Queso Chela - Fresh cheese and bread at the beaches

  If you have yet to check out Queso Chela, you are probably wondering why every time you drive past there are cars lined up outside. Queso Chela is the bakery with a line around the corner - literally. Queso Chela first opened in 1969, and was quick to develop a following probably because everything is freshly made in store. These days, from store open to closing the counter is crowded with people placing orders. Queso Chela is a well known stopping place on the way to and from beach. Bread is baked fresh everyday, and not only that, it's creative! Order a kalamata chabata or a veggie twist and be delighted by how uniquely different it is than anything else available in the area.

Of course we cannot forget the cheese - its what they are famous for! Made fresh on site, Queso Chela serves up some delicious cheeses in several varieties. Even-though the queso prensado (pressed cheese) is their most popular cheese, my favorite is the buffalo mozzarella. Emilio (owner since 1985) describes their cheeses as "suave" and "fresco" (smooth and fresh). Homemade yogurt, Cihame and leche aqia (local Panamanian drinks) are brewed fresh daily and quite refreshing. Chicken and cheese flaky empanadas are also available and popular among those traveling out to the beach stopping for a quick snack along the way. This is the only place you will find this variety of breads and cheeses available between the city and the beach.

 Emilio is from Panama. He is always happy to chat, even though he is busy at the shop. The business runs like a well oiled machine. The staff wear white uniforms and work quickly.  There is no sitting area, its more of a pit stop for fresh locally made items.

Queso Chela is located in Capira on the Panamanian hwy It is on your right hand side coming from the city towards the beach. Their sign is recognizable, it is bight red, with large bold letters spelling out Queso Chela. The parking is informal, but the space out front can accommodate a number of cars. Their hours are 9:30am - 9:00pm daily.