the name. Wow, what a well-thought out name. In Spanish, it translates roughly to "Let me introduce you to my version of Panama" or "I want you to intimately get to know my country of Panama and how awesome it and its food is". From the moment you step into the door you feel like their one and only goal is to do just that. Their version of Panama consists of the following: 1. Amazing food. Had a variety of their appetizers and the coconut chicken. Chicken had perfect moisture level and a great texture. standout from the appetizer was the Tamale which had ingredients built in to the masa. 2. Perfect timing on delivery of main course after the appetizers. 3. Service that is there when you need it but not overbearing 4. Casual paced dining such that if you happen to sit there for two hours enjoying the food and conversation you will not feel rushed, even though all the tables are full and a steady stream of people in and out. 5. Attention to detail on the menu, including the horchata-like beverage called Chicheme. In its description it said something like "a not overly sweet hominy drink". and they delivered. That is one complaint I have with those types of drinks is that they are usually way too sweet. I was impressed that not only do they realize that sweet does not always mean better, but that they conscientiously say theirs is not too sweet and then actually cut back on sugar to make it the perfect sweetness level.

Jeff G. -Dallas, TX

2/3/2010 My husband and I are big fans. Our favorite? The fried yucca. So so so good. So good. I had the Pollo Guisado Con Coco (Coconut chicken). The chicken was super tender. The plaintains were sweet and delicious. My husband had a salmon dish. He was definitely a fan. The Saril was delicious (hibiscus drink) and the Cafe Duran was good too. I'm looking forward to going back soon. On my list to try next: Patacones (fried green plantains) and Arroz Con Guandu Y Coco (coconut rice) both highly recommended by a friend. This is a small place. Each dish is made for you. This is not a place to go to when you are in a super rush. There are about 10-12 tables and just one server. So come patient, ready to enjoy your time. The server was completely hospitable and very helpful. (AND he did not make fun of my lame attempts at Spanish). Also!! They are on http://restaurant.com! So now you have no excuse not to go. Do it!

Jeanne C.- Chicago, IL