Riesen - Panama

We had the most wonderful birthday dinner at Riesen! The food, service, atmosphere, experience was all top tier. There wasn’t a dish I didn’t love. I can’t recommend a visit here enough. Go hungry!

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.

Incredible experience, each dish has its own complexity once in the mouth, flavours are powerful and unique. The chef takes great proud of preserving Panamanian native vegetables, fruits and traditions which is such an amazing endeavour. If you're up for an culinary adventure this is your place. I don't know what Michelin is waiting for to award them. Incredible.

This was truly a combination of a best in class dining experience mixed with the welcome and hospitality of a family gathering. Chef Hernan was very patient with all of our questions about his innovative techniques and his references to local and historical cuisine. We loved also interacting with and meeting his mom. Definitely make a reservation here if you're in Panama City and you won't regret it.