Here are the best 10 Restaurants in Punta Cana to try during your holiday. Imagine that after a long year of hard work at school or possibly even recovering from a chronic disease, or you start thinking about spending a relaxing vacation In Bavaro / Punta Cana. The food you choose during your stay can make or break your trip. This article will help you choose the best and most reliable restaurants during your stay.

In the Dominican Republic, when you meet friends, families, colleagues, or schoolmates they always ask you if you have eaten? — in Spanish you can say “¿ya comiste?”. Food is a priority for every family in the Dominican Republic, regardless of their social income. Locals cook from their hearts — with passion.

Similarly, when you go to a hotel restaurant, the servers, waiters, and hostesses receive you with a smile and strive to give their best to satisfy your culinary requests, and the chefs cook with passion. Such passion motivates them to give their best to ensure that they create a memorable experience for the guests.

While you are in Punta Cana, you will find many notable restaurants by the Bavaro beach, which has a reputation as one of the best beaches in the world. However, because of the sheer number of restaurants in the area, it is recommended to choose one that has been suggested by a travel website or you can simply ask your hotel concierge for recommendations. 

With this in mind, here are some reliable restaurants to try while you are in Bavaro/Punta Cana

La Yola Restaurant Punta Cana: The Best Place For Seafood Lovers

Photo Source: Puntacana.site/La Yola Punta Cana/

La Yola in Spanish means the Boat. This stunning restaurant overlooking the water is located at La Marina Punta Cana Resort & Club. For those who like nature and traditional vibes this is a top suggestions. The restaurant is designed in bamboo, wood, and straw, giving it the allure of a traditional bamboo fishing boat and creating a unique yet authentic traditional Dominican Republic tradition. La Yola is a relaxing and inspiring environment. Relaxing music is played in the background to really set the mood. It is an excellent place to enjoy dinner with friends and family. 

La Yola has very authentic Mediterranean dishes you should try, including local cuisines and a variety of seafood options.

Here are some recommendations of dishes you should try at La Yola :

Food

• Sancocho: A traditional Dominican stew with chicken or beef, potatoes, and yuca. Stewed with rice. An authentic taste. We highly recommend that you try this traditional dish. 
• Seafood: Also highly recommended are a number of locally caught and freshly cooked seafood dishes. There is nothing quite like enjoying the days catch while sitting right on the water.  Two recommended seafood options you should try while you visit this restaurant are Red snapper and Octopus with tostones.
• Coconut pineapple risotto with grilled shrimp: I highly recommend this dish. This is the perfect dish for sharing while breathing in the stunning ocean backdrop. 

Drinks

Non Alcohol

• Start the day with coffee at La Yola. For coffee lovers who can’t live without coffee. La Yola has a variety of coffee such as Espresso, Lattes, Cappuccinos, and all your favourite espresso based drinks as well as some unique concoctions. 
• Juices and smoothies, freshly crafted from local fruits and ingredients are a wonderful way to cool off. 

Alcohol drinks

• Let’s start with the beer why don’t we. La Yola stocks a large selection of high quality brews including President, Canita, Heineken, Corona, and Presidente Light. If you visit the Dominican Republic for the first time, I recommend you try Presidente Light, as it has a light taste well matched for good company during sunset.
• Cocktails for you cocktail lovers –The Cuba libre is a special cocktail that is served in La Yola. It is also a famous cocktail well known by the locals; it is a mix of ice, Rum, and lemon.

Tip: Please make a reservations due to the limited opening time of the restaurant

Nearest Place to Visit

• Marina Cap Cana

• An ecological park
• Dominic Casino & Lounge Club

Looking for something a little bolder?
Spicy Tuna Roll the famous dish in SGB Punta Cana

Photo Source: Instagram.com/SBFPC 

Located on Boulevard Turistico Esquina Carretera Juanillo, Punta Cana The restaurant is inside Blue Mall, a modern, clean and friendly place located about 2 minutes by car from the airport. The main entrance contains a breathtaking art installation where you can take beautiful photos for your social media.

Here are a few selected dishes and drinks I recommend for when you visit SGB Punta Cana 

Food

• The crispy shrimp taco:  the main ingredient is spicy tartar, jalapeños, and lemon. This dish will take you to another level.
• The Rib eye steak is a delicious dish you do not want to miss as you are at Punta Cana
• Another famous and unique dish from SBG is the spicy tuna roll. This is a fantastic dish you should try.

For decadent fresh fish:  JellyFish Restaurant is the right place to visit. 

Jellyfish restaurant is a well-known restaurant in Bavaro/Punta Cana located in C. Chicago, Punta Cana the restaurant is located on the beachfront, with an outdoor dining area. This restaurant is a popular spot for wedding events and group engagements. It has a quiet and relaxing atmosphere and lounge music plays in the background.The sound of the waves and the breezes blowing off the ocean also fill the restaurant. 

Here are 3 yummy dish you should try in this restaurant

Food

• Mahi-mahi with plantains. Definitely one of the best meals we have ever had ! The portions were perfect and the taste …. incredible 

• Spring lobster and broccoli in a white wine cream sauce. Freshly caught lobster makes this dish one you will never forget. 
• An amazing seafood pasta, not just for the kids but a favourite of children. 

Drink

Non Alcohol Drink

• Fresh and sweet mango and other seasonal fruit juices the perfect way to unwind on a hot day. 

• All fresh fruit can also be blended into delicious and refreshing smoothies. 
• Hot Chocolate, tea and coffee. 

• Alcoholic

• Try the classic Mojito its a cut above 
• Margaritas are also a go to in the tropics. 
• The Coco Loco is not to be missed. 

Nearby place to visit

• Bebe Catamarans Punta Cana
• Dolphin Island
• Pescando Y Comiendo Fishing

Gabi Beach Restaurant a buffet lots of international dishes 

Photo Source: Pinterest/romancebyparadi/

A great restaurant to enjoy the All-you-can-eat breakfast, lunch or dinner buffet. Filled with 30-plus food options plus fruits and desserts. Notably the fruit is freshly squeezed. Located inside the Paradisus Palma Real Resort Punta Cana. The restaurant is steps from a stunning beach front, you can enjoy sunset and continue after sunset to dine by the beach.

Even though Gabi Restaurant has a buffet and plenty of food to choose from, here is what I recommend keeping an eye out for. 

Food

There are several stations where the chef will cook for you straight after you order. These is always a delightful experience. 

• Indian food:  looking for different options of food. Gabi Restaurant will serve you fresh Indian food with authentic seasoning to fulfill you. Not only that but they have an Indian vegan friendly option. This is one of the only places in town that has vegan Indian options. 

*ask for chef Dayal Singh. 

• Another option for you if you are Sushi and Sashimi lover. Pay attention to their menu as there are a number of rotating food options. On special nights they will have a Sushi and Sashimi options These are particularly good and it is worth making the trip over specifically for the Sushi. 

Drinks

• Gabi Restaurant will spoil you with Freshly squeezed juice such as Pineapple juice, mango juice, antioxidant juice, you name it! 
• Gabi has it all! from sunset drinks and cocktails while dining to night time party drinks. Alcoholic  beverages here are of excellent quality and there is bound to be something for everyone. All drinks are made with international brands of alcohol. If you are a party lover make sure to come here at 10pm. 

Nearest Place to Visit

• Bavaro Beach
• Avalon Casino
• Cave Oleg Bat House 

The Famous Cuban Sandwich with unlimited coffee at Kat Corner

Photo Source : Newstayplace.com/

Located at Avenue Alemania Esquina Calle Aruba, Punta Cana. Kat Corner serves an American breakfast if you are feeling like you need a little taste of home. The prices are highly attractive This is also a great spot for nightlife as there is often live music and the cocktails are amazing. The restaurant has a nice ambiance for the family during the day as well as late night entertainment for those who like to have fun on the dance floor.

Recommendations

Food

• First The famous Cuban sandwich. This sandwich is one of the top dishes you should try. A yummy sandwich with cheese, ham, warm toast and french fries in generous portions. Guaranteed you will have a happy belly after.
• Another popular option at Kat Corner is Chicken Cordon Bleu. Coming fresh from the kitchen with light batter which melts in your mouth. 
• Don’t miss the beef burger. Once you have their tasty burger you will never look for another burger! So make sure you don’t miss out on their burgers!

Drink

Non Alcohol Drink

• Kat Corner is the best place for caffeine junkies. They offer unlimited top ups of coffee while you enjoy your breakfast there. 
• They also serve a range of smoothies with fresh fruits of the day! If you are traveling with kids don’t forget to order the milkshake sure kids would love it!

Alcohol drinks  

• Bloody Mary
• Mojito
• and of course local beer Presidente.

Tips :

If you want to have dinner here be sure to come early to get a quiet atmosphere before hitting the night party time.

Nearest Place to Visit

• Habana 537 Bar
• Jelly Fish Shop
• El Tour Caribe 

Great Pizza on The Island and a Special Buy One Get One Free only at Onno’s Bavaro

Photo Source: Tripadvisor.com/Onnos Bavaro/

Located at Corner of Calle Pedro Mir and Avenida Espana, Punta Cana. The next restaurant I recommend is Onno’s you will definitely find a great ambiance, service, affordable food, with ocean views and great vibes.  Live DJ’s make this a wonderful place to spend the after hours. 

Food

• Onno’s Bavaro is a Perfect place to share pizza with family or friends. Especially For dinner time, this restaurant has a buy one get one free pizza from 6pm to 7pm. Surely you wouldn’t want to miss out. Of special note are the pepperoni pizza, Diablo shrimp pizza, and New York Margarita Pizza 
• The tacos are too good to miss out! Come to Onno’s on Tuesday for a taco Tuesday deal along and top it off with freshly made margaritas. Try the pork taco, shrimp tacos, and Ahi Tuna. 
• The desserts are particularly good at Onno’s Try the deep fried Oreo with chocolate topping and sprinkles of icing. It will make your day more sweet. Why not spoil yourself and your family. 

Drink

Non Alcohol

• Non alcohol drinks Onno’s serves non-alcoholic drinks. Pop up to the bartender bar and they will make you a fresh juice and shake.

Alcohol

• Onno’s Bavaro has its charm for you if you are looking for a good night out with less crowd. You should try their signature drink, the Giant Margarita, the best margarita in town which is called Coronarita margarita. You can also try mango margarita, passion fruit margarita, strawberry margarita. 

Tips: Visit on sunset hour from 5:00pm-6:00pm for half price cocktails.

Nearest Place to Visit

• Aroma Museum
• Happy Dive Center
• RH Tour 

Best Burritos in Town! – Pastrata Mexicana Restaurant 

Photo Source: gone fishing punta cana/Pastrata Mexican Restaurant/

Located in Av Alemania Bavaro Punta Cana. The next restaurant worth visiting, especially for those who love Mexican food with a authentic taste. Pastrata Mexicana prepares traditional dishes with authentic Mexican seasonings and flavors. The restaurant also has an excellent vibe. Vegan / vegetarian and gluten free options are also available. I highly recommend  Pastrata. 

Food

• Burritos: A big serving of burrito with generous fillings such as chicken and beef. I am sure you will leave with a happy belly.

• Mole enchiladas. The authentic taste will bring you real Mexican food. It will not disappoint.

• Vegan quesadilla. They will serve the best vegan quesadilla for you on your table. 

Drinks

Non Alcohol Drink

• Non-alcohol drinks I recommend you try are their fresh juice. Such as passion fruit juice, melon juice, mango juice, and authentic tamarind juice. Which they serve in a big glass. 

Alcohol Drink

• If you are looking for an alcoholic drink in this restaurant I recommend you to try Mojito, and the margaritas. Both of them are the top notch. They both come in a gigantic serving glass. If you are up for the challenge, you can try their special SPICY margarita with jalapeño in it.

Wacamole for Taco lovers

Photo Source: newstayplace.com

If you are looking for a nice atmosphere, affordable food, a Nice déco interior and very artistic ambient, and the perfect spot to capture an instagramable pictures and perfect place to enjoy your lunch or dinner with live music at night time. Wacamole is the one and only. Located in Av Alemania Bavaro, Punta Cana is a safe location to enjoy your lunch or dinner.

Food

• Tacos.  The shrimp tacos and the steak tacos were excellent and came with avocado & cilantro they are just to die for. Don’t forget the special Taco Tuesday.
• Nachos, you should try their Chilakillers, which is an amazing version of US nachos. The nachos also came with a different range of tasty and yummy dips too!
• Fajitas. Either fish, beef chicken, or shrimp. They come in massive portions and are good value. 

Drink

Non Alcohol

• Juice, Mango Juice with a thick consistency, to enjoy.
• Smoothies, especially mango smoothies with outstanding taste.

Alcohol

• Sangria is one of the alcoholic drinks you should try and we highly recommend the sangria. 
• Unforgettable mojitos! The passion fruit mojito was very refreshing and especially the chinola mojitos are especially good. 
• Margarita 2 for 1 happy hour deal on margaritas. You can’t beat their margaritas.They serve the margarita with chili salt around the rim which gives them an extra special kick. 

TOC Unique yet Yummy Plantain Chips Nachos

Photo Source : Trip Advisor/TOC Restaurant 

TOC Restaurant located in Avenida Alemania Residential Playa Turquesa Club de Playa. Bavaro Punta Cana. This restaurant overlooks the sea and has an amazing ambiance. You want to simply sit there for hours. You can enjoy the best dishes alongside great company with unforgettable sunset views and live music at 5pm Tuesday. This is a great spot to hang out, drink with friends. The prices are also very affordable.

Although this cute beach side restaurant serves Caribbean, Latin, Seafood, Grill, Contemporary, Fusion. Some of the best dishes are of a more international flavour. 

Food

• Nachos made from plantain chips, The most interesting nachos in town made with plantain chips
• The spring rolls were as if you were in an Asian country. Very authentic.
• American burgers taste better than any burger in town! A burger that was perfectly done and very tasty.

Drink

Alcoholic

• Try the Happy Island with Tequila
• A delicious Watermelon Mojito is also a must try.

Non Alcohol

• While you are sunbathing at the beach don’t forget to order their juice The watermelon juice is particularly good. 
• The passion fruit smoothie is a perfect match to enjoy a tropical drink in a hot sunny day

Citrus for sushi lovers

Photo Source : Top Related online/Citrus Bar

Located in Los corales, plaza Turquesa Bavaro Citrus restaurant makes everything fresh. This restaurant has a phenomenal ambiance  with elegant interior decoration. Amazing food and a very pleasant environment. The service is excellent. Outstanding restaurant near Los Corales. Tucked away in a strip mall but worth a visit. Great selection.

Food

• 2 for 1 sushi night.sushi rolls are the Monday night special. Try the sesame rolls and  crab rolls).
• The cheese burger are to die for. The serving size is huge and can be shared by a family. 
• The lobster pasta brings the freshest tastes of the Sea to your plate, with clams, shrimp and lobster.

Drink

Non Alcohol Drink

Alcohol drink

• Citrus offered 2 for 1 bottles of wine Friday night along with local musical talent. 
• I highly recommend the Chinola Mojito.

Tips : Citrus restaurants have a famous event called Mojito Wednesday. Prepare yourself for some waiting and a full house.

• The pina colada was to die for.

And that’s my 10 best cafes, restaurants, and beach side restaurants you can visit during your holiday in punta cana or Bavaro. They all have their own unique charms and special menus items you can try. I hope this small list has made your selections easier. 

That’s all for now and see you on our next blog post.

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