The direct translation of El Cangrejo in English is the Crab. El Cangrejo is one of the most centric neighborhoods in the capital city of Panama. Otherys say it is called like this because of the shape of the interconnected small streets that comprise the neighborhood. It conveniently borders the Obarrio and La Cresta neighborhoods and is close to Va Espaa, one of Panama City`s principal roadways.
El Cangrejo was initially developed and inhabited by the Jewish population of Panama. It is for this reason, that the neighborhood has a large sculpture of Albert Einsteins head. This population then moved to the Punta Paitilla neighborhood and more recently, to Punta Pacfica and Costa del Este. The primary inhabitants of El Cangrejo are middle to high income professionals and business owners. There is an increasing population of expats who have settled in Panama. A good example of this is the presence of Panamas first Bagel Cafe – New York Bagel. This convenient little spot is located next to one of el Cangrejos grocery stores, La Casa de la Carne, which translates to Meat House and is next to the sculpture of Einstein. If fresh fruits and vegetables are the order of the day, then we recommend visiting Fruteria Mimi located on the important Va Argentina, one of Panamas main avenues for restaurants and bars.
There are several hotels located in the area the oldest of which is the Hotel El Panama located at the end of the Va Veneto. Other tourist friendly hotels include the Veneto Hotel, the Crowne Plaza, the Hotel Continental and the Hotel Granada. There are several smaller, hotels with better rates such as Hotel Marbella and Milano which are located within walking distance of each other. Perhaps the most important aspect of El Cangrejo is its wide variety of restaurants. There is something for everyone including Japanese (Ginza, Matsuei), Italian (Pomodoros), Spanish diners (Manolos and Del Prado), Spanish fare (Angel), Peruvian (Astrid & Gaston), European cuisine (1985) and many other restaurants of a very good quality such as Green House (vegetarian and grill). As for bars, Taberna 21 and El Pavo Real are good places both located on Va Argentina. For the wine lovers you can head to The Wine Bar, located in Va Venetto.
As for schools, the neighborhood is conveniently located close to several schools including the Oxford School (bilingual), the Jesuit La Salle School and Kings School. Additionally, the National University and the Interamerican University are also located here.
Finally, the neighborhood is home to the famed Iglesia del Carmen (church) whose beautiful interior and architecture make it one of the most interesting structures in the area. A Chinese Buddhist temple is also located next to the La Salle School. If after attending the religious ceremonies, a stroll in the park is what is called for, the place to do this would be at Andres Bello park where there is a small walking circuit and rides for the kids as well as a basketball court. Curiously, in some parts you can smell toasted coffee in the afternoons due to the proximity to Cafe Durans toasting plant.
El Cangrejo is going through a renewal of sorts with several new buildings with apartments and lofts coming up in this area. It presents several appealing features and good value for investment as it is slightly cheaper to purchase properties here than in other neighborhoods of Panama that are seen as more exclusive.