The Mexican on Brickell Key
ANTONIO CUELLAR PHOTOGRAPHY
Millions of soccer fans are expected to descend on South Florida for the FIFA World Cup, bringing with them flags, jerseys, and plenty of opinions about football. Between matches, however, they’ll face another important decision and that’s where to eat.
Fortunately, Miami’s dining scene is as international as the tournament itself. Influenced by Cuba, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond, the city has evolved into one of America’s most exciting food destinations. From century-old institutions and waterfront seafood spots to design-forward dining rooms and flashy newcomers, these restaurants offer a bold taste of what makes Miami unique.
If you’re coming to town for the World Cup, make room between matches for these essential meals.
Joe’s Stone Crab
No restaurant is more synonymous with Miami than Joe’s Stone Crab. Open since 1913, the South Beach institution has welcomed everyone from presidents and celebrities to generations of local families. While it’s not exactly stone crab season, there are still plenty of them available. You’ll also wnat to make sure to order the legendary hash browns, fried chicken, and key lime pie. A meal here comes with old school hospitality, career waitstaff, and a fun glimpse into the Miami that existed long before luxury towers and rooftop lounges transformed the skyline.
Versailles
If Joe’s is Miami’s most famous restaurant, Versailles may be number two. The Little Havana landmark has served as the unofficial gathering place for Miami’s Cuban community for more than five decades. Order a Cuban sandwich, croquetas, a medianoche, and a cafecito before strolling Calle Ocho.
La Camaronera
For a more casual vibe, you’ll want to visit La Camaronera, which is one of Miami’s greatest local treasures. Founded by Cuban fishermen who arrived during the Mariel boatlift, the restaurant is best known for its iconic pan con minuta, a fried fish sandwich that has achieved cult status among locals and visitors for decades.
Pan con Minuta snapper sandwich at La Camaronera Restaurant & Fish Market
Giovanny GutierrezMacchialina
Miami has no shortage of Italian restaurants, but Macchialina remains the one locals return to again and again. The cozy South Beach staple built its reputation on impeccably executed handmade pasta, seasonal ingredients, and bold, rustic flavors that let each component shine. Signature dishes like the cavatelli Macchialina made with pork ragu, burnt onion, and pecorino have become essential Miami dining experiences, while rotating specials ensure there’s always something new to discover.
COTE Miami
Part Korean steakhouse, part luxury dining experience, COTE has become one of the hottest reservations in Miami. The Michelin-starred restaurant combines premium cuts of beef, tableside grilling, and a lively atmosphere. The Butcher’s Feast remains one of the best introductions to the menu and a favorite among first-time visitors. This prix-fixe experience features a chef-selected progression of premium USDA Prime and American Wagyu beef cuts that are grilled tableside, accompanied by an endless spread of banchan, savory egg soufflé, red leaf lettuce wraps, and other Korean steakhouse accompaniments.
The Joyce
This intimate 45-seat restaurant is another Miami Beach favorite where you’ll experience fine dining in a more relaxed setting and an entirely seed-oil-free kitchen. Signature dishes include the Joyce burger, caviar & latkes, Chicago cut ribeye, and French dip sandwich. The wine program is equally impressive. Recently named Best Medium-Sized Wine List in Florida by Star Wine List, the restaurant’s cellar includes approximately 1,200 bottles across more than 500 selections, with a focus on classic European regions. During the World Cup, guests can even catch marquee matches from within the speakeasy-inspired dining room, making it one of the city’s most sophisticated game day dining options.
The ultimate spread at Sunny’s Steakhouse
Cleveland JenningsSunny’s Steakhouse
Part outdoor garden party, part steakhouse, Sunny’s has become one of Miami’s most loved restaurants. Originally launched as a temporary pandemic-era concept, the restaurant developed such a devoted following that it returned permanently with a major makeover. The sprawling outdoor setting, excellent steaks, ice cold martinis and lively atmosphere make it and absolute must-visit. Reservations may be tough to snag, but the sprawling outdoor terrace and sultry indoor bar are both first come, first serve and offer a special experience in their own right.
Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market
Perched along the Miami River, Garcia’s captures a version of old Miami that is increasingly difficult to find. Commercial fishing boats still unload fresh catch nearby while diners enjoy seafood overlooking the water. Order whatever fish is freshest that day, grab a cold drink, and settle in for one of the city’s most authentic waterfront meals and views of the city’s stunning skyline.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro
Housed inside a charming 1940s bungalow in the Design District, Mandolin is another must-visit Miami restaurant. The blue-and-white setting evokes a Greek island escape, while the menu celebrates Turkish and Greek flavors through grilled seafood, dips, salads, and kebabs. Equal parts neighborhood favorite and international destination, it perfectly embodies Miami’s laid-back sophistication.
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
Long before the Design District became a luxury shopping destination, Michael Schwartz helped put the neighborhood on the culinary map. Michael’s Genuine opened in 2007 and helped usher in Miami’s farm-to-table movement. Nearly two decades later, it remains one of the city’s most influential restaurants, serving seasonal dishes (hey mango season!) that showcase South Florida’s ingredients while maintaining the warm hospitality that made it a hit from the beginning. If you’re looking for that perfect meal between lunch and dinner or just want to pop in for happy hour — this is the place to do it.
Red Snapper Crudo served with local mango, basil, coconut milk, fermented chile oil and mango crisp
Michael’s Genuine Sanguich de Miami
Miami takes its Cuban sandwiches seriously, and few places have earned more praise than Sanguich. Everything is made with obsessive attention to detail, from the house-roasted pork and cured ham to the freshly baked bread and housemade pickles. The result is a sandwich shop that honors Cuban tradition while elevating it. For visitors looking for a quick lunch between matches, this is an essential stop.
China Grill
Few restaurant openings this year carry as much historical significance as China Grill. This iconic restaurant just debuted at Bal Harbour Shops after more than a decade away. The restaurant returns to Miami with the same bold, shareable energy that helped make it one of South Beach’s most influential dining destinations in the 1990s. Signature dishes making a comeback include Lobster Pancakes, Lamb Spare Ribs, Tempura Sashimi, Spicy Beef Dumplings, Confucius Chicken Salad, Crispy Spinach, and Bananas in a Box. Designed around communal dining and celebratory meals, China Grill feels particularly fitting for a city preparing to welcome the world.
Buccan Sandwich Shop
One of Miami’s most talked about recent openings comes courtesy of chef Clay Conley, whose Palm Beach flagship Buccan has long been considered one of Florida’s most influential restaurants. Located on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, Buccan Sandwich Shop brings several cult favorites south, including the viral Beef Carpaccio Sandwich layered with arugula, parmesan, crispy onions, balsamic onions, mayo, and lemon vinaigrette on a crusty baguette. It’s the kind of lunch spot worth building an afternoon around. The boxed lunch option is a steal for $25 featuring a sandwich, housemade chips, cookie, a pickle, and a drink.
Sparrow
Wynwood’s Sparrow Italia has transformed into Sparrow Amalfi, an immersive seasonal pop-up inspired by the cliffside villages of Positano and Ravello. In addition to its usually Italian steakhouse-style menu, this summer it’s embracing the flavors of southern Italy through limited-time dishes including chili crab linguine brightened with lemon zest, seafood risotto, bruschetta pizza, and eggplant fritters finished with fennel pollen. Italian-inspired cocktails such as the Ol’ Blue Eyes—a combination of Grey Goose, St-Germain, lemon sorbet, gelato, and prosecco—further reinforce the Mediterranean escape. Each evening, Sparrow’s house band performs a new set of reimagined Italian classics, creating an atmosphere that feels less like dinner in Wynwood and more like a summer holiday.
The Mexican
The Mexican is another newer option for those looking to check out what’s hot in Miami right now. Located on Brickell Key in a spectacular waterfront setting overlooking Biscayne Bay, it was recognized by Prix Versailles, the UNESCO-backed architecture and design award, as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants, the space is every bit as impressive as the food. The menu showcases contemporary Northern and coastal Mexican cuisine through dishes like ribeye aguachile, barbacoa de arrachera, and lobster elote. Between the dramatic design, waterfront views, and elevated hospitality, it has quickly emerged as one of the city’s most exciting reservations.
Enjoy waterfront views and the ability to arrive by boat
Bagatelle Miami RiverBagatelle Miami River
For visitors looking to experience Miami beyond the stadium, Bagatelle Miami River delivers the city’s signature combination of waterfront glamour, international flair, and high-energy hospitality. Located along the Miami River, the French Mediterranean restaurant pairs skyline views with a lively indoor-outdoor atmosphere that evolves throughout the day. The restaurant features a 192-foot private dock, allowing guests to arrive by boat and step directly into the action.