Cliff and Cove

View Original

Barahona's Grocery Guide: From Superstores to Local Gems!


Exciting news for travelers and locals alike! The highly anticipated Sirena Superstore in Barahona officially opened its doors on January 30, 2024. This marks a significant milestone for the southern region of the Dominican Republic, offering conveniences and amenities to both residents and visitors.

The Story of Sirena in Barahona

The journey to this moment has been a journey of anticipation and excitement. As we previously reported, Barahona has long been the gateway to the Deep South, serving as a vital stop for travelers en route to explore the breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems of the region. However, the town has faced challenges in meeting the growing demands of its population and visitors due to limited commercial options. 

Photo credit: Sirena.do

Enter Plaza El Encanto, a visionary project spearheaded by Khoury Industrial, a company deeply rooted in Barahona's history, and Grupo Ramos. This ambitious endeavor promised to revolutionize the town's commercial landscape, offering a modern shopping experience comparable to international standards. And now, with the opening of Sirena Superstore, that promise has become a reality.

Click here to read more about why Plaza El Encanto was so anticipated in the South of the Dominican Republic.

What is Sirena?

Sirena is a superstore that makes me think of a Walmart. It’s bright, clean filled with aisles of product, advertising special offers. It brings with it a diverse array of offerings, catering to every need under the sun. From fresh produce to groceries, meat, and a selection of clothing, this hypermarket is a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs. Additionally, shoppers can even find some items that would typically be found at a hardware store, ensuring that residents have access to essential home improvement items right at their fingertips. There is even a small clothing section for men, women, and children in case you need to pick up a few essentials for your trip.

The Future of Plaza El Encanto

But the excitement doesn't end there. In the coming weeks, Plaza El Encanto will welcome even more stores and restaurants to the south. Domino's Pizza will be opening as the first international chain eatery south of Bani. A bank, pharmacy, coffee shop, Caribe Express, and more will further enhance the convenience factor for residents and visitors. 

How Sirena Will Affect the Community of Barahona

With these developments, Barahona is poised to become not just a stopover but a destination in its own right. The influx of jobs and increased foot traffic will breathe new life into the local economy, while residents can still choose to support beloved community establishments. After all, there's something special about patronizing the businesses that have stood the test of time.


Where Else Can I Shop for Groceries in Barahona?


Before Sirena opened, a few other new supermarkets opened in Barahona giving residents and visitors more options to choose from. While Sirena sits on the edge of the city, these grocery stores are more centrally located in Barahona.

Photo credit: @supermercadonacho

Supermercado Nacho • In Town Shopping

Supermercado Nacho is a great grocery store option in the heart of Barahona on a main street. Here you will find produce, a deli section, meats, dried goods, and more. We have found that the produce section doesn’t always have the most variety. There is a dedicated room with an assortment of liquors and wines to purchase with a decent selection. In addition, the back of the store and the upstairs have furniture and household goods available. There is additional parking in the back so you don’t have to navigate the busy street.

Photo credit: @supermercadoblanquizales

Supermercado Blanquizales • Open 24/7

If you are staying near the Blanquizales area, this is a great option. It is also the only store in Barahona that is open 24 hours. The produce section is always well-stocked with local fruits. There is a bakery serving fresh bread throughout the day as well as a cafeteria that serves lunch. They do not sell beer or alcohol at this location. We have found the customer service at Supermercado Blanquizales to be top-notch. In the evening, there is a Puerto Rican food truck that opens up with seating in the parking lot.


Photo credit: @supermarketjael

Jael Super Market • Boutique & Central with Delivery

Jael is a boutique small supermarket located by Parque Central in Barahona. If you have experienced larger chain stores in the Dominican Republic, it’s like Bravo, Nacional, and Pricesmart wrapped up and presented like a convenience store. There are products here from all of these stores that you can’t find anywhere else in Barahona. There is a small deli section and an outside area for select produce. This is the perfect place to stock up on quality snacks and specialty items for your vacation. They also offer delivery service!



At Cliff and Cove, we're thrilled to witness this transformative moment in Barahona's history. We'll continue to highlight local businesses and share the latest updates on this exciting new chapter. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, we invite you to experience Barahona and all it has to offer. Subscribe to our blog or follow us on Instagram for the latest updates and insider tips. Your adventure awaits!