Authentic Panamanian & Latin Caribbean Catering for Corporate & Special Events in the DMV
Esencias Panameñas provides full-service catering featuring authentic Panamanian and Latin Caribbean cuisine for corporate events, university programs, cultural celebrations, weddings, and private gatherings throughout Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
Every menu is handcrafted from scratch using high-quality ingredients and traditional Panamanian recipes.
👉 Corporate & institutional catering
👉 Weddings & special celebrations
👉 Custom menus available
👉 Pickup, delivery, and full-service options
Our Catering Is Ideal For:
- Corporate meetings & office lunches
- University & cultural programs
- Embassy & institutional events
- Weddings & milestone celebrations
- Community & nonprofit events
We specialize in medium to large-scale catered events that require quality, presentation, and consistency.
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Choose Your Format
Whether you are looking for passed hors d’oeuvres, a stationary buffet, or a seated dinner, we will work with you to meet your event catering needs.
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Custom Menu Development
Whether your event is small or large, Esencias Panameñas will create a custom menu that suits your taste and budget.
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Satisfying Dietary Needs
We are attentive to special dietary needs, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and/or allergy-related issues. We’ll work with you to ensure everyone at your event is included.
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Bar Service
Start your event with a variety of drink packages for your guests. Choose from refreshing non-alcoholic drinks, beer, wine, cocktails, or an open bar.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way
At Esencias Panameñas, we provide more than just food — we deliver a complete catering experience with support from planning to execution.
Our services include:
- Personalized menu planning and consultation
- Step-by-step guidance throughout the planning process
- Event coordination support
- Professional presentation and setup
- An on-site catering coordinator for full-service events to help ensure a seamless experience
From your initial consultation through the day of your event, we are committed to providing exceptional service and attention to detail every step of the way.
Praise From Our Clients
Chef Yadira and the team at Esencias Panameñas truly stole the show at our most recent event. Their food was an absolute hit, and it's safe to say that everyone in attendance couldn't get enough! From the empanadas, ceviche, to the incredible tostones— everything was amazing. If you're looking to elevate your event or party with incredible food, Esencias Panameñas is the way to go. - Latino Economic Development Center
Chef Yadira does not disappoint, at all! She guided me through the entire catering process, brought everything I needed from the food, the chaffing materials, table cloths, beautiful labels, anything that you can think of. The food was amazing and authentic as well. Give Esencias a try, you won't regret it. But you will regret not ordering from this place. I LOVED it! - Sayah A.
On 5/7/23 I place a order for the Caribbean Bliss package to server 25 guests. The packaging was put together outstanding, the food was out of site, everything was delicious, from the appetizer to the main course to the desert. wonderful Job. - Carlos
Catering Policies
All of our full-service catering contracts include an on-site coordinator. Bartenders and servers are available for an additional fee.
Request A Catering Proposal
Step 1: To place a full-service catering order, please download and complete this Catering Questionnaire and return it to us at info@esenciaspanamenas.com. Please complete the questionnaire thoroughly, so that we can provide you with an accurate quote in three (3) business days from the return date.
Step 2: You may schedule a phone consultation (using the form below) after you receive the estimate.
Our Catering Specialties
Holiday Parties * Meetings * Weddings * Anniversary Parties * Birthdays * Office Lunches * Conferences * Galas