Taste is First at Boquete?s New Oasis

Right in the middle of Boquete, just across the new bridge, I found a lovely “new” restaurant, El Oasis. The tasty dinner I ordered, boneless leg of lamb, garlic mashed potatoes and ratatouille, was outstanding.

Usually, I tell about the restaurant first and show you the entrance, but the food at El Oasis was so unexpected, I just had to talk about it first.

The presentation of this unusual cut of tender lamb was colorful, the taste was fresh and the intriguing flavors mixed to make a most memorable dining experience.

The reputation of El Oasis is growing fast as folks come from Panama City and parts far and wide to taste Chef Belisario Torres’ creative and delectable offerings.

I used the word “new” in my title because the owner, Anayansi Menendez has just completed a new addition to the restaurant, which allows for 12 more diners. There are designer walkways along the river’s edge and the parking facilities have been improved. The decor is simple, yet elegant. Two fireplaces provide a warm, cozy atmosphere, the music was subtle and the expansive windows open onto lovely mountain views just outside.  This is ambiance at its finest.

Two days later, I returned to El Oasis with friends and ordered the local smoked trout.  The result was the same, as it was the best local fish I’ve had anywhere. The dinners were beautifully and graciously presented by server Carlisto, and everyone totally enjoyed their various dishes.

If this type of fine dining continues to be offered there, El Oasis will surely become one of the highest rated dining establishments in town. This photo shows the front entrance of El Oasis Hotel and Restaurant. To enter the restaurant, go below and around the back.

My final thought upon reflecting on my dining experiences at El Oasis was the price, which is $10-12 per entree.  I’ll return over and over again. Next time, I’ll try Chef Belisario’s filet mignon, accompanied with a favorite wine, Trivento Reserve Malbec, 2007 from Argentina.

Salud, Cora