Even though things you first think about Miami are pristine beaches and exciting nightlife, this city has recently become a foodie favorite. Its culinary scene is a perfect fluid of tastes from all around the world, and that’s the reason why so many international tourists come here. You can have it all in Miami, from pizza to pasta, from sushi to steak – take your time to explore this amazing city with your taste buds. Here’s a foodie’s guide to Miami’s best restaurants, so you don’t waste any time for having a perfect meal.
International cuisine – the top choices
Weather you want to explore world’s different cuisine or just feel homesick as a foreigner in Miami, you’ll find dishes from almost everyone on the planet here. Here are some top international restaurants you should try out:
- Versailles – located in Little Havana, this is a top place to try out Cuban food. For five decades this restaurant has been serving top Cuban meals to both locals and foreigners, and it’s a best place to have a cafecito, cortadito, croquetas and more.
- Los Fuegos – this amazing place serves the best South American meals with seafood and steak, combined with a selection of top wines.
- Byblos – described as a marriage between Easter Mediterranean cuisine and local ingredients and traditions, Byblos offers exceptional meze experience with exotic dishes on the menu. Up for a Mediterranean feel – head to Collins Ave, Miami Beach.
- 1-800-Lucky – there are plenty of Asian restaurants in Miami, yet this one is a favorite in Wynwood. Upscale Asian dining where you can try out sushi, dim sum, poke bowls, ramen and so much more. And don’t forget a true Asian experience – a karaoke session after a tasty meal.
Michelin to the stars
When a restaurant receives a Michelin star, you know it’s a good one. This award is offered to places with outstanding food, creative dish presentation and the most amazing service. A chef can receive up three stars based on the quality of their food and consistency throughout the menu. There are a couple of places with a shiny star next to their name, and this foodie’s guide to Miami’s best restaurants needs to include them. Here are the top picks:
- Stubborn Seed – this is surely one of the top Miami’s restaurants, and there’s a good reason for it. They focus on making each bit special, and give you a unique turn on traditional meals. Fr a true Michelin-star experience, visit the place on days where you can try out the 8-course menu made by the chef himself, so you don’t need to worry about what to pick.
- Le Jardininier – meaning the gardener in French, this amazing restaurant is all about the celebration of seasons, flowers and nature. Even though it’s a Michelin star restaurants, it’s not overly fancy, so you can go for a casual meal inspired by France.
- Ariete – this restaurant shows a true Miami spirit as the chef describes his childhood in this city through the food he makes. A perfect mix of American and Cuban cuisine preserving the heritage from both cultures in a perfectly balanced dishes.
- L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – the upscale version of Le Jardinier, this is a restaurant that owns two Michelin stars. The quality of dishes, skillful presentation and the whole concept is not something you should miss when exploring the foodie map of Miami.
Amazing food with a view – top waterfront restaurants in Miami
As we mentioned, pristine beaches are Miami’s top feature, so we need to include Miami’s best restaurants with the view in this tasty guide. Places where you can enjoy perfect food and an even better view are:
- Verde – located in Perez Art Museum, this modern restaurant will ensure you’ve got the best view of Biscayne Bay. When it comes to food, you can pick high-quality causal meals inspired by the local cuisine.
- La Mar by Gaston Acurio – even though this place also belongs to the international category, La Mar is a Peruvian-inspired restaurant with a perfect view of Miami’s skyline. Ceviche, chaufa aeropuerto, empanadas – there’s so much to try. However, don’t forget they made excellent cocktails, too.
- Lido Bayside Grill – if you’re up to local sourced sea food, healthy meals and a perfect view, you’re in the right place. Lido Bayside Grill in South Beach offers tasty food and unique drinks such as frosé – frozen rosé.
Waterfront places are a great introduction to the Miami’s nightlife – a cocktail in sunset with a breathtaking view is there to announce that this city has a lot to offer. Miami is known worldwide for some of the best clubs, so it’s surely something to check out after exploring its culinary scene.
You can enjoy this foodie paradise for longer
Feel like there are too many restaurants, and too little time? Food is a way to fall in love with someone, but this time you can easily end up falling in love with Miami. It’s not uncommon for people to make a casual visit and decide to stay for good. Here’s what you need.
Proper documentation
If you’re not a US citizen, you need to sort out your document first. Getting your passport and visa sorted out is one of the first things to do so you can continue making relocation plans.
Finding a home
Market in Miami is quite competitive, for both renters and buyers. However, you can find a rather affordable housing in Miami area, just be sure to hire an agent to help you find the most that suits your budget and lifestyle. Get help from someone who knows Miami neighborhoods well, as they are very distinct in style, amenities and prices.
Planning the move
You can have two scenarios here – a DIY move or assistance from a pro. It’s important to choose the option that works the best for you, depending on your budget, previous relocation experience and your moving schedule. DIY moves can be quite risky if you have a lot of belongings and not that much experience – this is when a helping hand from a skilled team can save you time, energy and money.
Final words
This foodie’s guide to Miami’s best restaurants can be a great way to start your Florida adventure – the tastiest way possible. Use it to make a plan to explore Miami so this journey appeals to your palate and ensure you make the most delicious memories.
If you found this article helpful, check out our recommendations on restaurants in Maplewood MN.
