Best Restaurants in Punta Cana [2025]: Top 10 Places to Eat This Year

Punta Cana is best known for its pristine beaches, world-class resorts, and endless sunshine—but if you’ve ever visited, you know the food scene deserves just as much attention. Over the last few years, the Dominican Republic‘s top coastal town has quietly become a serious player in Caribbean dining. And in 2025? It’s better than ever.

This guide is here to help you navigate the best restaurants in Punta Cana, whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for a second taste. These aren’t just spots we found through online ratings. They’ve been recommended by Haute Retreats’ villa guests, local insiders, and food-loving travelers who know what’s worth your time—and your appetite.

We’ve eaten our way through Punta Cana’s beachside shacks, upscale resort dining rooms, and everything in between. This list isn’t about ranking, but about helping you discover where to get an unforgettable meal. From fine dining to laid-back beachfront gems, here’s where to eat in Punta Cana in 2025.

Why You Can Trust This Guide

This isn’t a copy-paste list. It’s based on:

• Real feedback from Haute Retreats guests and concierge partners

• Updated info for 2025 (yes, we removed closed or outdated spots)

• A mix of fine dining, beachfront gems, and local standouts

• Focus on flavor, ambiance, and experience

And yes, we’ve included what’s new on the food scene this year—because Punta Cana’s culinary culture is growing fast.

Whether you’re into fresh-caught seafood, vegan innovation, or a bit of both, there’s something here for you.

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1. La Yola – A Classic With a View

If you want your dinner to come with a side of ocean breeze and a front-row seat to the marina, start with La Yola. Built like a traditional fishing boat, this open-air restaurant is perched right over the water.

The menu blends Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors, and the ingredients are as fresh as they come. It’s the kind of place that feels special but still relaxed.

What to order: The tuna tartare and lobster risotto are always standouts.

Good for: Romantic dinners, anniversary celebrations, or simply ending a beach day in style.

Related Best beaches in Punta Cana

2. Jellyfish Restaurant – Chic, Beachy, and Buzzing

Jellyfish has become somewhat iconic for Punta Cana visitors, and it lives up to the hype. The thatched-roof beachfront setting, boho-chic interiors, and the sound of waves steps away make this one of the most memorable dining experiences around.

While popular for weddings and events, it’s also perfect for lunch or a casual seafood dinner.

What to order: Grilled octopus, lobster with garlic butter, and a mojito—if you enjoy cocktails, they make a great one.

Where to stay:

Villa Serena 4 

Villa Corales 22

Villa Macanao

3. Brassa – Modern, Upscale, and Surprisingly Under-the-Radar

📍 At the Jewel Palm Beach

Brassa Restaurant has quietly become a standout for its chic, modern atmosphere and creative menu. The service is attentive without being stiff, and the menu fuses Caribbean ingredients with international techniques in unexpected ways.

What to order: Short rib with passion fruit glaze, or the crispy skin red snapper.

Why go: Sophisticated flavors in a calm, upscale setting.

4. La Palapa by Eden Roc – Refined Seaside Escape

If you’re after a beautifully plated seafood meal by the water, La Palapa delivers on every level. Tucked inside the Eden Roc resort, this is one of the most polished dining experiences in Cap Cana, with a menu that’s light, fresh, and deeply flavorful.

What to order: Seared tuna with plantain mash, and the Eden Roc ceviche.

Why go: High-end dining with a soft ocean breeze. What more do you need?

5. Drago Grill Cap Cana – Flame, Flavor, and Flair

📍 Fishing Lodge, Cap Cana

Drago Grill is one of the newest stars of Cap Cana’s dining scene. With an emphasis on fire-grilled meats, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails, it blends upscale ambiance with bold flavor. The interior is sleek and stylish, but still warm and inviting.

What to order: Grilled mahi-mahi, dry-aged ribeye, yucca truffle fries.

Why go: A top pick for dinner with friends or a special night out.

Related: Best New Year Week Villas In Punta Cana

6. Nina Signature Restaurant by Diego Muñoz – Culinary Art with a Global Soul

📍 BlueMall Puntacana

Headed by Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz, formerly of Astrid y Gastón in Lima, Nina Signature Restaurant brings global technique and local inspiration together in one of the most exciting menus in Punta Cana. Expect dishes that are both visually stunning and deeply flavorful.

What to order: Tuna tataki with Dominican cacao, or the pork belly with fermented pineapple.

Why go: A must-try for foodies who want something different—and unforgettable.

7. The Grill at Playa Blanca – Beachfront and Family-Friendly

You can’t beat the location. Playa Blanca sits right on the beach and serves up grilled classics with a tropical twist. There’s often live music, plenty of space, and a great mix of locals and visitors.

What to order: Grilled lobster tail, churrasco, fried plantains.

Why go: Perfect for families or group dinners right on the sand.

8. Bamboo – Boutique Dining in a Quiet Corner

Located at Tortuga Bay Hotel, Bamboo combines privacy, elegance, and thoughtful Caribbean-Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant was designed by Oscar de la Renta, and the food is just as stylish as the surroundings.

What to order: Coconut curry shrimp, grilled calamari, Dominican-style ceviche.

Why go: Small, refined, and perfect for a quiet dinner for two.

9. Ventanas Restaurant & Bar – Contemporary with Classic Roots

📍 Cocotal Golf & Country Club

Ventanas is a hidden gem among Punta Cana’s more high-profile spots. With warm service, live music nights, and a creative yet familiar menu, it offers a relaxing dining experience for both locals and travelers.

What to order: The seafood platter, risotto del mar, or their truffle-stuffed chicken.

Why go: A solid all-rounder that’s especially good for groups and laid-back evenings.

10. Noah Restaurant – Consistently Excellent

Noah remains one of the most versatile spots in Punta Cana. With an international menu that ranges from sushi to steak, and a contemporary atmosphere that works for both casual and special occasions, it’s hard to go wrong here.

What to order: Their signature sushi rolls, churrasco with chimichurri, and house cocktails.

Why go: Great for groups or when you can’t agree on what to eat.

Dining Trends in Punta Cana for 2025: What’s New

Punta Cana’s food scene continues to evolve. In 2025, several key trends are shaping the way restaurants design menus and experiences:

1. Farm-to-Table Takes Center Stage

Chefs are emphasizing locally sourced produce and seafood more than ever. Expect menus that highlight where ingredients come from and seasonal specials that change daily.

2. A Shift Toward Plant-Forward Dining

You don’t have to be vegan to appreciate the creativity of Punta Cana’s new plant-based dishes. From coconut-based risottos to roasted root vegetables with tropical spices, vegetables are finally stealing the spotlight.

3. Fusion Cuisine is Flourishing

One of the most exciting trends is the rise of Dominican-Asian fusion. You’ll find dishes blending flavors from Japan, Thailand, and Korea with Dominican ingredients like plantains, cassava, and fresh fish.

These trends reflect a broader shift toward thoughtful, elevated dining that still feels deeply rooted in Caribbean culture.

Final Tips for the Best Restaurants in Punta Cana

• Reservations are a smart move, especially for upscale restaurants during peak season (December–April).

• Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually included, but tipping extra for great service is appreciated.

• Dress codes vary. Beachfront restaurants are often casual, but fine dining spots appreciate a polished look.

Planning a 2025 Escape to Punta Cana?

The food is just one part of what makes Punta Cana unforgettable—but it’s an important one. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic sunset dinners, casual beachside lunches, or bold culinary adventures, we can help you make it all happen.

When you book your stay with Haute Retreats, our concierge team goes beyond just handing you the keys. We’re here to:

• Recommend the best dining experiences

• Make reservations at top-rated restaurants

• Arrange in-villa chefs and private dinners

• Customize food experiences to your group’s preferences

Ready to taste your way through Punta Cana?
Book your luxury villa today and let us take care of every flavorful detail.

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