I agree that the ambience could be kicked up a notch. I think the restaurant as it is appeals to Dominicans in Toronto because of the food (which tastes very good, especially my fav ? mofongo, and is presented nicely) but for anyone else just passing by or for someone who decides to try out a new international restaurant, there needs to be more to bring them back. I don?t know what to suggest other than try making it feel a little cozier. The first part of the restaurant is okay (the bar area) but the other big room, although good for parties, really lacks character. Maybe have the lighting more centered over each table with some white tablecloths rather than a big brightly lit room. Add some Dominican accents on the tables and a more inviting dance floor and front entrance way. Dominicans will help the restaurant as customers but there are not enough of them in Toronto to MAKE the restaurant so it needs to make outsiders feel like they have stepped into a little part of the Dominican Republic that makes them want to return. I hope that you (Terry) are not offended by my comments but I am just trying to help because I would like to see the restaurant succeed (despite the fact that I don?t really like the particular location although for the intended demographic it?s probably in the right spot).
One aside, although the food in general is very good, I have heard quite a few comments from Dominicans who have eaten there (including my husband) that the habichuelas rojas guisadas does not taste like a traditional recipe. A majority of the Dominicans in Toronto are from the North Coast and they have wondered if the recipe is more from the South or South-West?