Review: SBG | Santo Domingo

I often try to talk to locals when I travel, just to try and see how they see the country I’m exploring. I often ask what restaurants they love or recommend and often, it’s how I find restaurants excluded from the guidebooks. I was given recommendations for the best fish and best Chicharrón, but quite often, I heard about SBG or, Sophias Bar and Grill — a place where apparently all the local celebrities and government officials ate. I don’t give this introduction because I’m bragging that I got to go to SBG, but it really makes you think when you hear numerous locals talk about a mystical place in such a longing and admiring way. I did go to SBG and I’ll share my review but as far as I could tell, there were no major celebrities eating there, just wealthy Dominicans and westerners. However, I think the mindset of putting this restaurant on a pedestal is probably an indicator of a deeper issue within the Dominican Republic. I don’t know enough to speak to that so I will proceed to my review, but just something to keep in mind as you read it.

There are a few different SBGs but I went to the main one located on Av. PASEO DE LOS LOCUTORES 9. You’ll know when you arrive because of the valets dressed in full suits, surrounded by the numerous luxury vehicles double and triple parked in the street.

There’s a red carpet-like entrance that takes you into a dining room that is clean, classy, and a bit too cold. I felt like I was in New York for a fraction of the price and without the crowds. By 9PM (dinner time in Santo Domingo), the dining room is packed and buzzing with waiters zipping in and out like clockwork.

The interior of SBG Santo Domingo

My drink order was taken quickly, though my drink never actually came… A common occurrence according to other Trip Advisor reviews, but the manager apologized at the end of the meal. I took a look at the menu and felt a strong Asian influence but this wasn’t acknowledged or advertised so I kept those thoughts to myself. The prices were more reasonable than I thought, but steep for your average Dominican. I decided to really treat myself and ordered two appetizers, a main, a dessert, and that wine that never came.

Sophia’s Menu

I first started off with one of the favorites: Chicharron de Pulpo, or fried octopus. Chicharron is traditionally made from pork, but SBG attempted to elevate this local dish by frying octopus instead. I have to say, it didn’t quite work for me and I would not get it again, but the idea seemed great. I had about three pieces and called it quits.

The house special: fried octopus

Fortunately, I also ordered the truffled salmon appetizer which was fantastic. It’s a flavor combination I will never forget and I wolfed down the entire dish. The salmon and truffle was so heavy I felt instant regret after each bite but also felt like I was truly indulging myself with the finest ingredients. The salmon was wrapped around slices of asian pear which made each bite finish with a cool, refreshed feel and helped me convince myself that I was not eating that unhealthy.

The truffle salmon was incredible

For my main entree, I got the lamb-stuffed gnocchi. I am normally not a fan of lamb but I wanted to try some new flavors and I also was not too convinced of trying the asian-inspired menu. I was really happy with the lamb gnocchi, though it seemed more like ravioli. The sauce was heavy but the flavor was worth it, the gnocchi and lamb were both cooked well and the cheese was the perfect touch to off-set the heaviness of the meat and potato flavors.

The lamb gnocchi is worth trying

Finally, as stuffed as I was, it was time for dessert. I wasn’t going to go for it but I saw the S’more Molten Chocolate cake and could not say no. The waiter muttered something to me in spanish and I had no idea what he said but next thing I knew my plate was on fire, so I recommend you backing up a bit unless you want to burn your eyebrows off. The waiter roasted my marshmallow for me and spread it all over the cake. The presentation was amazing, even seeing light flecks of gold upon the chocolate mousse mountains flowers finishing off the scoop of ice cream.

Chicken

Overall, for the price, SBG was definitely worth going to. In fact, I went twice during my trip. If I return to DR, I will look forward to coming again. Though, do remember how I described this restaurant through the eyes of locals at the beginning of this blog. Perspective is really worth something here, and for me, it was a steal, however I would not classify this as a hot spot for Dominicans since most can’t afford to eat here. So, if you’re in town as a tourist and looking for a fancy meal, do enjoy! However, there are many other cheaper, less pretentious but just as delicious options all around Santo Domingo.

TOTAL COST: $3980.80 RD ($79 USD)
Not including tip of 400 pesos

 VISA ACCEPTED

Av Paseo De Los Locutores 9
Santo Domingo