This week us thoughtful folk at The Nibbler have gone and sampled the tacos, oysters and Mexican beers at Bondi local Panama House so we could tell you all about it! Exhausting stuff, we know.
But what you may not realise about this Mexican inspired gem is that it also poses a superb events space; think Christmas parties, engagement celebrations and boutique events.
Even a corporate dinner would be well placed here given its ideal location within the QT building, meaning you’ve also got accommodation sewn up in style.
Look and Feel
Walking into Panama House you feel pleasantly tucked away from the often-frenetic boardwalk of Campbell Parade. Elevated above the palm tree lined boulevard, the balcony is the perfect vantage point to watch the world go by and sip on a Bloody Mary or a Michelada.
The insta-worthy décor at Panama House is filled with dusty pink seats that light up a Sunday brunch to plush brown leather booths. Transforming the venue at night into a place to sit back and sip on a tequila, whiskey or rum of which the menu has an extensive and thoughtfully curated offering.
Food and Drink
Personally, we couldn’t think of anything better than our starter selection of freshly shucked rock oysters with a mezcal mignonette, washed back with a Pacifico Clara beer. The plantain chifles are also not to be missed, served with a generous serving of guacamole and pico de gallo.
Another favorite and we suspect a crowd pleaser were the Soft Shell Crab Tacos ($16), pictured above and absolutely delicious. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous then sample the seared Kangaroo Taco, a filling not gracing your ordinary Mexican menu.
Mains are priced from $19 to $38 and the serving sizes are extremely generous. We had Jerk-spiced Beef Brisket and the Coff’s Harbor Snapper, both of which were hearty meals that left us feeling completely satisfied.
What’s New?
Another happening at Panama House is the appointment of head chef Ben Fitton, whose illustrious career includes cooking for the likes of Rod Steward, Jerry Seinfeld and even the King of Spain! Talk about a resume.
Ben and the team at Panama House have some exciting developments in the pipeline for the coming months so expect a Sumer menu full of fresh surprises.
“Guests should expect the unexpected: vibrant, fresh flavours, herbs, lime, chilli, earthy moles, Peruvian aquachille, pork belly roasted over pineapple and served on a taco, and traditional Mexican street food. The menu is always bursting with an endless combination of flavours, which you simply can’t find anywhere else in Bondi.”
Nibbler Bites
Panama house is the ideal spot for a number of occasions, from brunches, to intimate dinners and all-you-can-eat taco chow downs. Most of all, however, we love Panama House for it’s perfect starts and taco menu paired with a beer on that glorious balcony.
The team have managed a perfect blend of the gourmet and street food elements taking a casual dining experience and making it that little bit special.
