Santiago and the Cibao Valley Restaurants

Santiago lacks Santo Domingo's vibrant restaurant scene. With the exception of Puerto del Sol, even the city's few fine-dining establishments stick to the classics. The restaurants in Hotel Gran Almirante are generally good, with one serving a good selection of tapas and another serving a fusion menu. A TGI Fridays, which opened next door to the city's best hotel, is emblematic of the local love of American chain restaurants. Many restaurants and cafés line the Calle del Sol, starting at the central Parque Duarte; most have outdoor seating that is great for people-watching. Similarly, down the Avenida de Monumento from the landmark Heroes Monument, there are restaurants that are lively and fun, serving mainly Dominican or simple fare. In the mountains you'll find Dominican specialties served at the simple comedors (local restaurants), as well as some atmospheric restaurants where rabbit and other game are specialties and fresh vegetables taste as if they came straight from the earth. Constanza is strawberry country, so fresh strawberries are usually on the menu in some form.