Midnight Snacks, Dominican Style
When the sun sets, the culinary scene on the north coast truly comes alive. Exploring the Puerto Plata night markets and street food is an absolute must for any foodie wanting to taste the real, unfiltered flavor of the Dominican Republic.
Your first mission is to find a "Chimi" truck. The Chimichurri (or Chimi) is the Dominican version of a hamburger. It’s a seasoned meat patty served on a soft pan de agua, topped with grilled cabbage, onions, and a special pink sauce. It is messy, incredibly delicious, and the ultimate late-night snack. You’ll usually find these trucks parked along the Malecón or near the Central Park.
Don’t miss out on the fresh empanadas and quipes (deep-fried bulgur wheat rolls stuffed with meat) sold by street vendors. Wash it all down with a fresh passionfruit juice or a Morir Soñando (a heavenly mix of orange juice and evaporated milk). Eating street food here is safe, incredibly cheap, and offers a wonderful opportunity to chat with the hardworking and always-smiling locals.