A Pocket Guide To Miami

Miami’s dining scene is as diverse as you’d expect – from buzzy Latin restaurants to relaxed neighbourhood spots, there’s something for everyone. Book ahead to secure a table at Sunny’s, one of the city’s hottest restaurants right now. Having recently reopened after a slick renovation, guests can now sit on the terrace with its twinkling lights, or nab a table in the main dining room, complete with smart interiors and dim lighting. Steaks, caesar salads, grilled seafood and fresh pasta are served with generous sides and crowd-pleasing cocktails. Another newcomer to know is Shiso, which bills itself as an ‘Asian smokehouse’. With its industrial-chic interiors (think graffitied walls contrasted with contemporary lighting), diners come here for sushi and live music from DJs. Other dishes from the menu are cooked over hot grills – think ribeye steak with corn bread and broccolini.

Another fail-safe choice is Blue Ribbon Sushi (the group has various sites around the US) where sushi platters feature classic hand rolls and sashimi with less traditional offerings of spicy lobster rolls and fried oysters. Then there’s Maty’s, a buzzy Peruvian restaurant where you can enjoy salads, ceviches and street food-inspired dishes in its light and airy dining room. There’s a daily happy hour from 5pm to 7pm, too.  You should also bookmark Osaka (which also has outposts in locations like São Paulo and Bogota). This Peruvian-Japanese restaurant serves some of the best food in the city, with flavoursome, beautifully presented dishes like zingy ceviches, tiraditos and nigiri with miso lobster, wagyu beef and more. 

Over in Downtown Miami, Vietnamese restaurant Tâm Tâm has a similar vibe, but with a slightly more laidback atmosphere. Now one of the most popular spots in the city, what began as a pop-up is now a cool brick-and-mortar restaurant with a Michelin Bib Gourmand to its name. Visit for dishes like shrimp crudo, tamarind glazed ribs, goat curry and grilled whole fish. 

For Italian-inspired dishes head to Boia De by Buena Vista. The restaurant holds a Michelin star, but the atmosphere is relaxed, and guests are treated to hearty, but delicately presented, plates like oxtail ravioli, crispy polenta with ricotta and rabbit pappardelle. There’s a nice low-ABV cocktail list, as well as an extensive wine selection. During a long weekend, you’ll also want to book a table at Mandolin, a bistro with a menu inspired by the coastal towns of Greece and Turkey. Housed in a restored 1940s home with a beautiful garden and outdoor patio, the restaurant showcases local ingredients and Aegean techniques, with mezes, large sharing salads, flatbreads and seafood dishes like lobster orzo all on offer. 

When you’re after a quick lunch or afternoon snack, visit Miami Slice, one of the city’s best pizza spots. NYC-style slices and pizza pies are served with flavoursome dips, like hot honey or three cheese. Meanwhile, Zak The Baker is a kosher bakery and café that makes traditional artisan breads using natural leavens. You can stop here for lunch or order a flaky pastry or glazed doughnut from its counter of ever-changing goods. 

You’ll also find great pizza at La Natural, a contemporary restaurant and wine bar in Little River. There’s more of an upmarket feel here, though guests can drop in for snacks and a glass or two of natural or low-intervention wine. Then there’s Cafe La Trova, a Miami institution in Little Havana. The Cuban restaurant and cocktail bar celebrates the rich culture of Cuba through its authentic Latin dishes, zesty cocktails and live music performances. The space is filled with colourful decor, retro furnishings and vintage Cuban memorabilia. Terras is another fun spot for drinks. This rooftop bar has great city views and is filled with tropical plants and greenery. You can then continue the night at Ray’s Hometown Bar or Miami Sound Bar, both of which offer live music, themed nights and flowing cocktails.