El Nacional

Veg Options Panamanian Vegan Classics, Vegan Menu

★ 5 · $$ · Hours

LunchDinnerExperienceGroupsTakeout

Amenities: deck Outdoor Seating

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lightbulb Popular tips:  "Try the lentil croquettes and seitan guisado for authentic Panamanian vegan flavors" "Try the lentil croquettes and seitan guisado for authentic Panamanian vegan flavors"
"Check out the vegan Panamanian cooking class offered onsite"
"Reservations are recommended during busy or low seasons as the venue can fill up"
"Consider using Uber or paid parking since parking nearby can be challenging"
"Ask for the hot sauce to add extra flavor to vegan dishes like the seitan guisado"
 

restaurant_menu Must-try:  lentil croquettes, seitan guisado, empanada lentil croquettes — popular (×6)
seitan guisado — popular (×9)
empanada — popular (×8)
ceviche de yuca — popular (×2)
hojaldre — popular (×2)
 

thumb_up Praised for:  friendly service, good value, beautiful interior friendly service ×13
good value ×2
beautiful interior
cozy atmosphere ×5
 

El Nacional serves traditional Panamanian dishes thoughtfully adapted for vegans—including seitan guisado and lentil croquettes—within a historic Casco Viejo building overlooking a plaza and cathedral. The restaurant offers friendly, attentive service with a chef experienced in vegan cooking for over 40 years, alongside a cooking class specializing in vegan Panamanian cuisine. Vegan items are clearly marked on the menu, priced reasonably, and complemented by live music many evenings.