Panama's Artisanal Beers

Summer is the season for the Panama Micro Brew Fest, a great chance to try what the nation’s backyard brewers are serving up. Don’t worry if you can’t make it— the tasty craft beers are available year-round. Buenas Pintas (Bella Vista, Calle 45E) is a landmark. While it doesn’t produce the beer, it was a pioneer in the movement advocating the artisanal brews. The shop sells a solid selection of domestic and foreign beers and makes great recommendations. Elsewhere, the crew who make La Rana Dorada beer are trailblazers, too; they started out in a tiny spot but now boast four pubs (in El Cangrejo, Casco Viejo, San Francisco, and Costa del Este). The brewery itself welcomes visitors on Fridays and Saturdays.