Panama 66

Decent food, but all in a super informal outdoor setting. The line is a little weird (you can actually go straight in and order even though they will tell you it’s a wait) but you can also pass a few minutes looking at the modern outdoor sculpture garden. It it’s cold outside be sure to bundle up!

Great venue from SD Art Museum. Next to outdoor Sculpture Garden, but has indoor musical space for winter time. Food and drink from just above $5 to upper $20s. Drinks $5 and up. Good sound system, but sit close to stage if want to hear music well when the venue gets busy...lil loud for hearing musicians fully. Great part is Art viewing on way along long hall to Restrooms!!

Love this place! Open air patio dining. Food is great, salads too. I ordered the cheese burger, not greasy nor did it resemble anything but gourmet!

UPDATE: (Dec, 2021) Upgraded again to 4 stars. Have been having much better experiences, and the food is always solid. Bravo! Can't wait for the Jazz to return.

UPDATE: (Jan, 2018) The lines have gotten much better (in fact practically non-existent). It may be due to winter season attendance, but I've increased my rating to three stars! Keep it up Panama 66, still love coming here for Jazz Wednesdays.

ORIGINAL: (Aug, 2017) I enjoy coming here for Jazz Wednesdays, but I don't understand why it takes 20+ minutes to wait on the "drinks only" line just to pour beer and wine. The line is already split for food and drinks, so why does it still take me away from music and socializing for so long? More people are needed behind the bar, and a faster payment system is in dire need. Please address this, management. I've never experienced this wait at another bar-- even on a weekend.

I cannot express how much my family and I enjoyed our lunch at Panama 66! The staff were so attentive and nice. They are working their butts off to provide a great experience for everyone! The live jazz band added another touch of awesomeness. The food and drinks were delicious and beautifully presented.

Please be patient about the wait here- the staff can't help it and the wait is worth it! Get the early to get in line, then enjoy Balboa Park while you wait.