When most people think of thriving Jewish communities in Central America, Panama City immediately comes to mind—and for good reason, with its 40+ kosher restaurants and robust infrastructure. But nestled in the misty mountains of Chiriquí province, about 300 miles west of Panama City, lies a surprising gem for Jewish travelers and expats: Boquete, a charming highland town that’s home to a growing Jewish community and authentic kosher options.
For the approximately 5,000 American and international expats who’ve made Boquete their home—drawn by the eternal spring climate, stunning natural beauty, and affordable cost of living—Jewish life is not only possible but flourishing. Whether you’re considering retirement in Boquete, planning a kosher vacation, or simply curious about this unexpected Jewish outpost, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
The Surprising Story: How Boquete Got a Jewish Community
Boquete’s Jewish presence is relatively recent but rapidly growing. Chabad Boquete opened its doors in 2016 to serve the Jewish needs of the Chiriquí region, which is home to approximately 5,000 expats.
The establishment of Chabad Boquete marked a turning point. As Barbara Rabkin told Lubavitch.com in 2017, “Jewish people who want to move to Panama now understand that Boquete has a growing Jewish community, and that there is somewhere for them to have a kosher meal, spend a holiday or Shabbat, or observe a yahrzeit.”
What started as a single Chabad house has blossomed into a community with regular services, kosher food options, and a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and travelers.
Chabad of Boquete: The Heart of Jewish Life
Chabad Boquete serves as the central hub for Jewish life in the region, providing essential services for both the local Jewish community and travelers.
Location & Contact
- Address: Calle C con Calle 4, In Front of Hotel Isla Verde, Boquete, Chiriquí, Panama
- Rabbi: Yakov Poliwoda
- Contact: Available through Chabad.org directory
Services Offered
Chabad of Boquete provides:
- Kosher catering for individuals, families, and groups
- Shabbat meals (advance registration required)
- Holiday services and celebrations
- Daily minyanim when possible
- Torah classes and Jewish learning
- Yahrzeit observances
- Community gatherings and events
Important Note for Visitors
Like all Jewish institutions in Panama, security screening is required in advance. Contact Chabad Boquete before your visit to complete the necessary registration. You’ll receive an emailed letter of acceptance that you should print and present to security, even for Shabbat services.
Kosher Food in Boquete: Morton’s Bakehouse
Morton’s Bakehouse: From Home Kitchen to Kosher Institution
What started as a retirement hobby became a beloved Boquete establishment. Morton Rabkin, a former attorney with a love for baking, began crafting artisan loaves from his kitchen, with his wife Barbara by his side. As word spread through the expat community, their home operation evolved into a thriving local bakery.
The bakery entered a new era in 2018 when Rabbi Jacob Poliwoda—who also serves Chabad Boquete—and his wife Hana took ownership. They preserved the Morton’s name while introducing kosher certification through Shevet Ahim supervision, filling a significant gap in Panama’s Jewish community.
Demand quickly outpaced local sales, leading to delivery routes that now reach Panama City and beyond, making authentic kosher baked goods accessible across the country.
Milk and Honey Restaurant: A New Chapter
In November 2024, Morton’s Bakehouse expanded with the opening of Milk and Honey, making it the only kosher restaurant west of Panama City.
What Makes It Special:
- Mediterranean-inspired Jewish cuisine – Dishes rooted in Jewish culinary heritage with a modern Mediterranean touch
- Dairy and vegetarian menu items – From fresh salads and vegetable-forward entrees to creamy dairy dishes and cheese-based specialties, the menu caters to both vegetarian diners and those who enjoy traditional dairy cuisine
- Warm, welcoming service – The friendly staff treats every customer like family, creating a comfortable atmosphere where you’ll feel right at home from your very first visit
- Rigorous kosher standards – Cholov Yisrael dairy options and Pas Yisroel bread preparation
- Ethical sourcing and quality ingredients – A commitment to responsible food practices
The Historic Setting
Milk and Honey is located in Casa Selva, a historic building dating back to the 1940s-1950s. Originally designed as a vacation retreat by Panamanian engineer Manuel Virgilio Patiño Samaniego, the property features architectural elements that blend European and North American styles. The building’s rich history and charming atmosphere create a unique dining setting that adds to the restaurant’s appeal.
Menu Highlights:
- Fresh artisan breads (challah, sourdough, rye, specialty loaves)
- Mediterranean-inspired dishes
- Israeli-style breakfast and brunch items
- Dairy and vegan options
- Coffee and specialty beverages
- Shabbat challot (pre-order recommended)
Contact Information
Morton’s Bakehouse & Milk and Honey
- Address: Calle Central, Bajo Boquete, Chiriquí (click for map)
- Phone: +507 6243-0666
- WhatsApp: +507 6242-9387 / +507 730-8499 / +507 6622-4489
- Instagram: @mortonsbakehouse
- Website: www.mortonsbakehouse.com
- Kashrut Supervision: Shevet Ahim (Panama’s primary Orthodox kashrut authority)
Understanding Kashrut Standards in Panama
Before diving deeper into kosher options, it’s important to understand the kashrut landscape in Panama.
Shevet Ahim: Panama’s Primary Kashrut Authority
Shevet Ahim is the Orthodox Sephardi synagogue and kashrut organization that provides kosher certification throughout Panama. Shevet Ahim offers kashrut certification to many local products and is actively working to certify more products in the region.
Standards:
- Glatt kosher (Beit Yosef standards for Sephardic community)
- Shechita performed according to Orthodox standards
- Regular supervision of certified establishments
Important Notes:
- Not all meat establishments have a mashgiach temidi (full-time supervisor)
- Not all dairy restaurants are Cholov Yisrael
- Always verify current certification status
Cholov Yisrael Availability
For those who observe Cholov Yisrael standards (dairy products supervised from milking through processing), options in Boquete are limited but available:
- Morton’s Bakehouse/Milk and Honey offers Cholov Yisrael options
- For a wider selection, Panama City has multiple Cholov Yisrael establishments
Planning Your Kosher Stay in Boquete
Shabbat in Boquete
Spending Shabbat in Boquete is absolutely possible with proper planning:
Shabbat Meals:
- Chabad Boquete offers Shabbat meals with advance registration
- Contact Rabbi Poliwoda well in advance to arrange
- Meals typically include Friday night dinner and Shabbat lunch
- Prepayment is usually required
Services:
- Chabad Boquete holds Shabbat services
- Minyan availability depends on community attendance
- Visitors are warmly welcomed
Accommodations:
- Choose lodging within walking distance of Chabad
- Boquete’s town center is compact and walkable
- Some hotels may accommodate Shabbat needs with advance notice
Shabbat Preparation:
- Order food from Morton’s Bakehouse and Chabad before Shabbat
- Buy wine (Manischewitz is stocked at Super Baru and El Rey, while Felipe Motta has a few additional options available)
- Prepare hot water for tea/coffee before Shabbat
- Bring candles and matches
Kosher Vacation Planning
Before You Arrive:
- Contact Chabad Boquete at least 2-3 weeks in advance
- Complete security registration for synagogue access
- Pre-order from Morton’s Bakehouse if you have specific needs
- Arrange Shabbat meals if staying over Shabbat
- Verify current hours and availability of kosher establishments
What to Bring:
- Kosher snacks for hiking and day trips
- Wine for Shabbat/holidays (limited local selection)
- Any specialty kosher items you can’t live without
- Siddur and any religious items you need
- Modest clothing for synagogue
Kosher Groceries: While Boquete doesn’t have a kosher supermarket, you can:
- Purchase fresh produce at local markets (Tuesday market is popular)
- Buy packaged kosher items in Panama City before traveling to Boquete
- Order from Morton’s Bakehouse for bread and baked goods
- Coordinate with Chabad for specific needs
Jewish Holidays in Boquete
Chabad Boquete celebrates all major Jewish holidays with services, meals, and community gatherings.
High Holidays (Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur)
- Full services with shofar blowing
- Community meals for Rosh Hashanah
- Break-fast after Yom Kippur
- Book early – these are the most popular times
Sukkot
- Community sukkah available
- Lulav and etrog provided
- Meals in the sukkah
Chanukah
- Public menorah lighting
- Latke parties and celebrations
- Children’s activities
Purim
- Megillah reading
- Purim seudah (festive meal)
- Mishloach manot distribution
- Costume celebrations
Passover
- Full Passover seders (reservation required)
- Kosher for Passover food available
- Some years feature Passover programs
- Plan well in advance – very popular
Shavuot
- All-night learning (depending on attendance)
- Dairy meals
- Torah study sessions
The Broader Jewish Community in Panama
Understanding Boquete’s Jewish life is enhanced by knowing about Panama’s larger Jewish community.
Panama City: The Hub
Panama is home to approximately 10,000-14,000 Jews, making it the largest Jewish community in Central America. According to Tourism Panama, Panama City’s Jewish community has built remarkable infrastructure to support religious life, including more than 40 kosher restaurants, two comprehensive kosher supermarkets, multiple synagogues representing different denominations, Jewish day schools from elementary through high school, four mikvaot, a kolel with over 40 scholars, and active Jewish organizations such as B’nai Brith, Maccabi, WIZO, and Hadassah Panama.
Synagogues in Panama
Shevet Ahim (Orthodox Sephardi)
- Main location in Bella Vista, Panama City
- Four synagogues in the city
- Three branches in beach resorts
- Four mikvaot in the building
- Kolel, Talmud Torah, Midrasha, and women’s university
Beth-El Synagogue (Orthodox Ashkenazi)
- Serves the Ashkenazi community
- Shabbat services and kiddush luncheon
- Tight security – advance registration required
Kol Shearith Israel (Reform)
- Founded in 1876 – Panama’s first synagogue
- Located in Costa del Este
- Community center consecrated in 2006
Chabad of Panama City
- Three daily minyanim
- Shabbat meals available
- Located in Punta Paitilla
Other Jewish Destinations in Panama
Bocas del Toro (Caribbean coast)
- Chabad center with synagogue
- Kosher restaurant
- Shabbat meals
- Daily minyanim
- Beautiful island setting
Beach Communities (Pacific coast)
- Synagogues in Coronado and Santa Clara
- Serve local residents and vacationers
- Shabbat services available
Why Jewish Travelers and Retirees Choose Boquete
The Appeal for Jewish Expats
Climate
Boquete’s elevation (3,300-6,000 feet) provides an “eternal spring” climate—comfortable year-round temperatures without the intense tropical heat of lower elevations. This is particularly appealing for retirees from temperate climates.
Cost of Living
While more expensive than other parts of Panama, Boquete remains affordable compared to North American cities, with monthly budgets of $2,000-3,500 providing comfortable living.
Safety
Low crime rates and a tight-knit expat community create a secure environment. Jews can feel completely comfortable wearing kippot, tzitzyot, and displaying other Jewish symbols throughout the community.
Natural Beauty
Surrounded by cloud forests, coffee plantations, and dominated by Volcán Barú (Panama’s highest peak), Boquete offers stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
Expat Community
With 10,000+ expats, there’s built-in social infrastructure, English is widely spoken, and newcomers find it easy to integrate.
Proximity to Panama City
A 6-7 hour drive or short flight connects Boquete to Panama City’s extensive kosher infrastructure for when you need more options. Shipments of kosher food can also be ordered online and affordably delivered the next day to Boquete via Uno Express or Fletes Chavale.
Jewish Life Advantages
Growing Community
The Jewish presence is expanding, with more families discovering Boquete as a viable option for Jewish living outside major cities.
Authentic Kosher Options
Morton’s Bakehouse and Chabad’s catering provide genuine kosher food, not just “kosher-style.”
Shabbat Observance
The compact town center makes Shabbat walking feasible, and Chabad provides necessary services.
Holiday Celebrations
Full holiday observance with community support and meals.
Connection to Larger Community
Easy access to Panama City’s robust Jewish infrastructure when needed.
Practical Information for Jewish Visitors
Getting to Boquete
By Air:
- Fly into Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City
- Domestic flight to David (Enrique Malek Airport) – 45 minutes
- 45-minute drive from David to Boquete
By Car:
- 6-7 hour drive from Panama City
- Scenic Pan-American Highway
- Car rental available in Panama City or David
By Bus:
- Comfortable buses from Panama City to David (6-7 hours)
- Local buses from David to Boquete (1 hour)
- Budget-friendly option
Where to Stay
In Town Center (Best for Shabbat):
- Walking distance to Chabad and Morton’s Bakehouse
- Access to restaurants, shops, and services
- More social atmosphere
Mountain Properties:
- Stunning views and privacy
- Requires vehicle
- More challenging for Shabbat observance
What to Do in Boquete
Outdoor Activities:
- Hiking trails (including Volcán Barú summit)
- Coffee plantation tours
- Hot springs
- Zip-lining
- Bird watching (including Resplendent Quetzal)
- River rafting
- Rock climbing
Cultural Experiences:
- Tuesday market (local produce and crafts)
- Coffee tasting tours
- Indigenous community visits
- Art galleries and studios
Relaxation:
- Spa treatments
- Garden tours
- Scenic drives
- Reading in mountain cafes
Language
While many expats and tourism workers speak English, learning basic Spanish greatly enhances your experience (click here to check out our favorite app). At Chabad, English, Spanish, and Hebrew are spoken.
Money
Panama uses the US dollar (called “balboa” locally), making financial transactions easy for American visitors. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small purchases and markets.
Health Care
Boquete has basic medical facilities. For serious medical needs, travel to David (45 minutes) or Panama City. Many expats maintain international health insurance.
Connecting with the Community
Before You Visit
Online Resources:
- Join Boquete expat Facebook groups
- Connect with Chabad Boquete via their website
- Read blogs from Jewish expats in Boquete
- Watch YouTube videos about Jewish life in Panama
Make Contact:
- Email or call Chabad Boquete in advance
- Introduce yourself and explain your visit
- Ask about current community activities
- Inquire about Shabbat meal availability
During Your Visit
Attend Services:
- Shabbat services at Chabad
- Weekday minyanim (if available)
- Holiday celebrations
Visit Morton’s Bakehouse:
- Enjoy a meal at Milk and Honey
- Chat with Rabbi Poliwoda and Hana
- Support this vital community resource
Connect with Locals:
- Attend community events
- Join a Shabbat meal
- Participate in holiday celebrations
- Exchange contact information with new friends
After Your Visit
Stay Connected:
- Join Boquete’s Jewish community WhatsApp groups
- Follow Morton’s Bakehouse on Instagram
- Keep in touch with people you met
- Share your experience with others considering Boquete
Support the Community:
- Make a donation to Chabad Boquete
- Leave positive reviews for Morton’s Bakehouse
- Spread the word about Jewish life in Boquete
- Consider returning for extended stays
Comparing Boquete to Other Jewish Destinations in Latin America
Advantages of Boquete
✅ Authentic kosher food (not just vegetarian or fish)
✅ Active Chabad presence with regular programming
✅ Growing Jewish community of residents and visitors
✅ Safe, welcoming environment for Jewish observance
✅ Affordable compared to North American destinations
✅ No jet lag from US East Coast
✅ US dollar currency
✅ Stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities
✅ Comfortable climate year-round
✅ Easy access to Panama City’s extensive kosher infrastructure
Limitations to Consider
⚠️ Limited kosher variety compared to major cities
⚠️ Small community – minyan not always guaranteed
⚠️ Advance planning required for Shabbat and holidays
⚠️ Remote location – 6-7 hours from Panama City
⚠️ Limited Cholov Yisrael options
⚠️ No kosher supermarket in town
⚠️ Rainy season (May-November) can be very wet
The Future of Jewish Boquete
The trajectory of Jewish life in Boquete is decidedly upward. With the 2024 opening of Milk and Honey restaurant, the continued growth of the expat community, and increasing awareness of Boquete as a Jewish-friendly destination, the community is poised for continued expansion.
Rabbi Poliwoda’s vision is becoming reality: Jewish people considering Panama now understand that Boquete offers not just beautiful mountains and affordable living, but a genuine Jewish community where they can observe Shabbat, celebrate holidays, enjoy kosher food, and connect with fellow Jews.
Final Thoughts: Kosher in Paradise
Boquete represents something special in the landscape of Jewish travel and expat living—a place where stunning natural beauty, comfortable climate, affordable living, and authentic Jewish life converge in an unexpected mountain paradise.
Whether you’re planning a kosher vacation, considering retirement abroad, or simply curious about Jewish life in unusual places, Boquete offers a unique and rewarding experience. From fresh challah at Morton’s Bakehouse to Shabbat meals with Chabad, from hiking cloud forests to celebrating holidays in the tropics, Boquete proves that Jewish life can flourish anywhere Jews choose to build community.
The next time someone asks, “Can you keep kosher in the mountains of Panama?” you can confidently answer: “Absolutely—and you’ll love every minute of it.”
Ready to experience Jewish Boquete for yourself? Start planning your kosher adventure in the clouds today!
Essential Contacts:
- Chabad Boquete: Chabad.org directory
- Morton’s Bakehouse & Milk and Honey: +507-6242-9387 | www.mortonsbakehouse.com
- Chabad Panama City: chabadpanama.com
*This guide is based on current information as of 2025. Always verify details directly with establishments before your visit, as hours, services, and availability may change.
