El Mesón de la Cava
Restaurant · Santo Domingo ·

El Mesón de la Cava

Restaurant · Santo Domingo ·

Romantic limestone cave dining, Spanish-French-Caribbean cuisine

upscale atmosphere
special occasion
pork belly
fried yuca
caveman steak
white wine chicken
seafood pasta
octopus
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by http://www.flickr.com/photos/genesys33/217... (Flickr CC)
El Mesón de la Cava by http://www.flickr.com/photos/genesys33/218... (Flickr CC)
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null
El Mesón de la Cava by null

Information

Av. Mirador Sur 1, Santo Domingo 00000, Dominican Republic Get directions

$$$

Reserve a table
See Menu
Restroom
Popular for lunch
Lunch reservations recommended
Popular for dinner
Dinner reservations recommended

Information

Static Map

Av. Mirador Sur 1, Santo Domingo 00000, Dominican Republic Get directions

+1 809 533 2818
elmesondelacava.com
@mesondelacava
𝕏
@mesondelacava

$$$ · Menu

Reserve a table

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Lunch reservations recommended
•Popular for dinner
•Dinner reservations recommended
•Cozy
•Romantic

Last updated

Jan 7, 2026

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@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

13 Places to Eat and Drink That Are Literally Underground

"In 1965, this cave was used for storage by soldiers of the Organization of American States (OAS), an international organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., that counts all independent states in North, Central and South America as members. Two years later, it was turned into the Meson de la Cava restaurant. The restaurant, considered one of the most distinguished in the area by both residents of and tourists to the Dominican Republic, is tucked into a natural limestone cave created by waves over billions of years. In addition to provisions from the OAS, the restaurant displays several of the valuable belongings found in the cave from previous occupants, which include the Taino Indians, buccaneers who hid in the caves before launching an attack on Santo Domingo, and the guerrillas who fought against the occupation by foreign forces in 1930. The restaurant has three entrances at street level, but visitors must descend a 40-foot spiral staircase to get to the lobby, which is filled with stalactites and stalagmites. While some might expect that the restaurant relies on its unique environs to draw visitors in, the Meson de la Cava is known for preparing some of the region’s best cuisine. Local, hand-selected ingredients are brought in daily, as is a catch from the Caribbean Sea. The diverse menu is focused around Spanish-influenced modern classical French and local Caribbean cuisine." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/underground-restaurants-bars
http://www.flickr.com/photos/genesys33/217... (Flickr CC)
El Mesón de la Cava
@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

El Meson de la Cava – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - Gastro Obscura

"In 1965, this cave was used for storage by soldiers of the Organization of American States (OAS), an international organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., that counts all independent states in North, Central and South America as members. Two years later, it was turned into the Meson de la Cava restaurant. The restaurant, considered one of the most distinguished in the area by both residents of and tourists to the Dominican Republic, is tucked into a natural limestone cave created by waves over billions of years. In addition to provisions from the OAS, the restaurant displays several of the valuable belongings found in the cave from previous occupants, which include the Taino Indians, buccaneers who hid in the caves before launching an attack on Santo Domingo, and the guerrillas who fought against the occupation by foreign forces in 1930. The restaurant has three entrances at street level, but visitors must descend a 40-foot spiral staircase to get to the lobby, which is filled with stalactites and stalagmites. While some might expect that the restaurant relies on its unique environs to draw visitors in, the Meson de la Cava is known for preparing some of the region’s best cuisine. Local, hand-selected ingredients are brought in daily, as is a catch from the Caribbean Sea. The diverse menu is focused around Spanish-influenced modern classical French and local Caribbean cuisine. None" - bebeto, Nicholas Jackson

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/el-meson-de-la-cava
El Mesón de la Cava

Brian Vanegas P.

Google
El Meson de la Cava is an amazing restaurant. The place is spectacular, very romantic, and perfect for couples. I visited with a group of friends, and we really enjoyed it. The food is delicious, with excellent flavor and good wine options. The service was very good and professional.

Rose A

Google
The best restaurant I had been to while in DR. IT IS BEAUTIFUL! The food was delicious. The service was friendly and professional. The bathroom was clean and gorgeous. The view from outside was stunning. I wish I had the time to sit at the outdoor bar. Great vibe and I'd recommend it 100%.

elena K.

Google
Me and my bf went here for dinner last night, we showed up at 11:20 and they were gracious enough to still sit us. We ordered as quick as we could, unfortunately we could not do the focaccia as they had turned the oven off. My bf got a steak that was AMAZING cooked perfectly. My truffle linguine was a bit different than the menu described but still full of truffle flavor. The cream was a big heavy tho so keep that in mind. The meat on the pasta was also a bit chewy. They don’t have free water but they do have free bread that comes with a delectable whipped garlic butter. The atmosphere is unmatched, absolutely gorgeous. The staff was so kind even tho we were those annoying customers that came late and then of course had to take some pictures. I also got the strawberry mojito which was super good and the strawberry puree u could tell was fresh. With a salad two entrees the water and a drink the bill came out to $106 USD

AD

Google
El Mesón de la Cava is truly one of Santo Domingo’s hidden gems. Set inside a natural limestone cave formed millions of years ago, it offers a dining experience like no other. The atmosphere is both intimate and majestic -walls of stone, warm lighting, and a sense of history in every corner. Paired with fine cuisine and an excellent wine list, it’s the perfect balance of nature, sophistication, and Dominican charm. Loved it. A must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable evening in the capital. 🌆✨

Ira E.

Google
Drinks • Paloma: A refreshing blend with a hint of sour citrus balanced by just the right touch of sweetness. The sugar rim elevates the drink, making each sip feel playful yet refined. • Sweet & Spicy: This cocktail surprises with a smoky aroma and a smooth tea-like finish. The cinnamon warmth evokes fall vibes and fills your mouth with layered, comforting flavors. Appetizer • Pork Belly with Fried Yuca: The pork belly was a standout—crispy skin with tender meat underneath. The creamy sauce beneath (similar to mayo) added richness, while the tangy vinegar onions cut through the fat beautifully. The yuca fries were hearty and well-fried, making this a strong starter. Main Dishes • White Wine Chicken Breast: While the dish arrived slightly cooled, which was a bit disappointing, the flavors remained intact. The creamy mushroom sauce was rich and comforting, pairing well with the smooth mashed potatoes. A solid dish, though not the most memorable. • Caveman Steak: Juicy and tender with a bold presentation. The steak was satisfying, though the sides fell a bit flat—the corn was dry, and the mashed potatoes with scallions didn’t add much. Best shared between two or more, especially for those with a bigger appetite. Overall Impression The food was decent—not mind-blowing, but enjoyable. What stood out most was the ambiance and pace of service. The timing between courses allowed us to fully take in the experience, converse, and enjoy the stunning cave setting. The atmosphere alone makes this restaurant worth visiting at least once. It’s a niche dining experience that adds charm to any trip to Santo Domingo, even if the food itself doesn’t leave a lasting impression

Daniel S.

Google
Nice Location. Food could be a bit better. Prices are fair so far. Service is excellent!

Kenny P.

Google
It was really really good! Service was great. Steak was great. Definitely a special occasion place because it's pricey but it's quite the experience!

Brittany

Google
The service was on point, food definitely was warm and full of flavor. I recommend the octopus and Seafood pasta dish along with a Coffee Martini.. I came for the CRAB and LOBSTER and they didn’t have either sadly but instead loading up the dishes with shrimp in the seafood pasta. This is more of a. Great steak place