“Taste Paradise” draws thousands to Sánchez, showcasing its tourism potential

Sánchez, Samaná.- The Ministry of Tourism concluded the “Taste Paradise” festival in Sánchez, Samaná, bringing together thousands of residents and visitors for two days of gastronomy, culture, and entertainment.

The event showcased the municipality’s seafood cuisine, including shrimp and fish dishes, ceviche, seafood cocktails, coconut-based specialties, and traditional Dominican food. Among the featured dishes were “Bocaito Sanchero” and “Ceviche Mango y Mar.”

Tourism Vice Minister for International Cooperation Carlos Peguero highlighted Sánchez’s historical, cultural, and natural attractions, describing the festival as part of efforts to position the coastal municipality as a world-class tourism destination. He also pointed to the upcoming inauguration of the Arroyo Barril port as an opportunity to attract cruise passengers and further boost the local economy.

During the festival, visitors voted for their favorite dish through QR codes. Anabel Coplin of Food Yummy won with “La Paila Costera” and will represent the Dominican Republic at the ANATO tourism fair in Colombia. The featured recipes will also be compiled into a cookbook dedicated to Sánchez’s gastronomy.

Known as the “shrimp capital” and gateway to the Samaná Peninsula, Sánchez combines seafood traditions with Victorian architecture, railway heritage, ecotourism attractions, and access to Los Haitises National Park, strengthening its potential as a growing tourism destination.