Asonahores rejects claims of widespread restaurant closures in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s gastronomic sector continues to expand, with 68 restaurants opening in Santo Domingo over the past year, according to Juan Bancalari, president of the Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores).

Bancalari rejected claims of widespread restaurant closures, saying they do not reflect the current reality of the sector. He acknowledged that some establishments close as part of normal market competition, but emphasized that new businesses continue to emerge.

As an example, he cited the area around República de Colombia Avenue, near the embassy, where 10 restaurants have opened in the past year in the Patio Colombia and Plaza Los Altos developments.

The Asonahores president said the figures demonstrate the continued growth of the country’s gastronomic offering and its ability to attract visitors seeking leisure, dining and entertainment experiences.

Bancalari also highlighted the Dominican Republic’s tourism recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the country ranked first in the region for its post-pandemic recovery. He attributed this performance to the country’s growing ability to attract international visitors and strengthen its tourism industry.