Since Miami’s boom in popularity over the last couple of years, the dining scene in the city has rapidly evolved, making it difficult to get a table at some of the most coveted restaurants. From Magic City classics, to some of New York City’s hottest restaurants touching down in Miami, dining without an in is getting tougher and tougher. From brunch to dinner, Miami has a distinct few restaurants that are by far the hardest reservations and most sought-after experiences.
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49 Collins Ave. Miami Beach / @majorfoodgroup
Since opening its doors, Carbone has been one of the most sought-after reservations in all of Miami. The Italian powerhouse restaurant is popular for its delicious food but also its amazing atmosphere. Reservations open up on Resy 30 days in advance, with options for outdoor patio seating or indoor seating. Without a doubt these reservations book up in the morning, so mark your calendars and set your alarms if you plan to attempt to dine at one of the most desirable restaurants in town.
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1737 N Bayshore Dr., Miami, @casadonnamiami
As one of David Grutman’s newest Miami additions, getting a reservation at this majestic coastal Italian-inspired spot is a coveted opportunity. You’ll need to make reservations more than a month ahead if you want to dine at this picturesque destination. Thanks to Groot and Tao’s talented team of chefs, the menu transports its diners far beyond Miami into Italy with housemade pasta, a crudo bar and a highly curated wine list.
1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, @raosmiamibeach
New York’s famed Italian eatery is one of the city’s most exclusive spots, and now the legendary red sauce hot spot is part of Miami Beach’s coveted dining scene. But set your Resy notifications if you hope to enjoy the coveted Italian dishes. Reservations fill up fast, with the only available times at 10 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. if you’re lucky enough to secure a spot. Located inside the Loews Hotel Miami Beach, the wait is definitely worth it, with dishes honoring Rao’s rich history.
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3900 NE Second Ave., Miami, @cotemiami
This Michelin-starred and James Beach Award-nominated Korean steakhouse is a Miami staple for a reason. Known for combining Korean barbecue with the regality of a classic American steakhouse, COTE’s signature dishes prove to be a mouthwatering delight. Dinner is the prime spot, and reservations go until midnight, but don’t worry– COTE also offers lunchtime reservations, so you won’t need to wait too long.
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Shrouded in mystery, Hiden is inspired by the small omakase restaurants in Japan. With only eight seats per seating time, reservations can only be made through an exclusive website and must be paid beforehand. With selected items flown from Japan, the speakeasy-style restaurant is a one-of-a-kind experience. @hidenmiami
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5205 NE Second Ave., @boiaderestaurant
Chefs Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer created a modern Italian destination with all the charm and a menu that encourages sharing. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a Miami staple, but it takes work to secure a reservation. Turn on your Resy notifications since spots open up only a month ahead and fill up quickly. 5205 NE Second Ave., @boiaderestaurant
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301 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, @delilahmiami
With its star-studded event during Miami Art Week, The h. Wood Group’s Miami-based Delilah is set to become the city’s go-to hospitality oasis. With menu items from chicken fingers to caviar, Delilah operates as more than a restaurant, featuring a strong mix of delicious food paired with live music. With reservations opening on Dec. 15, Delilah is a must-stop during any night out.
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4312 NE 2nd Ave. / @mandolinmiami
The Miami classic restaurant used to be simple to get a reservation, but recently Mandolin has been one of the hardest in the city. While indoor seating is available on a first-come-first-serve basis, outdoor seating is where you want to be. Taking reservations on Resy up to three months in advance, this is a restaurant you should always be checking back on. Mandolin’s insider tip on the ultimate no-wait no-reservation is to try and come to the restaurant at around 4 or 5 p.m. since the restaurant doesn’t close its doors between lunch and dinner, this is an optimal time to try and snag one of their coveted tables.
See also: The 5 Best Omakase Menus Under $100 In Miami
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3321 Mary St. / @majorfoodgroup
Similar to Major Food Group’s other bespoke restaurants, grabbing a table at the newly opened, Sadelle's Coconut Grove is a feat! During the weekdays it's not too difficult, but Saturday and Sunday’s prime-time brunch is. Turn on those Resy notifications and secure your seat for a weekend of bagel towers, lox, decadent french toast and beautifully chopped salads.
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1636 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach / @milarestaurants
As one of Miami’s most popular restaurants, it is no surprise that MILA has become a tough reservation to secure. From weekend brunch to weekday dinners, the Miami community has learned to love MILA, from its delicious cuisine to its killer atmosphere. If you’re looking to eat dinner past 6 p.m., there is no doubt you have to plan your next dine at MILA at least two weeks in advance.
Photography by: Courtesy Mandolin Miami
