Miami Florida, USA Travel Guide
Common ingredients include fresh seafood, especially local catches like snapper and mahi-mahi. Tropical fruits like mango, passion fruit, and guava hold prominence in drinks and desserts.
Plantains are a staple, often served fried (tostones, maduros). Cuban bread, characterized by its crisp crust and soft interior, accompanies many meals.
Casual dining is widespread in South Beach. Many restaurants welcome walk-ins without a reservation.
For upscale restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during high season. A "smart casual" dress code is common in fine dining establishments.
Dinner often occurs later than in other parts of the U.S., with many restaurants operating until 10 PM or later, especially on weekends. Brunch ranks as a popular weekend activity, with many places presenting special menus.
A pressed sandwich featuring ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.
This appears widely available at local Cuban cafes and delis throughout Miami.
A tart lime custard pie with a graham cracker crust, often topped with meringue or whipped cream.
This classic Florida dessert appears on most dessert menus.
A local delicacy (seasonal, October-May). These are typically served chilled with a creamy mustard sauce.
Joe's Stone Crab is a famous establishment for this dish, though many seafood restaurants offer them in season.
Popular drinks include the Mojito, a refreshing cocktail with rum, mint, lime, and sugar. The Miami Vice, a blend of Pina Colada and Strawberry Daiquiri, is another popular choice. Fresh tropical fruit juices, like mango or passion fruit, are widely available.
Pastelitos (flaky Cuban pastries with sweet or savory fillings), flan (caramel custard), and churros (fried dough pastries) are popular. Seasonal and festival foods, like stone crabs, are a must-try when in season. The South Beach Wine & Food Festival is a major event.
South Beach includes several fine dining establishments offering gourmet experiences.
Discover quality dining at a moderate price point.
Affordable options and quick bites.
South Beach features an extensive range of international cuisines.
Find Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, Peruvian, Argentinean, and many more, reflecting Miami's global character.
Time Out Market Miami (Lincoln Road) includes a diverse array of food stalls from local chefs, offering various cuisines in a lively setting.
Lincoln Road Farmers Market (Sundays) has fresh produce, baked goods, and local food vendors, great for a casual lunch or snack.
Increasing numbers of restaurants present dedicated menus or clearly marked dishes.
Options appear limited within South Beach, more common outside in specific neighborhoods. Research beforehand facilitates finding suitable places.
Many restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions. Communicate clearly with staff about needs and allergies.
Apps like HappyCow (for vegan/vegetarian options) or contacting restaurants in advance aid planning.
Rooftop bars feature stunning views with your meal or drinks. Hidden speakeasy restaurants include an exclusive atmosphere.
For authentic Cuban coffee, seek out "ventanitas" or walk-up windows. These small counters serve quick, strong, and sweet coffee, a true local experience.
A quintessential Miami ritual.
A renowned Italian-American restaurant from Major Food Group, known for its classic dishes and elegant ambiance.
Modern American cuisine, with a Michelin star for its innovative approach.
A historic seafood institution, operating seasonally for over a century, famous for its stone crab claws.
Many small, local spots for cafecitos, croquetas, and sandwiches at low prices. Versailles Restaurant on mainland Miami also offers an authentic experience.
Quick and authentic local flavors.
Often at special events or in areas like Wynwood, they offer diverse and affordable options. Numerous casual pizza places and delis present quick and inexpensive meals.
Varied and budget-friendly choices.
South Beach features an extensive range of international cuisines, reflecting Miami's global character. Find Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, Peruvian, Argentinean, and many more.
Located on Lincoln Road, this market includes a diverse array of food stalls from local chefs, offering various cuisines in a lively setting.
The Lincoln Road Farmers Market (Sundays) has fresh produce, baked goods, and local food vendors, great for a casual lunch or snack.
For authentic Cuban coffee, seek out "ventanitas" or walk-up windows.