The Nocturnal Soul of Casco Viejo: Dinner and Cocktails at Kaandela
The Nocturnal Soul of Casco Viejo: Dinner and Cocktails at Kaandela
As the sun sinks into the horizon and the warm gold of daylight fades into the soft glow of streetlamps, Casco Viejo awakens to reveal its true character—a place where whispers of history blend seamlessly with the energy of the night. This ancient quarter, with its cobbled streets and colonial facades, transforms as an intoxicating rhythm fills the air, drawing you into its story. At its heart lies Kaandela, a sanctuary where the essence of Panama is celebrated in every dish and every cocktail, creating an experience that is both luxurious and deeply soulful.
DINNER: A CELEBRATION OF PANAMA’S NIGHTTIME SPIRIT
At Kaandela, dinner is more than just a meal—it is a voyage. Beneath the soft flicker of candlelight, the flavors of Panama come alive, each plate telling a tale of land and sea, history and innovation. The dishes, crafted with reverence by Chef José, mirror the dualities of Casco Viejo itself: bold yet refined, steeped in the past yet brimming with modern creativity.
The ingredients carry the soul of Panama. Fresh seafood whispers of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, while vibrant tropical fruits echo the lush jungles of the Darién. Every bite takes you deeper into the country’s spirit—a fusion of culinary traditions reinterpreted for the modern palate. Dining here feels intimate, almost sacred—a moment suspended in time, where the world outside fades into the shadows, leaving only the aromas, textures, and colors of Panama’s bounty artfully arranged on your plate.
COCKTAILS: THE ART OF CONNECTION
The experience doesn’t end with the last bite. Upon stepping into Kaandela’s cocktail bar, the night takes on a vibrant new rhythm. The drink menu is an ode to the creative spirit of Panama—it draws from the tropical rains, the earthy richness of artisanal rums, and the playful character of exotic spices. Each cocktail is a masterpiece, handcrafted to tell a story:
- “La Chorrerana,” a refreshing blend of seco herrerano, fresh pineapple, and mint with a twist of whiskey, captures the essence of Panama’s lush landscapes, evoking the lively spirit of the Chorrera region.
- “Red,” a balanced mix of mezcal, naranjas liqueur, and vibrant flower notes, reflects the richness of Panama’s flora while providing a delightful interplay between sweetness and smoky depth.
- “Panal,” crafted with rich honey syrup, Ron Abuelo 7 years, aromatic herbs, and a splash of lime juice, embodies the sweetness of life’s connections, offering a taste of warmth and comfort reminiscent of shared moments.
The art of mixology here is more than a skill—it is a celebration of Panama’s identity. As the first sip warms your soul, the vibrant hum of conversation fills the space, and the laughter of friends mingles with the distant melody of live music drifting in from the streets. Time feels infinite, your senses wholly alive.
THE SPIRIT OF CASCO VIEJO AT NIGHT
Outside the doors of Kaandela, Casco Viejo continues its nightly performance. The narrow streets glimmer under string lights and lanterns, casting poetic shadows against crumbling colonial walls. Street performers sway to the beat of drums, and the scent of jasmine from hidden courtyards briefly lingers in the air. Yet, amidst all this vibrancy, Kaandela feels like a haven—a place where the night converges into something deeply personal, intimate, and unforgettable.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
The beauty of the nocturnal experience in Casco Viejo lies not only in its visual allure but in the way it makes you feel connected—to the place, to others, and to yourself. At Kaandela, where dinner and cocktails transcend the ordinary, the night becomes something more. It transforms into a memory marked by flavors that linger and moments that resonate.
To dine and drink at Kaandela is to embrace the soul of Panama after dark—a place where stories are shared, senses are awakened, and the magic of the night becomes yours.
