The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant nations, reflected in numerous ways. And their cuisine is arguably the most notable, stated in bold flair throughout the nation with little touches depending on the area. In the capital of Santo Domingo, there’s no shortage of fine dining that taps into the country’s culinary greatness as well as those places that give people a taste of other cuisines. Here are nine prime choices for travelers looking to satisfy their palates in Santo Domingo.
1. Meson de Bari
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Situated in the Colonial Zone, Meson de Bari is highly distinctive thanks to its bright exterior that takes its cue from the skies above. Once inside, patrons will delight in the serene and traditional atmosphere and more importantly the food. Dominican cuisine is done with zeal here, from tender ropa vieja to robust soups and their empanadas. With friendly service being a part of Meson de Bari’s personality as well, it’s easy to see how they’ve been in business for 33 years.
Meson de Bari
Address: Calle Hostos # 302, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: Meson de Bari
2. Don Pepe
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Just off Winston Churchill Avenue, Don Pepe is a restaurant that prioritizes delivering Dominican cuisine to people in the old-fashioned way. It shows the moment visitors enter, with rich mahogany and red walls setting an elegant tone as you’re guided to a table. The menu does feature seafood prominently – the paella in particular – but other dishes like their chuletas de cordero are also crowd favorites.
3. La Briciola
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
La Briciola stands adjacent to the Calle Padre Bellini, and has been a staple on the Santo Domingo dining scene since 1994. The restaurant itself is in a building dating back to the 16th century, which adds to the sophisticated ambiance of the eatery that can be seen in every inch of the place with the open courtyard as a splendid touch. La Briciola specializes in Italian food, with sizable menus and a distinct attention paid towards authenticity. As a result, it’s gotten consistently high marks from many who step through the ornate doors.
La Briciola
Address: Calle Arzobispo Meriño 152A, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: La Briciola
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4. Sullys
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
In the Ensanche Carmelita neighborhood sits Sullys, which is popular because of a fairly relaxed atmosphere and hearty fare. A genteel dining area awaits once you enter the expansive building that sits on Charles Sumner Street. The focus here is seafood, and lots of it- there’s about 10 dishes alone that feature sea bass on the menu. That also extends to the sumptuous rice dishes including their paellas that are big enough for two people.
Sullys
Address: Charles Summer 19, Santo Domingo 10129, Dominican Republic
Website: Sullys
5. Sophia’s Bar & Grill
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Sophia’s Bar & Grill has made a bold splash on the Santo Domingo food scene, enough to expand into a restaurant group that includes four other eateries. Those dining at the original situated in the heart of the city will find an menu with an international focus but utilizing different components from Dominican cuisine. And it’s all in an atmosphere that is exquisitely set up to give diners high comfort without a great deal of formality.
Sophia’s Bar & Grill
Address: Calle Paseo de los Locutores 13, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: Sophia’s Bar & Grill
6. Pat’e Palo
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
At the edge of the Plaza de Espana o de la Hispanidad lies Pat’e Palo, known locally as the “First Tavern Of The Americas”. That distinction is true – the restaurant dates back to 1505 when it was first built by a Dutch captain who arrived here. The historic feel is still highly apparent throughout the place, from restored brick walls and facades found in their bar and lounge to the sweeping views afforded to those dining on their terrace. When it comes to the menu, Pat’e Palo embraces a European brasserie tone that is expressed in curated menus including one done in the spirit of pairing dishes with the island’s best rum.
Pat’e Palo
Address: Plaza Espana, Ciudad Colonial, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic
Website: Pat’e Palo
7. El Conuco
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
El Conuco’s appeal lies in celebrating every iota of traditional Dominican culture, and it’s definitely noticeable once you enter and take in the atmosphere that depicts a tropical village complete with storefront replicas. The real treat lies in the menu which is chock full of dishes like their sancocho caribeno and their mofongo that have brought smiles to many in Santo Domingo and those visiting from other places. Another outstanding element of El Conuco? There’s nightly performances by musicians and dancers that evoke the spirit of the island nation in thrilling fashion.
El Conuco
Address: Calle Casimiro de Moya #152, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: El Conuco
8. Adrian Tropical
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re looking for a postcard-worthy setting to dine in while in Santo Domingo, it is pretty hard to argue against Adrian Tropical. Perched right by the seaside, the restaurant has gained many appreciative gourmands with a packed menu featuring traditional Dominican cuisine. Staples such as mangu with fried salami and camarofongo are on hand here, along with some unique dishes like tropical chowfan which is a nod to the Chinese community on the island.
Adrian Tropical
Address: Avenida George Washington 1, Santo Domingo 10205, Dominican Republic
Website: Adrian Tropical
9. El Meson De La Cava
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
On the Avenida Mirador Sur sits El Meson De La Cava, a truly unique eatery that is ensconced within a limestone cave. Before becoming a restaurant in 1967, the cave was once a hiding place for members of the indigenous Taino people, a lookout for buccaneers and a storage facility for soldiers from the Organization of American States during the Revolution of 1965. History aside, those visiting El Meson will be taken in by the pristine natural wonder they’re surrounded by once they arrive via the 40-meter spiral staircase. They offer a menu that features French cuisine but also dishes that highlight seafood with a twist that takes some of the best flavors of the Caribbean.
El Meson De La Cava
Address: Av Mirador Sur, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Website: El Meson De La Cava
Some last thoughts on dining in Santo Domingo
The Dominican Republic is home to a culture that is incandescent and rich, and in its capital city of Santo Domingo this is highly evident as travelers go about the city. One key vessel expressing this culture is in its food and so it makes sense that the city is home to some of the best dining not only in the nation but arguably this side of the Caribbean. Whether you’re interested in diving into the hearty traditional fare of the island or are looking to savor dishes with a flair for fusion, Santo Domingo is sure to have dining establishments that will fulfill your desires.
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