This cheery casita on the beach is loosely fashioned after a rural Dominican home. French expat Don Papi hosts, while up to three women at a time turn out scrumptious seafood from the tiny kitchen.

In high season, patrons compete for six small tables on a cozy front porch, serving as a dining area despite the availability of a roomier, second-level seating area. But that’s understandable, since sitting on the porch watching the beach is part of the charm of dining here (porch tables are available on a first come, first served basis).

The large round shallow pans pinned up along the walls are used for making delicious paella, a specialty of the house. Shrimp in coconut and anise sauce is delicious as are the fish dumplings and lobster prepared in various sauces.

(Photo: Alejandro Díaz)