By Jessie Garten By Jessie Garten | April 22, 2022 | Culture, Food & Drink, Feature,
THESE ARE THE BEST GREEK AND MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED RESTAURANTS IN MIAMI YOU NEED TO TRY.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Inspired by Greece and Turkey's coastal regions and seasonal cuisine, husband and wife team Ahmet Erkaya and Anastasia Koutsiouki birthed Mandolin Aegean Bistro to dish out some of the best Mediterranean fare in Miami. The restored 1940s home is one of the city's most notable gardens and outdoor patio spaces serving traditional recipes and sides consisting of Greek and Turkish coastal food like orzo pilaf and grilled halloumi. The culinary team uses local ingredients to curate its delectable Aegean dishes, including stuffed tomato and pepper, baked feta and swiss chard Horta. 4312 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, @mandolinmiami
Mr. Mandolin
Brought to Miami by the same team behind the city's beloved Mandolin Aegean Bistro, Mr. Mandolin's Greek fare presents the same quality ingredients with a casual, street food edge. The eatery brings authenticity and a proper Meditteranean flair to the historical Mimo District, featuring dips, salads, skewers, sides and sweets made in-house daily. Build your own kebab or gyro in a pita, or customize a decadent platter with options like grass-fed beef and zesty chicken served with traditional fixings from tzatziki to a greek salad. 7301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, @mrmandolin
Doya
Drawing inspiration from the greater Mediterranean region and the Middle East, Aegean restaurant Doya brings Meze culture to Wynwood. Based on the principle that food tastes better when shared, the chefs implement only the freshest, top-quality ingredients into its cold and hot meze menu items. With much of its fare prepared purely over wood fire and coals, some of Doya's most sought-after menu items include roasted cauliflower served with tahini, pomegranate and paprika sauce, and grilled Turkish beef sausage topped with cherry tomatoes. 347 NW 24th St, Miami, @doyarestaurant
Kiki on the River
With a live DJ and festive soundtrack on the weekends, Kiki on the River brings Mykonos to Miami through authentic bites and its party-like atmosphere. The stylish waterfront location provides the perfect space for large groups to satiate in chef Rhee's award-winning Greek cuisine. From Greek spreads and dips to lobster pasta and fresh octopus cooked in fat before tenderization, the buzzy restaurant combines Mediterranean quality dining with a festive flair. 450 NW N River Dr, Miami, @kikiontheriver
Joia Beach
Chef duo and brothers Gustavo and Maximiliano Vertone bring five-star cuisine and their signature touch to Miami's only private beachfront restaurant, Joia Beach. From signature dishes like hummus and baba ganoush to an extensive raw bar, the brothers unify classic techniques to meet modern influences at the vibrant waterfront oasis. The menu features fresh fish dishes, including fire-roasted octopus and wood-grilled branzino prepared with a fennel salad. Experience global flavors with Joia's flavorful dishes while sipping on freshly shaken cocktails. 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, @joiabeach
Abba Telavivian Kitchen
Originating from Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, Abba Telavivian Kitchen combines the influences of Tel Aviv and Miami to create delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Inspired by classic Middle Eastern flavors, choose from authentic dishes from a whole zesty branzino to a shawarma spiced wagyu steak. The restaurant provides a perfect atmosphere to dine with friends with its many shareable menu items, including fire-roasted onion tahini and baba ganoush. 864 Commerce St, Miami Beach, @abbaletlv
Motek
Standing as Miami's most coveted fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant serving all-day brunch, dinner and freshly baked goods, transport yourself to the Middle East at Motek. The Israeli Mediterranean eatery elevates casual fare with flavor bursting wraps and sandwiches, from the crispy schnitzel sandwich to a chicken tahini wrap. Serving top-notch burgers, bowls, dips and beyond, the kosher-style restaurant offers a variety of genuine dishes for those seeking five-star cuisine on the go. 36 NE 1st St Suite 132, Miami, @motekcafe
Photography by: Courtesy of Unsplash