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Restaurants

Best Restaurants in Miami

The best restaurants in Miami, from Cote and Michelin tables to stone crab icons, waterfront views, romantic date spots, and buzzy new openings by neighborhood.

Finding the best restaurants in Miami means embracing a city that treats dining as both high art and hometown ritual.

In a single day you can pull apart a pressed Cuban sandwich for lunch, chase it with a Michelin-starred tasting menu at night, and end at a Little Havana window for a colada and a croqueta.

Miami's food identity is built on Cuban and Caribbean neighborhoods, Latin American immigration, and a fast-rising fine-dining scene that has drawn some of the country's most ambitious chefs to the water's edge.

At a glance

The top pick in each category, at a glance.

CategoryOur pick
Best overallJoe's Stone CrabReserve
By CuisineVersaillesReserve
Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred RestaurantsL'Atelier de Joel RobuchonReserve
Most Romantic RestaurantsCasa TuaReserve
Rooftop & View RestaurantsJuviaReserve
Vegetarian & Vegan RestaurantsPlanta South BeachReserve
Cuban Sandwiches & Iconic Miami EatsVersailles RestaurantReserve
New & Trendy Restaurant OpeningsBoia DeReserve

Top Picks

🍽️GetYourGuide food & wine tours, taste the best of Miami on a food tour. Affiliate slot (stub).

📍 South Beach

Joe's Stone Crab

Seafood$$$$· Historic & bustling

Open since 1913, Joe's is the definitive Miami institution and a seasonal ritual for locals and visitors alike. The draw is chilled Florida stone crab claws served with the house mustard sauce, cracked to order and priced by size. The vast, clubby dining room does not take reservations, so expect a wait, or duck into Joe's Take Away next door. Save room for the key lime pie, which is nearly as famous as the crab.

What to order: Florida stone crab claws

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Havana

Versailles

Cuban$$· Classic & lively

Billed as the world's most famous Cuban restaurant, Versailles has anchored Calle Ocho since 1971 and doubles as the unofficial town square of Miami's exile community. The mirrored dining room turns out classics like ropa vieja, lechon asado, and vaca frita, all generous and comforting. Out front, the ventanita window pours cafecito and pastelitos to a crowd of regulars debating politics. It is essential for anyone who wants to taste and feel Cuban Miami.

What to order: Ropa vieja

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Design District

Cote Miami

Korean steakhouse$$$$· Sleek & social

A Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse from restaurateur Simon Kim, Cote pairs tabletop grilling with a serious wine and Champagne program in a sleek, dark room. The Butcher's Feast lets you work through prime and wagyu cuts cooked over live coals, rounded out by banchan and doenjang stew. It is celebratory and social, the kind of dinner built for a great night out. Reservations are essential, especially on weekends.

What to order: The Butcher's Feast

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 South Beach

Stubborn Seed

New American$$$$· Refined tasting menu

Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford earned a Michelin star here for precise, produce-driven contemporary American cooking. The tasting and a la carte menus change often but consistently balance refinement with genuine flavor, framed by an open kitchen and a warm, modern room. It delivers fine dining energy without stiffness, making it a favorite for special occasions on the quieter end of South Beach. Book ahead and consider the chef's counter for the full show.

What to order: Seasonal chef's menu

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Buena Vista

Boia De

Italian-American$$$· Tiny & buzzy

This tiny, Michelin-starred storefront from chefs Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer packs outsized ambition into a former convenience store space. The Italian-leaning menu is playful and precise, from crudo to handmade pastas to a much-loved chicken liver toast. Seats are scarce and reservations vanish quickly, but the payoff is some of the most exciting cooking in the city. Come with an open mind and let the small plates pile up.

What to order: Chicken liver toast

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Wynwood

KYU

Asian BBQ$$$· Industrial & lively

KYU brought serious wood-fired, Asian-inspired cooking to the heart of the Wynwood arts district, all served in an airy, industrial-chic room. The share-friendly menu roams from smoked short rib with gochujang to the cult-favorite roasted cauliflower, everything kissed by the grill. The vibe is lively and design-forward, matching the murals and galleries just outside. It is a reliable pick for groups who want bold flavors in a stylish setting.

What to order: Wood-grilled short rib

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Buena Vista

Mandolin Aegean Bistro

Mediterranean$$$· Garden patio

Set in a converted 1940s house with a leafy, blue-and-white garden patio, Mandolin serves the coastal food of Greece and Turkey with sunny simplicity. Mezze, grilled fish, spreads, and village salads arrive fresh and unfussy, best enjoyed slowly outdoors. The Aegean setting feels like a breezy escape from the city, ideal for long lunches and relaxed dinners. It is one of Miami's most charming and enduring neighborhood tables.

What to order: Aegean mezze

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Coconut Grove

Ariete

New American$$$· Refined & personal

Chef Michael Beltran's Michelin-starred Coconut Grove flagship weaves his Cuban-American heritage through polished, personal cooking. The menu moves between refined tasting fare and comfort touchstones, with local seafood and heritage flavors front and center. Warm service and a neighborhood feel make it approachable despite the accolades. It is a standout for understanding modern Miami cuisine rooted in the city's own culture.

What to order: Cuban-inflected tasting menu

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Wynwood

Zak the Baker

Bakery & deli$$· Casual & bright

A beloved kosher bakery and cafe, Zak the Baker built its reputation on naturally leavened sourdough and dark, crackling loaves that draw morning lines. The daytime menu extends to excellent sandwiches, pastries, and a proper deli side with pastrami and smoked fish. The airy, wood-filled room is a bright, casual spot to refuel between gallery visits. Come early, as the best breads and bakes sell out fast.

What to order: Sourdough & pastrami

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Mid-Beach

Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann

Argentine$$$$· Dramatic & fiery

Inside the theatrical Faena Hotel, Argentine fire master Francis Mallmann cooks everything over open flames and glowing embers. Whole cuts, vegetables, and even desserts are transformed by wood smoke and char, served amid lush, dramatic decor. It is an immersive, occasion-worthy experience as much as a meal, anchored by Mallmann's rustic gaucho traditions. The patio grills and Malbec-heavy list complete the spectacle.

What to order: Open-fire grilled meats

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Brickell

Elcielo Miami

Colombian$$$$· Playful tasting menu

This Michelin-starred Brickell destination from chef Juan Manuel Barrientos presents a playful, multi-sensory journey through modern Colombian cuisine. The tasting menu blends art, aroma, and interactive courses, including the signature tree of life and a chocolate hand-washing ritual. It is inventive and celebratory, designed to surprise and delight from the first bite. For an ambitious night of fine dining with a distinctly Latin American voice, it is a top choice.

What to order: Interactive Colombian tasting

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Design District

Michael's Genuine Food & Drink

New American$$$· Buzzy & easygoing

Chef Michael Schwartz's pioneering Design District restaurant helped put Miami on the national culinary map with its ingredient-driven, unpretentious cooking. The menu spans wood-oven dishes, crudo, and the famous crispy pork belly, sized for grazing and sharing. The buzzy patio and easygoing service make it a dependable anytime pick, from long lunches to relaxed dinners. It remains a cornerstone of the city's contemporary dining scene.

What to order: Crispy pork belly

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Brickell

La Mar by Gaston Acurio

Peruvian$$$· Waterfront & vibrant

Perched on the water at the Mandarin Oriental, La Mar showcases Peruvian cooking from renowned chef Gaston Acurio against sweeping bay and skyline views. Bright ceviches, tiraditos, causas, and anticuchos anchor a vibrant, seafood-forward menu paired with pisco cocktails. The waterfront terrace is one of the most scenic tables in Miami, especially at sunset. It is a polished, festive spot for a memorable meal on the water.

What to order: Ceviche

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Wynwood

Coyo Taco

Mexican$· Fast-casual & late-night

A Wynwood staple, Coyo Taco serves fresh, made-to-order tacos on handmade tortillas from a fast-casual counter that hides a lively speakeasy bar out back. Fillings range from al pastor carved off the trompo to grilled fish and roasted mushrooms, all brightened by house salsas. The mural-covered space stays busy late, blending street food with a party atmosphere. It is an affordable, high-energy stop in the middle of the arts district.

What to order: Al pastor tacos

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Havana

Sanguich de Miami

Cuban$· Counter-service gem

This Calle Ocho gem elevates the Cuban sandwich to an obsession, pressing house-cured meats and cheese into crackling, buttery Cuban bread. Everything is made from scratch, from the mojo pork to the pickles, and the difference shows in every bite. The retro, counter-service space is small and cheerful, perfect for a quick, iconic bite. Add a batido or cafecito and you have the essential Little Havana lunch.

What to order: The Cuban sandwich

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Design District

Le Jardinier

French$$$$· Serene & elegant

A Michelin-starred, vegetable-forward French restaurant, Le Jardinier brings refined, garden-inspired cooking to the Design District in a serene, light-filled room. Seasonal produce takes the lead alongside elegant seafood and meat, with pastry work that ranks among the city's best. The calm, sophisticated atmosphere offers a graceful counterpoint to Miami's louder rooms. It is a strong choice for a polished lunch or a special dinner.

What to order: Seasonal vegetable tasting

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 South Beach

Macchialina

Italian$$$· Rustic & intimate

A warm, rustic trattoria off the tourist track in South Beach, Macchialina is a local favorite for soulful, handmade Italian cooking. The pastas are the stars, rolled fresh daily and joined by a thoughtful, Italian-heavy wine list. Brick walls, close tables, and gracious service create an intimate, neighborhood feel rare on the Beach. It is the kind of reliable, comforting spot regulars return to again and again.

What to order: Handmade pasta

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Miami River

Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish Market

Seafood$$· Casual riverside

A no-frills, family-run fish house on the working Miami River, Garcia's has served fresh local catch since the 1960s. The attached market supplies the kitchen, so the fried snapper, conch fritters, and fish sandwiches are as fresh as it gets. The breezy upstairs deck overlooks passing boats, a slice of old, unpolished Miami. It is a casual, affordable escape from the glitz, beloved by locals in the know.

What to order: Fresh local catch

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

Best Restaurants in Miami by Cuisine

Miami's immigrant history makes it one of America's great cuisine cities, where a short drive can carry you from Cuban ventanitas on Calle Ocho to Haitian griot in Little Haiti and Peruvian ceviche in the suburbs.

The best restaurants in Miami by cuisine reward exploration beyond South Beach: neighborhood specialists often outshine flashier destinations.

Whether you crave a Cuban sandwich, Nikkei tiraditos, Aegean mezze, or handmade pasta, the city delivers depth and authenticity across price points.

This roundup highlights standout picks spanning the culinary map, from long-running institutions to modern reinventions, so you can build a week of eating that circles the globe without leaving the city limits.

  • Versailles

    Cuban $$

    This Little Havana landmark on Calle Ocho remains a benchmark for classic Cuban cooking, from ropa vieja to lechon asado. The bustling dining room and busy ventanita make it approachable, while the cooking honors traditions carried from the island. It is the flagship that helped define how Miami eats and gathers over cafecito.

    What to order: Ropa vieja; lechon asado; cafecito

    Reserve
  • Sanguich de Miami

    Cuban $

    A Little Havana institution specializing in Cuban sandwiches built on house-cured meats and freshly pressed bread. The pan con lechon and classic Cubano are slow-crafted to golden perfection and served with croquetas and batidos. It is unfussy, deeply satisfying, and a must for understanding Miami's Cuban food culture beyond the counter.

    What to order: Cubano sandwich; pan con lechon

    Reserve
  • Chef Creole

    Haitian $

    A reliable, no-frills stop near Little Haiti for heaping plates of griot, fried fish, and conch simmered in Creole sauce. The seasoning is bold and the portions generous, and the surrounding neighborhood offers bakeries, markets, and murals to explore. It anchors one of the city's best corners for Haitian eating.

    What to order: Griot with pikliz; conch; fried snapper

    Reserve
  • Mandolin Aegean Bistro

    Greek/Turkish $$$

    The Buena Vista district is home to this charming Aegean garden, packed with Greek and Turkish mezze, wood-grilled meats, and bright salads. Come hungry for spreads, grilled octopus, and warm pita in a leafy courtyard setting. A long, shared graze here is the best way to experience the menu's vibrant, sun-soaked energy.

    What to order: Mezze; grilled octopus; village salad

    Reserve
  • Ghee Indian Kitchen

    Indian $$$

    This Design District and Kendall favorite reimagines Indian cooking with local farm produce and creativity. The seasonal thali and house breads are signatures, and the menu balances familiar comfort with inventive flourishes. It is a modern standout that helped put contemporary Indian cooking on Miami's map.

    What to order: Seasonal thali; house naan; curries

    Reserve
  • Itamae

    Peruvian Nikkei $$$

    A family-run temple to Peruvian Nikkei cooking, serving bright ceviches, tiraditos, and causa with precise, delicate technique. Personal, focused, and beloved, it draws diners from across the city. This is destination eating for anyone chasing the best Japanese-Peruvian cooking Miami has to offer.

    What to order: Tiradito; ceviche; causa

    Reserve
  • Lung Yai Thai Tapas

    Thai $

    For fiery larb, crispy pork, and boat noodles, this small strip-mall spot near Little Havana delivers comfort and value. Look for northeastern Thai specialties and grilled skewers that showcase the cuisine's range and heat for a satisfying, spice-forward meal.

    What to order: Boat noodles; larb; crispy pork

    Reserve
  • Phuc Yea

    Vietnamese-Cajun $$

    A creative Vietnamese-Cajun mashup in the MiMo district that fuses fish sauce and herbs with Gulf seafood boils. The result is playful, personal, and unlike much else in the city. It reflects Miami's talent for cross-cultural cooking rooted in genuine skill and heritage.

    What to order: Seafood boil; pho; crispy spring rolls

    Reserve
  • Boia De

    Italian $$$

    A modern Italian restaurant in the Upper Buena Vista courtyard serving handmade pastas, crudo, and vegetable plates with contemporary polish. Small, lively, and personal, it brings fresh energy to Italian cooking beyond the red-sauce standard. It is a strong pick for an intimate, tasting-style dinner.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; crudo; focaccia

    Reserve
  • Hiyakawa

    Japanese $$$

    A refined Japanese favorite in Wynwood famous for its omakase and pristine nigiri, served course by course at the counter. The calm, precise style makes it perfect for a special occasion. It is a beloved anchor of Miami's sushi scene and a reliable celebration spot.

    What to order: Omakase nigiri; sashimi

    Reserve

Best Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Miami

Miami has come into its own as a fine-dining city since the Michelin Guide arrived in Florida, earning a growing roster of one- and two-star tables scattered from Miami Beach to the Design District and Coconut Grove.

The best fine dining restaurants in Miami range from French haute cuisine and counter-style omakase to heritage-driven Latin American tasting menus, many helmed by chefs shaping the city's identity.

Expect seasonal menus, thoughtful wine and non-alcoholic pairings, and reservations that vanish quickly. These are the rooms for milestone celebrations and once-in-a-trip splurges.

Book weeks or months ahead, arrive curious, and let the kitchen lead; Miami's top tables reward diners who surrender to the experience.

  • L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon

    French $$$$

    Miami's two-Michelin-star flagship and a global reference point for French haute cuisine. From counter seats guests watch the kitchen assemble jewel-like plates, from the signature langoustine fritter to the legendary pommes puree. It is the ultimate Miami fine-dining pilgrimage and a bucket-list experience for serious food lovers.

    What to order: Tasting menu; langoustine fritter

    Reserve
  • Stubborn Seed

    New American $$$$

    Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford's Michelin-starred room delivers precise, market-driven New American tasting menus in a sleek Miami Beach setting. The cooking is technical and seasonal, moving between delicate and bold. Its polished service makes it a top choice for special occasions.

    What to order: Seasonal tasting menu

    Reserve
  • Cote Miami

    Korean steakhouse $$$$

    A Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse in the Design District pairing tableside grilling with a serious wine and Champagne program. Dry-aged cuts and the popular Butcher's Feast define an energetic, luxurious experience. It is ideal for celebrations that want spectacle alongside excellence.

    What to order: Butcher's Feast; dry-aged beef

    Reserve
  • Los Felix

    Modern Mexican $$$

    A Michelin-starred Coconut Grove restaurant built around heirloom corn nixtamalized in house. The cooking is modern Mexican and fiercely seasonal, balancing masa, live fire, and Florida produce. Its warm, ingredient-driven ethos makes it one of the city's most compelling tables.

    What to order: Heirloom masa; tasting menu

    Reserve
  • Boia De

    Italian-American $$$

    A Michelin-starred husband-and-wife spot tucked into a Little River strip mall, serving inventive Italian-leaning small plates. Handmade pasta and precise, produce-forward cooking define a menu that punches far above its casual room. Famously hard to book and beloved by locals.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; seasonal small plates

    Reserve
  • Ariete

    Cuban-American $$$

    Chef Michael Beltran's Michelin-starred Coconut Grove restaurant blends Cuban heritage with refined contemporary American technique. Warm and personal, it moves between comforting croquetas and elegant seasonal courses. It is a refined but welcoming favorite for milestone dinners.

    What to order: Croquetas; seasonal tasting

    Reserve
  • The Den at Azabu

    Japanese omakase $$$$

    A hidden Michelin-starred omakase counter behind a Miami Beach izakaya, seating just a handful of guests. The Edomae-style sushi is precise and quietly luxurious, guided course by course by the chef. Its intimacy makes it a special-occasion gem for sushi devotees.

    What to order: Omakase sushi

    Reserve
  • Elcielo

    Colombian $$$$

    A Michelin-starred Colombian tasting-menu destination in Brickell that turns dinner into playful, multisensory theater. Interactive courses like the tree of life and its chocolate ritual sit alongside serious technique and heritage flavors. A distinctive angle on Miami fine dining.

    What to order: Colombian tasting; tree of life

    Reserve
  • Hiden

    Japanese omakase $$$$

    A Michelin-starred omakase hidden behind a Wynwood taco shop, reached through an unmarked door. Inside, an intimate counter serves a meticulous Japanese tasting menu with real theater. Inventive, secretive, and hard to book, it rewards the diners who find it.

    What to order: Omakase sushi; hidden entrance

    Reserve
  • Le Jardinier

    French $$$

    A Michelin-starred, vegetable-forward French restaurant in the Design District with a serene, garden-inspired room. The seasonal menu is clean-lined and beautifully composed, refined without excess. It is a polished, calming choice for elegant lunches and dinners.

    What to order: Vegetable-forward tasting

    Reserve
  • EntreNos

    Contemporary $$$$

    A Michelin-starred, chef-driven tasting-menu spot in North Miami with just a few seats and an open kitchen. The cooking is personal, seasonal, and quietly ambitious, blending Latin American roots with modern technique. An intimate insider favorite for adventurous diners.

    What to order: Chef's tasting menu

    Reserve

Most Romantic Restaurants in Miami

For date nights, anniversaries, and proposals, the most romantic restaurants in Miami pair intimate lighting and gracious service with food worth lingering over.

The city offers everything from candlelit Mediterranean villas and waterfront Peruvian rooms to cozy neighborhood spots with courtyards and bayfront terraces.

Romance here is less about stiff formality and more about atmosphere: a moody bar, a shared bottle of wine, and a room that makes time slow down. Whether you want skyline glamour or a tucked-away table in a converted bungalow, these picks set the mood.

Reserve ahead, request a quiet corner if you can, and plan a leisurely, unhurried evening.

  • Casa Tua

    Italian $$$$

    Set inside a lush Mediterranean-style villa in South Beach, Casa Tua is one of Miami's most intimate date-night rooms. Candlelit tables, a private garden, and a hushed, elegant mood make dinner feel secluded. Handmade pastas and northern Italian classics seal the romantic deal.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; garden dining

    Reserve
  • Villa Azur

    French Mediterranean $$$

    A warmly lit French-Mediterranean room in South Beach with a glamorous, candlelit courtyard ideal for lingering over wine. Attentive service and a festive-but-romantic mood make it a comfortable choice for couples who want an occasion without stiffness.

    What to order: Mediterranean plates; wine list

    Reserve
  • La Mar by Gastón Acurio

    Peruvian $$$

    A polished Peruvian dining room at the Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key, with sweeping Biscayne Bay and skyline views. Elegant plating, ceviches, and pisco cocktails on the waterfront terrace make it a reliably romantic special-occasion option.

    What to order: Ceviche; bay views

    Reserve
  • Boia De

    Italian $$$$

    For a refined Italian-leaning date, seek out this small Michelin-starred room in Buena Vista with an intimate counter, plush corners, and a great natural wine list. Precise, seasonal cooking and warm service make for a classic, unhurried romantic evening.

    What to order: Seasonal tasting; wine list

    Reserve
  • Ariete

    New American $$$

    Combining a cozy bungalow setting with a leafy Coconut Grove patio, this spot offers a warm yet refined date option. Share chef Michael Beltran's Cuban-inflected American plates by candlelight for a relaxed, low-pressure evening together.

    What to order: Cuban-American plates; patio

    Reserve
  • Cote Miami

    Korean Steakhouse $$$$

    This Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse in the Design District offers a sultry, low-lit experience with tableside grilling and a stellar wine and Champagne list. Sleek design and impeccable service make it a sophisticated, flavor-rich date destination.

    What to order: Butcher's Feast; tableside grill

    Reserve
  • Le Jardinier

    French $$$$

    An elegant Michelin-starred French room in the Design District with a serene, garden-inspired setting and floor-to-ceiling windows. The refined vegetable-forward cuisine and polished service make it a longtime favorite for romantic special occasions.

    What to order: Vegetable-forward tasting; desserts

    Reserve
  • Macchialina

    Italian $$$

    A warm, brick-walled Italian trattoria in South Beach with a relaxed-romantic vibe. Rustic pastas and wood-grilled plates paired with candlelight and a friendly wine list make it a comfortable, affordable date-night pick.

    What to order: Rustic pasta; wood-grilled plates

    Reserve
  • Zuma

    Japanese $$$$

    A stylish contemporary Japanese izakaya on the Miami River with a buzzy terrace and clubby energy. The lively downtown setting suits couples who want a celebratory evening with robata skewers, sushi, and a great sake list.

    What to order: Robata skewers; riverfront terrace

    Reserve
  • Stubborn Seed

    New American $$$$

    An intimate Michelin-starred room in South Beach with a handsome open kitchen and inventive American tasting menu, well suited to a special downtown date. Comfortable, stylish, and chef-driven, it works for a leisurely evening of course after course.

    What to order: Tasting menu; chef's counter

    Reserve

Best Rooftop & View Restaurants in Miami

Few cities reward dining with a view like Miami, where the skyline, Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic create dramatic backdrops nearly year-round.

The best rooftop and view restaurants in Miami range from sky-high cocktail lounges atop Brickell towers to South Beach penthouses and breezy Wynwood terraces perfect for golden hour.

The cooler, drier winter months are peak season, when rooftops fill quickly and reservations or early arrivals become essential; summer brings heat and afternoon storms, so evenings are the move.

Many focus as much on the setting and drinks as the food, so calibrate expectations accordingly. Whether you want a signature cocktail high above Brickell or a laid-back terrace with bay views, these spots deliver Miami's most photogenic dining.

  • Juvia

    French-Japanese-Peruvian $$$

    A penthouse rooftop atop the Herzog & de Meuron parking structure on Lincoln Road, Juvia blends French, Japanese, and Peruvian influences with sweeping South Beach views. The living wall and open-air terrace make it a stylish golden-hour destination in the heart of the beach.

    What to order: Cocktails; ceviche; skyline views

    Reserve
  • Sugar at EAST Miami

    Asian $$$

    Perched on the 40th floor of the EAST hotel in Brickell City Centre, Sugar is a tropical rooftop garden with Asian-inspired bites and standout skyline views. The lush greenery and city panoramas make it one of downtown's most photogenic spots for cocktails.

    What to order: Asian bites; cocktails; skyline views

    Reserve
  • Area 31

    Seafood $$$

    High atop the Kimpton EPIC Hotel, Area 31 pairs sustainable seafood with views over the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. Come for the terrace and a drink; the ceviche and fresh fish set it apart from view-only rooftops.

    What to order: Ceviche; grilled fish; bay views

    Reserve
  • Rosa Sky Rooftop

    Latin $$$

    A chic, energetic rooftop atop the AC Hotel Miami Brickell, Rosa Sky serves Latin-Caribbean cocktails and small plates with dramatic skyline views. It is a popular warm-weather destination for drinks and people-watching above Brickell.

    What to order: Cocktails; small plates; skyline

    Reserve
  • Watr at the 1 Rooftop

    Nikkei $$$

    Atop 1 Hotel South Beach, Watr offers a Nikkei menu of Peruvian-Japanese dishes with panoramic ocean and beach views. The airy terrace and shoreline vantage make it a memorable perch for sushi and sunset cocktails.

    What to order: Sushi; ceviche; ocean views

    Reserve
  • Serena Rooftop

    Mediterranean $$$

    A relaxed, elevated bar and restaurant in Wynwood serving Mediterranean small plates and cocktails. Its comfortable vibe and open-air terrace make it a solid choice for a laid-back rooftop evening among the murals.

    What to order: Mezze; cocktails; wood-grilled plates

    Reserve
  • Astra

    Mediterranean $$$

    A stylish rooftop at Miami Worldcenter downtown, Astra pairs Mediterranean plates with an expansive terrace and skyline views. The strong food and lively scene make it a top all-around pick beyond the vantage point alone.

    What to order: Mediterranean plates; cocktails; skyline

    Reserve
  • Terras

    Mediterranean-Japanese $$$

    A breezy Wynwood rooftop blending Mediterranean and Japanese small plates with cocktails and city views. The stylish terrace and DJ-driven energy make it a lively spot for drinks above the arts district.

    What to order: Small plates; cocktails; skyline views

    Reserve
  • Kiki on the River

    Greek $$$

    A bohemian, richly decorated riverside patio on the Miami River serving Greek and Mediterranean plates and cocktails. The lush design and waterfront setting make it one of the city's more atmospheric warm-weather dining spots.

    What to order: Greek seafood; mezze; riverside patio

    Reserve
  • Rusty Pelican

    Seafood $$$

    A waterfront landmark on Key Biscayne offering panoramic views of the Miami skyline across Biscayne Bay. The setting over the water is dramatic and well suited to groups and celebrations, especially at sunset.

    What to order: Seafood; cocktails; skyline-across-the-bay views

    Reserve

Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Miami

Miami's plant-based scene has grown from a niche into a genuine strength, with dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants alongside omnivore kitchens that treat vegetables as headliners.

The best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Miami span casual Wynwood cafes, refined plant-forward tasting menus, and globally inspired spots serving everything from vegan Caribbean plates to plant-based Mediterranean and Indian.

Many of the city's chefs lean on South Florida's year-round produce and tropical fruit, so vegetable dishes here are anything but an afterthought.

Whether you are fully vegan, vegetarian, or simply eating lighter, these picks prove that meat-free dining in Miami can be creative, satisfying, and celebratory rather than restrictive.

  • Planta South Beach

    Vegetable-forward $$$

    A stylish, plant-forward restaurant offering an elevated vegetable-centric menu in a chic South Beach setting. It demonstrates how far Miami's meat-free dining has come, with refined plates, inventive sushi, and a sophisticated bar program that appeal to vegans and omnivores alike.

    What to order: Elevated plant-based plates; vegan sushi

    Reserve
  • Love Life Cafe

    Vegan Cafe $$

    A vegan cafe in Wynwood serving plant-based comfort food, hearty brunch, and baked goods. Casual and welcoming, it is a reliable neighborhood stop for satisfying vegan versions of familiar favorites.

    What to order: Plant-based comfort brunch; baked goods

    Reserve
  • Krishna Vegetarian Restaurant

    Vegetarian Indian $

    A longtime vegetarian Indian restaurant serving wholesome, home-style dishes, dosas, and thali platters. Its dedicated, health-focused approach has earned a loyal following over many years.

    What to order: Masala dosa; vegetarian thali

    Reserve
  • Choices Cafe

    Vegan $$

    A pioneering meat-free spot known for its vegan comfort classics like plant-based burgers and pizzas, plus fresh juices. A local institution from the city's early vegan days, it remains a beloved go-to for plant-based indulgence.

    What to order: Vegan burger; cold-pressed juices

    Reserve
  • Full Bloom

    Vegan $$

    A vegan restaurant on Miami Beach serving creative plant-based comfort food and brunch. Inventive dishes and a warm vibe make it a strong choice for those seeking hearty, flavorful meat-free meals near the beach.

    What to order: Plant-based comfort food; brunch

    Reserve
  • Della Test Kitchen

    Plant-based Caribbean $$

    A Wynwood plant-based spot with Ital and Caribbean roots, serving colorful bowls built around greens, grains, and jerk-spiced vegetables. The vibrant flavors and communal, feel-good approach make it a naturally plant-friendly dining experience.

    What to order: Jerk plant-based bowl; greens

    Reserve
  • Atlas Meat-Free Delicatessen

    Vegan Deli $$

    A vegan deli and restaurant with a menu of plant-based sandwiches, house-made cheeses, and comfort plates. Casual, friendly, and inventive, it offers globally influenced meat-free cooking in a laid-back setting.

    What to order: Plant-based deli sandwiches; house cheeses

    Reserve
  • Charcoal Vegan

    Vegan $

    A fast-casual vegan spot serving globally influenced plant-based bowls, wraps, and shakes. Its approachable menu and quick, satisfying plates make it a comfortable, reliable meat-free destination.

    What to order: Plant-based bowls; wraps

    Reserve
  • Bunnie Cakes

    Vegan Bakery $

    A dedicated vegan bakery serving cupcakes, cakes, and sweet treats made entirely without animal products. Its long-running, all-vegan approach and consistently indulgent baking make it a meaningful stop for plant-based dessert lovers.

    What to order: Vegan cupcakes; layer cakes

    Reserve
  • Motek

    Mediterranean $$

    While not exclusively vegetarian, this Mediterranean and Israeli restaurant offers standout vegetable-forward dishes worth seeking out. Its generous mezze, hummus, and salads make it a great option for flexitarians dining with meat-eaters in Brickell.

    What to order: Hummus and mezze; vegetable plates

    Reserve

Best Cuban Sandwiches & Iconic Miami Eats

You cannot claim to know the best restaurants in Miami without diving into the city's iconic hometown foods: the Cuban sandwich, croquetas, stone crab, and cafecito.

The cubano is the headline act, a pressed medley of roast pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, endlessly debated at ventanitas across the city, while the frita, a Cuban-style burger topped with shoestring fries, is the everyday bite many locals actually crave.

Beyond sandwiches, the buttery stone crab claws of the winter season and the crisp ham croqueta are essential rites of passage. These dishes are affordable, unpretentious, and deeply tied to Miami's Cuban and Latin roots.

Come hungry, order a colada to share, and taste the foods that define the city's culinary identity.

  • Versailles Restaurant

    Cuban $$

    The definitive Cuban institution in Little Havana, a bustling landmark where politicians, families, and tourists gather over pressed cubanos and cortaditos at the ventanita. Dependable, generous, and quintessentially Miami, it is the city's unofficial Cuban dining room.

    What to order: Cuban sandwich; cortadito

    Reserve
  • Joe's Stone Crab

    Seafood $$$

    A South Beach institution since 1913, famous for chilled stone crab claws served with mustard sauce during the fall-to-spring season. Old-school, bustling, and beloved, it is the go-to for the most classic, over-the-top Miami seafood experience.

    What to order: Stone crab claws with mustard sauce

    Reserve
  • Sanguich de Miami

    Cuban $$

    Beloved by locals for its meticulous take on the Cuban sandwich, with house-cured meats and freshly pressed bread. The retro Calle Ocho counter and made-from-scratch approach make it a proper modern shrine to the cubano.

    What to order: Cuban sandwich; croquetas

    Reserve
  • El Rey de las Fritas

    Cuban $

    A no-frills Little Havana institution serving the classic frita cubana, a spiced beef patty topped with shoestring potatoes on a soft bun. Standing at the counter with a frita and a batido is a quintessential, unpretentious Miami meal.

    What to order: Frita cubana with shoestring potatoes

    Reserve
  • Enriqueta's Sandwich Shop

    Cuban $

    A Wynwood-adjacent counter that has fed the neighborhood for decades, famous for hearty Cuban sandwiches and strong cafecito. Affordable and always busy, it is a beloved daytime rite of passage for workers and regulars alike.

    What to order: Cuban sandwich; cafecito

    Reserve
  • Islas Canarias

    Cuban $$

    A family-run West Miami favorite celebrated for its ham croquetas and homemade mariquitas, the crisp plantain chips served alongside. Warm, unpretentious, and deeply local, it is a go-to for classic Cuban comfort food done right.

    What to order: Ham croquetas; mariquitas

    Reserve
  • La Camaronera

    Seafood $$

    A classic Little Havana fish counter run by the Garcia family, famous for the pan con minuta, a whole fried snapper fillet on Cuban bread. Cold beer, ceviche, and standing-room energy make it a true only-in-Miami seafood stop.

    What to order: Pan con minuta; fried fish

    Reserve
  • Vicky Bakery

    Bakery $

    A homegrown chain born in Hialeah, essential for guava-and-cheese pastelitos and croquetas straight from the case. Affordable and comforting, it is where locals grab breakfast pastries and a colada to start the day.

    What to order: Guava-and-cheese pastelitos; colada

    Reserve
  • Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish Market

    Seafood $$

    A Miami River mainstay with open-air dockside tables, known for stone crab, fresh fish sandwiches, and conch chowder. Casual, scenic, and family-owned, it pairs waterfront views with honest local seafood.

    What to order: Stone crab; fish sandwich

    Reserve
  • Fireman Derek's Bake Shop

    Bakery $$

    A Wynwood dessert favorite famous for its key lime pie, tart and creamy on a buttery graham crust. A sweet finish to any Miami food crawl, it represents the city's beloved citrus-driven dessert tradition.

    What to order: Key lime pie

    Reserve

Best Restaurants in Miami by Neighborhood

Miami is a city of distinct neighborhoods, and the best restaurants in Miami are scattered across them rather than concentrated in a single dining district.

Wynwood and the Design District form the buzziest modern hub, while Coral Gables and Coconut Grove reward those who venture into the leafy, chef-driven core south of downtown.

Little Havana and Little Haiti offer vibrant Cuban and Caribbean eating, and South Beach anchors the oceanfront scene. Using neighborhoods to plan your meals lets you pair dining with sightseeing, walkable strolls, and a genuine sense of local life.

This roundup spotlights a signature restaurant in several key areas to help you eat your way across the city.

  • Wynwood, Zak the Baker

    Bakery-Deli $$

    The kosher bakery and deli that helped anchor Wynwood's arts scene, with naturally leavened bread and house-cured pastrami. Wynwood is the city's mural-covered creative epicenter, and a stop here pairs perfectly with a gallery walk. Lines move fast and it is worth it.

    What to order: Challah; pastrami sandwich

    Reserve
  • Little Havana, Versailles

    Cuban $$

    A Cuban institution anchoring the heart of Calle Ocho, where politicians and locals sip cortaditos at the ventanita. Classic ropa vieja and lechon make it the ideal introduction to Little Havana's living Cuban food culture.

    What to order: Ropa vieja; cortadito

    Reserve
  • South Beach, Joe's Stone Crab

    Seafood $$$$

    A century-old seafood landmark devoted to chilled stone crab claws with mustard sauce that helped define Miami Beach dining. Bustling and old-school, it captures South Beach's enduring glamour. Reservations are tough in season but worth it.

    What to order: Stone crab claws; key lime pie

    Reserve
  • Design District, Michael's Genuine Food & Drink

    New American $$$

    Michael Schwartz's wood-oven driven New American restaurant put the Design District's dining scene on the map. Local ingredients and a convivial patio make it a standout in a neighborhood better known for luxury boutiques and galleries.

    What to order: Wood-roasted double yolk; short rib

    Reserve
  • Coral Gables, Fiola

    Italian $$$$

    Fabio Trabocchi's Michelin-starred Italian dining room brings polished refinement to the Mediterranean elegance of Coral Gables. Fresh pastas and coastal seafood make it the essential reason to plan a meal around the Gables and its historic streets.

    What to order: Fettuccine; lobster ravioli

    Reserve
  • Little Haiti, Chef Creole

    Haitian $$

    Rich griot, fried snapper, and conch sold in a lively counter-service spot in the heart of Little Haiti. Pair a visit with the neighborhood's cultural center and botanicas for a full culinary afternoon on the North Side.

    What to order: Griot; conch; fried snapper

    Reserve
  • Brickell, La Mar by Gaston Acurio

    Peruvian $$$

    A glamorous waterfront Peruvian restaurant on Brickell Key with sweeping bay views. Brickell is the city's densest downtown dining and nightlife district, and La Mar's ceviches and pisco sours are a standout date-night anchor.

    What to order: Ceviche; causa; pisco sour

    Reserve
  • Coconut Grove, Ariete

    Cuban-American $$$

    Michael Beltran's Michelin-starred Cuban-American restaurant that put the laid-back Grove on the culinary map. Inventive, warm, and beloved, it exemplifies Miami's chef-driven neighborhood dining.

    What to order: Croquetas; cauliflower; frita

    Reserve
  • MiMo District, Phuc Yea

    Vietnamese-Cajun $$$

    A vibrant Vietnamese-Cajun restaurant that captures the retro creative energy of the MiMo strip along Biscayne Boulevard. It is a compelling reason to explore the vintage motels, bars, and shops of the Upper Eastside.

    What to order: Crawfish boil; pho; banh mi

    Reserve
  • Doral, El Arepazo

    Venezuelan $$

    Doral, nicknamed Doralzuela for its Venezuelan community, offers arepas, cachapas, and pabellon in bustling casual spots. An arepa-and-batido crawl through the neighborhood is a rewarding, affordable culinary outing.

    What to order: Arepas; cachapa; pabellon

    Reserve

Best New & Trendy Restaurant Openings in Miami

Miami's dining scene never stands still, and the best new and trendy restaurant openings in Miami keep the city on the national radar year after year.

Recent momentum has centered on Little River and Buena Vista's rise, ambitious neighborhood debuts across the Design District and Coconut Grove, and chefs branching out from acclaimed flagships to launch second and third concepts.

New openings tend to book up fast on buzz alone, so flexibility with dates and early or late seatings helps. Because the freshest spots evolve quickly, it is always worth checking current local coverage before you go.

These picks highlight recently opened and buzzy restaurants that capture where Miami dining is heading right now.

  • Boia De

    Italian $$$

    A Michelin-starred Buena Vista favorite tucked into a tiny strip-mall space, where produce-driven cooking and handmade pastas earned it national attention. Its intimate room and inventive plates make it one of the neighborhood's most talked-about arrivals.

    What to order: Produce-driven handmade pasta

    Reserve
  • Mila

    Mediterranean-Japanese $$$

    A rooftop Mediterrasian restaurant on Lincoln Road blending Mediterranean flavors with Japanese technique. Its lush setting, standout raw and grilled plates, and lively energy have kept it firmly in the see-and-be-seen conversation.

    What to order: Mediterrasian small plates; sushi

    Reserve
  • Walrus Rodeo

    Live-Fire $$$

    A fire-driven, hard-to-book Little River restaurant from the Boia De team that earned rapid acclaim for its wood-hearth cooking. Its cult following and distinctive point of view make it emblematic of Miami's adventurous new wave.

    What to order: Wood-fired plates; hard-to-book counter

    Reserve
  • Brasserie Laurel

    French Brasserie $$$

    Chef Michael Beltran's downtown French brasserie brings Parisian energy and classic bistro dishes to the city center. Its buzzy room and polished cooking made it an instant destination for a refined night out.

    What to order: Steak frites; classic bistro fare

    Reserve
  • Le Bouchon du Grove

    French Bistro $$

    Classic French bistro cooking in a cozy Coconut Grove setting exemplifies the neighborhood-bistro trend. Warm, rustic, and reasonably priced, it reflects a move toward comforting European cooking outside the flashier districts.

    What to order: Rustic French bistro plates

    Reserve
  • Mandolin Aegean Bistro

    Greek $$$

    A modern Greek and Turkish restaurant that reinvigorated Aegean dining in Buena Vista with wood-grilled meats and mezze in a leafy garden setting. Its breezy atmosphere and generous shared plates keep it popular for groups.

    What to order: Wood-grilled meats; Aegean mezze

    Reserve
  • Elcielo Miami

    Colombian Tasting $$$$

    A Michelin-starred Brickell restaurant blending fine dining with multi-sensory, art-driven courses for an immersive tasting experience. Its intersection of cuisine and performance makes it one of the more distinctive newer arrivals.

    What to order: Multi-sensory immersive tasting menu

    Reserve
  • Contessa

    Italian $$$$

    A glamorous Design District Italian restaurant with handmade pastas, an elegant room, and a see-and-be-seen crowd. It represents the polished, upscale Italian dining that continues to draw buzz across Miami.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; glamorous room

    Reserve
  • Itamae Ao / Peruvian newcomers

    Peruvian $$$

    A wave of Peruvian restaurants building on the Chang family's success, from Maty's to Itamae Ao, has energized the scene with everything from casual counters to ambitious tasting concepts. They reflect one of Miami's most exciting current culinary movements.

    What to order: Casual to ambitious Peruvian plates

    Reserve
  • Julia & Henry's / food halls

    Food Hall $$

    Curated food halls downtown and in South Beach gather standout local vendors under one roof, offering an easy way to sample multiple buzzy chefs and cuisines in a single, casual visit.

    What to order: Multiple local vendors under one roof

    Reserve

Frequently Asked Questions

What food is Miami most famous for?

Miami is most famous for the Cuban sandwich. Locals also love stone crab claws at Joe's Stone Crab, croquetas, ceviche, and Cuban coffee, plus fine dining like Michelin-starred Cote and L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon.

Where can I get the best Cuban sandwich in Miami?

Top spots include Sanguich de Miami and Versailles in Little Havana, plus El Rey de las Fritas for a frita alongside. Enriqueta's in Wynwood is a longtime favorite. Try more than one.

Do I need reservations for top Miami restaurants?

Yes. Michelin-starred spots like Cote, L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Los Felix, and Stubborn Seed need reservations released weeks ahead. Joe's Stone Crab is walk-in only. Book early or sit at the bar.

Which Miami neighborhoods are best for dining?

Wynwood and the Design District are the buzziest hub. Coconut Grove and Coral Gables have chef-driven spots, Little Havana and Little Haiti offer affordable Cuban and Caribbean cuisine, and Brickell has steakhouses.

How expensive is fine dining in Miami?

Miami's top tasting menus are a splurge, typically $$$$ per person before pairings. Neighborhood ventanitas, taquerias, and spots like El Palacio de los Jugos offer great value. Check current menus.

Are there good vegetarian and vegan options in Miami?

Yes. Vegan and vegetarian spots include Planta, Love Life Cafe, and Full Bloom. Many fine-dining kitchens accommodate vegan menus with notice, and Haitian and Caribbean spots offer plant-based platters.