Exploring the Dominican Republic through Food and Culture: A Visit to Casita RD
As a Dominican, this month’s exploration for my Hispanic heritage year project feels particularly close to my heart. Every month, I dive into the rich and diverse cultures of Latin America through food. This month, the spotlight is on the Dominican Republic. It is the country that has shaped me, my culture, and the way I connect to my heritage. In this post, I’ll take you on a flavorful journey through my visit to Casita RD. It is a hidden gem located right in Baldwin, New York, where Dominican flavors meet innovation.
Celebrating Dominican Heritage at Casita RD
When I first walked into Casita RD, the aroma of familiar spices and sizzling meats welcomed me like an abrazo from my abuela!. The intimate setting and warm ambiance instantly transported me back to the island. Back to the kitchens where I grew up watching my mother prepare traditional meals with love. Casita RD, run by Massiel Medina and Chef Stephen Rodriguez (aka Chef Papi), embodies the spirit of the Dominican Republic, but with a modern twist.
Massiel and Stephen are more than just business partners. They are storytellers of Dominican culture, using food as their medium. In my interview with them, it became clear that their mission goes beyond serving great food. That they want their customers to feel at home. Massiel said it best: “We wanted people to come in and feel like they were at their grandmother’s house, enjoying good food and having a good time.”
Their food is Dominican fusion, blending the traditional flavors of the island with contemporary culinary techniques. The result? Unique, creative dishes that honor the essence of Dominican cuisine while pushing its boundaries. As Massiel said during our interview, “Our food is so enriching, it’s important to keep it alive for future generations.”
Dominican Fusion: Tradition Meets Innovation
Stephen Rodriguez didn’t always plan on being a chef. Growing up between New York and the Dominican Republic. He was immersed in both cultures. His family ran bodegas and restaurants, so he was no stranger to the kitchen. His original dream was to become a musician. After a series of twists and turns in life, he found himself fully immersed in the culinary world. “I didn’t think I’d stay in food,” he shared, “but I realized that food is an extension of who I am, and I love to create.”
His passion for creativity is evident in the way he approaches Dominican fusion cuisine. While he stays true to traditional Dominican flavors, he also draws inspiration from various other culinary traditions, especially Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisine. The result is an exciting blend of flavors that keeps both Dominican food enthusiasts and adventurous eaters coming back for more.
For instance, one of the standout dishes at Casita RD is their churrasco, which combines the bold, smoky flavors of Dominican-style grilled steak with a tangy, Asian-inspired chimichurri sauce. Another fan favorite is their pastelón de plátano maduro, a comforting casserole made from sweet plantains, ground beef, and melted cheese, but with a sophisticated twist in its presentation and texture.
The Power of Community
Casita RD is more than just a restaurant—it’s a hub for community. Massiel, born and raised in Queens, talked about the importance of maintaining a connection to her Dominican roots. “As Latin people, we always want to keep our culture alive. The food is so important to that.” The space at Casita RD is designed to foster that connection, with its cozy decor and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of the countryside homes in Jarabacoa, where both Massiel and Stephen’s mothers are from.
It’s not just about the food. Massiel has always been deeply involved in the community, particularly in supporting other women and Latino entrepreneurs. “The Latino community here is so important to me,” she said. “It’s about keeping our culture alive and showing my kids how important it is to embrace who we are.”
My Experience at Casita RD
As I sat down to enjoy a meal at Casita RD, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride. The mofongo—a traditional Dominican (originated in PR) dish made from mashed, fried plantanos—was rich and full of flavor, served with a yummy garlic sauce and crispy chicharron. The fusion element came with a replacement of the classic garlic dipping sauce, they were paired with a creamy, slightly spicy aioli, giving the dish a modern edge.
I also tried their pica pollo—Dominican-style fried chicken. While fried chicken may seem simple, Chef Papi’s version was anything but ordinary. It was crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, with a light batter that didn’t overpower the juicy meat inside. The side of yucca fries was so tasty, adding a starchy, satisfying crunch that balanced the richness of the chicken.
Of course, no Dominican meal is complete without rice and beans. The dish was hearty, comforting, and tasted like home. The rice was fluffy, the beans perfectly seasoned, and the pairing of these staples reminded me of the simple joys of Dominican cuisine—the kind that warms your soul and makes you feel connected to generations past.
One of the highlights of my visit was getting to share this experience with News 12. They filmed a segment on my Hispanic heritage year project. It was such an honor to highlight a restaurant that celebrates the fusion of old and new. It was much like my own journey in rediscovering my heritage.
Preserving Dominican Culture Through Food
As Dominicans, we carry our culture with us wherever we go. Whether through food, music, or traditions, it’s important to keep that connection alive for future generations. Casita RD is doing just that. By offering a space where people can not only enjoy great food but also feel like they are part of a larger community, they are keeping our Dominican roots strong.
What struck me most about my visit to Casita RD was the love and passion that Massiel and Stephen have for what they do. They are not just serving food. They are serving a piece of their identity, their culture, and their love for the Dominican Republic.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Casita RD
As for the future, Casita RD is just getting started. Massiel and Stephen have big plans to expand, with hopes of opening more locations across Long Island and even beyond. “We want to bring Dominican fusion to more people,” Massiel said. “Our community has received us so well, and we feel so fulfilled by what we’re doing. We just want to keep growing.”
If you’re ever in Baldwin, make sure to stop by Casita RD. It’s more than just a meal. It’s an experience. And as I continue my Hispanic heritage year project, I’m so grateful for places like this that help keep our traditions alive, while also embracing the future.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on this journey through Dominican culture, I am reminded of why I started this project in the first place. It’s about more than just food. It is about connection. It’s about passing down the stories, the recipes, and the memories that make us who we are. Casita RD is a shining example of how we can honor our past while embracing the future, and I am so excited to see where this journey takes them and me!
