Located in the heart of Los Corales in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Castaways Bistro Restaurant is fast becoming a landmark for exceptional dining experiences. Known for its fresh fish and expertly prepared seafood, this bistro stands out not only for its quality but also for its unwavering commitment to providing guests with a unique and personalized atmosphere. In 2025, Castaways earned the prestigious distinction of being named the Best Seafood and Steak Restaurant in Punta Cana by Luxe Magazine, solidifying its reputation as one of the most sought-after dining destinations in the region.
Castaways Bistro is famous for sourcing its fish directly from local fishermen three times a week, ensuring the freshest catch reaches guests’ tables. Along with an extensive selection of fish, the restaurant offers a variety of seafood such as octopus, calamari, mussels, shrimp, lobster, langoustines, and even conch. Executive Chef Frisnert Lubin, a culinary expert with an international background, brings his distinct touch to each dish. Born in Haiti, Chef Lubin honed his craft in Boston and continued to refine his skills while working for various cruise lines. His fusion of island flavors, combined with his dedication to excellence, is evident in every plate served at Castaways.
Michael Livingston, the owner of Castaways Bistro, is a seasoned hospitality professional with 44 years of experience in the industry. His journey in the culinary world has taken him through independent and corporate venues, where he has held numerous titles. It was by chance that Livingston came across Chef Lubin’s resume, which led to an impromptu interview that ultimately brought the two together to create a dynamic team. This partnership has become a hallmark of Castaways Bistro, where innovation meets tradition, and every guest is treated like family.
The menu at Castaways Bistro offers a wide variety of dishes that appeal to both seafood lovers and those with a taste for premium steaks. In addition to its seafood offerings, guests can enjoy Brangus ribeye, filet mignon, and churrasco, with each dish prepared to perfection. One standout item that guests rave about is the signature stuffed chicken breast, a true representation of Chef Lubin’s versatility. For those seeking something unique, the lobstercargot appetizer is a must-try. Large chunks of lobster are sautéed in garlic butter, then encased in puff pastry and baked with a secret ingredient, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is as inviting as its menu, with a full bar offering a wide selection of tropical cocktails, including coco locos, goombay smash, mojitos, and pina coladas. Castaways Bistro also boasts the largest and most exclusive whiskey and bourbon selection on the island, ensuring that guests have access to premium spirits. On select nights, the restaurant hosts entertainment, including karaoke on Tuesdays, music trivia on Fridays, and live music on Sunday nights. For those who prefer a quieter dining experience, the air-conditioned patio offers a peaceful retreat.
The bistro’s commitment to exceptional service is evident in its approach to hospitality. Guests are treated as family, not customers, and the friendly, casual atmosphere contributes to the memorable dining experience. It’s not uncommon to see guests high-fiving staff on their way out, a testament to the warm and welcoming environment created by Livingston and his team.
Castaways Bistro has garnered numerous accolades, further cementing its place as a top-tier dining establishment in Punta Cana. The restaurant was recently named one of the Top 30 Restaurants in Punta Cana by Everything Punta Cana for 2024 and 2025. It also ranks as one of the Top 15 Restaurants to Visit in Punta Cana according to the Family Destination Guide. Additionally, Castaways holds a 4.9 rating on TripAdvisor, with a Certificate of Excellence for 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. These recognitions reflect the restaurant’s dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience to each guest.
Castaways Bistro’s journey began in an unexpected way. During a vacation in Aruba, Michael Livingston and his wife Sylvia found themselves enjoying a meal at a local beach restaurant. Sylvia remarked, “You know, this is kind of cool—one day we should have our own beach bar.” Two months later, Michael was on a plane to meet realtors in the Dominican Republic. By July 2021, Castaways Bistro opened its doors to the public, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the Livingston family.
Looking ahead, Castaways Bistro is expanding with the opening of its second location, slated for October 2025. This exciting development signals the growing demand for the restaurant’s culinary offerings and the desire to share the Castaways experience with more guests.
In addition to its impressive array of awards, Castaways Bistro has earned rave reviews from patrons who have praised the restaurant for its exceptional food and service. Customers have described their experiences as “worth the 36-minute drive from our resort,” “the best dinner experience we had in Punta Cana,” and “the most delicious lobster bisque I have ever had.” These testimonials speak volumes about the quality and consistency that define Castaways Bistro’s brand.
The combination of fresh ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and personalized service makes Castaways Bistro a standout in Punta Cana’s competitive dining scene. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, steak, or a tropical cocktail, Castaways Bistro offers an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave you coming back for more.
For more information about Castaways Bistro Restaurant, visit castawaysbistro.com or follow them on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and TripAdvisor.
Castaways Bistro Restaurant is located at Los Corales, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
