Sancocho, mofongo, mangú empanadas, and so much more!

What makes this list different is that the focus on Dominican cuisine. Unlike other suggestions that may encompass Italian, French or Mediterranean restaurants; this one rings true to our belief that a trip to Santo Domingo requires tasting solely Caribbean and traditional Dominican dishes. Of course, with a side of local rum. Definitely stick to the first two restaurants on this list, then make your way down. Have a delicious time!

Buche Perico

C. El Conde 53, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic

To taste New Dominican cuisine, check out Buche Perico where a delicious enyucao tuna is truly life-changing. Then, order a sancocho it’s a traditional stew but also known as Dominican Republic’s national dish. Buche Perico’s outdoor terrace is a beautiful space, full of trees and luscious plants. At night, romantic lights create a romantic ambiance that makes dinner in the city’s capital truly unforgettable.

Maraca

C. Arzobispo Nouel 202, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic

Probably the most trendy restaurant in all of Zona Colonial is Maraca, where the interior design is just as magnificent as the food it serves. Try the refreshing ceviche on a sizzling hot day, then octopus con con rice which infuses Caribbean fresh seafood with Asian flavors. Its cocktail list is equally vibrant as the Art-Deco interior style, celebrating the undeniable strength of Dominican women.

Jalao

C. El Conde 101, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic

Want live merengue music in the heart of Santo Domingo? Head over to Jalao – a concert, restaurant venue – adorned with colorful handicrafts made by locals that travelers can only find in the Dominican Republic. Jalao can be quite a tourist attraction, but it’s also a fun activity to admire music and dance synonymous with this island’s festive identity. The food served is Caribbean and Dominican. You can taste delicious cork, croquettes and sancocho (stew.) Even if you’re not hungry, come for a drink and shake along for a musical and jubilant night!

SugarCane, La Casa Del Ron – The Rum Experience – Rooftop Cocktail & Tapas

C. Arzobispo Meriño #204, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic

SugarCane, La Casa Del Ron – The Rum Experience – Rooftop Cocktail & Tapas is known to be THE hotspot to sip on fine rum. The cherry on top is also the rooftop view of the alluring Catedral Primada de América in Zona Colonial. Feeling a little famished? There’s a menu to snack on: tapas, fried yuca nibbles…and more. Definitely order a drink, especially a piña colada since many call the best in Santo Domingo. Rum, sunset, rooftop. What’s not to love?

The Rum Museum

C. Isabel La Católica 261, Santo Domingo 10212, Dominican Republic

Museum of Rum is a lovely place to learn more about the history of rum and sugar cane, from roots of slavery to the development into an economic powerhouse for the nation. The museum is attached to a ballroom where on several night of the week, there are various dances showcased: merengue, salsa, zumba…etc. There’s also a gift shop where travelers can purchase infused rum made by the museum staff. Ginger, cilantro, pineapple, passion fruit…every flavor is homemade and delicious!

Villar Hermanos

Av. Independencia 312, Santo Domingo 10205, Dominican Republic

Villar Hermanos is a great restaurant to taste numerous Dominican dishes, including mofongo (plantains) and salona (tomato stew.) The interior space almost feels like a cool cafeteria, but if the weather isn’t too hot, enjoy the pretty outdoor garden area. Love good coffee? Don’t miss it here, or opt for a chilled beer!

Neux Tacos

C. Duarte 53, Santo Domingo 10210, Dominican Republic

Most of the time, we prefer to recommend local cuisine, but Neux Tacos is so good that we had to put it on the list, despite the restaurant is Mexican-inspired. Tacos, nachos, quesadillas are even better with drizzles of hot sauce from the countertop. The service is fast and friendly here, making it a great eatery to take a break from Dominican dishes.