Are you in the Dominican Republic and ready for a tropical culinary adventure? With its merengue, beaches and festive atmosphere, this country is also a gourmet's paradise. All over the island, from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana, Puerto Plata and Samaná, restaurants are waiting to introduce you to the unique flavours of Dominican cuisine. Prepare your taste buds for a feast of traditional, modern and revisited dishes where every bite is a journey!
Santo Domingo: The capital's must-sees
Adrian Tropical: unforgettable views and flavors
Imagine dining in a restaurant with ocean views, tropical flavours and an inviting ambience! Adrian Tropical is the ideal place to relax after a stroll along the Malecon. Known for serving authentic Dominican cuisine that is generous in portion but rich in flavour, Adrian Tropical is a delightful way to soak up local culture while taking advantage of a stunning oceanfront location.
Dishes to try : Shrimp Mofongo is a classic Dominican dish that combines shrimp and plantains in a delicious mash.
Address: the Av. George Washington Malecon, Santo Domingo.
Atmosphere: Enjoy an inviting and festive atmosphere, perfect for families as well as groups of friends looking for tasty local delicacies.
El Conuco: authentic, typical and very festive!
For a full Dominican experience, El Conuco is a must! This vibrantly decorated restaurant immerses guests in traditional Dominican culture, complete with live merengue performers and generous portions; every dish here showcases regional flavours!
Dishes to try : include La Bandera Dominicicana - an exquisite national dish of red beans, rice and meat.
Address: Casimiro de Moya Street, Santo Domingo
Atmosphere: Lively, traditional and acoustic atmosphere, perfect for an engaging experience!
Buche Perico: colonial charm and reinvented cuisine
Buche Perico Restaurant, located in the Zona Colonial, welcomes you with its beautiful and romantic ambience. Combining traditional Dominican flavours with modern cuisine in an inviting yet refined space, Buche Perico is the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring historic sites.
Dishes to try : Pescado frito (fried fish) served with tostones and sauce.
Address: Calle El Conde in the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
Atmosphere: Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who enjoy discovering innovative cuisine.
Jalao: keep the party going after dinner
Looking for entertainment and a fun night out? Jalao in the Zona Colonial offers both. This trendy restaurant, famous for its modernised traditional dishes, attracts tourists and locals alike for evenings of music and delicious cuisine.
Dishes to try : The crispy empanadas filled with chicken or meat are sure to please.
Address: On El Conde Street in the colonial part of Santo Domingo.
Atmosphere: Enjoy an unforgettable night in a modern, fun and energetic atmosphere with live entertainment! This experience promises to be one to remember!
Pat'e Palo: fusion and refined tastes
For a touch of elegance, Pat'e Palo offers a sophisticated atmosphere within the Colonial Zone. Renowned for its delicious fusion cuisine that blends local flavours with international influences, Pat'e Palo is an excellent venue for special events or intimate family dinners, offering an extensive menu that redefines Dominican cuisine in an elegant way.
Dishes to try : Seafood risotto with Caribbean flavours.
Address: Plaza de Espana in the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo.
Atmosphere:Cosy yet elegant, ideal for special occasions.
La Cassina: a fusion of local and international flavors
If you're a fan of inventive, contemporary cuisine, don't miss La Cassina. Although this restaurant offers fusion cuisine, it particularly highlights Dominican ingredients, revisited with originality. The setting is chic and modern, perfect for a gastronomic evening and an experience out of the ordinary. Typical place for a truly unique dining experience.
Dish to try: Dominican ceviche, revisited in a fresh and tasty way.
Address: Av. Abraham Lincoln, Santo Domingo
Atmosphere: Luxurious and contemporary, perfect for lovers of modern cuisine and elegant evenings.
Punta Cana: Tasting Dominican cuisine between beaches and luxury hotels
La Yola: gastronomy by the sea
In the heart of Punta Cana, La Yola is an exquisite seafood restaurant where local cuisine meets Mediterranean influences in an atmosphere reminiscent of a fishing boat. Enjoy incredible panoramic views as you feast on fresh seafood dishes combined with tropical flavours for an unforgettable dining experience.
Dishes to try : Dominican ceviche offers both spicy and fresh flavours for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Address: Location of the Punta Cana Resort & Club: Punta Cana
Atmosphere: Elegant and calming atmosphere, perfect for romantic dates.
Bachata Rosa by SBG: Juan Luis Guerra's gastronomic fusion
Bachata Rosa by SBG offers trendy dining with modernised Dominican dishes, with warm decor, an inviting ambience and a delicious menu. Created by famous musician Juan Luis Guerra, this restaurant offers contemporary dining with warm service and inviting decor.
Dishes to try : Try the delicious empanadas de yuca stuffed with spicy meat!
Address: BlueMall in Punta Cana
Atmosphere: Elegant with quality service and musical overtones.
Puerto Plata: gastronomy and breathtaking views
Los Tres Cocos: creative cuisine in Sosúa
Los Tres Cocos Restaurant is an exquisite establishment in Puerto Plata that serves local dishes with an innovative twist, using local ingredients to create traditional Dominican cuisine. Dine in a relaxed atmosphere with views of the sea.
Dishes to try : Grilled salmon served with tostones and Dominican salsa.
Address: Playa Laguna, Sosua and Puerto Plata.
Atmosphere: Relaxed and beachside.
Casa 40: a culinary-colonial gem
Located in the historic center of Puerto Plata, Casa 40 is a picturesque restaurant where you can rediscover Dominican cuisine. With its colorful walls and warm ambience, it's the perfect place to sample local cuisine with a contemporary twist. An authentic spanish dishes with dominican food !
Dish to try: Chivo guisado (stewed kid), tender and fragrant.
Address: Calle Beller 40, Puerto Plata
Atmosphere: Authentic and charming, ideal for couples or friends.
Samaná: Taste dominican cuisine in the heart of nature
El Cabito: enjoy nature in Las Galeras
Perched on a cliff with breathtaking ocean views, El Cabito is the perfect place for an intimate date night or after a day of exploring. With seasonal dishes highlighting local produce and an exquisite seafood menu, you won't leave hungry!
Dishes to try : Grilled lobster served with local rice and vegetables is an unforgettable culinary experience.
Address: Las Galeras Street in Samana
Atmosphere: Relaxed and natural - perfect for sea lovers.
Le Thalassa: a beachfront restaurant
Located in Las Terrenas, Le Thalassa is an essential place to experience Dominican cuisine right on the beach. Ideal for an informal meal or a romantic sunset dinner, Le Thalassa offers an unforgettable beachfront dining experience with fresh, delicious cuisine served with great service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dishes to try : The seafood mofongo with tropical notes is well worth a try.
Address: Playa Bonita, Las Terrenas and Samaná.
Atmosphere: Enjoy an inviting and light dining experience by the sea in this relaxed yet bright space.
A gourmet break after the festivals?
What better way to recharge your batteries after an exciting music festival than to sample some delicious local food and drink! Below is our selection of must-attend music festivals in the Dominican Republic that offer both a joyful atmosphere and culinary delights to complement the dining experience!
Tips for enjoying Dominican cuisine throughout the country
Book in advance: P It's a good idea to book ahead as popular restaurants such as El Conuco and Jalao can get full on weekends, so reservations are a must if you don't want to miss out! It is best to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment!
Taste local specialties: Be sure to try traditional Dominican dishes such as mofongo, bandera dominicana and tostones for an authentic Dominican dining experience.
Try mamajuana: Mamajuana, an authentic Dominican drink made from honey, wine and rum, is revered for its distinctive taste and qualities - the ideal accompaniment to a Dominican dinner!
What is the best time and day to dine out in Santo Domingo?
Most restaurants in the Dominican Republic offer both lunch and dinner service; reservations should be made for dinner at weekends if possible.
Are there any vegetarian restaurants in Santo Domingo?
While Dominican cuisine is often dominated by meat dishes, several establishments such as Buche Perico and La Cassina serve delicious vegetarian dishes.
What is the average cost of a meal in a good restaurant in Santo Domingo?
A full meal in a local cuisine restaurant can cost between US$10 and US$30 per person, depending on the location and menu..
Is it possible to pay by credit card in Dominican restaurants?
Yes, most of the restaurants accept credit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for less touristy areas.
Is Dominican cuisine spicy?
Dominican cuisine is rather mild in terms of spices, but it's packed with flavor thanks to the fresh, local ingredients!
The Dominican Republic is an ideal culinary holiday destination. From classic dishes to seasonal specialities, Santo Domingo has something for every food lover! Don't be tempted by these top restaurants; visit them all and be charmed by their welcoming ambience for an experience you won't soon forget!