Kansas City Chef Becomes a Restaurateur in Panama

Christopher Young, an enterprising American, has made Panama both his home and a hub for his flourishing business ventures.

Since relocating from Kansas City to Boquete, Chiriquí in 2010, Chris has embraced the rich opportunities Panama offers. Initially captivated by the country’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, he quickly turned his passion for food into profitable enterprises.

As a professional chef, Chris first secured a position as the executive chef for a local restaurant. Here, he not only honed his culinary skills but also built an extensive network of business contacts, as well as a social network of both expats and locals.

From hosting exclusive catered events to managing retail operations, Chris wasted no time establishing his entrepreneurial presence. His first major venture was the acquisition of Big Daddy’s Grill, a popular restaurant on Boquete’s main street.

Reflecting on the startup process, Chris explains, "Startup costs were minimal but it can be time-consuming to obtain the necessary permits, licenses, and health cards which enable you to work with food."

A strong advocate for farm-to-table dining, Chris was thrilled by the availability and affordability of fresh, local produce, seafood, and fish.

While he faced cultural and linguistic challenges, such as a legal requirement that all restaurant staff must be Panamanian, Chris overcame these obstacles with characteristic determination. Immersing himself in the local culture, he quickly learned Spanish and forged close bonds with both Panamanians and indigenous communities. Today, he is not only a respected business owner but also a cherished employer in the region.

Chris Young has made a name for himself as a restaurateur in Panama.

Chris’s ambitions didn’t stop in Boquete. His next acquisition was Daddy’s Beach Club and Bar, a charming beachfront boutique hotel located in Puerto Armuelles, near the Costa Rican border. This venture has become a favorite retreat for expatriates seeking a coastal escape.

Most recently, Chris launched Christopher’s American Bistro, an upscale dining establishment that has already made a splash in Boquete’s culinary scene.

Chris is optimistic about the future of his restaurants, in part because of the ever-growing popularity of Panama as an expat destination.

“Panama is still growing at a fast pace,” he says. “More and more Americans, Canadians, and Europeans are flocking here.”

Enjoy a stroll along the scenic boardwalk outside Big Daddy's Beach Club & Hotel. |©Larke Newell

His businesses continue to go from strength to strength, thanks to his innovative approach and deep connections to both the expat community and his adopted country.

Chris’s success story serves as an inspiring example of the potential that awaits in Panama if you’re willing to embrace its unique opportunities.

Whether it’s managing a bustling restaurant in Boquete or expanding a boutique hotel on the coast, his entrepreneurial spirit keeps him moving full steam ahead in this thriving, business-friendly nation.