Restaurants in Punta Cana

Why would I want to go out to restaurants in Punta Cana? This is a question we get asked all the time, the answer is simple – sometimes resort food can get a little boring (even if it’s really good), it’s nice to see something different.

I mean, everyone loved their mother’s cooking when they were growing up, but still loved going out for dinner, it’s the anticipation and excitement of not knowing what you’re going to get. On our vacations, we’ve ended up eating at restaurants in Punta Cana for several reasons. Most often we just want a break from the resort, see some different scenery and try out some new flavors. Other times, we’ve been off sight-seeing or shopping and just happen by one and can’t resist. The average Punta Cana restaurant isn’t very expensive – give one a try on your next vacation.

We should probably cover the restaurants at your resort before we move into the other restaurants in Punta Cana. Every resort has adopted the same basic system; one or a series of buffet-style restaurants and a few “a la carte” restaurants where you need to make reservations. Some points to keep in mind: the food at resorts in Punta Cana is way better than any other sun destination we’ve been to. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to eat.

Buffet lines: the North American tradition is to line up like sheep at a buffet and wait our turn to walk by each dish and decide if we want it. That is not the cultural tradition everywhere, the custom in many European countries is to walk around the buffet and just cut in when you see something you like (which actually seems to work better). Remember, we all tend to think our customs are right and everyone else’s are wrong – they’re not, just different! Relax, you’re on vacation; don’t get stressed out waiting to get your paella.

A la carte: These resort restaurants in Punta Cana are organized to give a resort’s clientele a little bit of variety. They tend to be theme restaurants, serving food from a particular nationality. There is also a high demand for them and usually require reservations way in advance. Most resorts allow you to visit a few of them during your stay – the best bet is to make those reservations the first day you’re there as waiting lists can be somewhat long. Even if you change your plans and end up not going, it’s not the end of the world. Keep in mind that many people do this, there is usually at least one table that doesn’t show up for dinner. If you want to eat at one of these “a la carte” restaurants and don’t have a reservation – go a few minutes late and slip the maitre d’ five dollars. This usually works!

Okay:leaving the resort to find a Restaurant in Punta Cana

We’ve organized these by location somewhat, so you can pick a restaurant to travel to for dinner or one that you can visit on your way out shopping or on an excursion. If you need more information about one of the restaurants, visit our Contact Us page and we’ll tell you what we know!

Restaurants in Punta Cana

Punta Cana Restaurants on the beach

Langosta del Caribe in El Cortecito

Bar-Lovento (seafood) in Cabeza de Toro

Babalou Restaurant in El Cortecito

Huracan Café in El Cortecito

Restaurant Cortecito Inn in El Cortecito

Restaurant Rincon Criollo near Bavaro Plaza

Pizzeria La Casita Restaurant Etnia Jalapeño Restaurant

Resturante Portugal at the entrance to the Cueva Taino in the National Park