If your travel includes a trip to Miami’s South Beach area, plan on spending some time visiting some of the area’s top restaurants. There are plenty of great restaurants to choose from, so if you are limited on time, make your choice wisely.
South Beach is a hotbed of different cultures and these show up in the food offered at many of the local restaurants. According to MiamiBeaches.com, just about any type of ethnic food is available at the numerous South Beach hot spots. Some include:
- Middle Eastern
- Mediterranean
- Traditional Mexican
- Italian
- Asian (Japanese, Korean BBQ, and traditional Chinese)
- Greek
- French
- Cuban
- Seafood
- Traditional comfort food
- Steakhouses
Whether you’re looking for a filling Cubano sandwich or some light Mediterranean fare, Miami’s South Beach has everything you could want to fulfill your culinary appetite.
Some of South Beach’s Top Restaurants:
Here is just a sampling of some of the top restaurants you can find in South Beach:
- BLT Steak: Steak lovers need to look no further than BLT Steak for a memorable culinary experience. BLT Steak is designed by chef Laurent Tourondel and features USDA prime and certified black Angus beef. It is located overlooking the ocean at 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach.
- Byblos: Housed in a sophisticated space with high ceilings and bold yellow and blue velvet booths, the food here is taken from an authentic Mediterranean coast culinary tour. Menu standouts include black cod wrapped in vine leaves with grilled branzino. Both food and décor are impressive. It is at 1545 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach.
- La Savina Mediterranean Grill at the Mondrian South Beach: Those looking for great views while indulging in some of the finest cuisines on South Beach will want to stop at La Savina. They use locally sourced products in their menu that are rich in fish and grilled meats. They also have some delectable charcuterie boards.
- Joe’s Stone Crab: Joe’s has been around forever and never fails to please. Joes turned 100 in 2013 and still attracts locals, visitors, and celebrities. In addition to their seasonal stone crab, they also serve up some great fried chicken and liver and onions for those that want something other than seafood. They also recently opened Joe’s Take Away, located next door. They are at 11 Washington in Miami.
- The Bazaar by Jose Andres: Those looking for a memorable dining experience should look for influences from the local Latin culinary landscape. The result is fantastic. The restaurant is located at 1701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
- Macchialina: Many consider this the best Italian restaurant in Miami. The hearty, rustic Italian menu was created by Chef Michael Pirolo. It was closed for a bit during Covid, but is now reopened and once again serving its homemade pasta dishes at prices that won’t break the bank. Find them at 820 Alton Road in Miami Beach.
- Taquiza: If you have a taste for some of the best Mexican food in South Beach, Taquiza is a great option. It is also casual enough to enjoy right from the beach. Some highlights include blue mesa tortillas, totopos with guacamole, and outstanding quesadillas. They are at 1351 Collins Avenue.
- Saffron Grill: This gem is a local “go-to” for top-quality Mediterranean specialties. Gyros, falafel, hummus, Kebobs, and other authentic dishes are available and affordably priced. They also offer great desserts, including baklava, and a wide selection of teas and coffees. They are at 1049 Washington Street.
- Carbone: Originally started in New York, Carbone has now made its name in the Miami area. Partners Jeff Zalaznick and Rich Torrisi have created one of the most highly revered restaurants in the area, and if you decide to try it, book your reservation a month in advance or else you may not get it. Classic Italian menu items like veal parmigiana and baked clams are two must-haves. It is at 49 Collins Avenue.
- Havana 1957: No trip to South Beach would be complete without a traditional Cubano sandwich. Havana 1957 delivers with options like Bread & Steak Pan Con Bistec and Bread & Pork Pan Con Lechon. It is a throwback to the 1950s located at bustling 405 Espanola Way.
Food Tours:
Because of Miami and South Beach’s ethnic diversity, several food tours take visitors to a variety of different restaurants, so they can experience the best the city has to offer, all in one day!
Some interesting tours include:
- A Taste of South Beach Food Tour
- Miami Food and Art Deco Walking Tour
- Little Havana Walking Food Tour
- South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour
- Little Havana Street Food Tour
Short on Time?
Whatever the case, do not forgo an opportunity to dine in some of the fabulous South Beach restaurants if you are short on time or have a quick layover on flights. Make the most of your time. There are many options for short-term luggage storage at south beach. Storage options like Vertoe let visitors store their luggage safely and affordably.
Next time your plans take you through South Beach, make the most of your visit by safely storing your luggage and hitting up one of the great local restaurants.
