In the Dominican Republic’s garden, Constanza offers fresh local produce not typically found elsewhere on the island in such abundance.

Lorenzo’s (Luperón 83, tel. 809/539-2008, 8 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, US$5–11) serves fantastic Dominican down-home cooking like chivo guisado (goat sautéed and served in a sauce), guinea fowl, or rabbit cooked in wine. Lorenzo’s also has an assortment of pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches.

At Aguas Blancas (Rufino Espinosa 54, tel. 809/539-1561, 10 a.m.–late daily, US$4–10), they like to say that they’ll close when everyone goes home. And it is a popular place that comes highly recommended as the best in town. It serves great typical Dominican comida for low prices. La bandera dominicana, which is a plate of rice and beans with salad and your choice of meat, is always a good choice.

Rancho Macajo (Carretera Duvergé, tel. 809/707-3805), a restaurant and zoo (no, really!) is a popular stop-off for excursioners before heading out in the afternoon. On the menu are international dishes like tacos and pizza. But you should really try some of the Dominican dishes, like sancocho.

Go to Mercado Municipal (Gratereaux at 14 de Julio, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–noon Sun.) if you need some fresh produce or to see the splendid variety that grows in this very fertile region.