EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: SANTIAGO DE LOS CABALLEROS

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN SANTIAGO DR
Dominican cuisine is infused with African, Spanish, and Taino influences, meaning dishes are loaded with herbs, but not spicy in nature. La bandera Dominicana (the Dominican flag) is an especially popular plate you’ll often find on menus in Santiago de los Caballeros. This culinary staple contains long-grained rice that is cooked until it’s dry and crispy. It’s then topped with beans cooked in a savory tomato sauce, with herbs, garlic, celery, plantains, squash, onions and stewed meat – usually chicken, beef, pork, or goat. Dominicans typically eat this dish with a side of salad, corn fritters, crispy-fried green plantains, or fried eggplant.
Top Cultural Foods To Try in Santiago De Los Caballeros
Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Santiago De Los Caballeros:
- La Bandera Dominicana: La Bandera, which translates to "The Dominican Flag," is the Dominican Republic's quintessential daily meal. This delicious plate features white rice, stewed red beans, and flavorful stewed meat, which is usually chicken or beef. It's absolutely a fundamental part of the culture and something you will see locals eating almost every day!
- Sancocho: If you get invited to a big family party, get ready to try some Sancocho! It's a rich and hearty stew made with seven different types of meat and various root vegetables. It is the ultimate celebratory dish, often made for special occasions or to share with a crowd on the weekend. This is more than a meal - it is a symbol of the country’s hospitality and a total Dominican classic.
- Pica Pollo: Looking for a quick and delicious meal? Pica Pollo is an absolute must-try fried chicken dish. The chicken is seasoned, breaded, and fried until it is incredibly crispy and juicy. You can find this everywhere, from small street-side stands to local restaurants.

BEST DRINK IN SANTIAGO DR
The Dominican Republic is one of the most well-known coffee producers in the world, so you would be remiss if you didn’t have a cup of joe while in Santiago de los Caballeros. Dominican coffee can be described in three words: short, sweet, and strong – short, because it is served in small, espresso-sized cups; sweet, because it is made with copious amounts of sugar; and strong, because it is rich with flavor. In the Dominican Republic, there is no particular time of day to drink coffee, so don’t be surprised if you’re offered at cup at all hours.
Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Santiago De Los Caballeros
Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in De Los Caballeros:
- Mamajuana: Mamajuana is a unique concoction made by steeping rum, red wine, and honey in a bottle with tree bark and herbs. It's a major part of Dominican culture that is believed to be a natural remedy and is often shared in social settings. This potent and flavorful drink is a rite of passage for visitors, so we definitely recommend trying it.
- Dominican Coffee: Coffee is so much more than a drink here, it’s an important a social ritual! Dominican coffee is known for being strong, rich, and served with a lot of sugar. It is a huge part of daily life, with locals drinking coffee as a morning boost and others drinking it as a post-meal digestif. The country's coffee production is a source of national pride, and a good cup is the perfect way to connect with locals.
- Morir Soñando: Looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to cool down? You have to try Morir Soñando, which means "to die dreaming." This popular non-alcoholic beverage is a dreamy mix of fresh orange juice, milk, sugar, and ice. It's a beloved drink for all ages and a perfect, sweet way to beat the Caribbean heat.

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN SANTIAGO DR
Not only is baseball the national sport of the Dominican Republic – it’s also a way of life throughout the country. For fans, baseball symbolizes unity, passion, and love. For players, it represents the dream of becoming one of the world’s legendary Dominican baseball players. The Dominican Republic has the second-highest number of baseball players in Major League Baseball (MLB) history – including household names like Manny Ramirez, David Ortiz, Vladimir Guerrero, and Sammy Sosa. Consider heading to a juego de pelota (ball game) in support of any of the DR’s six major teams: Tigres del Licey, Estrellas Orientales, Leones del Escogido, Águilas Cibaeñas, Toros del Este, or Gigantes del Cibao.
Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Santiago De Los Caballeros
Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Santiago De Los Caballeros:
- Santiago Apostol Cathedral: Right in the heart of the city, the Santiago Apostol Cathedral is a beautiful historic landmark that's impossible to miss. Its stunning architecture and intricate details make it a gorgeous site to see. The cathedral is a symbol of Santiago's rich past and its strong Catholic traditions, serving as a central meeting point for many locals.
- Centro Cultural Eduardo León Jimenes: For a deep dive into Dominican culture, this is the place to be. This cultural center is a total gem, featuring amazing exhibits on the country's history, folklore, and art. The museum does a fantastic job of celebrating Dominican identity, making it a perfect spot to get a feel for the local creative spirit and learn all about the country's unique heritage.
- 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua: If you are looking for a true adventure, this is your spot. Located just outside of Santiago, the 27 Waterfalls offer an unforgettable experience where you can hike, slide, and jump down a series of stunning natural waterfalls. It's a thrilling way to explore the beautiful nature of the Dominican Republic, and it's a fun activity to do with your friends.
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