2 Best Restaurants in Southeast Coast, Dominican Republic

This remarkable Italian-Dominican seafood restaurant continues to be the "in" spot for the young, fun, and moneyed locals as well as in-the-know visitors. The best all-over experience of the Boca beach restaurants, it extends onto a pier with palapas and lots of white draping. Guests go for a swim off the expanded deck, although there is no beach. (A consolation: free Wi-Fi.) You may be greeted by the effusive host and owner; the veteran waiters are professionals. The menu is vast, with lots of creative and classic preparations of delectable mariscos (shellfish), including octopus and lobster. Most of the seafood is 100% fresh and local, some imported. Top-shelf margaritas are fantástico, and there's also an admirable wine list. Breakfast is served here.

This unpretentious restaurant's Eastern European owner has gained a loyal following among the expat set for his cuisine, which is paired with German and Belgian beers, grappa, cognacs, and good half-bottles of wine. The rustic, two-story palapa offers romantic seating topside, on the sand, or in the open-air dining room. The bilingual menu is well priced. Most seafood comes off one of the moored boats, so you can order the ceviche with confidence. The mixed grilled shellfish is enough for two and can include a lobster from the tank. Sunday offers a locally popular barbecue, which can be overcrowded. You'll find the best service at dinner, but lunch midweek is calm, and you can find a lounge chair and go for a swim.