miami tourist restaurants

The 25 Best Restaurants In Miami

photo credit: Cleveland Jennings / @eatthecanvasllc

Ryan Pfeffer, Virginia Otazo & Mariana Trabanino

April 16, 2024

Have you ever woken up and thought, “Gosh, I’d love to eat at a second-best restaurant today?” Of course you haven’t. Whether you’ve lived here your entire life or are visiting for the first time , it’s human nature to want to experience the best of the best. And that’s exactly why we wrote this guide.

These are our highest-rated restaurants in Miami—the ones we’d sit in an hour of traffic to get to. Food and experience are both taken into consideration, and any type of dining establishment is fair game. On this list you’ll find special occasion pasta, the very best Cuban sandwich in Miami , and casual seafood hangouts. And if you want to see what our favorite new spots are, check out our Hit List .

photo credit: Emily Schindler

What can be said about Boia De that hasn’t already been said about that chihuahua you follow on Tik Tok: it’s tiny, it’s adorable, and ever since you first encountered it, you find your thoughts drifting towards it multiple times a day. This narrow Italian restaurant on the edge of Buena Vista has one of those menus that's like a perfect album, with not a single song you’d dare skip. The only rules we’ll gently suggest are: order the chopped salad and the tagliolini nero. Also, set a timer for noon. That's when reservations go live for 30 days in advance (and then sell out within seconds). Or try to come super early for walk-in bar seating, which is our favorite seat in the house anyway. 

Best New Restaurants

Maty's

Even if you only eat in Miami sparingly, chances are you’ve come across one of our many Peruvian restaurants —and probably fallen in love with the food they make. But Maty’s takes those familiar dishes and reinvents them in ways that feel like watching your favorite band perform live and falling in love with their songs all over again. Are you a fan of lomo saltado? Well, you might never be able to look at it the same way again after trying Maty’s oxtail saltado. The dishes here have forever changed the way we think about Peruvian food.

It makes sense that Tâm Tâm started out as a sexy pop-up supper club, because dinner here is still a social event worth circling on your calendar. But you’re not coming to this Vietnamese restaurant in Downtown just to post a forehead selfie in one of the curvy mirrors on the wall. You’re here to eat some of the most delicious food in Miami. Many of Tâm Tâm’s best dishes—like the sticky fish sauce caramel wings and the tamarind glazed pork ribs—are gloriously messy. Maybe don’t wear white. But Tâm Tâm has even found a way to make washing your hands an absolute blast. We won’t spoil it, but pick the second bathroom on the right. 

photo credit: Anto.Re

Coconut Grove

Maybe your days of bottle service and partying till sunrise are behind you. But if you still want to engage in some classic Miami indulgence—all while feeling like a classy adult—then make a reservation at Ariete. Everything on the rotating menu is fantastic, but if you're coming here to celebrate (or just want dinner to feel like a special occasion in and of itself) get the canard a la presse—a.k.a. the duck press. They wheel this medieval-looking machine to the table, compress various parts of the duck into a sauce, then use that sauce to smother the absolute best duck you’ll ever taste in your life. The meal, which serves two, also comes with flaky duck pastelitos, and more rotating sides that utilize every millimeter of the duck and its various parts.

Coral Gables

On multiple occasions, we have left Zitz Sum convinced we’d just eaten the best dish Miami has ever produced. And then we’ve never seen it on the menu again. This happens. But even though the frequency of edits on this menu requires a printer with a Ferrari engine, they get away with it by making miracles more than mistakes. Zitz Sum is an “Asian-inspired” restaurant with a bit of an Italian thing going on. But the dumplings, bao, and pasta you’ll encounter here actually do deliver on the seemingly impossible promise to put half a world’s worth of flavors on a single plate. This is not a safe dinner option. This is the reservation to make when you need a meal full of unpredictable excitement.   

photo credit: CLEVELAND JENNINGS / @EATTHECANVASLLC

Macchialina

South Beach

Even though the menu changes occasionally, we always know what to expect at Macchialina: Italian dishes (mostly pasta) that feel like a final draft, edited to near perfection without so much as one superfluous fragment of parmesan on the plate. Food aside, Macchialina is just always a thoroughly enjoyable experience—which makes it all the more valuable in South Beach , a neighborhood where it's too easy to have a thoroughly unenjoyable experience. But at Macchialina, the service is excellent, the drinks are great, and the restaurant's dim energetic dining room is exactly where you want to spend a Saturday night eating Miami’s best Italian food .

Ghee Indian Kitchen

Since Miami always marches to the beat of its own tiki tiki music, it’s fitting that the city's best Indian restaurant is also uniquely Miami. And Ghee is serving food that could only exist in the 305. The bhel puri chaat is a seamless mashup of bhel puri and ceviche. The turmeric marinated fish uses a local catch, the bhatura has avocado in its dough, and so many of the best dishes source ingredients from Ghee's own farm in Homestead. This is Indian food done Miami style—and done in a way that makes a delicious argument that bhel puris, bhaturas, and vindaloo are just as Miami as pastelitos, Cuban coffee, and arriving very late to a party.

Krüs Kitchen

The list of things we love about Krüs is longer than the spiral staircase you take to get to the dining room. On that list are fresh pastas that change with the seasons, an atmosphere that does for date nights what gamma radiation did for Bruce Banner, and glass block windows that face west and make the entire restaurant feel like one big flickering candle during sunset. We find ourselves recommending Krüs so much, because this combination of incredible food, welcoming service, and an interior so comforting it gives one the urge to take off their shoes is incredibly rare in Miami.

photo credit: Cleveland Jennings

It’s easy to oversimplify Nicaraguan food and assume it can all fit neatly in a styrofoam box. But Madroño is the best example of how incredibly nuanced and diverse Nicaraguan restaurants can be. This classic spot serves unfussy comfort food in a white tablecloth environment worthy of celebrating your niece’s First Communion. If you're here with a group, get the bandeja, a lazy susan filled with the most popular dishes from the entire left side of the menu. No matter who you're here with, end with a Pio V for dessert. And if you're celebrating a birthday, expect an aggressive amount of colorful streamers to be thrown in your general direction.

QP Tapas is unlike any other restaurant on this guide—partially because it doesn’t have a permanent home, but mostly because no one in Miami is cooking this kind of food. The izakaya/Spanish tapas pop-up has moved to three different locations since 2022. But there’s one place it must live: high on this list. Each of QP’s locations brings new hurdles they leap right over. The menu changes when it needs to, like when they’re presented with the challenge of a kitchen without any burners. So out with the paella, and in with a crunchy pork tonkatsu laced with saffron. If you missed QP the first time around, your new priority in life is to make sure that doesn’t happen again—especially while they’re in the gorgeous garden at The Mayfair House Hotel. 

Los Félix is the sister restaurant to Krüs, located directly underneath it. And they feel like siblings in the best way possible—connected, yet each with their own distinct personality. Los Félix has more of a dinner party energy, especially on the weekends when a DJ spins vinyl in the dining room. But the big difference is the food. Los Félix serves rotating Mexican dishes, most of which use the house speciality: fresh milled masa. It’s a delicious, fun dinner where you’ll always feel like you’re among friends, even if you don’t have the social energy to actually attend a dinner party.

Rosie's

Little River

Rosie's will make you fall madly in love with brunch again—even if you never even liked it that much to begin with. The restaurant serves a mostly Southern American menu from a new indoor/outdoor space they've recently moved into. The food here is pretty recognizable: fried chicken and waffles, biscuits, crispy fish and grits. But you will do a double take when you taste it, because it's that much better than any version you may remember from your own personal brunch history. There will be other things on the menu you wish you had the stomach capacity to eat—but just come back. That won’t be hard, because unlike many brunch scenarios, nothing about Rosie’s feels like a chore.

photo credit: Tasty Planet

Sanguich De Miami

Little Havana

We weren’t always this excited about Cuban sandwiches , especially after years of eating pretty average versions with cold cheese and pitifully thin ham. But then Sanguich de Miami came along and now we think Miami’s official slogan should just be a picture of their Cubano. This Little Havana shop nails every aspect of the Cuban sandwich—from the crunchy bread down to the homemade pickles and perfect amount of mustard. We would tell you to come here if it was the only thing they sold, but they also make other great sandwiches you should try eventually—especially the self-titled Sanguich de Miami, which is a delicious mash-up of a BLT, turkey sandwich, and Cuban sandwich.

Walrus Rodeo

Buena Vista

Walrus Rodeo takes ideas that have very little to do with each other and makes them work gloriously. There are dishes like carrot tartare, which surpasses all tuna or steak versions we've ever tried, and mustard green lasagna ( our favorite lasagna in the city). The interior is a bright country western meets Italian disco aesthetic. But behind all the goofy contradictions is a restaurant that’s just delicious and fun. If you stick to the starters, salads, pastas, and the rodeo pizza, you'll have a meal nearly as impressive as the one at their sister restaurant, Boia De . But this place isn’t just a backup plan if you can’t get into Boia De . Walrus Rodeo is one of those rare special occasion spots that’s also perfect for most regular occasions. 

Yes, the food, cocktails, and service are always outstanding at Jaguar Sun—but its greatest quality also happens to be that rarest of things in a Miami social life: a guaranteed good time. Jaguar Sun is fun, and not conditionally so. You don’t have to be at the right table or order the right cocktail or entree to enjoy yourself here. Everything (both in liquid and solid form) is delicious, and the staff is a small team of extroverts hell-bent on making sure your glass is never empty. You're coming here for outstanding pasta, oysters, a cold martini, and because you need a dinner that'll make you completely forget why you woke up in a bad mood today.

photo credit: Merritt Smail

Shore To Door Fish Market

There’s no menu at Shore To Door, a Coconut Grove seafood market and weekend restaurant. Instead, the cook—who might be in the middle of cleaning a fish—will tell you what came in off the boat that morning. The menu might include fried grouper bites, a whole fried yellowtail snapper, wahoo fish dip, or other sea creatures. But it will be delicious, and you can eat it in their fantastic backyard, which has a bunch of mismatched furniture and an atmosphere that feels almost as Key West as Jimmy Buffett riding a dolphin while reading a Hemingway novel out loud. If you want a beer, pop open the cooler and help yourself. Just try to keep tabs on how many you drink, because even though this place feels like a friend’s backyard, you’ll still have to pay at the end of the meal.

Zak The Baker

Bakery/Cafe

Zak The Baker is to Miami bread what Pitbull is to Miami music. Except we're actually thrilled about Zak's ubiquity, and the fact that one can encounter slices of his sourdough in nearly every cafe within Miami-Dade County. We still love taking trips to this Wynwood bakery too, even though the crowds can be intense. Because it's only at the bakery where you'll find some of Zak's best stuff, like perfect bagels, Miami's best babka, and an outstanding bacon, egg, and cheese that uses salmon bacon instead of actual bacon. And here's a very useful tip if you hate lines as much as us: go online and order ahead. 

Smoke & Dough

This West Kendall restaurant invented its own cuisine: Miami-style barbecue. It stuffs pastrami in Venezuelan tequeños, burnt ends in empanadas, and serves cafecito-rubbed brisket atop a mole poblano sauce. These aren’t mindless mashups. The food here tastes like it’s been put through more rehearsals than a high school theater kid, and dishes hit their mark every time. Almost everything on the menu is smoked, including the flan, but what really makes Smoke & Dough special is how they’ve created something completely new by combining quintessential Miami flavors with traditional American barbecue techniques. It’s not just extraordinarily good—it’s something unique to our city that could only exist here .

Miami Slice

For the longest time, people (mostly from a state with the word “New” in it) could talk down on Miami’s pizza scene. They had a point. Then Miami Slice came into our lives, making a New York-style pizza we’ll slap any naysayers across the face with to initiate a pizza duel. The slices at this tiny shop are crispy from corner to corner, perfectly ratioed with incredible toppings, and one of the very few foods in this city we will cheerfully wait three hours in the sun to consume. Takeout can actually take longer than waiting for a seat at the counter, so just brave the often chaotic line and eat it fresh from the oven.  

Caracas Bakery MiMo

Ask us to hang out between 8am and 2pm and—even if we don't really like you—we will agree to the plans. Because then we'll have an excuse to go to Caracas Bakery. The things this MiMo cafe does with bread are so wonderful that we'd share a meal here with the world's most annoying person. On the counter are rows of symmetrical danishes and puffy croissants alongside cachitos so supple you’ll have to resist the urge to reach over the sneeze guard and poke one. But Caracas' sandwiches are the highlight of the menu. The jambon beurre and broccoli sandwich make up about 87% of our collective lunch cravings. Luckily this casual cafe, where you’ll inevitably run into at least three people you know, is the kind of place where you’ll want to become a regular.

La Fresa Francesa

You expect to find certain things in Hialeah, but an adorable French bistro is not one of them. And yet, La Fresa makes so much sense to anyone who grew up in Miami. The cluttered dining rooms feel like a multi-abuela design collaboration, and while the really good food is mostly straightforward takes on classic bistro dishes, La Fresa’s location in one of Miami’s most Cuban neighborhoods does come through with a few wonderful moments of guava. One such case, the pastelito de foie gras and guayaba, is the most brilliantly Miami thing we’ve ever eaten. This is the kind of place you will sorely miss if you ever move to another city. 

Frank Cachapas

Frank and his cachapas are exceptions to the widely accepted truth that all parking lots suck. This emerald food truck in Doral makes cachapas you could use as a throw blanket. They also make incredible versions of more Venezuelan delicacies like patacones and arepas outstanding in both size and taste. Unlike most food trucks, you’re coming to Frank Cachapas to have a sit-down meal. It feels like a neighborhood block party on weekends, but it’s also the kind of easy, affordable dinner that deserves to become a weekly ritual. 

Miami Shores

The chefs at this Miami Shores pop-up make magic with ingredients you probably have smooshed into the bottom of your sneakers right now. They turn sea grapes into sorbet and use bait fish in their crudo. EntreNos has taken the all-things-local mission statement further than anywhere else in town by sourcing 99.9% of its menu from the frustratingly long state of Florida. And four nights a week they turn a casual sandwich shop into a restaurant that makes you contemplate how delicious your own backyard is. It may not be a revelatory meal for everyone, but if your favorite day of the week is the trip to the farmers market, this could be your new favorite dinner spot in Miami.

Clive's Cafe

Little Haiti

If you are even in the slightest mood for Jamaican, all roads in Miami lead to Clive’s. This classic Little Haiti spot makes our favorite versions of so many Jamaican dishes, like their excellent jerk chicken. But there are more phenomenal staples worth ordering: curry goat, oxtail, ackee and saltfish, and conch served steamed, fried, or in a curry. Needless to say, making a decision here can be a difficult thing. But whatever you get will probably fall right off the bone and come with a side of rice and peas big enough to use as a pillow. Clive’s works for both takeout or dine-in, and we firmly consider a fork full of equal parts Clive's mac and cheese, plantain, and jerk chicken to be the best bite one can have in Miami.  

Cafe La Trova

Of all the restaurants on this guide, Cafe La Trova stands out because we don’t come here for the food. It’s good. The empanadas are great and so is the arroz con pollo. But Cafe La Trova’s superpower is its ability to throw a party seven nights a week. It’s amazing how few restaurants can pull this off in Miami, a city that prides itself on being able to party. But when people come to us looking for a dinner worthy of a celebration, this is pretty much the only place we send them. Cafe La Trova has an outstanding cocktail program (and the world’s best daiquiri), live music, dancing, and bartenders who sporadically whip out instruments and start singing along with the band. This—not some overpriced clubstaurant nonsense—is the dinner party Miami deserves. 

Suggested Reading

The Hit List: New Miami Restaurants To Try Right Now

The new spots we checked out—and loved.

The Best Restaurants In South Beach

These are our favorite places to eat in South Beach.

The Best Cuban Sandwiches In Miami

No one does a cuban sandwich better than Miami—and here’s where you’ll find the best.

The Most Fun Dinner Spots In Miami

Restaurants for when you simply can’t risk a boring meal.

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Where to Eat in Miami

By Mariette Williams

Even after living in Miami for over 20 years, I still find myself rediscovering old neighborhoods, stumbling upon new restaurants, and watching as the city reinvents itself. Miami isn’t an easy city to define—it’s a seasonal hot spot for spring breakers, a host for celebrity-soaked events like Art Basel, and an Art Deco architectural wonder. But while Miami has the reputation for its all-night partying and striking buildings, it’s also a city filled with incredible restaurants that reflect the city’s cultural diversity. 

Whatever you want to eat, Miami has it: Cuban cafecito, Turkish manti, Southern fried chicken, made-from-scratch Italian pasta, Peruvian seafood. The city is buzzing with a sense of opportunity right now, and a wave of up-and-coming local and new-to-town chefs have picked up on that air of possibility. It’s led to a spate of daring, exciting restaurants that are reshaping this city in the best way. My advice for those visiting Miami: Venture beyond South Beach and skip around to different neighborhoods and try everything—from casual breakfast bites to swanky nighttime dining. 

If you know where to look, the city you’ll find is packed with inventive cooking and people doing important work to make their communities stronger. From the neighborhoods to know and love to the restaurants you simply can’t miss while visiting Miami, here’s everything to see, do, and eat in BA’s 2023 Food City of the Year. 

Eat through three historic neighborhoods

• Historically Black  Overtown was once known as Little Broadway, until construction of two interstates in the ’60s destroyed the area. In recent years, members of the community have fought for Overtown’s revitalization in order to keep the culture alive. Visit Black-owned restaurants like neo-soul spot Lil Greenhouse Grill ( 1300 NW 3rd Ave ) and Southern comfort favorite Red Rooster ( 920 NW 2nd Ave ).
• Known as Miami’s original neighborhood,  Coconut Grove is the oldest permanent settlement in Dade County, dating back to the late 1800s. Come for the lush streets lined with banyan and oak trees and stay for wood-grilled oysters at Ariete ( 3540 Main Hwy, Coconut Grove ), pork belly arepas from Los Félix ( 3413 Main Hwy ), and tender skirt steak at Loretta & the Butcher ( 3195 Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove ).
• Given the city’s sizable Cuban population, it’s no surprise that  Little Havana feels like a slice of the island. Grab a couple of cheesy chorizo croquettes at Doce Provisions ( 541 SW 12th Ave ) before taking a stroll through Calle Ocho , the lively Cuban cultural hub that annually hosts the country’s largest Latin music festival. Stop by Azucar Ice Cream Company ( 1503 SW 8th St ) for a scoop to beat the heat.

A Cuban breakfast and a cult-favorite kosher bakery

With its velvet armchairs and hanging straw lamps, the bright and airy Suite Habana Café ( 2609 N Miami Ave ) in Wynwood feels like a paladar, a kind of intimate family-run restaurant found in Cuba. The space is bright and airy, with painted brick walls and patterned tile floors. Plants hang from the ceiling, and people drink coffee in window seats. The decor and menu both call back to owner Nayelis Delisle’s upbringing on the island and warm memories of drinking coffee with her grandmother. Since 2018, she’s aimed to bring that nostalgia to Suite Habana, creating a space for Cuban coffee in a laid-back atmosphere. The café serves its own house blend made from locally roasted Brazilian and Colombian beans along with a homemade breakfast of mushroom and cheese empanadas, alfajores, and banana bread.  

Located a few blocks from Suite Habana, Zak the Baker ( 295 NW 26th St ) is the creation of Zak Stern, a born-and-raised Miamian who returned to the city after studying bread making in Italy and Israel. His hip kosher bakery is the perfect spot to grab phenomenal house-made bagels, croissants, and breakfast sandwiches before popping into a nearby art gallery. There are often long lines, thanks in part to loyal locals who have followed Stern since his days selling naturally leavened sourdough at farmers markets. His baking may be nationally beloved at this point, but he’s still celebrated in Miami as a hometown hero. The menu changes nearly as often as the surrounding neighborhood’s murals, but the chocolate babka is a welcome regular. 

Beaches and browsing on South Beach 

Head to Miami’s South Beach early for a good spot next to one of the kaleidoscopic lifeguard stands. Another quintessential Miami experience is taking a stroll through Lummus Park, which starts at 5th Street and stretches almost 10 blocks. The park is an ideal place to people-watch. Rollerbladers, bikers, and runners dart around pedestrians; the bodybuilders on 9th street use the outdoor fitness structures for an alfresco workout; and there’s usually a game or two of volleyball going on. 

Lincoln Road Mall , located a few blocks from South Beach, is an outdoor retail center that shouldn’t be missed. Closed off to cars, Lincoln Road is a mile-long street with restaurants, sidewalk cafés, and, if you’re lucky, some street performers. If you’re there on a Sunday, Lincoln Road transforms into a Farmers Market filled with empanadas, homemade jams and jellies, and an assortment of Florida-grown fruit. 

An outstanding Southern brunch or an eclectic outdoor Turkish lunch

Operating in the backyard of a historic Little River home (soon to be the restaurant’s dining room), Rosie’s ( 7127 NW 2nd Ave ) is currently outdoor-only. And there’s nothing better than sitting in this sun-drenched courtyard digging into an all-day Southern brunch with some Italian flare. Helmed by Noma alum Akino West and his wife, Jamila Ross (the restaurant is named for Ross’s mother), Rosie’s celebrates the comfort food that West grew up on in South Florida—dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes, fish and grits, and pastrami hash. And don’t skip the signature Chicky Sandwich, which features buttermilk fried chicken on a brioche bun, smothered in lemon aioli.

For another outdoor-only dream dining experience, head to El Turco ( 184 NE 50th Terrace Upper ). The Turkish restaurant is tucked inside the Upper Buena Vista outdoor mall, an eclectic garden enclave designed around a towering 100-year-old banyan tree. Try a simit sandwich (a thin, bagel-like sesame bread topped with the works), and the manti—The tasty traditional beef dumplings are served with brown butter sauce and a dollop of creamy, garlicky yogurt. 

Buy a book—or just drink some wine—in a vibey, community-focused wine bar

Paradis Books & Bread ( 12831 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami ) isn’t just another trendy wine bar. Yes, it serves a carefully curated selection of wines and square pies by the slice at night (plus sourdough and pastries during the day). But the owner-operated space is also a coffee shop and bookstore with an impressive collection of new and used books on topics like feminism, queer theory, and Black studies. Founded by a group of friends—a mix of former New Yorkers and South Florida residents—Paradis is an always-inviting space that hosts community events and gives visitors a place to gather and browse books. 

Cloudlike Parker House rolls or a top-notch Nikkei seafood restaurant

Jaguar Sun ( 230 NE 4th St ) is a microcosm of the downtown food scene; chef-driven restaurants and bars like this one have popped up throughout the neighborhood practically overnight, contributing to a buzzing restaurant culture. Co-owned by chef Carey Hynes, formerly of Momofuku and Per Se, Jaguar Sun offers a cozy lobby bar and restaurant with some of the best martinis in the city. Along with a catalog of inventive cocktails, it’s also a great place for house-made pasta and pillowy-soft Parker House rolls that seem scientifically engineered for soaking up extra sauce. 

A few miles away in the Design District, Itamae ( 140 NE 39th St #136 ) has a pretty unassuming front, in stark contrast to the high-end designer clothing stores that surround it. Run by sibling chef duo Nando and Valerie Chang alongside their father, Fernando, Itamae has a handful of bar seats inside, plus gorgeous courtyard patio seating that offers a prime spot for people-watching. Inspired by Japanese-influenced Peruvian cuisine, the mostly raw seafood options change every few days, and the attentive staff take their time walking guests through the menu, which includes dishes like Pulpo al Olivo Bañadito, and baby Dutch potatoes with a sweet and slightly spicy huancaína sauce. 

End the night at an iconic Miami bar

Set at the Freehand Hotel in Miami Beach, Broken Shaker ( 2727 Indian Creek Dr, Miami Beach ) feels like your cool friend’s backyard pool party—string lights zigzag between palm trees and bright patio sets are scattered throughout the garden. Opened in 2012, the beloved cocktail bar ushered in a new era of cocktail making in Miami, spotlighting seasonal cocktails crafted with fresh produce and garden herbs. It also became the blueprint for locations in NYC, LA, and Chicago, and garnered two James Beard nominations along the way. You might be able to get the Broken Shaker experience in other cities, but the original location still has a special place in Miami. Try the Peach Boulevard—it’s fresh, tart, and a perfect balm for Miami’s year-round heat.

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The 39 best restaurants in Miami to book right now

Eat your way through Miami’s top dining destinations.

May 2024: Miami's spring is oh-so-brief and soon we'll be staring down another long, muggy summer. For now, though, the days are sunny, the nights are breezy and most of the tourists have vanished. So before it's too late, dine outside, on the water or in the sky at a Miami rooftop restaurant . Now is also a great time to book at any of the Michelin Guide's newly-starred Miami restaurants .

Our top places to eat in the city are a true mix of flavors and feels, from white tablecloth fine dining—like some of Miami’s best steakhouses — to tried-and-tested cheap eats in Miami that never, ever disappoint.  And where there’s a solid cocktail there’s likely to be an epic dish that follows, so expect  to run into some of Miami’s best bars on this list.

Just as we've always done, Time Out’s local experts scour the city daily for great eats, great value and insider info. We emphasize fun, flavor and freshness at every price point, and update this list monthly with standout finds. If it’s on the list, whether it's a short-lived pop-up or a mega clubstaurant, we think it’s awesome and hope you will, too.

An email you’ll actually love

Best restaurants in Miami

1.  Boia De

• Restaurants
• Buena Vista
• price 2 of 4

What is it?  A cross between an L.A. strip mall gem and a cozy Brooklyn dive, Boia De sits on the edge of Buena Vista and Little Haiti, where it serves modern, Italian-inspired dishes and low-ABV cocktails that taste not a drop less celebratory.

Why we love it:  Chefs Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer pour themselves into this place, constantly reinventing the classics. The beef tartare, for example, is topped with a crunchy shallot-garlic concoction as well as capers, which are fried for a burst of briny flavor, and then the whole thing is smothered in a yummy tonnato sauce, a tuna-based Italian condiment that holds everything together like some kind of fancy picnic salad. The pasta is fresh and the wine list is superb, offering a few skin-contact options to coax you out of your comfort zone.

2.  The Surf Club Restaurant

• price 4 of 4

What is it?  Thomas Keller’s restaurant inside the Four Seasons Surf Club is a shining example of the quality and elegance the chef is known for.

Why we love it:  From the tightly edited classic American menu to the midcentury stylings to the special moments afforded by the numerous tableside preparations available, it’s all class, baby. Go in knowing you’re going to spend a small fortune—but it’ll all be worth it for shareable dishes like the flaky beef Wellington that’s baked and carved to order.

3.  Ariete

• Contemporary American
• West Coconut Grove

What is it? At Ariete in Coconut Grove, Michael Beltran flourishes at the intersection of homestyle Cuban cooking and contemporary fine dining. He takes familiar dishes up a notch with high-low ingredient pairings that never feel too forced: From grilled oysters with bone marrow and uni butter to a "pan con bistec"-style A5 ribeye with caramelized onion and papitas, it all kind of makes sense. 

Why we love it: Few restaurants can prepare a duck in as many ways or with the same level of precision. But then again, few offer a tableside pressed duck experience like Ariete.

4.  Zitz Sum

What is it?  Zitz Sum is a modern, Asian-inspired restaurant in Coral Gables.

Why go?  Chef and owner Pablo Zitzmann started his solo dumpling business during lockdown, and we couldn’t be happier for his success. Zitz Sum is now a brick-and-mortar in Coral Gables, which means we can pop in at any time for his hand-rolled dumplings, scallion pancakes and other Asian-influenced dishes. Zitzmann, who’s of German-Mexican heritage, lets his creativity run free with unexpected pairings like charred cabbage with habanero butter and wonton in brodo with chicken and foie gras. 

5.  Stubborn Seed

• American creative
• South of Fifth

What is it? Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford’s edgy neighborhood restaurant doles inspired new American cuisine you’ll be craving long after your meal.

Why we love it:  Besides earning a Michelin star, Stubborn Seed has the kind of wow factor you don’t see often in these parts of South Beach, where it’s all sparklers and velvet ropes (yes, even at restaurants). There’s a thoughtful subtleness to Ford’s cooking, which we find at once unconventional and familiar. 

6.  Tâm Tâm

What is it? Tâm Tâm began as a pandemic project, then a series of special collab dinners and now, finally, a brick-and-mortar restaurant serving creative and highly shareable Vietnamese dishes in a nostalgic Downtown Miami dining room.

Why go? Unlike other pop-ups that haven’t managed to figure out much beyond the food , Tâm Tâm nails every aspect: vibe, service and its dishes, which you’ll find yourself craving over and over again.

Order this: The crazy-crispy wings in caramel fish sauce

7.  La Mar

• Brickell Key

What is it?  Gastón Acurio’s renowned Peruvian restaurant inside the Mandarin Oriental, Miami, where the supremely talented Diego Oka runs the show.

Why we love it:  It takes serious talent to skillfully execute the complicated raw dishes La Mar puts out daily, and chef Oka’s got it in droves. His precision and technique are on display in every ceviche and tiradito adorned by foams and edible flowers. La Mar’s waterfront patio is another sight for sore eyes, offering diners a 360-degree vista of Downtown and Brickell. Swoon.

Time Out tip:  La Mar's epic weekend is one of the best values in town as far as high-end experiences go. Diners get their choice of entreé in addition to the sprawling buffet, featuring individually portioned ceviche and other raw-bar favorites. There's also an anticucho station and a build-your-own sancocho bar sure to cure even the most hungover souls. 

8.  Cote Miami

• Design District

What is it? The Miami outpost of this Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse from New York City is every bit worth the splurge—and splurge you will.

Why we love it? Cote brings a new level of dining experience to Miami, one that’s upscale but approachable and with a high-end menu that’s still got plenty of heart. The tables are equipped with smokeless charcoal grills, where servers cook your dry-aged beef for you. Lest you forget the caliber of the restaurant, there’s no chance you’re going home smelling like you’ve been on the ‘cue yourself. (We can’t say the same about other Korean barbecue joints we’ve frequented.)

Time Out tip: First time? The Butcher’s Feast tasting experience is a great way to sample the restaurant’s heavy hitters for an accessible $74 per person. It’ll leave plenty of room in the budget to savor one of the excellent craft cocktails, such as the Esteban, a super smooth mezcal negroni.

9.  LPM Restaurant and Bar

What is it?  This enchanting import from London draws on the Mediterranean for inspiration, serving a medley of seafood plates alongside a smattering of Provençal dishes you might find on the French Riviera.

Why we love it?  Try the escargot, the whole sea bream baked en papillote and the french fries, which are made with as much care as the entrées. The spuds cook for hours, going from boiling pot to fryer to oven. 

Time Out tip:  The fresh tomato and bread service will catch you off guard if it’s your first time dining at LPM, but don’t be afraid to grab a knife and slice right in.

10.  Mandolin Aegean Bistro

What is it?  Styled after the striking white-and-blue paint seen in Cycladic landscapes, Mandolin is a dreamy outdoor eatery serving traditional Greek food.

Why we love it:  There’s no better date spot. The menu of shareable dishes—think mezzes, baskets of freshly baked pita bread and a fresh whole grilled fish for two—helps play up the romantic atmosphere. Mandolin’s satisfying homemade sangria really evokes the feeling of an island vacation, but don’t take too many sips: You might just confuse its whitewashed exterior for Santorini.

11.  Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink

• price 3 of 4

What is it?  James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz’s premier restaurant in the Design District is one of those iconic Miami institutions that you’re supposed to like, and you invariably will.

Why we love it:  Even putting buzz, accolades, celebrity sightings and longevity aside, the Design District staple still wows us after 16 years. It's even more impressive now following a renovation that saw it expand its footprint, widen its bar seating and grow its menu to reflect seasonal dining trends—think a wild mushroom pot pie and wood-roasted grouper served with clams and tomato broth.

Time Out tip: The food and atmosphere walk the line between casual and showy, making it the perfect standby for a quick happy-hour cocktail, a business lunch or a date-night dinner of oysters, duck confit and pour upon pour of wine.

12.  Jaguar Sun

• Cocktail bars

What is it?  This cozy (and boozy) Downtown bar and restaurant earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for its delicious handmade pasta and delicate crudos served in a hip, familial setting.

Why we love it:  Synergetic owners Chef Carey Hynes and bar director Will Thompson manage to complement each other each step of the way. There’s no fino martini without an order of the market crudo, no Madame Butterfly without the Parker house rolls and no Very Strong Baby without a heaping bowl of spicy rigatoni to make sure you’re not a Very Drunk Diner.

Time Out tip:  There are three parts to the perfect meal at Jaguar Sun: a martini, a pasta and an ice cream sandwich. Everything else is the cherry on top.

13.  Los Félix

• Coconut Grove

What is it?  This regional Mexican restaurant in Coconut Grove takes its tortillas, and just about everything else it does, very seriously.

Why we love it:  For starters, the tortillas here are made from imported Mexican corn ground by a volcano rock in a molino. Then there's the blooming carpaccio of beets that resembles a springtime flower and the blue corn quesadilla with multi-colored squash blossoms fanning out from the opening. Be it vegan, vegetarian or meaty pibil, every single dish shows immense attention to detail.  

Time Out tip:  On Saturdays, enjoy your dinner as a DJ spins vinyl records.

14.  Ghee Indian Kitchen

What is it? At Ghee, acclaimed chef Niven Patel doles out farm-to-table Southeast Asian food good enough to get folks to the ’burbs for dinner.

Why we love it:  Patel grows about a quarter of his ingredients at his Rancho Patel in Homestead. And the whole operation is a family affair: His mother and mother-in-law can be seen whipping up smoked lamb neck, crispy cauliflower and steamed green millet, and other specialties in the open kitchen. The dishes are seasonal, the curries are made fresh, and the naan is so flavorful, it should really be savored on its own.

15.  El Bagel

• Little Haiti / Lemon City
• price 1 of 4

What is it?  Its smash-hit food truck was a favorite among those whose preferred Saturday morning activity was waiting in line for food. Then, El Bagel’s MiMo brick-and-mortar became the chosen breakfast pilgrimage of people with incredible patience. Now, find a second (possibly even busier) outpost in Coconut Grove.

Why we love it:  Takeout at this small shop can take up to two hours but no one craving a fresh, NYC-style hand-rolled bagel can resist. 

Order this: The B.E.C. with Proper Sausages bacon, egg, and cheese and the avo smash with a mound of fresh sprouts are day-one favorites you can still get at the shop. 

16.  Maty's

What is it? Maty’s is an homage to chef Valerie Chang’s Peruvian roots and her grandmother, Maty, who inspired her to cook. 

Why we love it: Previously at the helm of the lauded Nikkei concept Itamae alongside her brother Nando, here, Chang takes simple dishes and imbues them with familiar yet complex Peruvian flavors. Oysters arrive in a tangy leche de tigre and dots of herby oil. The roasted sweet corn gets treated to a luscious huancaína sauce. It all plays out in a modern, airy dining room in bustling Midtown.

Order this: The star of the show is the whole Dorado. Splayed open with the skin side up, it’s a brilliant preparation, retaining the fish’s unbelievably soft texture.

17.  NIU Kitchen

What is it?  NIU Kitchen chef Deme Lomas and wine director Karina Iglesias’s Catalonian gem is located deep in Downtown Miami. The compact restaurant outgrew its original location (which they've converted into a lovely hole-in-the-wall wine bar dubbed NIU Wine ) and has since expanded to a roomier setting next door.

Why we love it:  There’s a seasonal lineup of bold tapas and flame-grilled mains, like the delicate branzino tartare served with a white garlic soup. While delicious pa amb tomàquet (the traditional rustic bread with vine-ripened tomatoes, olive oil and salt), bottles of natural wines and something starring a running yolk like the ous—a creamy bowl of poached eggs, truffled potato foam, jamón ibérico and black truffle—are always a given.

18.  Luca Osteria

What is it? Luca is Giorgio Rapicavoli’s delicious salute to his home country, serving up modern interpretations of Italian classics.

Why we love it:  We know this is a restaurant list, but we’re going to lead with cocktails. Luca’s impressive list of Italian standards and reinvented classics deserves serious praise. We can never decide between the banana espresso martini or the Portofino, which is his take on a dirty with a delicate drizzle of super high-quality olive oil. Naturally, we get them both. The same goes for the pasta—from the tangy al limone and the cheesy cacio e pepe to the rich short rib bolognese, you’ll want to order several when you dine here.

Order this:  The patate fritte from the antipasti menu. These delicate, crispy-skinned potato pearls explode in your mouth to combine with black truffle, creamy Parmigiano fonduta and egg yolk. It's seriously unmissable. 

19.  Sanguich de Miami

• Sandwich shops
• East Little Havana

What is it?  A modern take on a Cuban cafeteria, this Little Havana counter with a second location in Little Haiti sells pressed sandwiches, croquetas and a handful of hearty, quick bites.

Why we love it:  Sanguich infuses the proud Cubano with house-made ingredients, such as cured ham, brined pork, fresh pickles and artisanal mustard. (Hell, even the doughy bread is made to Sanguich’s strict specifications.) Obviously, the best Cubano in Miami resides here. Plus, its Cuban version of nachos—with fried plantain strips and garlic aioli sauce—is utterly out of this world.

20.  Joe's Stone Crab

What is it?  South Florida’s most famous restaurant, Joe’s (which turned 100 in 2013) is as much a Miami must-see as Ocean Drive.

Why go:  It's no secret that Joe's serves the best stone crabs in Miami , but there's also the garlic creamed spinach, Lyonnaise potatoes, coleslaw and Joe's salad. If you don’t like seafood, try the insanely inexpensive fried chicken, or the liver and onions. Joe’s doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared for a horrendously long wait, first to register your name, then for a table. 

Time Out tip:  Joe's  finally takes reservations via Resy . Availability is limited but it beats staring down the hostess for hours while you wait.

21.  Macchialina

• South Beach

What is it? Chef Michael Pirolo’s South Beach trattoria with a newly minted garden patio.

Why we love it:  It’s the familiar rustic Italian dishes that do us in here. Get handmade pasta served with lamb ragú, tossed with clams or served simply with garlic and olive oil to enjoy outdoors or at home now that the restaurant introduced delivery .

22.  Rosie's

What is it?  A popular Overtown pop-up restaurant owned by husband and wife Akino and Jamila West whose latest iteration is a temporary indoor space in Little River (162 NW 73rd St) as they prepare to move into their permanent home nearby. The all-day menu includes standouts such as deviled eggs topped with crispy chicharrones and chines; burrata topped with fresh mango from the Wests’ own backyard as well as wildflower honey; and a hangover-curing pastrami hash with sweet potato sformato, charred green onion gremolata and goat cheese.

Why we love it:  Have you ever had a meal so memorable you countdown the days until you can have it again? It happened to us the day we tried Rosie’s wild mushroom polenta for the first time, and we’ve been looking forward to it ever since.

Time Out tip: Rosie's is closing temporarily this month to move into its long-awaited permanent home. The last service at its current location is May 12, 2024.

23.  Fiola

• Coral Gables

What is it? This destination Italian restaurant deep in Coral Gables is sister to award-winning spots of the same name in D.C. and Venice, Italy. Like its other locations, Fiola Miami is designed to wow, including with its ultra-attentive service, ornately plated dishes—and the final bill. The menu encourages eating as the Italians do, so expect small-ish servings of pasta in delicate sauces to precede a protein, like the outstanding Australian wagyu petite filet with truffle ossobuco sauce.

Why we love it: The brainchild of Fabio Trabocchi, local co-owner Thomas Angelo tapped Miami native Danny Ganem to lead the kitchen. Gorgeous plates like the caviar “carbonara” and pesto burrata look like they require a whole team of tweezer-wielding sous chefs to create.

Time Out tip:  For the CFOs out there who like to keep things tight, there’s an aperitivo hour from 4 to 7pm Tuesday through Friday featuring $10 cocktails and reasonably priced bites, like a $12 cacio e pepe.

24.  Old Greg’s Pizza

What is it? Old Greg’s was born out of the pandemic when chef Greg Tetzner and PR pro Jackie Richie started selling square pizzas out of their house made from a much-loved sourdough starter they named Old Greg. That transitioned first to a takeout pizza phenomenon in a shuttered Design District bar and then, finally, to its own brick-and-mortar shop.

Why we love it:  Along with an expanded menu of salads and binge-worthy hoagies, Tetzner is still slinging the handsome, grandma-style pies that first blew up Instagram during lockdowns. These things are absolutely crammed with toppings like zucchini and burrata, lamb sausage with tahini and the O.G. Roni with hot honey and a whole lot of curled-up pepperoni cups.

25.  Klaw Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

What is it? A surf-and-turf showstopper spanning three levels of the beautiful and historic Women's Club building in Edgewater.

Why we love it: The food is quite good at Klaw, yes. But walking up to the portico, it feels special, like heading into a rumrunner supper club with fellow flappers, a theme that continues with dapper servers offering up decadent trays of marbled meats and massive king crab claws, well into the dessert course. Plus, up on the sixth floor, the sunset views over Biscayne Bay and the downtown skyline are pretty hard to beat.

26.  Café La Trova

What is it?  James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein, her chef/restaurateur husband David Martinez, and internationally acclaimed cantinero Julio Cabrera partner up on this lively Cuban restaurant on Calle Ocho. 

Why go?  A nostalgia-tinged aesthetic meets a modern-day Cuban menu, serving serrano ham croquetas, Cuban sandwich empanadas and skirt steak ropa vieja that gives Abuela's a run for its money. It's where you'll find Miami's best arroz con Pollo and Miami's best mojito—the only two reasons you need to venture out to Little Havana. Though if you needed a third, La Trova features live music nearly every night.

Time Out tip: The bar cantinero -led bar program here consistently ranks among the world's best , so definitely don't sleep on the cocktails. Ask your server for a recommendation—or, better yet, find a seat and get cozy at the bar.

27.  Bourbon Steak

What is it?  A steakhouse for nonbelievers, Bourbon keeps things casual with a sleek wraparound bar and a lounge where snug booths and high-top tables are available sans reservations.

Why we love it:  The menu sticks to tried-and-true standards: a crisp wedge salad, a tuna tartare that’s finished tableside, and myriad cuts of prime Angus beef and wagyu. Don’t overlook the burger, which pairs perfectly with the free (and unlimited!) duck-fat fries, served in lieu of the usual bread basket.

28.  Motek Cafe

What is it? Motek rivals the hip cafés of Tel Aviv with its bright, inviting indoor/outdoor space at Aventura Mall  (plus locations in Downtown, Coral Gables, Brickell and soon, Miami Beach) and stacked menu of authentic Israeli delights.

Why we love it:  From crispy falafel and juicy schnitzel to fresh salad and creamy house-made hummus, the fast-casual spot does street food with care, leaning into the spice-driven cuisine for simple, flavorful dishes you can enjoy at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Getting a late start to the day? Motek serves an all-day breakfast, including our favorite shakshuka—made with just enough heat to kickstart your day.

Time Out tip: The arayes burger can be found on many lists of Miami's best burgers . This brilliant cross-cultural dish combines a burger with Middle Eastern spices, stuffed in a pita and baked until the whole thing becomes a little burger package.

29.  Zak the Baker

What is it?  Zak Stern’s eponymous bakery and certified-Kosher sandwich shop in Wynwood is ground zero for all things sourdough.

Why we love it: Stern’s   bread is a well-known team player in sandwiches and toasts at countless other restaurants. But his own intricate breakfast sammies are in a class of their own, with ingredients like alfalfa sprouts and heirloom tomatoes. We’re also big fans of the spectacular bagel platters, classic deli-style food and the rotating vegan soup. Delivery and takeout are available as is dine-in service at its recently expanded patio.

30.  QP Tapas

What is it? No matter where it's popping up, QP manages to feel  like a dinner party hosted at your very cool friend’s house. The lighting and music are just right but, most importantly, the Spanish-Japanese plates match the immaculate vibes.

Why go? Veteran Miami chef Josh Elliott  designed the tapas-style menu with playful Japanese nods while partner Ellie Groden (a PR pro and former assistant to chef Michael Schwartz ) runs the dining room. Currently, QP is housed in the Fountain Lounge of the historic Mayfair House hotel in Coconut Grove, where the team slings dishes like garlic shrimp with fermented ginger butter and  piquillo peppers stuffed with tuna belly and wasabi aioli (though the menu changes daily).

31.  Mignonette

What is it?  Converted from a 1930s gas station, this is a genuine oyster bar, with the marquee to prove it.

Why we love it:  Find the day’s Atlantic and Pacific bivalves listed on a retro signboard that’s perched above the counter, where you can take a load off and watch all the shucking action. The casual space has a definite diner feel, but with much better food: Overflowing with chunks of buttery claw meat, the Connecticut-style lobster roll comes complete with house-made potato chips.

Time Out tip:  Mignonette's sister restaurant, the long-running Blue Collar in MiMo, will expand and relocate to a much larger location this spring .

32.  Eleventh Street Pizza

What is it? Tiny, order-at-the-counter Eleventh Street Pizza serves up two kinds of pies: New York thin-crust and a thick, airy Sicilian style.

Why go? While a monster slice of NYC-style pep does a great job soaking up late-night drinking, the finest things here are those thick slices, big towers of dough covered with cupped pepperoni, wild maitake mushrooms with caramelized onions and a Provencal number with roasted red onions, confit garlic and pepperoncini.

Time Out tip: The Japanese milk bread garlic rolls are both sweet and savory, so much so that you’ll probably want a second order for dessert.

33.  Queen Omakase

What is it? The omakase counter floating above the main dining room at Queen is a lot like the Miami Beach restaurant itself: an over-the-top version of anything like it you’ve tried before. Expect caviar and truffles and beautifully marbled meats prepared before your eyes in a way that feels as much theater as it does dinner. 

Why go?   Behind the opulent counter is Max Kamakura, a Japanese-Brazilian, third-generation sushi chef who narrates the multi-course meal, talking up technique and sourcing. Some of the 15-plus items are familiar from other omakases around Miami .  But then there’s the novel and new, like foie gras melted over tuna and a quenelle of caviar dusted with gold powder.

Time Out tip: Queen requires adherence to a strict dress code of “fashionable and elegant” attire. Seats cost $275 per person, paid in advance.  Yes, there’s a steep price for entry to this omakase theater. But you will find no Miami sushi counter with a more flamboyant, decadent show than this one.

34.  Vinya Table

What is it?  The second location of Vinya Wine & Market , a relaxed wine shop and bistro that quickly became a favorite of Key Biscayners after it opened there in 2021. The Coral Gables location is decidedly more restaurant than shop, with a highly romantic dining room and instant-classic dishes like smoked burrata with rainbow beet carpaccio and bacon-wrapped dates with cantimpalo chorizo and goat cheese.

Why we love it:  There are plenty of bottles and by-the-glass options from the expensive stuff, but it’s also totally approachable and helpfully labeled for the wine novices, with affordable picks like an orange wine from Sardinia that’s “not super orangey” and a red blend that demands “shut up and drink me!”

Time Out tip:  If the spirited resident somm Allegra Angelo is around, ask for her recommendations. Either way, peruse the shop shelves for something to take home on your way out. Unlike some shops, prices and tasting notes are displayed among the shop's curated bottles, snacks and wares.

35.  Makoto

• Bal Harbour

What is it?  Stephen Starr’s fancy pants Japanese restaurant inside the luxurious Bal Harbour Shops.

Why we love it:  Hello, freshness! Makoto dishes out top-quality seafood, from its sashimi platter and its sushi to its heaping crab salad. With the verdant corridors of the Bal Harbour Shops  as the backdrop for its patio and a spicy tuna crispy rice that trumps all other versions of the trendy sushi starter, Makoto wins for its mix of crave-worthy dishes and relaxed, tropical atmosphere.

36.  La Sandwicherie

What is it? Second only to Pizza Rustica for late-night bingeing, South Beach’s original gourmet sandwich bar caters to a fabulous mix of clubbers, drinkers, limo drivers and tattoo artists, along with anyone else who appreciates a well-made prosciutto and mozzarella, ham and turkey, or veggie sandwich on a fresh baguette.

Why we love it:  La Sandwicherie is a Miami institution, helmed by founders Franz and Elise since 1988. Though the French sandwich shop and its addictive vinaigrette have expanded to throughout Miami, its original location remains on Miami Beach, as well as its second-oldest location in Brickell.

37.  Caracas Bakery Biscayne

What is it? With locations in Doral and the historic MiMo District on Biscayne Boulevard, this family-run Venezuelan bakery and breakfast spot churns out pastry classics like Danishes, almond croissants, quiche and loaf cakes alongside Venezuelan staples like crispy, sweet palmeritas plus new-wave stuff like cruffins and avocado toast topped with perfect soft-scrambled eggs.

Why go? Though you'll often find a line during peak weekend breakfast hours, it moves quickly and you can keep yourself entertained by watching the bakers knead and toss their dough from behind the glass of the open kitchen. The space is bright, modern and welcoming, with funky vinyl records lining the walls and a smattering of indoor and outdoor tables.

Order this:  Ham cachito and a chocolatine croissant

38.  Red Rooster Overtown

What is it? Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s first Miami restaurant continues the Southern stylings of its Harlem flagship but with more Caribbean-flare thanks, in no small part, to the city’s flourishing Haitian community. For diners, that means a menu peppered with light and bright local veggies, seafood native to South Florida and a number of Caribbean specialties—think a jerk-spiced, rum-glazed whole chicken—served alongside Southern classics such as a spicy honey fried yardbird and a jambalaya and grits that’s too good to pass up.

Why we love it:  Formerly Clyde Killen’s Pool Hall, the restaurant’s upstairs lounge area also functions as a cultural space showcasing exhibitions, performances and weekly, thematic celebrations. The curation is conducted by co-owner Derek Fleming, who is intentional about taking stock of Overtown’s rich history and using it to inform Red Rooster’s cultural programming.

39.  Versailles

• West Little Havana

What is it?  Versailles in Little Havana bills itself as Miami’s most famous Cuban restaurant—and they’re not lying.

Why we love it:  This place is slammed at all hours of the day (now outdoors under a widespread tent). If you’re visiting, tick off every Cuban thing from your Miami bucket list—coffee, sandwich and pastelito. If you live here, you’re probably well acquainted with the ventanita dispensing thimbles of addictive cafecito. 

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The 13 Best Restaurants in Miami in 2024

Adrianna Marrero Last Updated: October 26, 2023

From stunning beaches to art museums galore to high-end shopping, Miami is full of things to do. After running around all day, you’re probably hungry and don’t know where to eat. Don’t worry, because this local foodie has compiled a list of the best restaurants in Miami.

The 13 Best Places to Eat in Miami

Miami has been around for a long time for U.S. standards—dating all the way back to the 1600s! Over the course of its history, this city has been home to many cultures and people that have made it the constantly evolving melting pot it is today.

With a thriving nightlife, colorful art scene, and beautiful beaches, Miami has just about everything for everyone. That includes an awesome variety of Miami restaurants as well. From classy eateries to family-owned establishments, Miami serves up Cuban, sushi, French, and other delicious flavors that you should totally experience on your trip.

Check out our picks for the best restaurants in Miami below!

Omakai Sushi (Wynwood)

$$$ | Super Fresh and Fancy | Omakai Style (Chef Suggestions) | To Go Options

Omakai Sushi is that incredible sushi restaurant you were looking for and one of the best restaurants in Miami. With serious attention to detail and a mission to share the best quality fish and sushi, the owners have proven their street cred.

You can opt for traditional ala carte ordering if you prefer to choose what you eat. But Omakai is all about the journey of food, so let the chef create your meal and surprise you with melt-in-your-mouth delicacies. From sashimi to nigiri, this is a seafood culinary journey you don’t want to miss.

Address: 2107 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL

COTE Miami (Design District)

$$$$ | Korean Steakhouse | Swanky Vibes | Great for Groups | 1 Michelin Star

Looking for a place to eat that’s a little different than the rest? Then COTE Miami is your spot. The vibes in this restaurant are swanky and luxurious without being pretentious. And the food? Well, you won’t go home hungry—even if you’re a vegetarian.

The Michelin-starred and James Beard-awarded restaurant doesn’t miss the mark whether you choose the Butcher’s Feast or the Grand Plateau of seafood dishes to share with your table. And the wine list here is almost unparalleled for Miami. For the ultimate fine dining experience, COTE Miami just makes sense. Be sure to make a reservation!

Address: 3900 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL

Havana Harry’s (Coral Gables)

$$ | Cuban Fusion | Awesome Desserts

If there’s one thing that makes Miami stand out from the rest, it’s certainly the fantastic array of Cuban restaurants. Havana Harry’s is one of these restaurants. It’s a bold fusion of Cuban classics with American twists that’ll make you come back over and over.

Hosting both casual and fine dining, Harry’s offer a trendy and modern approach not only to their cuisine, but to their atmosphere. Our recommendation is some mariquitas (crispy plantain chips) and tostones (fried green plantains) to start, lechoncita (pulled pork with mojo ) as your main entrée, followed by flan. It’s a great way to experience Miami-Cuban cuisine in style.

After you’re stuffed, you can putz around the various shops and boutiques that the Coral Gables area has to offer. Havana Harry’s easily makes our best restaurants in Miami list.

Address: 4612 S Le Jeune Rd, Coral Gables

Mignonette Downtown

$$+ | Oyster Bar | Casual Vibes | Old School Eatery

If you love eating at a casual, old school spot, then Mignonette Downtown is your best bet. This restaurant in Miami’s downtown area sits in a building that’s been around since the 1930s (a converted gas station to be specific), but the food will make you feel like you’re in a trendy restaurant.

Your oysters come four different ways, from raw to chargrilled. And while you’re a fair distance from Maine, the lobster roll is worth trying. But the most iconic dish to order for your small group is the Fancy Mignonette Tower that comes with oysters, clams, shrimp, crudo, king crab legs, and jump lump crab. Hungry yet?

Address: 210 NE 18th St, Miami, FL

LPM French Restaurant (Brickell)

$$$$ | Fine Dining with Miami Vibes | Paris-worthy Crème Brûlée

French food might not be what you first expect when you think of eating in Miami, but that’s why we’re recommending it. Miami is all about diversity and blending of cultures and food, so don’t miss out on a chance to feel like you’re eating authentic French food in a cool Miami neighborhood.

From courgettes and lamb chops to sashimi and escargot, the menu here is varied but carefully crafted so you can’t taste these dishes anywhere else in Miami. And feel free to come if you’re vegetarian and order the sweet corn salad with pomegranate and herbs. Most of all, save some room for a crème brûlée that will make you feel like you’re in a French restaurant in the heart of Paris.

Address: 1300 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL

Macchialina (Miami Beach)

$$$ | Stylish Italian Trattoria | Award-Winning Handmade Pasta

If you’ve never tasted the difference between pasta and handmade pasta using quality ingredients, then don’t skip coming to Macchialina. Their biggest source of pride is their handmade pastas that truly elevate the flavor and quality of the food. In fact, they’ve won awards for it.

They also use local, in-season ingredients which means their menu will change sometimes. Trust the waiter when they recommend a special like spaghetti vongole filled with white water diamond clams or the gnocchi con gamberi topped with prawns. All-in-all, Macchialina can’t be skipped if you decide you want an authentic Italian restaurant while in Miami.

Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time as their restaurant has limited seating.

Address: 820 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL

Sherwood Bistro (Upper East Side)

$$ | International Cuisines | Restaurant and Bar | Neighborhood Vibes

We like Sherwood Bistro for its neighborhood vibes and variety of cuisines. There’s literally something for everyone here, which might make it hard to choose what to eat. But that just means you’ll come back for more!

Start with veggie quesadillas or hearty, nutritious bone marrow. Then move on to a rack of lamb or their fish stew. You’ll even find family feast platters that will fill up the whole family. And if you can enjoy it all on their cozy patio, all the better.

Address: 8281 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL

STK Steakhouse (South Beach)

$$$$ | Steakhouse | Trendy Chic

A classy atmosphere and even classier food make for a great night out on the town. STK at South Beach offers delicacies like Maine lobster linguini and Wagyu steak that sure make our mouths water just remembering their food. Located in 1 Hotel South Beach, it makes a great place to both dine and stay with epic ocean views.

While you vibe to the sounds of Miami, enjoy one of the best steaks on the beach. If you’re planning on dining here we recommend wearing something dressy casual and planning for a memorable sit-down meal.

Address: 2305 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

Planning a trip to Miami? We’ve also put together the top foods to try in Miami so you don’t miss out on our unique flavors here!

Michael’s genuine (design district).

$$$ | Modern American | Locally Sourced Ingredients | Indoor/Outdoor Seating

This place feels like a neighborhood eatery—but with upscale food. It’s the perfect place for when you want a variety of American flavors that are carefully prepared for some flavor explosions. The secret is the locally sourced ingredients, which means you get delicious seasonal items on the menu too.

You’ll have choices from thick, juicy burgers topped with melted cheese and thick-sliced bacon to swordfish prepared with amazing seasonal ingredients. (Think: pumpkin in the fall.) And don’t miss trying brunch here if you need a late breakfast after your long night out. The fried hominy and peach french toast are both amazing choices.

Address: 130 NE 40th St, Miami, FL

Makoto (Bal Harbor Beach)

$$$ | Japanese Restaurant | Modern and Upscale | Inside Bal Harbor Shops

If you’re in Miami Beach and anywhere near Bal Harbor, head up to the third floor of the Bal Harbor Shops. Makoto is a Japanese restaurant worth trying. There’s outdoor seating and plenty of spots right at the sushi bar if that’s what gets you excited.

You’ll find plenty of incredible sushi options here, but other great food too. Maybe you’ll love the short ribs from the grill, or the ginger chicken lamb chop (we do!), or a bowl of Wagyu fried rice. And if you’re on the go, stop by at lunch for a bento box to enjoy on the beach.

Address: 9700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL

El Bagel (Upper East Side)

$ | Comfort Food | Quick but Tasty

Sometimes you just need a crispy-on-the-outside bagel filled with incredible ingredients. And if you do, then El Bagel is our top recommendation. You’ll find it in the Upper East Side of Miami, and it’s little location could almost be missed—but you shouldn’t.

They often sell out, so don’t wait to stop in and get a bagel filled with protein or veggies. We recommend the pastrami, egg, and cheese if you’re craving a breakfast bagel. Or try the avo spesh (vegetarian) or the EB special which packs a kick with jalapenos.

Address: 6910 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL

Mamey Miami (Coral Gables)

$$$ | Caribbean-Asian-Polynesian Fusion | Trendy and Elegant

Coral Gables is home to some fantastic restaurants and one of them is Mamey Miami. Caribbean meets Asian meets Polynesian cuisine in this flavorful fusion restaurant that’s just across from the University of Miami campus. While the restaurant is located in the Thesis Hotel, there are actually two locations here.

The bottom floor is where the full restaurant is located. Meanwhile there’s a another location on the third floor with a pretty nice view of the city and some great happy hour deals. While the menu isn’t huge, there’s still plenty to try. We suggest the brie and truffle grilled cheese with conch fritters and mojo roasted pork belly.

We also recommend trying some of their famous cocktails like the guava mojito and the mai tai. Adventurous eaters will love this fresh and bold approach to cuisine, especially in such a vibrant space that is reminiscent of a tropical paradise.

Address: 1350 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables

Mi Rinconcito Mexicano (Little Havana)

$ | Authentic Mexican | Eclectic and Colorful

A small restaurant located in the heart of Little Havana on famous Calle Ocho (8th Street), this sister-owned restaurant has been serving authentic Mexican food from their home country. Although the restaurant doesn’t look like much, don’t let appearances deceive you.

With flavorful dishes and a colorful, homey atmosphere this riconcito , or little corner, welcomes customers from all walks of life. While it’s certainly a local hotspot, tourists are more than welcome to come and enjoy some steaming hot tamales and gorditas (stuffed tortillas). We also recommend stopping by their in-store bakery for some conchas (Mexican sweet bread) and other delectable pastries.

Address: 1961 SW 8th St, Miami

Reader Interactions

Comments (3).

March 25, 2022

Please bring more flavor of latin america.

March 28, 2022

We’d be happy to since there’s such a rich influence of Latin culture there. Any suggestions for your favorite places?

October 18, 2022

Love Love Havan Harry

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14 Of The Best Restaurants To Visit In Miami

These are the Miami restaurants you should be dining at, whether it be for date night, a special celebration or simply a new spot to check out with friends.

Miami is buzzing with hundreds of restaurants, bars and everything in between, so sometimes it can be hard to know where to go. Sure, there are tons of new spots popping up everyday, but do they outweigh the tried and true restaurants we’ve grown to love? From juicy steakhouses to Peruvian fare with a view, we’ve rounded up some of Miami’s best restaurants you can book a table at, but don’t just take our word for it — go out and try them for yourself!

1. COTE Miami , Design District

If you’ve ever wanted to try out Korean barbecue, COTE is your answer. But unlike other Korean BBQ spots where you’ll get to cook your own meat, you’ll have your food cooked right in front of you instead. Much like its NYC sibling, COTE marries the “fun and fire” of Korean barbecue with the “hallmarks of a classic, regal” American steakhouse and each table inside the sleek, 100-seat dining room features smokeless grills. It’s Michelin-starred, so you know it’s quality and its menu features all sorts of traditional cuts of beef, short ribs and more.

Where: 3900 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137

2. Cafe La Trova , Calle Ocho

If you’re on the lookout for authentic Cuban fare, you don’t have to look far — you’re in Miami after all. But this restaurant has garnered multiple awards and recognition, including a spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars, Best Bars in America and most recently, Best U.S. Restaurant Bar at the Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards. Inspired by traditional trova music, Julio Cabrera and his team of cantineros bring the retro atmosphere to life with their creative drinks while Chef Michelle Bernstein brings a contemporary take on Latin-styled dishes. There’s live music seven nights a week and a happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. daily.

Where: 971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130

3. Joe’s Stone Crab , South Beach

Arguably one of the hardest restaurants in Miami to get into, at least during stone crab season, Joe’s Stone Crab is off the hook with hungry Miamians looking to get their hands on the crustacean and other delicious seafood dishes. Its legacy stretches back to 1913, before Miami Beach was even a city and stone crab was nowhere to be found on the menu. Stone crabs were an unknown find at the time and owner Joe Weiss would go on to experiment and cook them. The rest, as they say, is history.

4. Rusty Pelican , Key Biscayne

The historic Rusty Pelican is another must-visit when it comes to waterfront dining in Miami. It boasts an al fresco patio and dining room overlooking the sparkling city skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows, a sophisticated ambiance that’ll impress anyone you take out to dinner and locally-sourced fresh seafood. It’s the perfect spot to feel the breeze and eat really well.

Where: 3201 Rickenbacker Cswy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

5. La Mar by Gaston Acurio , Brickell

Take a trip to Peru without the plane ticket at this charming waterfront eatery in Brickell. Helmed by Chef Diego Oka and featuring the acclaimed cuisine of Chef Gastón Acurio, enjoy a sophisticated affair of signature cebiches, freshly grilled anticuchos and specialty cocktails on offer. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, but we’ll just cut to the chase: nothing beats the amazing skyline views from the terrace!

Where: 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131

6. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon , Design District

We couldn’t get through this roundup without featuring L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, the only two-Michelin star restaurant in Florida. And luckily for us, it’s located in Miami. This modern French restaurant seats 34 diners at once from its signature counter overlooking the open kitchen. This means diners have the privilege of observing the chefs working their magic on every meal. There are three menus to choose from; an à la carte, seasonal prix-fixe and tasting portions.

Where: 151 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137

7. Ghee Indian Kitchen , Kendall

Head to Downtown Dadeland and get cozy at this long-standing favorite with a plate of the best samosa, naan, chicken tikka masala and other flavorful dishes that reflect Chef Niven Patel’s Indian roots. In fact, the ingredients behind these menu masterpieces are grown and taken from Patel’s own farm!

Where: 8965 SW 72nd Pl, Kendall, FL 33156

8. Mandolin Aegean Bistro , Design District

Walk through the blue gates of this small, 1940s house-turned-restaurant on the outskirts of Miami Design District and you’ll find yourself in a garden courtyard reminiscent of the idyllic Greek islands. This beautiful restaurant serves delectable Greek-Turkish food in a taverna setting, making it the perfect place for an intimate yet relaxed evening.

Where: 4312 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137

9. Bourbon Steak , Aventura

Located inside the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, tuck into timeless steakhouse dishes and a vast selection of wines at this award-winning restaurant that should be on any foodie’s bucket list. The menu features a selection of all-natural, organic and hormone free cuts of meat tempered in herb-infused butter, grilled over wood to order, and high quality meats including Japanese A5 Wagyu beef and American Wagyu.

Where: 19999 W Country Club Dr, Aventura, FL 33180

10. PLANTA Queen , Coconut Grove

A favorite among vegan (and non-vegan) Miamians, this plant-based restaurant in CocoWalk serves traditional Asian fare with a twist, ranging from tasty dumplings and sushi to their famous Bang Bang Broccoli. While vegetables are the main stars of the show, you wouldn’t even know it when you take a bite.

Where: 3015 Grand Ave Suite 201, Coconut Grove, FL 33133

11. LPM Restaurant & Bar , Brickell

Transport your taste buds to the South of France for the night at this sophisticated eatery sitting in the heart of Brickell. With its dimmed lighting and Belle Epoque styling and details inspired by the French Riviera throughout, LPM is a place you can always rely on for French-Mediterranean fare without having to splurge on the pricey airfare.

Where: 1300 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131

12. Klaw , Edgewater

Housed in the historic Woman’s Club building, Klaw mesmerizes diners with its Spanish Renaissance architecture and breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay as Edgewater’s first rooftop bar. The chic hotspot has introduced a new wave of luxe surf and turf, with tons of options from Kobe beef, live king crab and more.

Where: 1737 N Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33132

13. Ariete , Coconut Grove

Since opening in 2016, Chef Michael Beltran’s Michelin-starred restaurant has garnered rave reviews and collected an impressive handful of accolades. Set in a lush tropical space, its menu consists of New American cuisine with robust Cuban influences, with ever-changing seasonal dishes. Much like the fare, cocktails at Ariete are bold but elegant, each one meant to complement Beltran’s dynamic cuisine.

Where: 3540 Main Hwy, Coconut Grove, FL 33133

14. Graziano’s , multiple locations

Graziano’s has been an absolutely delicious Argentinian restaurant since its first location opened in 1992, with a menu full of high quality steaks and one of the most extensive wine collections in South Florida. Those are their main specialties, after all. But you also can’t go wrong with any of their pasta and seafood dishes.

Find all Graziano’s locations here .

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14 Best Places to Eat in Miami Right Now, From Venezuelan Fare to Caribbean BBQ

Though tech bros and sunshine-chasing New Yorkers have been flocking to South Florida, the dynamic forces behind the city’s restaurant scene are decidedly homegrown.

From left: Felipe Cuevas/Courtesy of Thesis Hotel; Vanessa Diaz/Courtesy of Krüs Kitchen

There's a restaurant here?” Perplexed, my driver turns down a street in the North Miami neighborhood of Golden Glades and follows it toward a dead end, a tent, some picnic tables, and a smoker. A canopy of pines and staghorn ferns seems intent on swallowing them all.

There is a restaurant, yes — Drinking Pig BBQ — but only on Sundays. That’s when three chefs — one from St. Croix (Raheem Sealey), one from Venezuela (Yohanir Sandoval), and one from Jamaica (Mark Wint) — get together to form a pop-up in front of Wint’s home, a flan-colored bungalow with a ceramic parrot perched above the address plate. (They met while cooking at the Asian-inspired barbecue restaurant Kyu, in the Wynwood neighborhood.) Over the whir of an industrial fan, Wint unwraps briskets swaddled carefully as babies, while Sandoval bakes buttermilk corn bread. Sealey takes orders and delivers trays heaped with uncommon barbecue that blends American tradition, Caribbean heritage, and fine-dining pedigree.

The trio also runs a Saturday stand at Wynwood’s  Smorgasburg Miami , one of the many recent New York–based projects to open in (some say invade) Miami , part of the so-called Great Relocation that brought many pandemic-weary Northerners to South Florida. But do we really need to talk about that? The culinary narrative of the Magic City in this moment needn’t be defined by imports and replications, not when the original content is stronger than ever.

Michelle VanTine/Courtesy of Drinking Pig BBQ

Do we really need to talk about Manhattan transplant  Cote , where I savored an excellent Wagyu rib eye next to a couple bickering over an Instagram bikini photo shoot, when we can talk about its homegrown Design District neighbor,  Itamae ? When a torrential storm scattered the aspiring influencers to the nearby Gucci and Dior boutiques, I sheltered here, at chef Nando Chang’s six-seat terrazzo-topped bar with lemongrass-perfumed  kanpachi tiradito,  Hokkaido scallop  nigiri  dabbed with fruity apple-banana purée, and other vivacious expressions of Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei cuisine.

Do we really need to talk about  Carbone — almost as hard to reserve in Miami as it is in New York City — when we can talk about  Luca Osteria ,  where Giorgio Rapicavoli offers his Italian-Argentine family’s sacred tiramisu? “It’s always been my dream to open an Italian restaurant,” Rapicavoli explained. He’s finding, in the wake of the pandemic, that Miami chefs have a mandate to “cook like the best representation of ourselves.”

Antonella Re/Courtesy of Chug's Diner

Let’s talk about  Clyde’s Caribbean , where EDM producer Christopher “Jillionaire” Leacock honors his grandfather Clyde’s legacy with Trinidadian classics like lip-stinging jerk-chicken bakes. And sourdough-centric  Paradis Books & Bread , with a library of critical readings — a spiritual bulwark against the Florida Department of Education’s book-banning crusade. Let’s talk about those places you might not already know, or at least places my driver wasn’t familiar with.

“It says it’s supposed to be here…” Another day, another driver, who really can’t be blamed for not finding  Caracas Bakery in the city of Doral, a mile northwest of Miami International Airport. I join a queue waiting to ogle the counter stacked with gleaming croissants and other goods baked by two generations of the Brazón family. After retiring from corporate security in Venezuela, Manuel Brazón attended and then taught at a culinary school in Caracas before moving to Miami to work at the city’s famed  Zak the Baker . Manuel’s son, Jesús, a graphic designer and the two-year-old bakery’s sourdough whisperer, explained: “It was super cool because you had these hip, tattooed people on the counter, and then you see my 56-year-old dad.” Jesús does the breads, Manuel the pastry, and Scarlet Rojas, Jesús’s mother, the  cachitos — Venezuelan bread filled with ham and cheese.

The Brazóns helped me start the day the way people should in Miami, with a  café con leche  and a danish that’s similar to a  pastelito de guayaba y queso,  recast by the Brazóns with zillion-flake lamination and a big pink pupil of house-made guava preserve. I started the next day the same, with the addition of fresh-squeezed OJ served in a chilled glass, at  Chug’s ,  the Coconut Grove diner. “Chug’s is born from Cuban-American kids like me, who know rice, beans, plantains, and roast pork as much as they know pancakes and breakfast sandwiches,” chef-owner Michael Beltran told me.

Beltran emerged from the kitchen of award-winning chef Michael Schwartz in the mid 2010s, as did Niven Patel, whose restaurant  Mamey  bewitches with ghee-roasted plantains and honey-glazed lamb ribs. But despite Beltran’s résumé, “People said I was nuts when I opened Ariete six years ago in the Grove,” he says, referring to the contemporary American spot he unveiled in 2016. “That’s where restaurants go to die.”

Felipe Cuevas/Courtesy of Thesis Hotel

Today it’s where restaurants go to thrive among the historic villas and centenarian banyan trees. Gone is the Cheesecake Factory. Here are Chug’s and Ariete and  Krüs Kitchen , a restaurant-grocery owned by hospitality entrepreneurs Josh Hackler, Pili Restrepo Hackler, and Sebastián Vargas, roosting in an Art Deco mezzanine.

Chef Sebastián Vargas, son of Colombian diplomats, went to high school in India, studied in Paris and New York, and cooked at legendary restaurants in Italy and Sweden. His menu at Krüs reflects that peripatetic history: a caviar-crowned spool of chitarra pasta in a frothy mussel emulsion is brightened with Meyer lemon; tawny coconut rice is layered with sweet crab and feathery marigolds that taste like tangerine. A chef could torture ingredients like this, but these flavors spoke with clarity and joie de vivre. “In Miami, there are not enough casual, uncomplicated places to have amazing food,” Restrepo Hackler said.

From left: Vanessa Diaz/Courtesy of Krüs Kitchen; James Jackman

This “come as you are” attitude won’t get you into anywhere involving crypto yachts or bottle sparklers, but it’s welcome at Drinking Pig BBQ, where Sealey served me glorious ribs sticky with house-made barbecue sauce; snappy sausages made from pork butt and brisket trim; and Sandoval’s corn bread, almost as moist as tres leches . I’m still stuffed from a late lunch, but the incredible barbecue compels me to clear the tray before I call — and collapse into — a car.

“What’s this, some kind of restaurant?” the driver asks. I sit up straight, slowly, and tell her that it is — and we really need to talk about it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI Palihouse Miami Beach  hides out on the Intracoastal side of Miami Beach, a strong match for travelers seeking easygoing style over see-and-be-seen gloss. Highlights include big bright bedrooms, a garden oasis of a pool, free bikes, lovely staff, and the house-baked banana bread. But the best amenity may be the location, just two blocks to the beach (but removed from the traffic and crowds) and a quick shot over the bridge to the mainland restaurants in the Design District, Wynwood, and beyond. The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove is the neighborhood's standard bearer of traditional luxury, with a grand, dignified lobby of pillars and palms anchoring understated bedrooms and marble baths. Base yourself here for walkable access to the Grove's fleet of happening restaurants; it's a quick ride to Coral Gables, too.

A version of this story first appeared in the September 2022 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Miami Fresh."

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practical information

Address:  7991 bird rd, miami, fl 33155, united states, phone:  +1 305-262-7576, open daily from 11 am to 9;30 pm, 2. jackson soul food, address:  950 nw 3rd ave, miami, fl 33136, united states, phone:  +1 305-374-7661, open; wednesday to sunday; 6am to 2 pm, 3. cote miami.

Cote Miami, Design District, Miami. Author Sharon Hahn Darlin . Wikimedia

Address:  3900 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137, United States

Phone:  +1 305-434-4668, visit the website, 4. royal castle.

Photo by Desativado: Pexels

Address:  2700 NW 79th St, Miami, FL 33147, United States

Phone:  +1 305-696-8241, open from tuesday to saturday 7 am to 3 pm, 5. vero italian restaurant.

Photo by Max Rahubovskiy: pexels.

practical information 

Address:  90 se 1st st, miami, fl 33131, united states, phone:  +1 305-533-1357, 6. the surf club restaurant, location: 9011 collins ave, surfside, phone:  +1 305-768-9440, open; monday to sunday from 6 to 9;30 pm, 7. phuc yea.

Address:  7100 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33138, United States

Phone:  +1 305-602-3710, 8. joe’s stone crab.

Photo by Rene Asmussen. Pexels

Address:  11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States

Phone:  +1 305-673-0365, address:  5205 ne 2nd ave, miami, fl 33137, united states, phone:  +1 305-967-8866, open; 5;30 to 10;30pm, 10. los fuegos.

Photo by Daniel Reche: Pexels

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Address;3201 collins ave, miami beach phone: +1 786-655-5600 visit the website, 11. root & bone, practical information location: 5958 s dixie hwy, south miami, fl 33143 phone: +1 786-410-3267 visit the website, 12. juvia miami beach, location: 1111 lincoln rd, miami beach, phone: +1 305-763-8272 visit the website, 13. moshi moshi.

Image by Adamsov Production from Pixabay

PRACTICAL INFORMATION  FIRST LOCATION;1448 WASHINGTON AVE MIAMI BEACH, FL, 33139 SECOND LOCATION;7232 BISCAYNE BLVD MIAMI, FL, 33138 BOTH LOCATIONS OPEN DAILY FROM 11 AM TO 5 AM

14. shuckers waterfront grill, practical information location: 1819 79th street causeway, north bay village phone: +1 305-866-1570 visit the website, 15. smith and wollensky.

Image by Robert Owen-Wahl from Pixabay

LOCATION;1 WASHINGTON AVE MIAMI PHONE: +1 305-673-2800 WEBSITE

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

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Restaurants In Miami

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Pao by Paul Qui at Faena Miami Beach

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Zuma Miami, located in the heart of downtown, brings chef Rainer Becker’s internationally acclaimed style of modern Japanese izakaya dining

Chotto Matte Miami

Chotto Matte embraces the very best of Nikkei cuisine — a hybrid blend of the most noteworthy Japanese and Peruvian classics.

Island Gardens Miami

Relax, recharge and reset at the Deck. Take in the fresh ocean breeze and signature views of the Miami skyline paired with champagne

Pulse Restaurant

Pulse in Aventura is so much more than just your typical restaurant, bar and lounge in Miami.

La Mar Miami by Gaston Acurio

La Mar by Gaston Acurio is a beautiful indoor and outdoor restaurant with an atmospheric setting overlooking Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.

Smith & Wollensky

Smith & Wollensky offers one of the best views in Miami. The acclaimed wine list, rich ambiance provide guests with a truly memorable experience.

Juvia Miami Beach

Juvia offers eclectic food and drinks in an ultra-modern space atop a designer parking garage with spectacular views of Miami Beach.

Miami Restaurants Miami is the birthplace of New World Cuisine, and without a doubt, dining out here is like entering a new world of tastes, sights, aromas, seasonings and sensations. However, the range and inspiration of Miami’ cuisine is diverse and exciting – a never-ending landscape for foodies to explore.

The city’s many restaurants are run by chefs who hail from all over the world.  Miami’s international flavor is showcased by the wide variety of cuisines found in our restaurants, including Cuban, Haitian, Peruvian, Colombian, Indian, Thai, Japanese, Argentinean and many more.

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Where to Stay, and What to Eat, in Miami

Beyond the umbrella-lined beaches and Art Deco architecture of South Beach, Miami is cementing its reputation as Florida’s cultural and culinary capital.

By Evan Benn

For those who haven’t visited in a minute, some of the recent changes Miami has undergone may come as a surprise. The Design District, which for years was a maze of traffic cones and construction dust, is now brimming with fashion boutiques and places to stop and grab a cup of coffee, a taco or a scoop of local soft-serve ice cream. A $500-million investment to get ahead of rising sea levels has left the roadways of Miami Beach repaved and less prone to flooding — an especially welcome change in South Beach’s buzzy Sunset Harbour neighborhood, where the tables of locally beloved restaurants like Pubbelly Sushi and Stiltsville Fish Bar spill out onto the sidewalks.

Meanwhile, cultural capital has poured into the region, bringing with it new museums like Frost Science downtown and the Institute of Contemporary Art in the Design District, complementing the annual Art Basel Miami Beach fair that arrives each December. Then there is Brightline, a new high-speed rail service, which zips passengers from Miami to Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach in less time — and with less aggravation — than it takes to drive those routes on Interstate 95. The project’s next phase will extend the line all the way to Orlando.

Read more: “ A Fairy Tale Set in Florida, in 10 Parts ,” written exclusively for T.

Of course, Miami’s postcard-perfect beaches, Art Deco hotels and world-class restaurants — now run by a new generation of talented and diverse chefs — are all still here to enjoy. You might just find that there’s more to fill the hours between meals and spa treatments than ever before.

Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club

Marrying old Florida charm with modern luxury, this new Four Seasons property opened last year in Surfside, a tiny beach town about 15 miles north of Miami. A stone’s throw from the ritzy Bal Harbour Shops, the 77-room Richard Meier-designed hotel comprises glistening glass towers of guest rooms and private residences that flank the Surf Club building, a glamorous relic from the ’30s. The original structure houses the hotel’s lobby and two restaurants: Le Sirenuse, the U.S. outpost of the Michelin-starred restaurant in Positano, Italy; and Thomas Keller’s Surf Club, whose menu is an ode to the continental cuisine of yesteryear — think Caesar salad, Maine lobster thermidor and beef short-rib Wellington.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Accented everywhere with gold and its own lush signature shade of red, the Faena is over-the-top luxurious in all the right ways. There’s the oft-Instagrammed gilded woolly mammoth sculpture by Damien Hirst (“Gone But Not Forgotten”) that cost a reported $15 million and stands guard by the hotel’s beach path. There’s the lavish Sunday brunch at Los Fuegos, a restaurant from the acclaimed Argentine chef Francis Mallmann, with its seemingly endless array of salt-crusted salmon, hand-cut beef empanadas and smoky eggplant salad. And there are the 169 atmospheric guest rooms, designed with South American flair, where large turquoise-tiled bathrooms and ornate custom Catherine Martin rugs amplify the hotel’s updated Art Deco vibe.

Generator Hostel & Hotel Miami

Decidedly not stuffy (with approachable prices to match), the Generator has much in common with the popular Freehand Hotel — located three blocks down Collins Avenue — including its laid-back ambience and retro-beachy décor. Here, the 105 rooms feature low-slung wooden platform beds and a serene palette of blues and earthy browns. Local cocktail expert Gui Jaroschy, formerly of Freehand’s Broken Shaker bar, oversees the property’s food-and-drink offerings, including the buzzy Jim and Neesie restaurant, which serves an eclectic mix of globally inspired dishes: papas bravas dipped in shishito-spiked romescu, citrusy hamachi tiradito, pan-seared snapper with sweet chili sauce.

Ghee Indian Kitchen

Chef-owner Niven Patel takes farm-to-table dining to the next level by growing almost all of his restaurants’ produce at his south Miami-Dade home, called Rancho Patel. His regional-Indian cooking at Ghee’s two locations (in the Miami Design District and Kendall, a southwest suburb) earned him a spot on the James Beard Foundation’s list of best Southern chefs in 2018. At lunch, there is no formal menu; instead, diners are served four stainless-steel tiffin tins filled with a rotating selection of dishes like corvina curry, whole-wheat naan, Rancho Patel-grown cranberry beans and brown basmati rice. An extensive tasting menu is available at dinner, as are à la carte options like a smoky, spicy Goan sorpotel that stars a fall-apart-tender Niman Ranch pork shank.

This Peruvian sushi kiosk inside the St. Roch Market in the Miami Design District is a true family affair. Run by the 26-year-old chef Val Chang, her older brother, Nando, and their father, Fernando, Itamae is a study in balance: Contrasting flavors, textures and temperatures come alive in inventive ceviche, fish bowls and rolls. In the fan-favorite Lost in Translation roll, creamy avocado and zippy aji amarillo play off fresh tuna and salmon while crunchy fried quinoa pops in every bite.

Michael Beltran, a protégé of the James Beard Award-winning chefs Michael Schwartz and Norman Van Aken, cooks modern Cuban American cuisine in Coconut Grove, a bohemian neighborhood about five miles south of downtown Miami. Foie gras is a standout on the appetizer menu, plated with smoked plantains, evaporated-milk caramel and a sour-orange reduction. Beltran’s signature bone-in short rib involves a nine-day cooking process of brining, curing and smoking that is worth every calorie. Don’t leave without trying the mushroom flan — an unusual sweet-savory concoction that may be the most satisfying dessert in town.

Mrs. Mandolin

Almost a decade ago, New York transplants Anastasia Koutsioukis and her husband, Ahmet Erkaya, opened the charming Mandolin Aegean Bistro, a beloved open-air Greek restaurant in Miami’s Buena Vista neighborhood. This year, Koutsioukis opened her Mrs. Mandolin lifestyle boutique and cafe just down the block. There, she sells eclectic housewares, jewelry and clothing sourced from the couple’s travels to Greece, Turkey and Morocco, including vintage Anatolian hand-carved cutting boards, North African throw pillows and breezy tunics. A small cafe by the front entrance serves specialty coffee from the local roaster Per’La, sweet Greek pastries and gooey chocolate-chip cookies flaked with sea salt.

La Centrale

At the two-year-old Brickell City Centre, an outdoor shopping mall that spans several city blocks in Miami’s financial district, head to La Centrale . The three-story Italian food hall offers multiple sit-down and grab-and-go food options (the vegetable-focused Stagionale restaurant has a newly revamped menu) and a plethora of imported private-label finds for gourmands to take home. If in doubt, pick up a bottle of Fattoria Sardi rosé from La Centrale owner Jacopo Giustiniani’s family winery in Italy, available at the third-floor Enoteca, and an assortment of hand-wrapped chocolates from the Gelateria.

Polished Coconut

The mission of this sun-drenched boutique in Coconut Grove is to promote female artisans in developing countries throughout Latin America through fair and sustainable trade practices. The store is a bohemian dream, stocked with handmade women’s accessories and home décor. Colorful woven-cotton mochilla bags are sourced from indigenous women from La Guajira desert in Colombia and Venezuela, and a portion of the proceeds from each piece benefits conservation efforts in the region where they’re made.

Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami

The museum’s permanent collection includes works by a broad range of contemporary artists, including the Miami-based sculptors Teresita Fernández and Pablo Cano, and year-round, the popular “Jazz at MOCA” outdoor concert series takes place on the last Friday of every month. But this season’s big draw is the “Messages to the People” exhibition, which runs from November through early April, a retrospective of the works of 10 AfriCobra artists, including Jae Jarrell, Barbara Jones-Hogu, Jeff Donaldson and Carolyn Lawrence. The AfriCobra movement — African Commune of Bad Relevant Artists — was founded by a group of African-American artists in Chicago fifty years ago to shine a light on work by artists of color.

The Wolfsonian-FIU

South Beach’s quirkiest museum , affectionately known as “The Wolf” and part of Florida International University, boasts a collection of nearly 200,000 pieces, mainly from the Industrial Revolution through World War II. An ongoing exhibition traces the Art Deco movement, from its roots in European luxury objects to mass-produced U.S. design. This display is especially at home in Miami Beach, where Art Deco exploded onto the scene in the 1930s and is still prevalent today.

Nu Deco Ensemble

This young chamber orchestra for the 21st century incorporates jazz, hip-hop, classic rock and other genres into its repertoire. Its co-founders and artistic directors, Sam Hyken and Jacomo Bairos, studied at the Juilliard School and met while auditioning for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra before returning to the United States to seek funding for their nonprofit ensemble. Nu Deco performed its first concert in 2015 in Miami’s Wynwood arts district; the current season — the orchestra’s fourth — runs through May.

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The 26 Best Things to Do in Miami

By Terry Ward and Sara Liss

First things first: You came to Miami for some sun, sand and surf, and you’re going to get it—with a side of next-level people-watching, too, of course. And if that's all you want (along with a cold glass of your preferred fruity cocktail or a classic mojito), that's fine, but Miami's beaches and rum drinks are barely the beginning of what the Magic City has to offer. From the highest of high-end designer shops and cutting-edge galleries to all types of walking tours, salsa dancing, unique neighborhoods, museums, and even animal reserves to captivate any kids in your group, this city is the full, sunny package. Here, our picks for the best things to do in Miami.

Read our complete Miami travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science Arrow

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a temple to learning in Downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park that's as vast as it is comprehensive. With an aquarium, a planetarium, and two science galleries, this distinguished destination is always busy, but it's big enough to accommodate even the largest rainy-day crowds. Though the exhibitions are just as interesting to adults as they are to kids, the Frost Museum is definitely a family-friendly place. Don’t miss a trip up the elevator to the sixth floor’s rooftop terrace for sprawling views of downtown Miami.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Arrow

Spanning nearly 84 acres, the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden is filled with tropical plants, flowers, and trees, including extremely rare species like the petticoat palm. Every square inch of the facility has been thoughtfully designed and constructed, making it easy to navigate. The best way to see a little of everything, though, is by hopping aboard one of the 30-minute tram tours, which run year-round, twice an hour. Don't miss the Wings of the Tropics exhibition, where 40 species of butterflies engage in a colorful display of acrobatics all around you.

Wynwood Walls Arrow

Known as Miami's most Instagrammed place, this outdoor "gallery" of artwork by graffiti artists and muralists that spreads across warehouses and shop exteriors is a nice foil to Miami's museums . And it can be a quick stop. It'll only take about twenty minutes to hit all the art at Wynwood Walls, including murals by Shepard Fairey (the artist who designed Obama's "Hope" poster). It's a relatively small outdoor space so it's easy to navigate, and there are plenty of benches or rocks to sit on and take it all in. The Walls recently instituted a ticket policy whereby Adult admission is $12, students are $5 and children under 12 are free.

Miami Design Preservation League: Art Deco Walking Tour Arrow

Located on the beach on Ocean Drive, right in the heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District, the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center is where architecture enthusiasts can pop in and learn more about the iconic, colorful buildings that give this neighborhood its personality. While just looking up and admiring the glamorous geometric details and chrome accents is enough for some people, the Miami Design Preservation League—a nonprofit advocacy group that fights to maintain the city’s architectural character—offers daily walking tours of the neighborhood at 10:30 a.m.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Known as one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in a city brimming with them, the barrio called Allapattah, just west of Wynwood, keeps adding artsy attractions to its ever-growing lineup of thrift shops, hipster bars and Latin restaurants (including Dominican and Honduran eateries and a fab Mexican taqueria). The famed Rubell Museum —six former industrial buildings that hold a collection of world-class contemporary works by the likes of Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman and many celebrated newcomers, too—is Allapattah’s heaviest cultural hitter. And right across from the Rubell Museum, a new (Spring 2021) walk-through art experience called Superblue immerses visitors in exhibitions through music and visuals in a way you’ll have to force yourself not to Instagram or Tik-Tok at every turn.

Española Way Arrow

With its twinkling string lights, Mediterranean revival architecture and lively sidewalk cafes this palm tree-lined pedestrian-only street is a charming throwback to Miami’s historic neighborhoods of the 20s. Built in1925, the two-block corridor between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues was designed to resemble the romantic Mediterranean villages of Spain and France. Here, buildings are made of chalky pink stucco with Spanish tile roofs where sidewalk cafes are shaded by striped awnings. Strolling along the promenade you’ll hear everything from salsa, samba, jazz and techno rhythms wafting from a variety of restaurants—some of which are excellent, and others which cater to a less-discerning crowd—but all are usually packed on weekends and most weeknights. The street hosts weekly programming from flamenco and salsa dancing to yoga and an open air local makers market. A few charming boutique hotels blend in with the lively atmosphere here, offering a unique jumping-off point for visiting and exploring South Beach.

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Miami Arrow

Called ICA Miami for short, this is another pillar of the Miami art scene, located in the Miami Design District. The building has a bold and eye-catching metallic facade and was designed by Spanish architect firm Aranguren + Gallegos Arquitectos. Permanent and temporary exhibits with a focus on emerging and local artists; for Miami, this means many Cuban-born and Latin American artists. You don't need hours at this museum, like is the case at others in town, so for people who just want to dabble in Miami's arty side during a vacation, it makes a perfect stop. Interiors are as modern as exterior with brightly lit open spaces. The permanent collections has works by Pablo Picasso, Yves Klein, and Roy Lichtenstein, among others.

South Beach Arrow

South Beach, the quintessential Miami experience, is a public beach that's free and open to everyone. It's also easily accessible by foot, though the most scenic part is the southernmost section, via Lummus Park , which runs along Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th streets. Because it's been used as a backdrop for just about every movie and TV show set in Miami, you'll feel that everything on South Beach looks familiar, including the kiosks where you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas. Even if you’re not big on sitting in the sun, it’s worth taking a stroll up or down the beach to see what all the fuss is about. If you wait until the late afternoon (around 4 p.m.) the crowds will have thinned out a bit.

Faena Theater Arrow

An opulent cabaret-style theater inspired by Europe's grand opera houses that harkens to a bygone area, Faena manages to feel totally decadent, sumptuous, and Miami. The theater's original live production is a cabaret-style spectacle called Tryst—a Lovers' Rendezvous that is perfect for the red velvet surrounds and has elements of the circus (more like cirque) and burlesque. Big names have performed intimate shows here, too, including Bon Jovi, Macy Gray, Miike Snow, Grace Potter, Andra Day and many others. There are only 150 seats in the audience, and there's also regular jazz programming.

Therapy-IV Deep Sea Fishing Arrow

Sure, the water in Miami is pretty to gaze at from your lounge chair . But give yourself a real experience and hop aboard Captain Stan Saffan's 58-foot sportfish boat, with his crew for a day (or half-day) of deep-sea fishing. It’s not just any old tourist who decides that spending a day at sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, or hammerhead sharks qualifies as a good time. So if you’re paired with a couple of strangers, it’s safe to assume you’ll have at least a love of the ocean in common.

Miami Design District Arrow

With dozens of shops, boutiques, showrooms, galleries and restaurants, you’d be hard-pressed to not find whatever you're looking for in the Miami Design District —provided you're looking for something delicious or with a designer tag, that is. In addition to a wide range of popular clothing boutiques, there’s an impressive lineup of handbags and accessories (Louis Vuitton, Hermès); jewelry and watches (Rolex, Tiffany & Co.); and home furnishings (Jonathan Adler, Versace Home). L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon and vegetable-driven restaurant Le Jardinier are among the district’s most sought after tables. And the chef-driven Mia Market food hall is a more casual must-stop. If you can dream it, you can find it. And even if you’re just browsing, the window-shopping and people-watching are pretty great, too.

Cape Florida Lighthouse Arrow

Though it sits on a tranquil sweep of sandy beach within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne, this pristinely restored lighthouse gives a glimpse into a tumultuous side of South Florida's history. The regal lighthouse, now defunct, tells stories of nautical adventures, Caribbean slave smuggling, and attacks by Native American Seminole tribes. A knowledgeable park ranger conducts half-hour tours several days a week during which you’ll learn about the monument's history as the oldest structure in Dade County (it was built in 1825, twenty years before Florida became a state). When visiting make sure to wear comfortable shoes , as climbing the 109 steps to the top is a mini-workout.

Pérez Art Museum Miami Arrow

Though the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is focused on 20th- and 21st-century international art, and a large permanent collection of works (over 3,000 spread across 8 galleries) by such acclaimed artist as Jenny Holzer and Sam Gilliam. The museums spans 120,000 square feet inside but is best known for its facade, with hanging gardens among its most iconic features. Current exhibitions explore things like post-colonial condition and Africa and African-diaspora art; the museum is in a constant conversation with the current topics consuming society, as well as overlooked and worthy subjects. Timed tickets must be reserved online in advance of visits, so the museum doesn't feel crowded. Elevators and ramps for people with mobility issues. Don't miss a swing in the sculpture garden on the hammock-like net swings overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Upper Buena Vista Arrow

 A 120-year-old majestic oak tree serves as the focal point of this funky shopping destination just north of the Design District . The Bodhi "wish tree," as it’s called, is based on a Buddhist tradition of designating a tree to be used as the object of wishes and offerings. In addition to the tree, you’ll find gardens and walkways that connect the businesses and micro-boutiques that make up the neighborhood. It's free to visit, and offers a peaceful respite from Miami's sometimes frenetic urban core. 

Jewish Museum of Florida - FIU: The South Beach Jewish Walking Tour Arrow

Sponsored by Florida International University and run through the Jewish Museum of Florida, this look at the history of the Jewish people and Jewish culture in Miami begins at the museum itself, a historic former synagogue. Small groups first watch a short video presentation and then get a look at some of the main artifacts (if you're interested in the museum itself, you can return later). Then begins a two-hour walk around a 10-block radius, with stops at various significant buildings such as the Lord Balfour Hotel. The tour is a great palate cleanser for the decadence and glitz of Miami Beach. It’s a humbling, grounding experience in the best way, and gives some much-needed cultural context to this part of the city. 

Lincoln Road Mall Arrow

Running almost the entire width of South Beach , Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long pedestrian mall and one of Miami’s favorite spots for outdoor activities—besides the beach, which is just a few blocks away. Designed by Morris Lapidus, the architect behind The Fontainebleau hotel, the strip maintains a fun, Miami Modern (MiMo) style of the past, but with more than 100 fashionable shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Retail options range from mall mainstays like the Gap and American Eagle to high-end names like All Saints and John Varvatos. But the mall doesn't close down when the shops do. The restaurants and bars keep Lincoln Road buzzing into the wee hours.

Ancient Spanish Monastery Arrow

Originally known as The Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of the Angels, this ancient monastery, a true architectural wonder, started life in the year 1133—in northern Spain. It was eventually purchased by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who had each structure dismantled, stone-by-stone, packed into more than 11,000 crates, and shipped to New York. After sitting in a warehouse in Brooklyn for more than a quarter-century, the crates were purchased by new owners who understood the stones’ potential value as a tourist attraction. They spent nearly two years relocating and rebuilding the structure in North Miami.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County Arrow

Designed by architect Cesar Pelli in 2006, Miami’s iconic performing arts center was built on the site of a former Sears department store, of which a seven-story Art Deco tower is preserved, now home to a small cafe and book store. Composed of two imposing buildings that take inspiration from beige-colored shells, the 2,400-seat Ziff Ballet Opera House and 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall are connected by Thomson Plaza for the Arts, an outdoor public gathering space. The complex also includes the Carnival Studio Theater, an intimate venue for experimental productions. The buildings are united by a grand oval-shaped public plaza that stretches across Biscayne Boulevard. A popular gathering space with outdoor performances and events, the plaza is an inviting oasis with lush garden terraces, fountains, shade trees, and greenery.

Venetian Pool Arrow

Pictures don't do the Venetian Pool—one of the most beautiful public pools in the world—justice, but trust us: it's worth the trip to Coral Gables just to experience the complex in person. Be warned that the pool gets very crowded on hot days, particularly when kids are out of school (although no one under three is allowed), so your best bet is to call ahead to see if there's room. Or, better yet, get there early. You'll get a head start on sunbathing; just be sure to bring sunscreen .

Deering Estate Arrow

The Deering Estate, a sprawling 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve fronting Biscayne Bay, is dotted with historic houses, outdoor activities like nature hikes, paddling (kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent), cruises into Biscayne National Park and biking, and a robust schedule of arts programs, including concerts, movies, and theater. A regular haunt for locals and visitors alike, the estate is a fantastic way to get to know the history of Miami and its commitment to environmentalism. It's also yet another way to spend time (where else?!) outside.

Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour Arrow

Since 2010, Miami Culinary Tours has orchestrated deep dives into some of Magic City’s most famous neighborhoods, Little Havana among them. The heart of Miami’s Cuban population, the area includes Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street), a dynamic stretch famous for Domino Park, strong cafecitos, and counter-service croquetas. You’ll get to experience all of that and more over the course of two-and-a-half hours on this popular walking tour, which hits several Cuban hotspots . Just be sure to book online; tickets must be purchased in advance.

Monkey Jungle Arrow

Built in 1933, this is less a zoo than it is a conservation and observation park. In Southwest Miami the jungle is home to around 500 primates, covering some 18 different species of monkeys and apes. Guests navigate the 30-acre park through a series of tunnels—the park’s tagline is "Where the humans are caged and the monkeys run wild." The animal inhabitants live in semi-natural habitats where they can live as they would in the wild. It’s perfect for families with young children who may not have seen wildlife up this close before, and the information and habitats will also pique the interest of natural science enthusiasts. 

Artechouse Arrow

A digital art gallery mixing science, technology and art to wondrous effect Artechouse features new-media art displays through light, color, and sound, which viewers move throughout. Open to the public in Miami Beach, the concept originated in Washington DC, so this is an outpost. The space is meant to introduce people to art and technology and inspire a dialog between the two topics and how they're connected; it's a digital art gallery which viewers move throughout, becoming a part of the art in an immersion experience. The price tag isn't exorbitant, and it offers a surprising and different experience after a day on the nearby beaches. Anyone into digital art or the nexus of technology and art or new media shouldn't miss this.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Arrow

If you want a little Italian flare during your trip to Miami, you'll find it here. Now a national landmark, the Vizcaya is a living museum dedicated to the early days of Miami’s rise as a destination and to old-school European design. The waterfront home’s many treasures include more than 2,500 antique art objects and furnishings; 10 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, including 2,000 orchids; and 25 acres of endangered forest lands. It's easy to spend several hours at Vizcaya without getting bored.

South Pointe Park Arrow

As much as locals might have liked to keep South Pointe Park under wraps, it was only a matter of time before word got out. The park is located at the southernmost tip of South Beach just a few steps from Joe’s Stone Crab , the legendary restaurant that everyone's got to try at least once for Florida’s finest seasonal crustacean. While it’s technically just a city park, this 17-acre haven offers much more than a couple of benches and pretty palm trees to lounge beneath. There’s beach access, a fishing pier, a playground for kids and lots more green space for relaxing. Also, the by-the-hour parking spaces here are not only usually more available than elsewhere in South Beach’s many pay lots but also far less pricey.

Pinecrest Gardens Arrow

A botanical delight brimming with lush foliage, trees, plants and birds, this city park has plenty of things to do including a splash pad and a petting zoo for kids, plus a botanical garden and an outdoor theater. Established in the 1930’s and originally the home of Parrot Jungle the Village of Pinecrest acquired the 14-acre park in 2002, securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011 and transforming it into a venue for events and education. Beyond the breathtaking and massive Banyan trees, the hardwood hammocks, and a serene cypress slough and orchids winding up tree limbs, the park has a full schedule of programming that keeps visitors interested throughout the year, from concerts in the 530-seat amphitheater, to rotating art exhibits to horticulture lectures and holiday festivities. A weekly Sunday Farmer’s Market includes a free community yoga class.

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Get The Dish Before It's Served

Suggestions, the 5 best mediterranean restaurants in miami.

Taking a trip to the Mediterranean can be expensive. If travel isn’t in your future, consider snagging a table at one of these great restaurants for a taste of the Med at a fraction of the cost. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Byblos (@byblosmiami)

Over on Miami Beach, Byblos is serving up some of the best Eastern Mediterranean cuisine in town. The sizable menu is full of stars like duck kibbeh, lamb ribs, black truffle pide, short rib kebabs, and rock shrimp rice. Two to three plates per person is the sweet spot for leaving satisfied and not hating yourself. As tempting as it is to eat with your eyes, don’t order too much; you will definitely be back (this Dish Miami writer is a regular there). 

Don’t forget to check out the creative cocktail list that features items like the Instagram-friendly Rose Gulab, a beautiful drink comprised of vodka, house pomegranate syrup, fresh lemon juice, and rosewater. For something a little more familiar with a twist, check out the Byblos Old Fashioned that uses rhum barbancourt and house-spiced Turkish coffee syrup. 

Byblos is located at 1545 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website . 

Costa Med 

In Key Biscayne, food lovers will find one of the best Mediterranean spots in South Florida: Costa Med. This humble eatery tends to fly under the radar, but a reservation is still suggested. On the menu, you’ll find a delicious assortment of Mediterranean-inspired fare like grilled octopus, Greek salad, branzino, veal piccata, and more; the large menu ensures there’s something new to try at every visit. The wine selection is equally impressive and worth the visit alone due to an abundance of hard-to-find bottles.

• 260 Crandon Blvd #46, Key Biscayne, FL
• 305-361-7575
• Reserve a table

Mandolin Aegean Bistro

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mandolin Restaurants (@mandolinrestaurants)

You can’t make a list of the best Mediterranean restaurants in Miami without mentioning Mandolin Aegean Bistro. The Buena Vista establishment is an institution, and it’s always busy—good luck just walking in. Those lucky enough to snag a reservation will find lots to like, including highlights like roasted cauliflower, baked feta, manti dumplings, fried calamari, and moussaka. We recommend coming with a large party, so you can try a little bit of everything. 

Mandolin Aegean Bistro is located at 4312 NE 2 nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33137. For more information, visit their official website . 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Motek (@motekcafe)

What started as a small Eastern Mediterranean spot in Downtown Miami has turned into a South Florida culinary juggernaut with expanded locations in Coral Gables and Aventura. While different locations offer different items—Coral Gables offer wood-oven baked flat pita, for instance—the quality of the food is the same: excellent. If you visit for lunch, try the crispy schnitzel sandwich or the award-winning Arayes Burger; the acclaimed burger won People’s Choice at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.  For dinner, opt for the lamb shawarma plate or the whole branzino. One thing to note: Alcohol is only served at Coral Gables and Aventura. 

Motek has multiple locations throughout Miami. For more information, visit their official website .

TUR Kitchen

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tur Kitchen (@tur.kitchen)

If you visit TUR Kitchen for one thing, make sure it’s the lavash bread. The Coral Gables restaurant has one of the best bread services available. There’s not much to it—butter and maldon sea salt + crème fraiche—but it always hits the spot. So do the other tasty items on the menu, which range from oyster mushroom carpaccio and braised lamb pide to black grouper, duck magret, and lamb chops. We love the variety of proteins here, and we love that there are a wealth of vegetarian options as well. The price point is a little on the higher side, so if your budget is tight, visit during daily happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. when guests can get satisfying pides and craft cocktails at a hefty discount. 

TUR Kitchen is located at 259 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134. For more information, visit their official website . 

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Sumak Restaurant

Updated by business owner 3 months ago

Popular dishes

Adana Kebab

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908 71st St

Miami Beach, FL 33141

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CHICA Miami

4.2 miles away from Sumak Restaurant

Vanessa D. said "Came here on a Friday night with a group of four girls. I would definitely recommend making reservations or I'm not sure if you will be seated... Also before I start with you I must say I was surprised at the location... It seems…" read more

in Latin American, Cocktail Bars, Breakfast & Brunch

5.1 miles away from Sumak Restaurant

Sarah A. said "I want to start by saying this is the first time I have ever written a review on Yelp. This place was so great I felt inclined to leave a note. To summarize my experience from the moment I walked in (only took 7 minutes to sit down)…" read more

in Modern European

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Must visit. Really nice place with delicious Turkish cuisine and excellent cocktails and service.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Sumak, and it was an absolute delight from start to finish. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality by the friendly staff. The ambiance was inviting, with tasteful decor that transported me to the heart of Turkey. Now, let's talk about the food - it was truly exceptional. The tripe soup was a revelation, bursting with flavor and served piping hot. The lahmacun was another standout, perfectly crisp and topped with flavorful ingredients. And the mezze section? Don't even get me started - I tried almost everything, and each dish was a masterpiece in its own right. But beyond the delicious food, what really sets Sumak apart is the authenticity of the experience. It's clear that the chefs take pride in crafting traditional Turkish dishes with care and precision. And the staff? They go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Overall, Sumak is a gem of a restaurant that deserves all the praise it receives. Whether you're craving authentic Turkish cuisine or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend paying them a visit. You won't be disappointed.

See all photos from Dodo S. for Sumak Restaurant

Ah, I feel so torn. Let's get into it. Sumak is a beautiful restaurant. Soft lighting, intricate silverware, the wooden floors-- all of it is rather pretty. I wish I got more pictures to exemplify this, but regardless, the place looked lovely. The music playing was a bit interesting-- pitched up pop music. It made me laugh a bit. Our first app was a creamy eggplant dip and it tasted amazing. This would be our favorite part of the meal, as the rest of it sort of...went a bit downhill. We ordered lamb chops and steak. It was good but in honestly, I felt the meal was very plain. The lamb chops were not particularly seasoned and neither was the steak. My lamb chops were also unfortunately overcooked. Fries were beer battered (I think, it's a guess) and tasted good. The dessert kunefe was good, and reminded me almost of a sweet arepa but unique enough to stand alone. We enjoyed it. Service was really nice, albeit felt a bit confused and lost. When our meats arrived, it didn't come with the promised sides. We eventually asked about it, and there was a lot of confusion-- we were supposed to get potatoes? It did get resolved and there was kindness all around. Really, everyone was super sweet-- it just felt a bit lost. I asked a couple of questions and the answers were somewhat vague, which maybe it was due to being busy or a language barrier. They did give us free drinks, which was sweet. Overall, I think this place had a gorgeous atmosphere and the sauces or more adventurous plates held more excitement than their meat dishes, which were a bit too plain for me personally. However, service felt a bit awkward at times and confusing. For the price, I am not sure if I would come back but I do think the staff is lovely and wish them the best!

See all photos from Erin L. for Sumak Restaurant

I recently visited a Turkish restaurant that was an absolute delight. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, and the service was impeccable. We stopped in for drinks but couldn't pass up trying the food-- the hummus was the best I've ever tasted, and the drinks were unique and superb. Highly recommend for a top-notch experience!

Sumac is a solid 4-star, well on the way to being 5 stars. Desserts and the bread were meh, but everything else was amazing. Service, food quality, you name it. So it was odd that the desserts, while edible, weren't nearly as good as the high-bar set by the food. The bread was lacking too. And this is important when you want to dip some bread into the amazingly flavorful dip and plate that's oozing goodness. I'll be back soon...

See all photos from George M. for Sumak Restaurant

Amazing food, service, decor and general vibe. Right near the Normandy Fountain, this place is a true gem. I've never seen food plated like this. Delicious lamb. Prices right on target. Don't forget a REAL Turkish coffee.

Stumbled into this new gem with unbelievable signature cocktails! Jacob is the nicest guy and so is Ferdinand! Can't wait to come back!!! Try the Chili passion drink!

Amazing food, service and recommendations. We felt we were not at the beach and we live so close by to the restaurant. They did a great job changing the place. We ate outside and had such a pleasant dinner with music. We loved the flavors, spices and culinary techniques. We're definitely coming back to this little cozy Turkish oasis!

The best Adana kebab I've had in a long time, really delicious . I lived in the Middle East & it felt like I was home . My only complaint is that I ordered to go and I had requested a side of Tzatziki which wasn't there . That was disappointing bc I always eat it either with that or tahini , nevertheless mistakes happen . I'll definitely order again or go there because it's super cute . My new favorite spot ... I definitely recommend it ..

Adana kebab

Food is more than delicious and Sumak is one of the best Turkish restaurant in Miami you can try. From starters to main courses everything is great and staff is so attentive and friendly. Amazing server and bartender that pays attention to details. And owner is checking with tables and making sure everything is good and guests are happy ( with smiling face and nice behaviour) Recommended for everyone who wants to eat real nice food and enjoy a great night out. Good job

Amazing mezes(starters)

Lamb liver skewers, Chicken and Ali nazik

4 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Nikki Beach Miami Beach

6.0 miles away from Sumak Restaurant

John T. said "I came in expecting something far worse than I experienced. I didn't choose this location, and I had some fears when Is saw where we were going. I'm not a "beautiful person", and places like this give me the shivers. I expected this…" read more

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Karen R. said "The place itself is not appealing looking inside, we landed on a table with a leak and unfortunately since it was raining hard outside we were rained on. So from the aesthetic perspective the place isn't impressive at all. However,…" read more

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A Guide to the Best Waterfront Restaurants in Miami

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After determining the must-visit restaurants and where I should eat now, one of the biggest requests is where to dine with some great water views.

Surprisingly, for a city built on the water, this is harder to come up with than one would think, but alas, 15 solid spots in Miami offer enviable water views.

Duffy's Sports Grill

Yes, it might be a chain restaurant, but it still has some of the best views in town, plus all-day-long happy hours every day of the week.

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Ocean Social

What was formerly the home of Malibu Farms has changed outposts, but don’t worry, the killer views remain the same at this waterfront restaurant inside the legendary Eden Roc hotel.

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Michael Schwartz’s waterfront restaurant boasts his Miami-inspired cuisine along with some of the best water views in the city.

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Huge crab legs, age-dried meat, and Biscayne Bay views await guests at this chic Edgewater restaurant. Make sure to grab a drink before or after the meal at its rooftop bar to properly soak it all in.

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The Lido Bayside Grill

Sip on rose all day while dining on vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free bites at the Standard Miami Beach’s in-house restaurant, which boasts enviable bayside views and a see-and-be-scene clientele.

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A 45,000-square-foot waterfront club located on Watson Island, Joia Beach houses a 120-seat restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine and a vibe-y scene with daybeds and teepees lining the ocean as a DJ spins a blend of tunes. 

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Baia Beach Club Miami

Baia Beach Club, the Mondrian South Beach’s massive outdoor lounge and restaurant, boasts bayside cabanas and a waterfront full-service restaurant.

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Kiki on the River

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Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish

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Smith & Wollensky

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La Mar by Gaston Acurio at Mandarin Oriental, Miami

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Black Point Ocean Grill

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Locals in South Florida's 'Little Moscow' say the city's nickname is built on a misconception

• Locals in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, will tell you the city is more than its "Little Moscow" nickname.
• The area is home to many post-Soviet Union immigrants, from Ukraine to Belarus.
• It's not just Russian money propping up the economy — overseas buyers from Europe and Latin America are, too.

In Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, not everyone likes the nickname "Little Moscow."

"I don't believe that 'Little Moscow' is a representation of what Sunny Isles Beach is," Jennifer Levin, former Sunny Isles Beach commissioner, wrote in a Facebook post earlier this month. "And it's not what it was ever meant to be known as, and it's not how it's marketed."

I visited the city a few weeks ago, and the Russian influence was palpable, from the Russian grocery and deli Matryoshka to the Sunny Terrace restaurant serving up Siberian-style dumplings. But in the same plaza was an Argentinian restaurant, an Armenian restaurant, and a boutique selling fashion from Brazil. While it's easy to see where the "Little Moscow" nickname comes from, Sunny Isles Beach is overall a melting pot of Eastern European and Latin American influences.

One local originally from Ukraine told me that the nickname is never used by the Russian-speaking people who live in the city, adding that the name was created by locals many years ago as a joke. He said some locals are indifferent to the nickname, while others think it's "abusable since we have nothing to do with Moscow."

A seaside escape for Eastern Europeans and Latin Americans

Back in the 1950s and 1960s, the 1.5-mile piece of island was known for its strip of seaside motels. The charming tourist town attracted Russian Jewish immigrants fleeing discrimination, according to a Sun Sentinel article from 1997 . Over time, their children would visit and eventually buy property as the market developed, laying the foundation for a strong community.

As more Russians flooded into the area to escape communism from the former Soviet Union in the 1990s, some of the emigres called the area "Little Moscow," per the Sun Sentinel. The city was a symbol of freedom, and it wasn't just Russians who wanted an escape. Alexandra Peters, of ONE Sotheby's International Realty, who works with high-end clients in the area, told me that an overwhelming Russian presence of Sunny Isles Beach is a misconception, as the many Ukrainians living there get mistaken for Russians. 

"There's always been a large Russian-speaking community in Sunny Isles, but they've been there for decades and many are middle-class US citizens by now," she said. "We tend to put all 'Russians' in one basket, whereas many who live and move here are from all parts of the former Soviet Union: Ukraine, Belarus, even Kyrkistan."

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It's why the area is also known as Little Kyiv, Little Odessa, and Little Minsk. According to the most recent data from the Census' American Community Survey  that tracked population from 2015 to 2019, Sunny Isles Beach is home 2,624 Eastern European-born residents, more residents than those born elsewhere in Europe.  Of these, 1,079 were born in Russia. This doesn't take into account those who didn't answer the Census or the Russian-speakers who identify as Americans.

The city is also home to a strong Israeli community. And, like much of South Florida, there's a large immigrant population from Latin America. Census data puts the Latin American-born population at 8,370 people, more than the Eastern European-born. Peters said the area is even known as "Little Brazil."

A luxury development boom brought the rich

The 1990s also saw a development boom that revitalized the city's economy. Zoning laws enabled developers to build high-rise condos that towered over the beach. Around this time, a wealthier class of Russians began snapping up property in the area as a way to move their money in a post-Soviet economy.

In recent years, Florida saw the highest number of Russian property purchases in the US. Sunny Isles Beach was a natural choice given the already strong Russian immigrant population and the area's association with luxury thanks to the towering condos, some of whom held the appeal of the Trump brand .

Right before Russia invaded Ukraine, NewsNation's Brian Entin first reported on the concerns of the "Little Moscow" elite who worried that they'll be blacklisted from buying luxury real estate in the area. 

But it's not just Russian money that flows through Sunny Isles. The city's economy has also been propped up by overseas buyers from Europe and Latin America. Three real estate agents I spoke with often referenced clients from Brazil, Germany, and Canada.

Peters provided Insider a screenshot of her website's analytics showing where most potential clients were searching from. Outside of the US, the top three searches came from were Canada, India, and Brazil. Russia didn't even make the top 10. She noted that they used to see more South American buyers, which have dropped because of low currency and travel restrictions. Foreign buyers overall have dropped since the pandemic began, agents said.

Ramon Rodriguez , director of sales at a Compass real estate team based in Miami, told me that the area is a luxury riviera for the elite partially because it's anchored by two high-end shopping destinations: Aventura Mall to the north and the Bal Harbour Shops to the south.

"When you're wealthy and living in a state of fear, you feel very free here," Peters seconded. "You can enjoy life and go shopping."

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Watch CBS News

This Disney restaurant is first in theme-park history to win a Michelin star

By Kate Gibson

Edited By Alain Sherter

April 29, 2024 / 11:54 AM EDT / CBS News

A Walt Disney World restaurant is the first theme-park eatery to earn a Michelin star.

Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa last week joined 26 other restaurants in Florida to be awarded the coveted designation in the Michelin Guide. 

But even Mickey Mouse will have to leave his mouse ears behind if he wants to get a table at the restaurant, which has a strict dress code and doesn't allow children under 10. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks)

Opened in 1988, Victoria & Albert's is "by no means an easy reservation, but the reward is a kind of magic rarely seen these days," according to Michelin, which rates over 30,000 establishments across three continents.

As would be expected with pretty much anything at the Magic Kingdom, the restaurant is pricey, with its prix-fixe menus starting at $295 a person. 

Kate Gibson is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch in New York.

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4 hospitalized after flames erupt inside Miami home

Resident suffered burns to over 30% of his body, firefighters say.

Amanda Batchelor , Digital Executive Producer

Annaliese Garcia , Reporter

MIAMI – Four people, including two police officers and a firefighter, were taken to the hospital early Thursday morning after a fire erupted inside of a home in Miami, first responders confirmed.

According to City of Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Pete Sanchez, the fire was reported just before 12:30 a.m. in the 3600 block of Northwest 16th Street.

Sanchez said crews responded to the single-story home to find smoke coming from the structure, and residents who had made it out told them a family member was still inside.

Firefighters then entered the home, extending hose lines and conducting a search for the victim, Sanchez said.

He said the victim was quickly found in the back of the home on the floor and was taken outside.

The fire was extinguished within minutes, Sanchez confirmed.

Sanchez identified the victim found inside the home as a 54-year-old man who was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital with first- and second-degree burns to over 30% of his body. He is listed in serious condition.

“Two Miami Police Officers heroically entered the structure to render aid to the family and suffered smoke inhalation,” Sanchez said in an email to Local 10 News. “Both were transported to Jackson Hospital in stable condition for further evaluation.”

A City of Miami firefighter was also transported to JMH to be evaluated, Sanchez confirmed.

He said a family of four has been displaced and the American Red Cross was contacted to assist them.

The Miami Fire Investigation Unit will determine the origin and cause of the fire, however a man who lives at the home told reporters a lamp short-circuited next to where his brother was sleeping, and he believes that is what caused the fire.

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Amanda batchelor.

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.

Annaliese Garcia

Annaliese Garcia joined Local 10 News in January 2020. Born and raised in Miami, she graduated from the University of Miami, where she studied broadcast journalism. She began her career at Univision. Before arriving at Local 10, she was with NBC2 (WBBH-TV) covering Southwest Florida. She's glad to be back in Miami!

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Travel Channel shows Palm Beach County is a…

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Things To Do Pets and Animals

Subscriber only, travel channel shows palm beach county is a pets’ paradise.

We do, according to “Pets in Paradise,” a show that will appear on the Travel Channel on Tuesday, April 23, and Thursday, April 25, as part of a marketing program sponsored by the Palm Beach County Tourist Development Council. The half-hour show explores dog parks, beaches, hotels, restaurants and attractions in Palm Beach County and offers insight from a local veterinarian who details how to travel with a happy dog.

The show targets travelers but also locals who can learn that their pets will be welcome at more places than they might realize. Several tourists interviewed explained how they visited South Florida to escape northern winters and were thrilled their dogs could run freely in local dog parks and beaches.

The hosts of “Pets in Paradise” visit Juno Beach’s dog-friendly beach, the Palm Beach Lake Trail, West Palm Beach’s farmers market, Palm Beach International Airport, Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, West Boca’s Canine Cove, as well as restaurants and hotels that welcome pets with bowls of water and treats. Delray Beach veterinarian Jesus Aramendi offers tips on how to travel in cars and on planes with dogs in tow.

“There were so many more pet-friendly places than we anticipated,” said Paul Waide, a vice president at Apex Productions, the Riviera Beach-based company that produced the episode. “All these places welcomed us with open arms.”

If the episode gets lots of views, Waide said Apex hopes to find sponsors who will help produce shows in other pet-friendly destinations across the country.

“Pets in Paradise” will air on the Travel Channel at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, and Thursday, April 25.

Michelle Hillery, Palm Beach County’s film commissioner, said “Pets in Paradise” will air on several South Florida media outlets, including thepalmbeaches.tv , which showcases county destinations, and on streaming services run by local hotels, the Palm Beach County Convention Center and Palm Beach International Airport.

Go to petsinparadise.org .

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Snakes discovered in passenger's pants by TSA at Miami International Airport: See photos

Let's call them snakes headed on a plane.

Transportation Security Administration agents in South Florida got a slithery surprise after the federal agency reported finding snakes in a passenger's pants at an airport checkpoint.

According to TSA, the reptilian discovery took place at the Miami International Airport on Friday.

The agency did not identify the passenger or say whether they were arrested.

Photos taken at the airport provided by TSA show two slender pink snakes outside of a small camo-colored bag, after apparently being pulled from the passenger's pants before they were able to board a plane.

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Snakes found in passenger's pants turned over to Florida wildlife officers

After the discovery, TSA said it called the Customs and Border Protection Southeast Region and Miami-Dade Police for assistance.

It was not immediately known if the snakes were the passengers pets or whether the person was simply trying to transport them out of the city.

The snakes, TSA reported, were turned over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Internet reacts to snakes in pants

When TSA posted the finding on X over the weekend, people on the internet had thoughts.

One user posted: "OMG why would anyone have that?!"

"Is that a snake in your pants?" another person asked.

Another X reader commented: "Maybe he wanted to film a remake of the movie 'Snakes on a Plane'!!!"

"Because the TSSSSSSSSSA fearsssssss competition," one person posted .

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.