As a gated community made up of five separate communities, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is a wonderful and rare balance of commercial areas and residential spots. Framed by its world famous beaches and home to an airport, it is also where three premium hotels are found. With a small and appealing village just outside of its gates, it offers an abundance of restaurant and dining options.
For those who want authentic foods, like the dishes preferred by the local residents, a few hours spent in Punta Cana Village can introduce you to some of the most popular tastes and ingredients. Of course, if you are a big fan of gourmet cuisine, the different hotels and villas also have amazing dining options. For instance, villa rentals might allow you to also book a private chef, or a visit to one of the hotels will allow you to enjoy meals in their world class restaurants.
Let’s take a look at a few of the most famous eateries in the Punta Cana neighborhood itself:
Playa Blanca
Sitting directly on the sands, it is a seafood restaurant that specializes in local and tropical ingredients. Famous for its drinks, it is good for lunch or dinner, and you will most certainly want to take in a sunset along the shore.
La Yola
Also a waterfront option, but this one is tucked into the marina. It is a AAA Diamond Award holder and is inspired by classic maritime décor. The menu is pure Mediterranean and it rates as one of the hottest options in the Punta Cana area. That means reservations are a must.
Brassa
This is a bar and grill tucked into the gorgeous Westin hotel. It offers some of the best views of the sea and is famous for its standard American fare, including steaks and seafood served alongside amazing drinks.
The Grill
When you are spending some time on the greens at the La Cana Golf Course, be sure you enjoy a meal here. Casual and yet classic, it has a lighter Caribbean fusion cuisine that visitors love.
Bamboo
This is another of the area’s AAA Four Diamond restaurants and a fantastic choice for breakfast. Located in the Tortuga Bay Hotel, it requires reservations and it offers afternoon tea as well as three meals daily.
Make absolutely certain you try several of the restaurants in Punta Cana, and especially those that give you views of the sea, golf courses, or marina!
Punta Cana Village
A visit to Punta Cana Village is a must. An elegant pedestrian inspired village that features shops, restaurants and a grocery store. As you stroll down the promenade, guests can enjoy a variety of different cuisines from Asian inspired restaurants, pizzerias, taco joints, Tapas bar, fine Italian and French restaurants as well as restaurants specializing in local Dominican fare.