Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
1. Sancocho de Pollo
A hearty chicken stew made with various vegetables and root crops, often served on Sundays. The dish showcases Dominican culinary traditions.
- Unique Ingredients: Includes yuca, plantains, and taro.
- Traditional Day: Typically served on Sundays in local households.
- Popular Venue: Can be found at restaurants like La Moretta.
2. La Bandera
A traditional Dominican meal consisting of white rice, red beans, fried salty fish or meat, and plantain. Representing the national flag's colors.
- National Symbolism: Symbolizes Dominican identity through its colors.
- Affordable Option: Commonly found in local eateries, making it an affordable choice for travelers.
- Versatile Ingredients: The main ingredients can be substituted with other proteins or vegetables.
3. Mofongo con Camarones
A Puerto Rican dish that has found popularity in Santo Domingo - mashed plantains mixed with garlic and pork cracklings, topped with shrimp. Offers a fusion of cultures.
- Cultural Fusion: A blend of Puerto Rican and Dominican cuisines.
- Popular Location: Try it at La Ponciana, a restaurant known for its authentic Caribbean dishes.
- Seafood Delight: Features succulent shrimp as the main protein.
4. Tostones con Salsa de Ají
Deep-fried smashed green plantains served with a spicy garlic and pepper sauce. A popular side dish that complements many meals.
- Flavorful Complement: Enhances the taste of various main dishes.
- Common Street Food: Found in street food vendors throughout Santo Domingo.
- Spicy Kick: The aji sauce adds a satisfying kick of heat to the dish.
5. Cabrito Guisado
Slow-cooked goat stew served with rice and beans. A rich and flavorful dish that showcases local cooking techniques.
- Cooking Technique: Traditionally slow-cooked over several hours.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at ChocoBar, a local favorite in the Zona Colonial.
- Tender Meat: The goat meat becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking.
6. Empanada de Camarones
A fried or baked pastry filled with a spiced seafood mixture, typically shrimp. A popular snack found throughout Santo Domingo.
- Portable Snack: Ideal for on-the-go eating.
- Versatile Ingredients: Can be found with various fillings like beef, chicken, or seafood.
- Culinary Tradition: Rooted in Spanish and indigenous cooking techniques.
7. Arroz con Gandules y Pollo
Rice dish made with pigeon peas and chicken, flavored with sofrito. A popular comfort food in Dominican households.
- Comfort Food: Serves as a comforting meal for locals.
- Festival Dish: Traditionally served during the Dominican festivals like Navidad and Fiesta de La Virgen de Altagracia.
- Versatile Ingredients: The dish can be found in various restaurants and street food vendors.
8. Chicharrón de Pollo
Crispy fried pork skin, often served with garlic sauce. A popular snack or side dish in Dominican cuisine.
- Finger Food: Ideal for eating as a snack or accompaniment.
- Crispy Texture: The crispiness of the chicharrón adds texture to various dishes.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at La Cava, a renowned eatery in Santo Domingo.
9. Habichuelas Guisadas
Red beans cooked with various spices and seasonings. Often served as a side dish to complement other meals.
- Spice Profile: Features a blend of Dominican spices.
- Comfort Food: Serves as a comforting side dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Can be found in various restaurants and street food vendors.
10. Cazuela de Mariscos
A seafood stew made with fish, shellfish, and vegetables. A hearty dish showcasing the abundance of local seafood.
- Seafood Abundance: Highlights the abundance of fresh seafood in Santo Domingo.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at El Conuco, a local restaurant specializing in Dominican cuisine.
- Warm and Hearty: A comforting dish perfect for cooler evenings.
11. Tortilla de Maiz
Corn tortillas used in various dishes like tacos and tostadas. A staple food in Dominican cuisine.
- Versatile Ingredient: Used as a base for numerous dishes.
- Cultural Influence: Influenced by the indigenous people and Spanish colonizers.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at Los Tres Reyes, a restaurant specializing in Mexican cuisine.
12. Quimbombo con Carne
Pumpkin stew made with beef or pork, served with rice. A hearty dish that showcases local ingredients.
- Local Ingredients: Highlights the use of pumpkins and locally-raised meats.
- Hearty Meal: A filling dish perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at La Bella Cubana, a restaurant specializing in Caribbean cuisine.
13. Ceviche de Camarones
A refreshing dish made with marinated shrimp, lime juice, and various vegetables. A popular seafood option in Santo Domingo.
- Refreshing Option: Offers a cool and refreshing taste.
- Seafood Abundance: Highlights the abundance of fresh seafood in Santo Domingo.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at El Refugio, a restaurant known for its ceviches.
14. Yuca con Mojo Criollo
Cassava roots boiled and served with a tangy garlic and citrus sauce. A popular side dish showcasing Dominican flavors.
- Flavorful Side: Enhances the taste of various main dishes.
- Local Ingredients: Highlights the use of cassava roots, a staple in Dominican cuisine.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at El Pescador, a restaurant specializing in seafood dishes.
15. Mamón Medio
A traditional Dominican dessert made with sweet plantains, condensed milk, and butter. A sweet treat showcasing local ingredients.
- Sweet Treat: Serves as a delicious dessert.
- Local Ingredients: Highlights the use of sweet plantains, a staple in Dominican cuisine.
- Authentic Venue: Try it at La Casita Blanca, a restaurant known for its desserts.