Fodor's Expert Review Peperoni

One of Santo Domingo's long-standing destination restaurants, Peperoni continues to evolve, which keeps it on the list of "in" places for the well-heeled of all ages. The menu is contemporary and multinational, and only the highest-quality ingredients are used. You may not make it past the appetizers, like a warm goat-cheese salad, and, from the menu's "Asian Market," a sushi roll of sweet plantain, tuna, and avocado. But try to get to the main courses, giving the gnocchi, pastas, and risottos your first consideration. Many of the Italian offerings date back to the restaurant's beginning, but some of the latest specialities are lighter, like the polenta encrusted sea bass hit with cilantro oil. Service is laudable. Take the savvy wine steward's recommendations. Indoor dining rooms can be too cold and noisy; try for the terrace. If you like this hot ticket, you will love its younger sister restaurant at the Casa de Campo Marina.