The dining scene in Santiago is not known for having a vibrant restaurant scene like Santo Domingo's. Even the city's few fine-dining establishments stick to the classics. The restaurant in Hotel Gran Almirante is generally recommendable, serving a good selection of tapas. More recently, a TGI Fridays has opened next door to the city's best hotel, emblematic of the local love of American chain restaurants. Many restaurants and cafés line the Calle del Sol, starting at the central Parque Duarte; most have outdoor seating that is great for people-watching. Similarly, down the Avenida de Monumento from the landmark Heroes monument, there are restaurants that are lively and fun, serving mainly Dominican or simple fare.
In the mountains the food ranges from the heavy Dominican specialties served at the simple comedors (local restaurants), to some better than basic, atmospheric restaurants, where rabbit and other game are specialties and fresh vegetables taste as if they came straight from the earth. This is strawberry country, so fresh strawberries are usually on the menu in some form.