By: Alexa Shabinsky By: Alexa Shabinsky | December 7, 2021 | Food & Drink Feature
Miami has become a culinary powerhouse, bringing some of the best restaurants and chefs to the Magic City. With the recent announcement of the Michelin Guide coming to Miami, there is no doubt that the culinary scene in this city is soaring.
From Italian to omakase, brunch and steakhouses, the Miami restaurant scene has it all. From north to south, we have put together the ultimate list of the best restaurants to try in Miami in 2022.
5205 NE 2nd Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Funky modern
Why You Need To Dine Here: From natural wine to delicious and unique dishes, Boia De’s boutique restaurant is a go-to and the Crispy Polenta is a must-order.
Pro Tip: Be sure to stop by for lunch and take part in Sando-Sundays, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekly.
19999 W Country Club Dr. / Website
The Cuisine: Steakhouse
The Atmosphere: Upscale fine dining
Why You Need To Dine Here: Bourbon Steak is a carnivore’s dream, widely known for its Butter-Poached steaks and duck fat fries.
49 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Mid-century Miami glamour
Why You Need To Dine Here: Carbone is the place to see and be seen, and if you’re not ordering the Spicy Vodka Rigatoni and Veal Parmesan you’re doing it wrong.
Pro Tip: Reservations open on Resy 30 days in advance so be sure to have those notifications on to secure one of the hardest reservations in the city.
1700 James Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Intimate and welcoming
Why You Need To Dine Here: From the lush outdoor patios to the intimate dining rooms, Casa Tua is a go-to date night location. Its old-school charm and fresh Italian fare complement each other for the perfect evening.
See also: Bagatelle Set To Reopen At Brand New South Beach Location
919 Collins Ct. / Website
The Cuisine: Seafood and Raw Bar
The Atmosphere: Vibrant lounge vibes
Why You Need To Dine Here: This restaurant combines the flavors of Puerto Escondido, Los Cabos, Acapulco and more, in a delicious, seafood-centric menu.
3900 NE 2nd Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Korean Barbeque
The Atmosphere: Vibrant bringing together Korean BBQ elements with an American steakhouse
Why You Need To Dine Here: COTE has some of the best quality of beef in the city, serving a variety of American Wagyu, Japanese A5 Wagyu and USDA Prime cuts. Not only is this restaurant delicious but it is an interactive experience for everyone.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip out on the Korean "Bacon", it is a must.
1035 N Miami Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Fast Casual Italian
The Atmosphere: Modern-day pizzeria
Why You Need To Dine Here: New Yorkers, we get it you miss your pizza. But don’t worry, Eleventh Street Pizza is some of the most authentic New York-style pizza, in the heart of Miami.
730 1st St. / Website
The Cuisine: Greek
The Atmosphere: Classic and elegant
Why You Need To Dine Here: The Greek Salad and the Milos Special of fried zucchini and eggplant are worth the trip to Estiatorio Milos.
Pro Tip: This is one of the best prix fixe lunch menus in Miami, available Monday through Friday.
150 Ocean Dr. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Elegant and romantic
Why You Need To Dine Here: Forte dei Marmi is the quintessential date-night location, with absolutely phenomenal food.
Pro Tip: The Truffle Cacio e Pepe is a must-order and served tableside in a pecorino cheese wheel.
313 NW 25th St. / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Elevated omakase
Why You Need To Dine Here: Hidden only seats 8 guests, making it one of the most intimate and elevated restaurants in Miami. The eight to ten-course Chef’s menu features top-level omakase which includes hot and cold dishes, sushi and dessert. Not to mention, their dishes are served in the most beautiful and unique glassware.
2700 N Miami Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Contemporary
Why You Need To Dine Here: Offering some of the highest quality fish from around the world, Hiyakawa is a culinary oasis with every course.
335 S Biscayne Blvd. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Refined fine dining
Why You Need To Dine Here: Il Gabbiano is a staple Miami Italian spot. Not only is the food delicious, but the views looking over the open bay and Miami River are unbeatable and a prime date night location.
Pro Tip: The lobster ravioli is a fan favorite.
2001 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Indian and Asian
The Atmosphere: Trendy modern
Why You Need To Dine Here: Jaya’s ambiance is unmatched. Located in the courtyard of The Setai, this fusion-fuelled restaurant provides impeccable cuisine and entertainment. Throughout the evening performers put on an amazing fire show to complement your meal.
Pro Tip: Ask to be seated outdoors.
11 Washington Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Seafood
The Atmosphere: Classic, old-school Miami
Why You Need To Dine Here: Joe’s is one of the most historic restaurants in Miami. From the stone crab claws to the fried chicken, this is one of the best menus in Miami. But, be sure to save room for dessert to indulge in one of the most delicious key lime pies.
Pro Tip: If you’re not in the mood for a sit-down dinner, enjoy all the classics at Joe’s Takeaway.
801 Brickell Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Southeast Asian fusion
The Atmosphere: Swanky and stylish
Why You Need To Dine Here: David Grutman has mastered the art of hospitality at this Brickell hotspot and there is no doubt you'll see a celebrity dining here. Crowd favorites include the Wagyu Skirt Steak Tacos, Miso Chilean Seabass Skewers and Peking Duck.
Pro Tip: Check out the upstairs lounge after dinner and dance the night away.
251 NW 25th St. / Website
The Cuisine: Wood-Fired Asian Grill
The Atmosphere: Contemporary Asian eatery
Why You Need To Dine Here: This is by far one of the most creative menus in Miami. Famed menu items include Korean Fried Chicken, Roasted Cauliflower and Beef Short Ribs.
Pro Tip: Dessert is a must at KYU and the Coconut Cake is known to pair deliciously with MIO sparkling sake.
9700 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: French
The Atmosphere: Authentic French brasserie
Why You Need To Dine Here: Dining at Le Zoo transports you to Europe, dining alongside the bustling streets of Paris. The menu stays true to its Parisian influence with star items including the Prestige Plateau with oysters, clams, mussels, lobster, shrimp, king crab, dressed crab salad, crown russian ossetra caviar and the Steak Frites.
9011 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Coastal Italian
The Atmosphere: Sophisticated oceanfront dining
Why You Need To Dine Here: Located in the beautiful Four Seasons Surfside, this menu boasts delicious and fresh coastal Italian cuisine, in an unmatched ambiance. Look out alongside the beaches as you indulge in beloved menu items including some simple classics like the Margherita pizza and a variety of pasta dishes.
Pro Tip: The terrace is dog-friendly and makes for the perfect afternoon lunch spot with your pup.
3201 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Argentinean steakhouse
The Atmosphere: Vibrant contemporary
Why You Need To Dine Here: With an emphasis on distinct flavors, this menu combines sauces, herbs and spices to create the utmost perfect dishes. With an open-fire kitchen and a focus on local ingredients, Argentine grillmaster Francis Mallmann has molded this restaurant into a culinary haven.
1300 Brickell Bay Dr. / Website
The Cuisine: French-Mediterranean
The Atmosphere: Upscale
Why You Need To Dine Here: This menu is filled with a variety of light dishes which are absolutely delicious and keep you full. The homemade pasta is a must-order.
Pro Tip: The tomatoes on the table aren’t just decor, be sure to slice them up and eat between courses.
1930 Bay Rd. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Casual pizzeria
Why You Need To Dine Here: Their tagline, “Enjoy a slice of Brooklyn” says it all. This Brooklyn-style pizza is a classic in Miami for takeout or dine-in at their cute and casual Sunset Harbour restaurant.
Pro Tip: The Classic House Salad is an essential order alongside many pies.
820 Alton Rd. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Rustic and cozy
Why You Need To Dine Here: When walking into Macchialina, you'll forget you're in Miami. This cozy Italian spot has all of the best fresh pasta dishes and a killer environment; the recipe for a perfect date night.
9700 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Upscale modern
Why You Need To Dine Here: Makoto’s ambiance combined with its fresh sushi and beef dishes has won Miami foodies over. This restaurant is most definitely a cult favorite, and most popular for dishes including the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, a5 Wagyu Strip and the wide range of Sushi and Sashimi options.
4312 NE 2nd Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Greek
The Atmosphere: Inviting and homey
Why You Need To Dine Here: Mandolin lives up to its hype. The Greek Salad and Greek Sampler with tzatziki, olive and tirokafteri are go-to orders.
Pro Tip: A reservation is a must and Mandolin Aegean Bistro books weeks in advance, so be sure to turn on Resy notifications.
130 NE 40th St. / Website
The Cuisine: American
The Atmosphere: Neighborhood bistro
Why You Need To Dine Here: Following a four-month-long renovation, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink is officially back. The new and improved menu offers so many of the restaurant's beloved dishes such as Stracciatella, Wood Oven Roasted Octopus and Pan Roasted Poulet Rouge as well as many new delicious additions.
1636 Meridian Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: MediterrAsian
The Atmosphere: Trendy
Why You Need To Dine Here: MILA’s ambiance and cuisine is the addition to the culinary scene Miami needed. After opening in the winter of 2020, the restaurant has quickly become a favorite with menu highlights such as Tuna tartare and ‘Shawarma’ Wagyu Gyoza.
Pro Tip: Sunday Brunch is a must, with unlimited cocktails and a large set menu.
1300 Brickell Bay Dr. / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Vibrant yet cozy
Why You Need To Dine Here: A culinary experience like no other, Osaka is the perfect place to indulge in the sushi and sashimi you love, while also trying a variety of new dishes. The menu combines Peruvian ingredients with Japanese techniques creating a unique take on every dish.
112 Ocean Dr. / Website
The Cuisine: Steakhouse
The Atmosphere: Hip yet sophisticated
Why You Need To Dine Here: Prime 112 has been a staple in Miami since 2004. Their modern take on a traditional steakhouse is the perfect vibe, bringing together a good atmosphere with delicious cuts of meat.
Pro Tip: Save room for dessert, these cakes are next level.
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3111 Grand Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian Seafood
The Atmosphere: Charming
Why You Need To Dine Here: Not only is the interior of this restaurant designed to mimic a boat, but its cuisine takes you to Capri, looking over across the beautiful blue sea.
Pro Tip: The off-menu Cacio e Pepe is a mandatory Sapore di Mare order, served in a cheese wheel.
9011 Collins Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: American
The Atmosphere: Elegant
Why You Need To Dine Here: Chef Thomas Keller has created perfection with this menu and atmosphere. This is the perfect date night location or place to celebrate an exciting milestone.
3555 SW 8th St. / Website
The Cuisine: Cuban
The Atmosphere: Casual authentic Cuban spot
Why You Need To Dine Here: Coined, “The Worlds Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” Versailles is part of Miami’s DNA. Be sure to try some of the Cuban classics including the Our Famous Cuban Sandwich, Ropa Vieja and of course, a cup of Café con Leche.
162 Alcazar Ave. / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Elegant yet modern
Why You Need To Dine Here: With a wide variety of homemade pasta, there is no doubt you’ll fall in love with every dish you order. From homemade ravioli to a perfectly cooked filet mignon, you'll be running back to Coral Gables for another top-notch Italian dinner very quickly.
270 Biscayne Blvd Way / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Minimalist
Why You Need To Dine Here: Zuma Miami is a very special outpost for the Zuma family, as the restaurant's first-ever U.S. location. Since, Zuma Miami has garnered much love through its delicious cuisine including shared dishes, sushi and of course, its famed Sunday brunch.
Photography by: Courtesy STARR Restaurants
