Dominican Republic's World-Class Gastronomy Encourages Visitors to Explore Beyond the Buffet

31/03/2016 08:30

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, March 31, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Popularly known for picture-perfect beaches and all-inclusive vacations, Dominican Republic invites travelers to experience authentic tastes and haute cuisine beyond the resort buffet. Recognized as one of the most gastronomically diverse and exquisite destinations in Central America, the country boasts a variety of culinary attractions, ranging from fresh-caught seafood and classes in traditional meal preparation to five-star restaurants and imaginative high dining.

"There are innumerate opportunities here for visitors to taste authentic traditional Dominican cooking and also have the chance to experience high cuisine created by internationally award-winning chefs," said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. "Whether looking to sample the traditional or modern, tourists in Dominican Republic need not look far to find it."

Dominican Republic is famous for its production of tasty treats. In fact, many of the country's exports are food products, including some of the world's finest cocoa, coffee, sugar, ginger, mangos and rum. Whether through traditional Dominican cuisine, an award-winning restaurant or an immersive cultural excursion, guests looking for true foodie experiences will certainly not be disappointed.

Try Traditional Dominican Cuisine
Start your day off with a traditional breakfast of eggs, fried salami, mangú (mashed green plantains) and queso frito (fried cheese). Guests serious about trying local food won't want to miss a portion of la bandera, DR's most famous dish. Translated as "the flag," this traditional lunch consists of white rice, stewed beans and chicken or beef. For those keen on fresh seafood, many local fishermen resting on beaches throughout the country are happy to share their catch of the day and cook it for travelers on-site. Depending on time of day, traditional meals are accompanied by a creamy cup of coffee, a variety of fresh-squeezed juices or an ice-cold beer.

Indulge in Fine Dining
Dominican Republic offers a variety of fine dining restaurants boasting imaginative takes on cuisine. Santo Domingo is a must-visit for experimental eating – the capital has more restaurants than any other city in Central America, where visitors can find cuisines from all over the world. High-end eats stretch far beyond the capital to other popular destinations including La Romana, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana and Samaná, where tourists can find AAA 4-Diamond restaurants and dishes prepared by James Beard-winning chefs.

Experience Where Food Begins
Some of Central America's most fertile soil is found in Dominican Republic, making it ideal for fine coffee, cocoa, tobacco, sugar, ginger and other Caribbean staples. Visitors can immerse themselves by following specific production routes through the lush greenery of Dominican fields, led by knowledgeable guides offering product samples along the way. Guests can learn about traditional techniques for threshing and grinding coffee beans in typical rural houses, enjoy lunches prepared in local homes, take cooking classes, and much more.

Dominican Republic's dining scene is the perfect complement to any type of vacation – whether a luxe getaway or escape to an eco-lodge. For more information on food and gastronomy in DR, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com. Follow the hashtag #DominicanEats for a first-hand look at Dominican dishes.

About Dominican Republic
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical and paradisiacal country boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 km) of coastline, 250 miles (402 km) of the world's top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers and beaches.

Known for our warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich cultural experiences like music, art and festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue, amber and larimar.

Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike. Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism's official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

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CONTACT:
BVK Public Relations for DR Ministry of Tourism
Annie Holschuh, US PR Director
(414) 247-2140 / annie.holschuh@bvk.com