4 Best Restaurants in Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo

Located in a historic building that has been meticulously restored to its 1914 glory, this elegant restaurant feels old-fashioned without being stuffy. American classics meet local ingredients in familiar but brilliantly executed dishes served by waiters in pin-striped uniforms and white gloves. This steakhouse imports only prime cuts of beef from Chicago’s Allen Brothers and the bar features classic cocktails elevated with local fruits. Well-to-do locals love this restaurant for proposals, and while the dress code is not strictly enforced, you will feel out of place in shorts. 

For some 45 years, this popular restaurant, where baseball is invariably on the TV at the bar, has been feeding the local Zoners what their grandmothers used to make. It's still a hangout for artists, baseball players, politicians, businesspeople, tourists, and even unaccompanied gringas, who feel comfortable here. Really flavorful dishes include creole-style eggplant, empanadas of crab and conch, grilled crabs and chivo (goat). Prices are up even though the culinary ambition is not. You'll hear bachata and American music from decades past (think "Moonglow"). If you want a quieter atmosphere, go upstairs.

Mix, match, and compartir (share) is the thought behind this trendy restaurant in an apartment tower that is still packing in the well-heeled capitaleños. It's a place with a fun atmosphere best enjoyed with a group, though you might want your very own tamarind-grilled chicken salad. Italian-Dominican influences often prevail in the main courses; vegetarians will be pleased to know they have options, too. The cultivated wine list offers many fine Italian and Spanish bottles and there's a signature sangria. To finish, go grappa. Family-friendly, with a convivial bar and a late-night scene, this is a crowd-pleaser and always packed.

Check out the new casual sister restaurant, Market.

Ideally located on Plaza de España across from the Alcázar de Colón, this restaurant has a good claim to being the first tavern in the New World (the building itself is 500 years old) and capitalizes on its historic heritage. The terrace is perfect for watching free cultural performances across from the plaza while dining alfresco from the contemporary, gastro-fusion menu. Tasting menus and cuisine-related events are also offered. The wine list is impressive but pricey; you can enjoy an after-dinner cigar from the humidor if you're so inclined.