Our love for coffee has grown even more since living in the Dominican Republic. The culture here is deeply intertwined with this aromatic brew, making it a staple in daily life. Whether it’s the first thing in the morning or a cup shared with visitors in the afternoon, coffee is more than just a drink—it's a way of life. Most Dominicans enjoy their coffee in small amounts, brewed strong and sweetened with plenty of sugar, resulting in a syrupy cup of caffeinated goodness!

COFFEE IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Coffee has long been a crucial part of the Dominican Republic’s economy and culture. From the lush mountains of the interior to the fertile soils of the south, the country produces a variety of coffees that are enjoyed both locally and internationally. Among these, the southern regions of Polo and Bahoruco stand out for their exceptional coffee production. Other ares like, Jarabocoa, Ocoa, Azua and San Cristobal, are also known for their coffee. The high altitudes and cooler climates of these areas create the perfect conditions for growing rich, flavorful beans.

In the Dominican Republic, coffee is typically made at home, and coffee shops aren't as widespread as in other regions. You'll find more of them in the cities, like Santo Domingo, where even Starbucks has made an appearance, much to the chagrin of some. There are also charming local spots in the city like, Calcali Coffee and Casa Barista, which serve coffee sourced from various regions across the country.

While areas like coffee producing areas like, Jarabacoa boast cute coffee shops, Barahona hasn’t caught up yet. Here, coffee often comes from a bean-to-cup machine, mixed with powdered milk and syrups—not the best option. Perhaps one day, a quaint coffee shop will open in the south, offering visitors a chance to savor the local brew.

OUR FAVORITE LOCAL COFFEE IN BARAHONA: CAFE MELO

Polo, Barahona is one of the ares known for coffee production in the south, known for its rich, dark brews that carry the essence of the region’s terroir. One of our favorite coffees from this area is Café Melo. This locally sourced and organic coffee is a must-try for any coffee enthusiast.

You can purchase it directly from the factory in Barahona (at the best price), where you can enter the trailer on the property and order as many bags as you like, whether ground or whole beans. Just be sure to bring cash, as it's the only accepted payment method. If you're in Barahona, you can also find Café Melo at Supermercado Blanquizales, or you might spot it on supermarket shelves elsewhere in the country. Bring a couple bags back home for you or they make great gifts!

TAKE A COFFEE TOUR IN POLO

For a deeper dive into Barahona's coffee culture, book a half-day tour with the reputable Larimar Eco Tours. You'll start with a cultural exchange, connecting with locals and learning about their traditions. Then, experience the coffee-making process from "bean to cup" at the Mata a la Taza experience. Highlights include visits to Finca DulciKafé, the Magnetic Pole, and El Polerito Coffee Shop for a fresh brew. The tour wraps up with a refreshing dip at the Mata de Maíz natural pools (HIGHLY RECOMENDED), offering a perfect blend of flavor, culture, and relaxation. Click here to learn more and book online.

HOW TO MAKE DOMINICAN STYLE COFFEE

To truly experience Dominican coffee, you must try making it the local way—with a greca (also known as a moka pot). This stovetop coffee maker is a staple in every Dominican household.

The process is simple: add water to the bottom chamber, fill the middle filter with ground coffee (don’t tamp it down too hard), and screw the top chamber on. Place it on the stove over medium heat and wait for the water to boil up through the coffee grounds into the top chamber. You will start to smell it as the coffee finishes brewing. The result is a strong, aromatic brew that's typically enjoyed in small cups with a generous amount of sugar.

If you want to be fancy, you can add the sugar directly on top of the coffee before brewing. Adding freshly ground nutmeg on top of the coffee or a cinammon stick in the water are nice touches as well!

Check out our video on how to make an amazing cup of Dominican Coffee!

Exploring the coffee culture in the south of the Dominican Republic is more than just tasting good coffee; it’s about experiencing the rich history and traditions that make this country’s coffee so special. From the fields of Polo to the markets of Jarabacoa, every cup tells a story of dedication, culture, and the vibrant spirit of the Dominican people.