Panama 66

I have been to this restaurant in the past but never since they changed owners. The seating area is outside, and There are heaters if it’s a chilly day. It’s between the outdoor art sculpture garden and the courtyard in front of the San Diego Museum of Art. The food was great. The kale soup they had for a special was the perfect temperature and had great flavor. It’s something I was hesitant to order because kale can have an overwhelming flavor, but It mixed well with the vegetables. The reason they did not get a perfect score was because of the service. They did great at first by offering to turn on the heater wherever we liked. However my meal and my friend’s food arrived at completely different times. My friend’s sandwich came out about 10 minutes before my food. The waitstaff also did not check on us after they delivered the food. I’ll be willing to get this place another chance because the food was awesome, but I hope the service would be better.

This place is a true clusterfuck. You grab a menu, wait in line for a good 20 minutes because there’s one food cashier, then wait another 20 minutes for your food to arrive to your table.
It’s interesting there was one food cashier. The beverage cashier just stood there with a glazed look while the line was 15 deep. Uh, are you just there to look good and hold up the counter? Can’t you possibly help other customers?
Upon ordering, I requested a lemonade. I then asked for light ice, and the female brunette short-​haired cashier provided me with a half-​full glass. I looked at her and said, «Uh, are you going to fill that all the way? I’m really thirsty.» To which she scoffed «Ugh, Jesus Christ!»
Well excuse me for being a paying customer who was parched after walking 10 miles. I did not tip her and returned to my table in disbelief that she would respond that way to a very basic request.
The actual servers never ask if you need refills. You must get up and get them from the drink line. When I asked the male beverage cashier for a refill, he glared at me with a blank stare before refilling my lemonade. I even thanked him, but he was too cool to utter any type of response. Sorry I interrupted your counter-​leaning sesh, bro!
I ate the waffle and potatoes. They were delicious and fresh. I really liked the tangelo sauce and the spicy seasoning on the potatoes.
After Googling the business name, I spotted some job ads for Panama 66 on Craigslist. Guess that explains the low caliber individuals running the place. Helpful hint is to hire quality professionals for operating a restaurant at a popular tourist destination, otherwise it’s going to be a total flop.
I hope Balboa Park guests don’t view this place as representative of all San Diegans. I would hope they would treat their customers (who pay their wages) a hell of a lot better to encourage their return.
In addition to this review, I will be writing to management about my lackluster experience. I sincerely hope they improve, so I will actually visit again and enjoy myself sans shitty attitudes.

After flying in from Seattle and walking around Balboa Park, I needed something cold to drink and Panama 66 arose like a mirage.
It’s easy to review beer and the people who give it to you, because those who can create something so delicious are obviously Heroes.
I gave Panama 66 four stars simply because of the ideal location, awesome selection of local beers, and comfortable atmosphere.
The service is hit or miss so be prepared to have your patience tested.

No better way to fight off the Sunday blues than watching the sun set on the Old Globe dome in contented silence.
The burger was juicy. My friend really liked her borscht soup. I tried a passion fruit dessert concoction that was great! The weekend brunch sounds very enticing. Must return soon.

Cute little place in patio between two buildings. They have a bar and a full-​service restaurant, although you order at the counter– but they do have servers bring you the food and attend to your needs.
Nice little menu with some eclectic choices. They’re going for the gastronomic experience. Prices are decent and everybody was happy with their food.
I had the Frittata which had a little salad on the same plate. Delicious. I also had half of my daughter’s tuna melt. Really good. The bread was thick, crunchy and awesome. My sone had their fries and they were just the way I love them: crispy. The wife had the cheese plate and the burger. I did not try them but the cheese plate, which includes fruits cloves, nuts, and honey (with real comb), was gorgeous, although a bit pricey at $ 15. But it’s a good portion.

Wagyu Burger was amazing. Perfectly cooked! I also had a side of Truffle Fries which were very tasty. Nice selection of local beers and plenty of wine and cocktails to choose from as well.
I have been here a few times and they usually have a band playing in the evenings. You can visit their website to see what bands are in their line up. You can’t beat the atmosphere. it is in the middle of Balboa Park near the Museum of Art. The seating is outdoor only, but they have plently of heaters fired up in the courtyard in the evenings.
Panama66 is a nice escape from the usual, with upscale, healthy, and quality food options. I recommend coming and enjoying the experience. No need to rush in and rush out. Take the time to take it all in!

If you like Tiger! Tiger! try Panama 66, same owner, same delicious fries. I’ve tried the burger and a turkey sandwich both were delicious. The best part is the view. You order at the bar then find a table, all outside. Also the front part is dog friendly.

4 for food
4 for ambience
2 for service
My colleague and I were working in balboa park and decided to call in to place an order because we only get a half hour for lunch. The guy on the phone was so rude! He said it would be fine but we couldn’t eat at the restaurant! We were hungry so we said fine. But then, when we got there, they didn’t put the order in anyways! What kind of service is this? Who tells their customer that you can’t eat their food at their restaurant?!? That you don’t want us taking up space???
*regains composure* The scenery is nice. Not a typical restaurant. And the food is good and different. The tuna melt had olives in it which gave it an interesting touch. The brat wasn’t the best I ever had, but still good.

Panama 66 is like the forgotten step child in the BLAH-​TigerTiger! family. And rightfully so because this place pales greatly in comparison to the almighty awesome of those two pubs. The place has an open ceiling — yes — so while it might be wonderful on a nice sunny day, us spoiled San Diegans are not able to withstand the breath of chilly winter air during a cold evening. Sure, they have heat lamps, but depending on the size of your party, you may not be conveniently seated near one. The place is a bit makeshift, so I do like the chill atmosphere it provides. A jazz band was playing the night we went and their music was very upbeat. They even gathered an enthusiastic crowd, so entertainment was a plus.
There are two lines for food and beer which is a bit different from it’s two sister bars. So instead of having the ability to get your food and drink orders all at once, you have to grab your beer first, then stand in a completely different line for food. Doesn’t make any sense to me… Plus, once you order your food, they hand you a number and a server delivers your dish some time after. Their service to you completely ends after that, so just know you’ll need to figure out how to obtain your own cutlery and pray they have water in the dispenser for you to pour yourself a glass of it. Beer selection is lacking a bit and they offer lighter brews, I’m sure, to cater to a park stroller’s palate (and not an avid beer drinker).
Good luck finding parking, definitely expect to walk to this place. A bit of a turnoff especially if you want to just pop in for a brew. But, that’s simply my kind of thing otherwise I won’t bother with their expensive food.

This is a café located at Balboa Park. It’s actually Blind Lady Ale House and Tiger! Tiger!‘s new outdoor location in a little courtyard of the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
It’s actually, I think, the best food option at the park complex when it’s open. Cheese boards, bites, local beers, wine — all served in a open air setting with casual seating. Hours vary, depending on season and events, so check out their website here before you go:
The service is order at the counter, get a number and have it delivered to your table. There is often two lines, one just for drinks (to the left) so keep a sharp eye. The service is minimal and the food is above average for the area, but since it’s in the park, over-​priced. You’ll find salads, hot and cold sandwiches and there is a kids menu too. Quality is A-​ok, but portion for price, no bueno.
The atmosphere is pretty great, so maybe for a special occasion or drinks and music on one of the nights they feature live music. It IS busy, so be prepared to wait and I don’t suggest large groups.

Panama 66 has a great beer selection. I love that I had the opportunity to try the Vietnamese Speedway stout from Alesmith and a Duet IPA from Alpine. There were so many I wanted to try but the time did not permit. I would definitely go back for the selection of local craft beer.
The atmosphere was interesting. It looks like usually the tables are outside but on this occasion they were inside of a ballroom. It was weird to sit in there because it felt formal. At Panama 66 you order from a counter and then seat yourself. It didn’t look like there were many people bussing the tables, so we sat with a few crumbs. It was interesting because there were about 4 employees chatting and sitting at the bar and only 1 employee bussing tables and delivering food.
The wagyu burger was exceptional, the fries were all cut small like it was the last of the batch and the tuna melt was interesting, but not something I wanted to finish or order again. I would go back to this place if I wanted a nice day in the park with a good beer. I would definitely order that burger again and may be open to trying other menu options. I didn’t get the same vibe as Tiger! Tiger! Or BLAH, but it would be my go to place anytime I’m in Balboa Park.

The ambience is what gives this place its kudos. Right outside the Museum of art, a classy food court, with beer! If you love Balboa Park, this is probably a great place to take a break with some food and beer or wine or a cocktail!
The food, is good. Nothing that wows you want to come back, but some good options, some good healthy options. On a crowded day their kitchen gets backed up. So, you can either get some quick grab-​n-​go box that offers limited options, or be prepared to wait upwards of 30 minutes for your food, if it is crowded. They do let you know ahead of time, before you start to wait in line, which is nice and attentive.
Docking one star because of the not-​so-​wow food, and the long wait.

This place blew my socks off, figuratively speaking of course, I had sandals on.
Tried their Wagyu Burger as recommended by the friendly fellow behind the cashier
and ordered some fries with a side of their curry and their freshly made lemonade to wash it all down, Took a number and found my way to a comfy cushioned seat to plant my butt on.
Food arrived promptly, One bite of my burger and l have to say it is one of the tastiest burgers I have had, The fries were perfectly seasoned and when dipped in that Oh so delicious curry my taste buds exploded!!!
The outdoor patio was very relaxing, I was pleasantly surprised I found this gem
at Balboa Park, I look forward to coming here again.
RANDOM FACT:
Wagyu cattle’s genetic predisposition yields a beef that contains a higher percentage of omega-​3 and omega-​6 fatty acids than typical beef.

Let’s clear the air first and foremost, I’ve never been a fan of The Prado #sorrynotsorry
Now that’s out of the way, I am so happy that there is finally a modern food option available for Museum visitors at Balboa Park. We accidentally discovered Panama 66 during Maker Faire and are so glad we gave it a try. Once we found it is apart of the BLAH and Tiger! Tiger! family we were thrilled.
Although we were tempted by the weekend Brunch options, the Wagyu burger was cooked perfectly medium rare and the Pork Loin sandwich with Roasted Pears were quite delicious.
For those already enjoying the arts and culture San Diego has to offer, Panama 66 is a great restaurant to sit down and enjoy the beautiful weather. In case you are in a hurry, they also have the option to order food quickly to go.

Panama 66 is such a cute place! Totally hole in the wall style! It’s located next to San Diego Museum of Art in the Balboa Park. It is simple and low key. You order at the bar and find your table to sit down and enjoy the night. I love that they have good selection of beers and food. We had their fries, which was perfect with beers. I personally loved their mushroom and lentil patty burger! It’s fantastic! The patty was full of flavors and cooked perfectly with crispy bread crumbs outside. It was a fun and creative burger. I highly recommend it. My friends had their Astro Dog which was also a good choice. Overall, we really enjoyed the night by having beer, great food, and excellent view in the Balboa Park after sunset. It was such a beautiful place to spend the night. I will certainly go back again and just chill with friends.

If you’re taking a lovely stroll around lovely Balboa Park in lovely San Diego, and you’re looking to have a lovely meal, this might be the place for you.
Personally, it wasn’t really the place for me. Panama 66 is essentially a bumpin’ bar in an outdoor setting. Quite noisy, and when there’s a live band playing, even louder. If that’s the kind of thing you’re used to, then cheers.
Food-​wise, I had the wagyu burger. I don’t fancy myself a meat expert, so I can’t comment on the wagyu-​ness, but it was a really good burger. No fries or anything on the side, which is a little disappointing.
Anyway, really lively place with pretty decent food.

This place is also owned by BLAH and the Tiger Tiger folks. Well done! Love this place! Great beer and cocktail selection. The bad playing today is Bed Breakers and they are tearin’ it up! We come here with friends and family to enjoy the beautiful weather, dance a little with the band & enjoy tasty libations. If you’re spending the day at Balboa, make this a stop to unwind and recharge. The food is scrumdiddlyumptious!!! Well portioned and filling. I recommend you get a table in the front, facing the plaza with lots of shade. Especially if you have kids, they can still play with the fountain and run around the plaza if they want. Then go in and order. There are two lines for food and cocktails. It sounds complicated, but it’s really not. Give this place a shot, you won’t be disappointed.
Oh…and the bar extends to the back lawn. You can’t take food back there, but you can bring a blanket, your booze and sit on the lawn and enjoy the music.

I love this place. I really, really do. I live and work near Balboa Park and I usually go for a run through the Park after work. Often after I am about five miles in, on my way back to my car, I stop here. I sip a Chardonnay, eat their cheese plate which is very refreshing and relax. Their sandwiches are quite good, especially the pulled pork one with mango sauce and they have an extensive beer selection. I saw other reviews where people were complaining about the service, I guess I have been here about 20 times now and I have never encountered bad service. Maybe I am just lucky.
It’s a little on the pricey side for a beer but it’s the Park which is a tourist trap so why not charge more if you can get away with it. The house wine is fine with me and it’s only a little less than 6.00 a glass.
This place is my refuge after a long day at work and a long run, it’s a place to regroup and relax. I really love having Panama 66 at the Park, thinking about having our anniversary celebration here, I bet they do a very good job!

Went to Panama 66 to meet up with some friends. We heard they are pet friendly — so we brought our little guy (or a big lap dog)! The line for food was long, as I have heard it is. This is both a good and a bad problem. Once we were able to get our hands on the food… it was quite good! We got a charcuterie plate to share, since my husband was enjoying a local craft beer (which they have a substantial selection of) and I chose wine for the night! My favorite item tried involved the curry french fries! My favorite part of Panama 66, was the location within the sculpture garden. Our group brought blankets and we set up the picnic! Our dog enjoyed romping with the kids present at the garden and the kids loved antagonizing our dog!
Note: This is located in the heart of Balboa Park, be prepared to park and walk!

Absolutely love coming here when I’m having a day in the park at Balboa Park. Located right next to the San Diego Museum of Art and overlooking the beautiful Sculpture Garden, this place is a nice addition to Balboa. They have a nice local beer selection which I find myself always in the mood for a craft brew after walking around the park for a few hours. There is ample seating and never really looks to be that busy other than brunch hours on Saturday and Sunday.
As for the food, I ordered a hummus plate and a pork loin sandwich. The pork loin sandwich was pretty average, but I really liked the hummus plate. They provided a huge plate of hummus with pieces of toasted bread which went really well together. I’m giving a great review for a the dishes around me I WISH I had ordered. I tried a bite of Tiger! Tiger!Kielbasa which was so good! They also have the Tiger! Tiger! which are some of favorites fries in SD. I really want to come back for brunch for their homemade fresh coconut glazed donuts and beer pairings for an early weekend treat. I love this place and I will return!