Miami Beach is often lumped together with Miami, but the truth is this island right off the shore of Miami is a city in its own right—a city bustling with arts and nightlife, culture, beautifully designed hotels and even more amazing restaurants. Miami Beach restaurants range from tasty casual spots to upscale dining establishments, but wherever you go, you’re guaranteed to encounter diversity and delicious foods. Italian, Asian or more locally inspired Cuban and Caribbean dining spots welcome you in to learn what Miami Beach has to offer. We’ve hunted down the greatest spots to wine and dine in Miami! Bon Appetite!
KHONG RIVER HOUSE | 1661 MERIDIAN AVE.
Named for the Mekong River that flows through Southeast Asia, Khong River House seeks to meld the flavors of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar (Burma). The result? Pure deliciousness. All dishes here are worth a try. The menu includes a lineup of great appetizers, noodle dishes, meat dishes, and curries. Don’t let Miami Beach’s heat discourage you from going all out and going beyond one star—this city begs for a little extra spice. The atmosphere at Khong River House is unique and tranquil, too with dim lighting, woodwork, and white-stone Buddhas.
Photos by Khong River House Facebook
OLA | 1745 JAMES AVE.
Southern Florida cuisine in general is heavily influenced by the flavors of the Caribbean and Latin America, so it’s worth visiting a restaurant known for its expert use of these culinary backgrounds. OLA, headed up by chef Horacio Rivadero, is known for mojitos and ceviches, but the menu also features inventive empanadas and other traditional dishes given creative twists. If what you’re looking for is food that looks like art, tastes like heaven, all in an elegant atmosphere, OLA is your place.
Photos by Ola Facebook
CASA TUA | 1700 JAMES AVE.
Whether you sit outside in the garden lit by lanterns, or inside the elegant dining room, count on being surrounded by romantic charm at Casa Tua. While this Italian restaurant is right in the heart of South Beach, it feels secluded and private and not unlike a private Mediterranean villa. Fine, traditional Italian food and a great wine list combine for the perfect evening out.
Photos by Casa Tua Miami
JOE’S STONE CRAB | 11 WASHINGTON AVE.
Photo by Joe’s Stone Crab Facebook
Sometimes places are popular with visitors for a reason. Joe’s Stone Crab focuses largely on the Florida stone crab and so long as you’re visiting between October 15 and May 15 (crab season), you can taste this Florida delicacy. You’ll likely have to wait to get in and the restaurant doesn’t take reservations, but it’s worth it. If you come to Miami Beach outside of crab season, the fried chicken and clam chowder are also well-known here—as is the classic Key lime pie!
Photo by Wally Gobetz CCBY
YARDBIRD SOUTHERN TABLE & BAR | 1600 LENOX AVE.
The fact is, Florida is the South, even though it doesn’t always seem like it, but Yardbird Southern Table & Bar is here to remind everyone of the truth. And it does it in a really yummy way, too. One of Miami Beach’s most awarded restaurants, Yardbird is known for Southern food galore and you’ll spot all of the classics—fried chicken, deviled eggs, shrimp n’ grits, frog legs, and more. They’ll just taste a lot more amazing here!
Photos by Yardbird Facebook
CHALAN ON THE BEACH | 1580 WASHINGTON AVE.
Miami Beach is quite obviously located right on the water, which means trivago magazineg into some seafood when you’re in town is a good idea. There’s no shortage of places to do just that, but Chalan on the Beach serves up seafood Peruvian style. Don’t miss fresh ceviche, Ají de Gallina (shredded chicken with a spicy cheese-based sauce), or Lomo Saltado, a traditional Peruvian dish with steak, veggies, and served with potato wedges.
Photos by Chalan On The Beach Facebook
LA SANDWICHERIE | 229 14TH STREET
Sometimes all you need is a sandwich, but during those times, why not still go with the best sandwich in town. Enter La Sandwicherie. Fresh-baked baguettes and croissants. Massive sandwiches (save half for later)! And housemade vinaigrette that is the magical secret ingredient. How can you go wrong? You can’t.
Photos by La Sandwicherie Facebook
GELATO-GO SOUTH BEACH | 458 OCEAN DRIVE
Photo by Matt Acevedo CCBY
If what you seek is a sweet treat, then head to Gelato-Go where you will find flavorful gelato right on the beach. The shop was opened by three Italian friends, one of whom brought his father’s gelato recipe with him. Gelato is made—as it should be—in the shop daily. Along with a lineup of gelato flavors, Gelato-Go also serves Italian pastries and coffee for breakfast, cannoli, smoothies, and other treats.
MAP IT OUT
These restaurants are all within walking distance of hotels located in the South Beach area. For the best deals try trivago, where you’ll find a wide range of options for your budget.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP HERE
Dreaming of Miami? We’ve Got You Covered
The Best Miami Cocktail Bars #WithAView