Mai Mai
Panama
At a glance
Mai Mai, situated within the Panamá Design Center in the Provincia de Panamá, is an intriguing dining destination that embodies a fusion of culinary influences. This venue is characterized by its harmonious blend of flavors, drawing from both Peruvian-Nikkei and Asian inspirations. Diners can anticipate a diverse menu that features an array of appetizers, expertly crafted sushi rolls, and impeccable nigiris and sashimis. The dining experience is designed to be shared, with guests encouraged to select dishes from various sections of the menu to experience the full spectrum of flavors.
Mai Mai also places a strong emphasis on its beverage program, meticulously curated by acclaimed mixologist Martin Hudak. Patrons can enjoy an array of creative cocktails that are designed to complement the food offerings. This ensures a well-rounded dining experience that celebrates both food and drink.
While the restaurant's setting provides a chic and welcoming ambiance, it also serves as a versatile venue for hosting events. The design and layout are suited for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions, reflecting the identity of Panama through its gastronomic concepts. Overall, Mai Mai offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, appealing to food enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs alike.
Reviews
Edwin, our waiter, was fabulous! He was professional, attentive, knowledgeable, and courteous throughout our dining experience. His outstanding service made our visit even more enjoyable. We would also like to recognize David, the head bartender. He was amazing! When he saw us outside trying to find the restaurant, he personally walked us there and welcomed us with a complimentary Macha Latte Margarita! It was absolutely fabulous! His kindness, hospitality, and willingness to go above and beyond made us feel truly welcomed!
Food is amazing, good mix of asian/japanese and panama food. Beautiful design and amazing service. The fish/seafood is top rated. But this is close to California prices so definitely not cheap.
You'll know a restaurant is well run when the food comes promptly, service is kind and friendly and the entire staff seems to be chill and enjoying their shift. It was truly a joy to dine at maimai. The food was exceptional (ceviche nitro was the best ceviche I've ever had), we had fun watching the kitchen work and the staff interact with each other. The restaurant was busy but no one seemed stressed or upset, everything ran smooth from start to finish. One of the coolest restaurants I've ever been in. I hope to be back someday.
Local friends took me here for my last dinner in Panama City, and we had an amazing time. The space is super vibey and cool without being pretentious. Service was attentive and well paced, seating was comfortable and fun. We split a ton of stuff. Ceviche, fried fish, tuna maki, lomo saltado, gyoza. Everything was super tasty and well presented. Cocktail program had a lot of interesting options, I ended up with a twist on a dirty martini. I was really fun and delicious. Even got to meet the co-owners who were super friendly and gave us great recommendations for places to eat and drink on the rest of our trip, highly recommended!
You don’t expect to find transcendent sushi in Panama. You expect heat, humidity, maybe a good rum, maybe a fish that still smells faintly of the sea. But Mai Mai flips that expectation on its head. Tucked away in the chaos and charm of Panama, this place quietly delivers what most high-end spots only promise — authenticity, precision, and heart. The sushi was clean, balanced, almost reverent in its simplicity. The ceviche? A lightning bolt of freshness — sharp, bright, unapologetically alive. Every bite reminded me why I travel. To be surprised. To be humbled by craftsmanship in the most unexpected corners of the world. Mai Mai isn’t trying to be Tokyo or Lima. It’s Panama — confident, generous, and wildly good. The service matched the food — effortless, human, and deeply proud of what they serve. They even forgave my poor Spanish and worked hard to explain everything to me in English! It was, without question, the capstone of my trip to see the Canal — a reminder that the world still has places where food isn’t just eaten, but experienced.
