My first real experience in Miami was back in 2011 when I spent three months working on a special project with the government. Although I had visited several times beforehand, that was the first time I dove deep into the food and the culture. Since that trip, I kept returning to this colorfully diverse city and exploring the different neighborhoods and cuisines. There are so many places to eat in Miami, so this post just scratches the surface. I was recently in Miami and here are some areas that caught my eye and captured my palate.
La Mar by Gaston Acurio
I first dined at La Mar at Mandarin three years ago and was entirely taken by the menu, service, and fantastic view of Brickell. Chef Diego Oka who hails from Peru has been the executive chef for years, but that does not mean that the menu is stagnant. He continues to push his boundaries with the list. Chef Oka recently went to Italy for an externship with Massimo Botura, who owns the #1 restaurant in the world. From this experience, he brought a unique taste of ceviche with a creamy parmesan sauce. If you are a purist, do not worry. The ceviche mixto and their causa boat will not be leaving the menu any time soon.
La Mar by Gastón Acurio, 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL, Website
Jaya at The Setai Miami
If you’re looking for an experiential dinner, the Friday Asian Bazaar at Jaya at The Setai Miami is the perfect place for you. This dinner takes place every Friday evening in the beautiful courtyard of The Setai Hotel in Miami Beach. You are immediately entranced by dancers wearing exuberant Asian-themed costumes. You can take in a spectacular show with fire eaters and contortionists while you sip your chili passion martini and indulge in oysters topped with tasty roe. The prix fixe menu is the way to go for $75 for a delicious three-course meal.
Jaya at The Setai Miami, 2001 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, FL
Yardbird Southern Kitchen and Bar
Funny Story: Seven years ago, I lived across the street from Yardbird Southern Kitchen and Bar. Back then, it was under, and I witnessed the process until it was almost open. Sadly, I left Miami shortly before its grand opening. Since then, I’ve seen the restaurant featured in every top places to eat in Miami list. I finally had the chance to see what the hype was all about on my latest trip. The brunch is a total delicacy of southern indulgence. We started with the maple and bacon doughnuts and followed with their classic buttermilk biscuits topped with a rich gravy. I loved the gravy so much I order more on the side. Needless to say, plan your workout afterward!
Yardbird Southern Kitchen and Bar, 1600 Lenox Ave, Miami Beach, FL
Bazaar Mar by Jose Andres
Update (07/03/2020): Restaurant is closed.
You guys already know that I am a fan of Jose Andres. One of my most remarkable meals in 2016 was dinner at Bazaar LA. He continues his streak of winners at Bazaar Mar, headed by chef de cuisine Victor Rosado. If you’re looking for unique places to eat in Miami, add it to your list. The specialty is seafood, prepared in many unique ways such as lobster croquette, a fried baby squid fine dining take on the “po boy,” a ceviche topped with a “frozen” rose of Leche de Tigre, among other creative dishes. Although fish is the protagonist of this menu, there are plenty of vegetarian and meat dishes for those who are not fish lovers. Recommend ordering the tasting menu, it’s the ultimate culinary journey.
Bazaar Mar by José Andrés, 1300 South Miami Avenue Miami FL 3
CooP at St. Roch Market
I am a sucker for food markets and was instantly taken by St. Roch Market in Miami’s Design District. We made a stop at CooP, a southern-inspired stand at the market. There brothers Robert, Ruben, and Giancarlo Rodriguez put together decadently spicy chicken sandwiches. With a bite of the hot and crispy “Some like it hot” sandwich, you’re automatically hooked. Their menu items are affordable as well, ranging from $9 to $18.
CooP at St. Roch Market, 140 NE 39th Street, Suite 241, Miami, FL
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
We heard about Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink in the Miami Design District from one of the servers at Bazaar Mar. I love asking servers and bartenders for recommendations. When I was looking for places to eat in Miami, I knew I had to ask the experts. He suggested we go there for lunch for the light salads and laid back vibes. We ordered a watermelon feta salad and corn and zucchini salad. It was light and refreshing, a perfect compliment for a hot summer day.
Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink, 130 NE 40th St, Miami, FL
CVI.CHE 105 Downtown
When I talk about places to eat in Miami, I have to talk about CVI.CHE 105. When I lived in Miami that summer of 2011, I became hooked on this place after a local friend introduced me. Since then, I always make it a point to dine there and still order the same thing! I love their “Trilogía De Ceviche Mixto” a selection of three different ceviches and a causa: mashed potato stuffed with octopus. It’s great to continue to return to this restaurant year after year and always have a great experience.
CVI.CHE 105, 105 NE 3rd Ave, Miami, FL
Places to Eat in Miami: The Verdict
There is no shortage of places to eat in Miami. From casual dining at CooP to fine dining at Bazaar Mar, there’s something for every taste and budget. Make sure to arrive hungry to Miami!
