So, how did we end up at Sisu Coffee Studio? Well, before our Panama trip, my wife and I researched top things to do. Among them, we discovered Geisha coffee was highly touted. Known as one of the world’s most expensive quality coffees, we were determined to try it.
Recommendation for Geisha Coffee
While visiting the Old Quarter, we asked for a coffee shop recommendation for Geisha coffee. We were directed to Sisu Coffee Studio, located at the corner of 9th and B in the Old Quarter. It was a short walk, but we arrived after 5 pm, only to find the shop had already closed for the day.
We returned the next morning after visiting the nearby Miraflores Locks. Knowing this was high-quality coffee, the ten-dollar price tag for a cup of Geisha pour-over was only mildly shocking. My wife ordered a Matcha Latte, which was half the price of the Geisha coffee.
Visiting Sisu Coffee Studio
The coffee shop has a modern industrial vibe with concrete and brick accents. The atmosphere was bright, open, modern, and clean, providing a pleasant setting for our late-morning coffee.
Research revealed that Sisu is owned by the Lamastus Family, a Panamanian coffee producer. Lamastus is known for their Geisha coffee, so it’s likely the shop sells the genuine article. This is reassuring for travelers wary of scams selling cheap counterfeits.
However, I wasn’t sure the correct amount of coffee was used to prepare my cup. The Geisha coffee was tepid and weak, with barely detectable flavor. My attached image shows the coffee’s light color, reflecting my disappointing experience.
On the other hand, the Matcha Latte was excellent. The drinks’ presentation added a nice touch. Ultimately, the reason for our visit—a cup of Geisha coffee—was a letdown. The coffee shop also offers a variety of pastries, which we didn’t sample, but they looked appealing.
Observations
Rating Sisu Coffee Studio is difficult. There was a lot to like: great vibe, attractive presentation, and good matcha. However, the steep price for a weak cup of coffee was a downside.
Based on my experience, I didn’t purchase a bag of coffee to take home. If, in fact, Sisu shorted me on the coffee, it was their loss. Whatever they saved on my cup, they lost in the sale of their expensive coffee beans. If you’re interested, Sisu sells Geisha beans for forty dollars (200 grams), equating to about 7 ounces—about 90 dollars per pound.
If you visit Panama City, the Old Quarter (Casco Viejo) is a must-see. Sisu Coffee Studio is located just blocks from Independence Square. Give it a shot and report back if your coffee experience is better than mine.
Overview of our three-day trip to Panama!