turismo.news September 3, 2026
Hoteles y ResortsPublished September 3, 20261 min read

Asonahores rejects claims of massive restaurant closures in DR

JSBy Joan SanzCurated by Joan Sanz. · September 3, 2026 · Follow on LinkedIn
Voice reading · ~1 min

Widespread restaurant closures across the Dominican Republic? Far from it. That's the message from Juan Bancalari, president of Asonahores, who pushed back against rumors of a downturn in the gastronomy sector. His point is simple and strong: 68 restaurants opened in Santo Domingo alone over the past year. That is not an industry in crisis, it is one on the rise.

Bancalari's statement, reported by Dominican Today, comes as some voices pointed to a wave of closures due to competition or rising costs. The industry's take is different: local chefs and operators are innovating and finding new ways to serve tourists and residents alike, and the supply keeps growing in tourist hubs and city centers.

My take as an editor: when an industry leader with Bancalari's track record talks about 68 openings in one city, the conversation changes. This is not about stoves going out, it is about making room at the table for more diners, including the thousands of tourists still landing in Punta CanaPunta CanaThe main tourism hub of the Dominican Republic, on the eastern tip, famous for white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts and its own international airport., BavaroBávaroA beach area next to Punta Cana with one of the Caribbean's largest hotel clusters and a long white-sand shoreline. or SamanaSamanáA north-eastern peninsula known for humpback whale watching, unspoiled beaches like Rincón and waterfalls such as El Limón.. Gastronomy drives travel, and this growth confirms the Dominican Republic is getting stronger as a culinary destination in the Caribbean.

Quick questions

Are many restaurants in the Dominican Republic closing?
No, there is no mass closure. According to Asonahores, 68 restaurants opened in Santo Domingo over the last year, pointing to a growing offer.
Who is Juan Bancalari in DR tourism?
He is the president of Asonahores, the main association of hotels and restaurants in the Dominican Republic, and one of the most respected voices in the industry.
What does Asonahores say about restaurant closures?
It rejects them with figures. The entity says gastronomy in the country is still expanding, with continuous openings in the main cities.
Where are the most restaurants opening in DR?
In the capital, Santo Domingo, says Asonahores. It counts 68 openings there in the past year, with growth also visible in tourist hubs like Punta Cana or Bavaro.
Why do restaurant openings matter for tourism?
Because gastronomy is a key motivator for travelers. A lively dining scene invites repeat visits and raises spending in the destination, helping local tourism.

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