My Miami Food Guide: 10 Spots I Keep Going Back To
- Samantha Geist
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Miami is one of those cities where you could try a new restaurant every week and still feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface. Between the Cuban cafés, waterfront dinners, and aesthetic brunch spots, the options are endless, and honestly, a little overwhelming.
After spending time living here and constantly trying new places, these are the spots I keep coming back to, the ones I recommend to friends without hesitation.
Komodo
I was absolutely blown away by Komodo. The interior is stunning- trendy, vibrant, and perfectly on-brand for Miami- and the food truly lives up to the atmosphere. It’s definitely on the higher end price-wise, but the quality matches it. I highly recommend the wagyu dumplings, fried chicken, sushi, and spicy truffle ramen- all incredible.
Carbone & Carbone Vino
This is my most visited restaurant in Miami, and for good reason. Carbone is a classic- the service, ambiance, and overall food quality are unmatched. If you’re looking for an elevated Italian dining experience, this is the place. The entire menu is exceptional, but the Spicy Vodka Rigatoni is a must.
Omakai Sushi
My go-to spot for slightly upscale sushi in Miami. The nigiri is incredibly high quality, the service is great, and the Coconut Grove location is super convenient. It’s perfect for a date night or a more professional dinner setting. I recommend the OMA Deluxe for a well-rounded selection.
Sushi by Scratch
Before anything else, this was by far the most expensive dinner I’ve ever had- and likely ever will- so definitely save it for a truly special occasion. That said, it was also the best sushi I’ve ever had (and yes, I’ve been to Japan).
This is a highly elevated omakase experience, with each piece served individually by multiple chefs. The service is incredibly personalized- you’re seated in a private room with your party- and the entire evening feels intimate and unforgettable. I will genuinely never forget this experience.
Luca Osteria
Exceptionally high-quality Italian food in a more formal setting, located on Miracle Mile. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. The Pasta al Limone and Cacio e Pepe are both outstanding. I was so full by the end of the meal that I didn’t even make it to dessert- which says a lot.
MILA
At MILA, you’re definitely paying for the experience- but the food more than holds its own. This is a quintessential Miami spot, with live entertainment and a beautiful outdoor setting. The atmosphere is unmatched, and while it is on the pricier side, it’s such a fun and memorable night out. Highly recommend the crispy rice, wagyu sushi, and dumplings.
Joe's Stone Crab
Fair warning: my perspective may be slightly biased since I don’t eat crab. That said, my experience at Joe’s was still incredible. The mac & cheese, steak, and bread were all delicious, but the real standout was the apple pie- I’ve genuinely thought about it ever since.
Try to go at an off time, as it gets extremely busy, but the food is excellent and the classic old-Miami atmosphere is something you shouldn’t miss.
Sadelle's
Sadelle’s is a staple for a slightly upscale brunch in Coconut Grove. I’ve been multiple times and have never had a bad experience. The space is super cute (both inside and out), the service is quick, and the food is consistently great. The cheese blintzes are the best I’ve ever had, and the French toast, eggs benedict, bagel tower, and latkes are all equally delicious.
Ariete
Ariete is an incredible French-inspired Michelin-starred restaurant in Coconut Grove. The menu is always evolving, with creative and high-quality dishes. I recommend going during Miami Spice (August–September) to take advantage of a great prix-fixe deal, but it’s a standout dining experience any time of year. A very classy and unique spot.
Koko
Coming from California, I have high standards for Mexican food—but I keep going back to Koko. The queso is unbelievable—rich, gooey, and packed with flavor—and the fish tacos are just as impressive. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a fun, good-vibes, and authentic-feeling Mexican spot in Coconut Grove.
Honorable Mentions: Si Papa, Motek, Bellyfish
What I’ve learned about Miami’s food scene is that it’s less about finding the “best” place and more about finding your places, the ones that fit different moods, moments, and people. This list is mine, but it’s also always evolving.
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