The Best Food in Miami

Miami is a mecca for foodies. From fresh seafood caught daily to international cuisine, the city offers hundreds of restaurants that can get you a great meal, whether it’s something casual for lunch or an extra-special dinner for a date with a loved one.

Trip Advisor ranks Jardim de Portugal #2 on the list of Miami restaurants. Open for lunch and dinner, it features seafood on the menu, but has some vegetarian entrees and beef for people who prefer them over fish and lobster. Make sure to check out one of the bacalhau dishes, the most prominent way fish is prepared in Portugal.

When you come to Miami, you need to experience the Cuban cuisine. Sergio’s was awarded the 2015 Best Cuban Sandwich in South Florida. With skinny selections on their menu, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’re sure to find something that tempts your palate, even if you need to eat healthier. Recommended by the Ocean Point Resorts, Sergio’s has a number of locations around Miami, so you won’t be far away from one.

Tom Collichio, from Top Chef, finally opened Beachcraft near the Miami Beach Convention Center. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s one of the most talked about restaurants in the Miami area, noted for its sustainable menu. If you’re looking for octopus, this is the place to go.

Epicurious ranks Nobu as one of the best places to get sushi in the Miami area. Nobu has a no reservation policy, and while its dining room doesn’t seem elegant from the outside, both jet setters and tourists alike stop by for traditional sushi blended with elements from South American cuisine for a unique dining experience.

Miami Eater recommends Firito Taco & Bocce on the Upper East Side. Try a bahn mi-inspired taco while you watch the bocce court. You can even grab a game and beer while experiencing a casual lunch on the patio. Also, don’t forget to try one of the house made Paletas or an agua fresca to cool you off on a hot Miami afternoon.

Miami might be known for its glitz and glam, but there are plenty of budget restaurants in the area to help you save some dough. El Rey del Chivito features a Uruguayan steak sandwich, complete with flank steak, ham, a fried egg, and mozzarella cheese served on a plate of fries. After a day at the beach, you’ll enjoy this casual place as if you’re in Uruguay.

Ceviche is a common dish in South American cuisine, and the locals choose Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar & Latam Grill as their go-to joint. The Ceviche Spoon Sampler gives you six different options. Enjoy their menu for lunch or dinner, or a special weekend brunch.

Flanigan’s has a more Americanized menu; despite this, it’s still a local favorite with its award-winning ribs, making it the most popular dish. You’ll find old favorites like a classic burger and at the same time find some great seafood specials like shrimp scampi or grilled tuna. Flanigan’s has lunch specials that will fill you up without breaking your bank. And even better, you won’t need a reservation.

Clive’s Café serves some of the best Jamaican food in the area. It recently moved to a bigger location, so it has more than 12 seats. Get a breakfast of akee and saltfish, which is a traditional Jamaican favorite. Akee is a fruit from the lychee family sometimes called vegetable brains. It’s something you shouldn’t miss when you’re in the area.