Thanks to its signature array of sun-drenched attractions from palm-fronted beaches to art deco escapes and neon-lit hotel strips packed with bars, clubs, and late-night stories waiting to be had, it bears reminding. There are many possible avenues (both literal and philosophical) via which to explore a legendary city like Miami – including many of the best restaurants in Miami, FL – and many speeds at which you can cruise this fabled oceanfront metropolis. Luckily for those who both enjoy fine dining and a taste of emerging culinary trends, one of the best ways to experience just how vibrant the town truly can be is by experiencing the best of its food and restaurant scene.
Wondering where the locals dine, what the best spot to grab a tasty cocktail and Bayfront view is, and how you can get your hands on some authentic Miami eats? Whether you’re looking for a night out at the newest concept restaurants to hit the city, or on the hunt for the tastiest Cuban sandwich for lunch, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find the 10 best restaurants to check out in Miami, FL no matter if you’re dining out in the neighborhood, or stopping by the city for a seasonal escape. (And remember: If you’re an out-of-towner, no visit is complete without a visit to the timeless Joe’s Stone Crab.) Bon appétit!
Run by internationally-acclaimed chef José Andrés, Bazaar Mar is known for its fresh seafood and innovative dishes, presented as a tapas-style array of small plates and eclectic offerings. Located in the SLS Brickell Hotel, the modern space was designed by Philippe Starck and is covered in shades of blue and white. Guests can dine on delicacies like smoked blue crab, lobster croquettes and sea urchin, all while sipping on a LN2 Caipirinha, made with liquid nitrogen.
Known for its farm-to-table concept, the Brick Restaurant is located in Downtown Miami, and in close proximity to the farming community in Homestead. Diners looking for pure comfort food can nibble on the chicken biscuit sliders or roasted cauliflower mac and cheese. For those seeking a more extensive range of choices, the restaurant also offers other options like roasted free-range chicken and grass-fed hanger steak, along with fresh salad options.
Michelin Star Chef Antonio Mellino and his son Raffaele unite a sophisticated yet simplistic feel with Italian fine dining using organic and locally-sourced ingredients. The beautiful space is minimalistic in color and surrounded by plush greenery. The menu offers homemade pastas like Tagliolini and Alaskan crab as well as wild caught fish like Branzino with zucchini flowers.
Hunting for authentic Cuban cuisine? While Havana 1957 remains a tried and true staple for visitors to Lincoln Road Mall, Versailles also scores high marks for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Start off with the beef, chicken and ham empanadas and move onto their famous Cuban sandwich. The chef also serves up Cuban staples like oxtail stew and Pulpeta, a traditional Cuban meatloaf. Don’t forget to try the signature mojito with raw cane either, which provides a refreshingly delightful sugar rush.
Nestled away at the Epic Hotel’s Avant Gallery, LaMuse is a chic European café perfect for a light bite or glass of wine. Relax and enjoy an espresso with friends or snack on their small plates like the deviled eggs or the burrata and tomatoes. Diners can sample a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches, or try their famous tartines topped with everything from fruit and cheese to nuts and honey.
Located in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, Ono Poke Shop is based on the Hawaiian delicacy (a raw fish salad) with a Japanese twist. Guests can create their own poke bowls in five easy steps, adding everything from spicy tuna to crispy scallions and edamame. The restaurant also offers readymade bowls like the ‘ONO Salmon Bowl or the ‘ONO Hawaiian Bowl all served with fresh fish, rice and added toppings. And don’t forget to grab an ice cream sandwich by Wynwood Parlor to go!
Chef Justin Smillie channels a California vibe through his menu at Upland Miami. With a bistro feel, the chef wanted to keep to his west coast roots by creating an array of fresh, no-frills dishes. Celebrated for its pasta dishes, guests should try the restaurant’s infamous estrella (made with chicken liver, sherry, rosemary and sage), or one of its woodfire-cooked meats like the coal-roasted Long Island duck with mango and pomegranate.
It may be tough to snag a reservation at this chic Japanese restaurant situated by the Miami River, but we promise your taste buds won’t be disappointed. Izakaya-inspired Japanese dishes are all the rave at Zuma. Guests can order from the Robata grill menu for a tasty experience, and enjoy delights such as tender Kurobuta pork belly skewers topped with a yuzu mustard miso or roasted lobster with shizo-ponzu butter that practically replicate art. Pro tip: Make sure to order from the restaurant’s sushi and sashimi menu to enjoy some tantalizingly fresh fish and innovative rolls.
Located on the famous Collins Avenue, Byblos’ stunning décor will transport you to the Byzantine era with its chic yet warm atmosphere. Expect a delightful blend of mezes and other Eastern Mediterranean fare, including a combination of dishes like Persian fried rice and duck kibbeh, but don’t be surprised to see surprises like Japanese Wagyu on the menu too. The critically-acclaimed restaurant’s range of dining options includes an eclectic mix of amazing meats like the dry-aged ribeye as well as less-filling, but no less tasty choices like the coal-fired breads, rice dishes and many more mezze selections.
Tucked away in the Rivera Hotel, this Cuban-inspired eatery serves up everything from breakfast sandwiches to savory pastries. Start with the Ceviche Cubano ( marinated fish in lime juice, onions and cilantro or pineapple and mango), and – if you’re looking for something a bit heartier – go with Mom’s Ropa Vieja (sauteed shredded beef in a light tomato sauce). Don’t forget to try their infamous Arroz con Leche (Cuban rice pudding) either – it provides a welcome ending to any dining experience.
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For more on Miami’s Best Restaurants, also be sure to check out the following articles:
Meghan Parisi is an accomplished freelance writer and the managing editor for a luxury design publication that covers homes in New York City, the Hamptons, San Francisco and Connecticut. Meghan enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants and cities as often as possible. She is an avid cook and enjoys sharing her recipes on her blog: Whiskey + Aprons.
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