Restaurante Makoto
1 / 10

Restaurante Makoto

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A chic rooftop Japanese restaurant in Panama City, renowned for Chef Makoto Okuwa's creative take on Edomae-sushi and stunning city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Restaurante Makoto

Restaurante Makoto

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A chic rooftop Japanese restaurant in Panama City, renowned for Chef Makoto Okuwa's creative take on Edomae-sushi and stunning city views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Easily the best dining experience I’ve had—simply EPIC."

TIP

Reserve in Advance

Ensure a good table arrangement by making reservations ahead of time.

Outdoor Seating

Consider sitting outside for a pleasant experience, even during rain.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 12PM

Cuisine

Japanese

Price

$$$

Phone

+507 830-2736

Address

Obarrio, Kenex Plaza, C. 59 Este, Panamá, Provincia de Panamá, Panama

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trendy Rooftop Dining

Trendy Rooftop Dining

Experience a vibrant atmosphere with stunning city views from this trendy rooftop Japanese restaurant.

TikTok24 Hours in Panama City: What to See, Do, Eat5 Restaurants You Must Visit in Panama City
Creative Japanese Cuisine

Creative Japanese Cuisine

Savor unique dishes crafted by Chef Makoto Okuwa, blending traditional Edomae-sushi with innovative flair.

The Best Japanese Restaurants In Panama CityBest sushi restaurants in PanamaPanama City, Panama – New Worlder+1
Exceptional Appetizers

Exceptional Appetizers

Indulge in standout starters like grilled octopus and wagyu wontons, praised for their perfect execution.

Google Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#makoto experience 🔥 #panama #panama🇵🇦 #panamatiktok #panamacity #pty507 #pty #foryou #parati #restaurant #japanese #nigiri #sashimi
@genevisita
104 likes • 5.8K views

Reserve in Advance

Ensure a good table arrangement by making reservations ahead of time.

Outdoor Seating

Consider sitting outside for a pleasant experience, even during rain.

El resumen de nuestra cena de aniversario 🤤 hay mil cosas más que amamos pero hoy la cogimos ✨light✨ 😂 .. Makoto te amoooo #panama #makoto #food #restaurante
@noorwakedd
86 likes • 2.8K views
Our ShortRib Yaki Noodles are a must-try 🤩 Reserva tu mesa a través del link de nuestro perfil 🫰🏻 #MakotoPanama
@makotopty
43 likes • 1.2K views

Inquire About Pricing

If budget is a concern, ask about menu costs to avoid surprises.

Explore Wine List

The diverse and well-crafted cocktail and wine list is a significant highlight.

Review sobre Makoto, Panamá! #makotopanama #makoto #comida #restaurantepanama #panama #fyp
@gabykouranyy
492 likes • 8.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Reserve in Advance

Ensure a good table arrangement by making reservations ahead of time.

Outdoor Seating

Consider sitting outside for a pleasant experience, even during rain.

Inquire About Pricing

If budget is a concern, ask about menu costs to avoid surprises.

Explore Wine List

The diverse and well-crafted cocktail and wine list is a significant highlight.

Visit Off-Peak

Visiting during less busy times might lead to better service.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Makoto offers a high-end Japanese dining experience with excellent food, impeccable service, and a great atmosphere, making it a top choice in Panama City. While the price is considered high, most diners find it justified by the quality and overall experience. However, a few reviews noted issues with food quality, service speed, and value for money, with one reviewer describing a disappointing experience with smell, service, and dish presentation.

"Great vibes. Fresh ingredients and nice presentation. It’s not too comfortable to have a small table. A bit pricey but nice experience. The Miso Sea Bass is highly recommended!"

Jaz LEE

"Easily the best dining experience I’ve had—simply EPIC. The ambience was warm and inviting (9/10), and the service was flawless (10/10).

The appetizers, featuring grilled octopus and wagyu wontons, were both outstanding (10/10). Our entrées—branzino and skirt steak—were perfectly executed (10/10), and the desserts continued the high standard (10/10).

Cocktail options were diverse and well-crafted (9/10), and the servers’ knowledge of the menu was exceptional (10/10).

Highly recommend for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience."

Dwain Donaldson

"Only speaking about the sashimi and sushi platters for 50 USD. Best sushi placec in Panama. A very business, classy place. I came during the weekend. Amazing experience, some of the best sushi I've had (coming from Toronto and Vancouver). Very fresh and flavour packed. I think I liked the sashimi better for taste but the nigiri fills you up more (it comes with a salmon roll too). Expensive but worth trying if you like high quality sushi."

jeff cw

What People Like

Flawless service
High-quality, tasty food
Beautiful presentations

What People Dislike

High prices
Inconsistent quality
Occasional slow service

Frequently Asked Questions

Makoto offers a creative take on traditional Edomae-sushi dishes, blending classic techniques with innovative flair.

The Best Japanese Restaurants In Panama CityBest sushi restaurants in Panama

Yes, many reviewers highlight Makoto as an excellent choice for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.

TikTokGoogle Review

Standout dishes mentioned include toro tartare, wagyu filet, hay smoked albacore, grilled octopus, and wagyu wontons.

It is recommended to make reservations in advance to ensure a table, especially during peak times.

Google Review

Makoto is considered an upscale restaurant, with prices reflecting the high quality of food and service.

Google Review+2

Yes, the restaurant is on a rooftop and offers great city views, especially at night.

5 Restaurants You Must Visit in Panama CityGoogle Review+1

Yes, delivery is available, and while the food is well-packaged, one reviewer noted it wasn't exceptional for delivery.

Google Review

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