Top 5 Places to Eat in the Dominican Republic

From local diners to gourmet spots, here's where to eat in the DR.

By: Teri Johnson

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A trip to the Dominican Republic can include a range of activities, but the one you simply cannot live without is dining. Meals are a big deal here, and the culinary scene has exploded thanks to the surge in tourism over the past decade. While the traditional local diners continue to serve sancocho and mofongo, the newer, more modern restaurants have jazzed up typical Dominican fare with the help of internationally trained chefs. These Caribbean-inspired gourmet offerings can be found at resort and hotel restaurants, beach bistros and eateries throughout the country. Here is a list of our favorites for you to experience during your next trip to the Dominican Republic.

1. Passion

Photo by: Paradisus Palma Real Resort

Paradisus Palma Real Resort

Internationally acclaimed chef Martin Berasategui is the mastermind behind Passion at the Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana. Known for delicate and avant-garde dishes, his seafood-heavy Spanish cuisine is served a la carte or on a sampling menu. His desire to make this an unparalleled dining experience is evident by the wine pairings that he often draws from his personal collection. Passion is open only for dinner.

2. Eze Bar & Restaurant

Photo by: Eze Bar & Restaurant

Eze Bar & Restaurant

It’s obvious why Eze Bar & Restaurant is the top choice for locals, tourists and expats who call the windsurfing town of Cabarete home. This Italian-owned, laid-back beach bar is set under beautiful palm trees and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. With items ranging from fruit smoothies and green veggie drinks to fresh langoustine and Italian delights, Eze seamlessly caters to couples, families, surfers and jet-set crowds. Just beware: Its convenient location, quality and charm can keep you there all day.

3. La Yola

The romantic La Yola restaurant is a true culinary and architectural experience at the Puntacana Resort & Club. Designed to inspire the feeling of being on a yola, or small fishing boat, the restaurant is set on stilts on the Caribbean Sea. Oscar de la Renta designed the al fresco eatery, which is covered by a palm-thatched roof and supported by glass floors with views of the sea below. After you take in the beauty and atmosphere of La Yola and the marina, indulge in the Mediterranean- and Caribbean-flavored dishes, including the Puntacana ceviche and the fresh catch of the day.

4. La Palapa by Eden Roc

Photo by: La Palapa

La Palapa

When a team of culinary experts from Italy, Switzerland and the Dominican Republic get together, magic happens. The proof can be found at La Palapa by Eden Roc in Cap Cana. The menu at this open-air restaurant at Caletón Beach consists of seafood, traditional Italian specialties, sushi and Asian fusion dishes. The Cote d'Azur-like ambience and panoramic ocean views make La Palapa a hot spot for well-to-do locals, jet-setters and couples looking for a high-end dining experience. On Sundays, delight in the signature surf-and-turf brunch.

5. The Beach Restaurant

Photo by: Beach Restaurant

Beach Restaurant

Steps away from blissful Playa Coson sits a quaint colonial cottage that is home to the Beach Restaurant. The elegant beachfront setting — part of the Peninsula House, a 6-suite guesthouse — can put your mind at ease while you relax to the sound of the ocean and sip on tropical drinks. This place is off the beaten path, but the charm, the pristine beach and the cuisine make the journey worth it. Order the grilled lobster with passion fruit and locally grown vegetables. It is open only for daytime dining (10 a.m. until 5-6 p.m.) and is closed Mondays. Towels and lounge chairs are provided if you wish to spend your day on Playa Coson. Reservations are recommended.

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Dominican Republic

Top 5 Places to Eat in the Dominican Republic

Related To:

1. Passion

2. Eze Bar & Restaurant

3. La Yola

4. La Palapa by Eden Roc

5. The Beach Restaurant