Miami for Food Lovers: A Culinary Guide
If there’s one thing I love equally with travel, it’s food — and Miami has plenty of both.
My first visit to the city was like entering a culinary paradise.
From fresh seafood on the beach to the cultural dishes of Little Havana, each meal was an experience unto itself.
This guide is for food lovers who want to get their fill of Miami, whether you’re seeking authentic Cuban cuisine, world-class seafood or trendy fusion dishes.
Prepare to travel through the city one plate at a time with these must-try stops and tips for getting around Miami’s food scene.
1. Cuban Delights at Versailles Restaurant
Any food lover’s visit to Miami isn’t complete without stopping at Versailles, the seminal Cuban restaurant in Little Havana.
Get the classic ropa vieja, wash it down with a cortadito, and finish off with a sweet, creamy flan.
The history and vibrancy of this place makes it more than a meal; it’s an experience.
2. Indulge in Fresh Seafood at Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab is an institution in Miami, known for its seasonal stone crab claws and famous key lime pie.
A highlight for seafood enthusiasts is this historic restaurant, serving fresh catches since 1913.
So if you don’t like waiting around for a table, their takeaway option is an excellent way of getting those same flavours on the go.
3. Enjoy the Tastes of Wynwood’s Food Trucks
Wynwood is not only an art mecca — it’s also home to some of Miami’s best food trucks.
There are gourmet burgers, tacos and Asian-fusion dishes, among many other options to satisfy every craving.
If you prefer, pick up food and eat it under the brightly colored murals that make this neighborhood unique.
4. Taste Tibits of Little Haiti’s Caribbean Cuisine
In Little Haiti, an explosion of the authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Stop in at Chef Creole for fresh conch salad or griot (fried pork), and be sure to try the tropical drinks made with guava, passionfruit and coconut.
The welcoming small-town vibe and lively culture here ensure that it’s an unforgettable place to eat.
5. Enjoy a Luxurious Brunching Experience at Zuma
Located in Downtown Miami, Zuma is an upscale destination serving modern Japanese cuisine.
It’s weekend brunch is world famous with items such as sushi platters, robata-grilled meats and indulgent desserts.
Add bottomless champagne for a truly opulent start to the day.
6. Get Your Sweet Fix at The Salty Donut
For those with a sweet tooth, The Salty Donut is a place you have to visit.
This artisanal donut shop offers wacky flavors like maple bacon, guava cheese and white chocolate tres leches.
The doughnuts are as Instagrammable as they are delicious, so it’s a treat for your taste buds and your feed.
7. Go on a culinary tour of Little Havana
To truly experience Miami’s Cuban culture, a guided food tour of Little Havana is the way to do it.
Sample everything from empanadas to freshly rolled cigars, and, of course, Cuban coffee.
The guides frequently recount stories about the neighborhood’s past, making it as informative as it is tasty.
8. Eat at Dine Waterfront at Smith & Wollensky
Smith & Wollensky — Situated at the south end of Miami Beach, this meat/eatery has waterfront views to compliment their premier steaks and seafood.
It’s the ideal setting for a romantic dinner or a sunset meal with friends.
Do make sure to try their truffle mac and cheese, it is worth every calorie.
9. Stop by Zak the Baker for Freshly Baked Treats
This Wynwood bakery is beloved for sourdough bread, pastries, and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
Grab a shakshuka or avocado toast for breakfast, or even just a cup of coffee with one of their legendary croissants.
The industrial-chic vibe enhances the charm of this local favorite.
10. Feasting Peruvian Style at La Mar by Gastón Acurio
Also in Brickell Key, La Mar serves Peru with its inventive spin on the classics.
Try the ceviche sampler or lomo saltado, washed down with a pisco sour for the full experience.
Its waterfront setting makes it a perfect place for a special night out.
11. Cool Down with ice cream from Azucar
Azucar Ice Cream in Little Havana is a great place to cool off after a hot day.
They offer distinctive flavors such as Abuela Maria (vanilla with guava and cream cheese) and Café con Leche.
Everything has a sort of Cuban ambiance, and the shop’s colorful décor only adds to the charm.
12. Dine Farm-To-Table at Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
Michael’s Genuine, which is in the Design District, takes a fresh approach to seasonal ingredients with a creative twist.
The menu is continually in flux, but certain dishes, such as the wood-oven roasted fish, are never missing in action.
The casual but sophisticated vibe makes this the perfect place for any occasion.
13. Try KYU for Fusion Cuisine
This Asian-tinged restaurant in Wynwood specializes in wood-fired dishes with punchy flavors.
Don’t skip out on the Korean fried chicken or the smoked short ribs — they’re crowd pleasers for good reason.
The minimalist modern setting contributes to the restaurant’s charms.
14. Stubborn Seed: Indulge in Luxury Dining
Operated by a “Top Chef” winner, Stubborn Seed is an unmissable fine dining experience.
The tasting menu is an exploration of inventive courses that test the limits of flavor.
For real food lovers, it’s a splurge that’s worth every cent.
15. Eat Some Street Food at Lincoln Road at Miami Beach
Lincoln Road is a promenade with cafés, food stalls and restaurants.
Grab a quick snacklike empanadas or gelatowhile browsing the shops and enjoying the vibrant vibe.
It’s casual, convenient and offers a taste of Miami’s street food scene.
