Things to do

Where to Drink & Dance in Santiago de los Caballeros

Galipote Afterwork bar in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Angel Rosario

Attention Night Owls! Get ready to discover the electrifying nightlife of Santiago de los Caballeros!

An evening spent at one of Santiago's best restaurants might leave you wondering where the city's vibrant pulse beats the strongest after dark. Imagine yourself sipping exotic cocktails at a hidden, trendy spot only known to locals, dancing to heart-pounding Dominican rhythms at the city’s most iconic discoteca, or unwinding at a laid-back beer bar that doubles as a microbrewery. 

 

Our guide is your ticket to the hottest spots in town. Read on to unlock Santiago's best-kept nightlife secrets and plan your unforgettable nights out!

Cocktails at Galipote bar in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Anton Lau

1. Galipote Afterwork

Inspired by the shapeshifting "galipote" from Dominican folklore, this Santiago bar is a fusion of Creole mythology with a buzzing vibe. A casual hangout for the city’s youth, Galipote Afterwork is where you go for unusual, exotic drinks like the "Cimarrón" – think vodka, coconut rum, and a tropical mix topped with colorful gummy bears.

 

Located on the first floor, just follow the bouncer up the stairs and through a glass door to find this vibrant spot. Inside, it's a laid-back scene with wooden floors and comfy seating. The floor-to-ceiling windows frame the lively streets, and local DJs keep the air humming with the latest tunes.

 

Galipote is the spot for weekly specials and impromptu dance sessions. Open daily from 5:00 PM (4:00 PM on Sundays) and partying till midnight or 2:00 AM on weekends, it’s at Av. Benito Juárez, corner of Calle 3, Villa Olga. For a glimpse into their world, check out @galipoterd on Instagram.

Gallo Pelón Pub in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Anton Lau

2. Gallo Pelón Pub

Looking for an unconventional beer bar in Santiago de los Caballeros? Step into Gallo Pelón Pub, where the microbrewery scene is taken to the next level. Picture yourself perched on high bar stools, peeking into the brew room at the back and engaging with the dedicated brewmaster. This spot offers more than just a casual atmosphere - it's vibe is comparable to the trendy artisanal breweries in Europe and the US.

 

Their beer selection? It's a dream for enthusiasts, featuring everything from wheat beers to lagers and pale ales, available both on draft and bottled. And for a twist, try their "Beer-Mojito" – it's a crowd-pleaser! Gallo Pelón isn't just about the brews; they're known for hosting lively events, including DJ-led parties and creative "Paint and Beer" nights.

 

Located at Avenida República de Argentina, Esq. 13, El Embrujo I, they welcome patrons from Monday to Thursday, 5 PM-11 PM, and keep the fun going until midnight on weekends. Keep tabs on their happenings by following Gallo Pelón Pub on Instagram or check their website.

Level Nightclub in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Angel Rosario

3. Level Nightclub

For the best discoteca in Santiago to dance the night away we recomend Level Nightclub, perched atop the parking building of Bella Terra Mall. Drive right up and park a few meters from the entrance, swapping the concrete of the parking lot for the club's marble floors, mirrored ceilings, and velvet furnishings, illuminated by LED lights. It's a striking transition! 

 

Inside, you're greeted by male bartenders donning kilts (what's underneath is anyone's guess!) and a spacious dance floor where the music hits you with full force. If you're keen to immerse yourself in the latest Dominican beats and pulsating rhythms of dembow, Level's the place to be. 

 

Just remember, the club comes alive on weekends, especially Saturdays. Level Nightclub can be found on Avenida Juan Pablo Duarte. For those arriving on foot, simply take the elevator from the ground floor to reach the club. Find more information on their Instagram.

 

 

El Clandestino bar, Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: El Clandestino

4. El Clandestino

Dive into Santiago's secret nightlife at El Clandestino, a bar that thrives on being 'hidden' in plain sight. But this isn't just another bar; it's an intimate hideaway with a free-spirited ambiance that mirrors a private apartment party where the city’s young trendsetters converge. The setting is cozy and personal, featuring low ceilings and plush sofas perfect for lounging and El Clandestino is the only bar in santiago that specializing in Mezcal-based drinks.

 

The place is located inside an actual creperie named Magnolias. To enter this exclusive spot, a reservation and ID check are mandatory, and adherence to house rules is expected, which includes no re-entry once inside and no flash photography. Remember, the bouncer will guide you behind the scenes to this tucked-away oasis of Dominican nightlife

 

Find El Clandestino, at the corner of Calle Máximo Gómez and Calle Los Portales. They’re open weekends from 6 PM to 2 AM – reservations via Instagram @elclandestino.rd.

Zumbador Arts Bar in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Anton Lau

5. Zumbador Arts Bar

In Santiago's historic center, just a couple of blocks from Parque Duarte, Zumbador Arts Bar is a real find. This cool spot is set in an old colonial house, complete with a prominent balcony. Inside, you'll wander through rooms, each with its own character. Start in a cozy art-filled space, then hit the bar area with its tall ceilings and exposed brick charm. The best spot? Definitely the breezy open-air courtyard patio beneath a towering jagua tree.

 

It's got a relaxed, vintage feel with a shop for organic and handmade stuff, and often DJs liven up the scene. The food menu might not be vast, but it packs a flavorful Creole punch. And yes, there are great vegan and vegetarian options too. The atmosphere here is super homey, like visiting a good friend's house or hanging out in your own backyard.

 

Open every day till midnight, you'll find Zumbador on Calle Restauración 139. Remember, there's no parking, and the unassuming exterior is part of the allure. Check their Instagram to learn about any upcoming events.

La Ciguapa nightclub in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Angel Rosario

6. La Ciguapa

Santiago's newest nightclub sensation La Ciguapa, is where the city's nightlife pulses with energy. DJs set the stage with a blend of reggaeton, dembow, and Latin house, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. The club comes alive with flashing lights, a packed dance floor, and video visuals projected on a large backwall. 

 

Thursdays are all about traditional rhythms such as merengue, bachata, and salsa, setting the stage for dance enthusiasts, while Sundays take a nostalgic turn with iconic tunes and hits from the 90’es. 

 

With an RD$300 entry that includes a drink, it's a popular spot, so arriving early helps avoid long queues. La Ciguapa is located on Calle Mauricio Álvarez. Please note that parking can be tricky! Stay updated via their Instagram.

La Rue Tapas & Bar in Santiago de los Caballeros

Photo: Angel Rosario

7. La Rue Tapas & Bar

Fancy a casual spot to kickstart your evening in Santiago de los Caballeros? Swing by La Rue Tapas & Bar. It's the perfect place for a laid-back drink with friends, whether you're gearing up for a night out or just unwinding after a busy day.

 

Enjoy the open-air vibe on the large outside covered deck facing the street, where there's no AC but plenty of cool breezes. Sip on their famous mojitos or the standout "Super Blue" cocktail. The music, a mix of smooth Latin tunes, reggaeton, and the occasional English pop hit, is always at just the right volume for good conversation.

 

Open daily from 4:30 PM and extending till 2:00 AM on weekends, La Rue's inviting open-air setting is enhanced with a special 2x3 Corona deal on Thursdays and Sundays. Find this bar at Jose A. Patiño Martínez, corner of Calle 10 in Villa Olga. Stay in the loop with their latest happenings on Instagram @laruebartapas.


Written by Maria Mena.

 

Published December 2023.


Experience the Best Dominican Bars and Nightclubs