8 Great Restaurants to Try in Miami, Florida
In dining and in life, trends come and go, but the classics will always have staying power. And it’s no different in Miami and South Florida, where just about every cuisine is well represented. Countless restaurants showcase a variety of dining experiences that range anywhere from affordable and delicious to well-respected and revered. For example: Spots like Joe’s Stone Crab are known amongst seafood lovers across the country, while alternative spots like Cafe Boulud have a huge reputation in terms of steak. No matter what type of food you’re looking for, though, we’re sure you’ll find it in Miami and South Florida – following, you’ll find a guide to ten of these areas’ most classic and essential spots.
2901 Florida Ave.
Luckily for us, this popular Indian restaurant has moved to a new and improved—and bigger—location. On any given day, it’s bound to be moderately crowded, but don’t let that stop you from visiting Bombay Darbar. People from long and far flock here to try classic dishes like lamb vindaloo and crab samosas. And let’s not forget the mango lassis.
11 Washington Ave.
If you’ve visited a good amount of cities, you’ve probably heard of Joe’s Stone Crab. This locale basically speaks for itself, and it’s one of the best seafood locations in Miami. It’s home of the original Miami power lunch, and you’ll usually find it swarmed with people all looking for their fix. (Although if crowds turn you off, you can always order takeout.) Try the King Crab legs or sea scallops to see why people make pilgrimages here.
251 NW 25th St.
KYU is a very unique combination of Asian fare with a barbecue twist. You definitely won’t find dishes like duck burnt “sushi ends” and crunchy hamachi tartare anywhere else. This by itself is one of the biggest reasons you should visit KYU. Check out the happy hour in the bar and lounge from 4:30 to 7:30PM, and don’t even try to leave without ordering the coconut cake for dessert.
1930 Bay Road
Imported from Brooklyn, Lucali has been a hit ever since it reached Miami’s shores. The homemade pizzas and calzones are to die for, thanks to hand-kneaded dough and an old-school wooden oven. This isn’t a fancy type of Italian eatery though, so the intimidation factor is very low. Just sit back and enjoy the affordable simplicity, in addition to some of the freshest ingredients in town.
102401 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo
A trip down to the Keys would be incomplete without a visit to The Fish House. The restaurant has local seafood like yellowtail snapper, stone crabs, and Florida lobster to sample. It’s perfect for large families, and you can still enjoy some seafood even if you have to take it on the run. A popular takeout dish is the conch salad, but order the trio platter and you’ll definitely be stuffed, not to mention satisfied as well.
21 SW 7th St., Fort Lauderdale
Don’t let its small space fool you, because Hardy Park Bistro absolutely packs a punch. Staples here include dishes like the HPB Burger or the hoisin-glazed duck, but the menu is always changing. WIth the exception of the aforementioned mainstays, you never really know what you’ll get. Be sure to check the chalkboard at the Bistro upon arrival to check its daily menu.
301 Australian Ave., Palm Beach
From the owner of DB Bistro Moderne in Miami, Cafe Boulud’s space inside the Brazilian Court Hotel is as decadent as its dishes. Don’t let the location scare you away from trying one of the best restaurants in Palm Beach. Sit outside and dine in a fancy courtyard, surrounded by fountains and gorgeous landscaping. The menu is surprisingly simple: Either fresh seafood or a selection of savory meats like the NY aged strip. Heads up: The prix fixe menu is $48 Sunday-Thursday.
1313 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
There’s a lot of ways you can spend a day in Fort Lauderdale. One of the most appealing ways is slinging back tacos and margaritas at Rocco’s Tacos. No matter which location you’re visiting (including five more in FLA and an outpost in BK) you’re guaranteed great service and fresh guacamole. Get there between 4 and 7PM for happy hour, and enjoy $2 off all drinks and other menu items for just $7.