In the heat of Miami, amongst the urban artistry, vibrant neighborhoods, and the plethora of attractions for those of all ages, lies some of the most delicious food offerings in South Florida. These restaurants range from elegant eateries with an eight-course tasting menu to bold Cuban, lively restaurants focusing on menu items like skirt steak ropa vieja.
With the list of Miami’s top restaurants below, you can spice up your next downtown Miami excursion, whether you prefer inventive dishes or simple, fresh seafood options.
Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab is a restaurant famous for its stone crab offerings, with many restaurant-goers believing this eatery put the dish on Miami’s radar. Prior to Joe’s Stone Crab offering this dish, it was thought stone crabs could not be eaten. Now, these delicious crabs are served in four sizes with an addictive mustard sauce. For those who desire dishes other than crab, options like fried chicken, NY strip steak, and burgers are available. With this Miami Beach eatery serving customers for 100+ years, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best Miami Restaurants.
Macchialina
This is one of the newer picks for Miami’s top restaurants, as it has only been open to the public since 2012. However, Macchialinain South Beach has already made a name for itself, particularly when it comes to Italian classics. Intended to provide a similar atmosphere to a small, family-owned restaurant in Italy, this restaurant offers a cozy, casual experience for visitors. Offering a rotating menu of mouthwatering Italian food and handmade pasta, this restaurant is a real treat. Menu options include spaghetti pomodoro, Mediterranean branzino, and chicken parmigiana.
Ariete
Situated in Coconut Grove, FL, an affluent neighborhood in the Miami area, is Ariete, an elegant Michelin star restaurant. This restaurant is run by chef Michael Beltran. It is inspired by his Cuban background, local Miami ingredients, and French cooking techniques, which are apparent in the sophisticated dishes on the menu. Each dish features a creative twist and Cuban flair, providing diners with exciting, bold flavors that won’t be found in other Miami restaurants.
Three menus are available at Ariete, two of which are tasting menus, and the third is a traditional dinner menu. Guests can choose between a-la-carte items, a classic tasting menu, or a modern tasting menu. The available food items range from seafood to pork, venison, and duck. Must-try items include the pastrami-style short rib and the guayaba and queso dessert.
KIMBOP
KIMBOP is one of Miami’s top restaurants offering delicious Korean dishes in a welcoming, laid-back environment. This eatery was created as a method for educating those in Miami about Korean cuisine after the restaurant owners noticed a lack of options/knowledge concerning this style of food in the area. The intention behind this eatery is to provide customers with delicious, healthy Korean options while encouraging them to learn about the culture. The menu items chosen were popular offerings for royalty in the Chosun Dynasty, providing an exciting experience for customers. Menu items include Korean fried chicken wings, ramyun, bulgogi, and other delightful Korean specialties.
The Surf Club Restaurant
As one of Miami’s top restaurants, The Surf Club Restaurant provides diners with a unique experience. This eatery’s dining room is inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, providing diners with a nostalgic feel, amplified by the inclusion of classic American dishes like Caesar salad and beef wellington. Run by Chef Thomas Keller, a culinary leader in the food industry, guests can expect an array of meat, pasta, and seafood dishes. Other menu items include fettuccine alfredo with black truffles, Maine lobster thermidor, and eggplant parmesan.
Jaguar Sun
In the vibrant area of downtown Miami, you’ll find Jaguar Sun, a restaurant and bar that is just as fun as its name suggests. At Jaguar Sun, expect an upscale bar that serves elevated comfort food from a small kitchen. Known for its meticulously thought out and crafted beverages, this spot has been generating a buzz about its food offerings as well. Open seven days a week, Jaguar Sun is a convenient option for those seeking craft cocktails and delicious, innovative dishes. The restaurant portion of Jaguar Sun focuses on raw seafood and pasta, with the option to enjoy small bites while sipping on exciting drinks. Menu items include tuna carpaccio, chicken liver mousse, and clam linguine. The ice cream sandwich made with kouign amann and vanilla ice cream is a must-try while at this bar/restaurant.
