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Local cuisine in Miami

Popular dishes and the best restaurants in Miami
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Updated byAnne-Lise Mtyon 04 October 2023

When you set foot in Miami for the first time, be prepared for an epicurean journey like no other. This city offers amazing culinary delights, including both local favourites and international cuisine. From the urban heart of the city to obscure eateries in the outskirts, with a bit of research, you'll be able to find amazing eclectic restaurants and eateries.

As a city that welcomes visitors from all corners of the world, Miami boasts a distinct infusion of Latin and South American influences. The city's dining scene showcases a true diversity of flavours and ingredients. To guide you through this gastronomic adventure, here's a curated list of beloved dishes and standout restaurants.

Chicharron in Miami

A beloved South American dish with a Miami twist, chicharron has captured the hearts of both locals and travellers. This delectable fried pork dish offers a tantalizing range of flavours and combinations. Don't be fooled – not all chicharron creations are the same. For an authentic experience, head to El Palacio De Los Jugos, a renowned restaurant with multiple locations across Miami.

Stone crabs in Miami

Experience a staple of Native American cuisine by feasting on stone crabs, a South Florida delicacy. Delight in the succulent and tender meat served chilled. The stone crab season is best from October to March. For a true stone crab experience, venture to Joe's Stone Crabs, an iconic establishment situated on Miami Beach.

Fish sandwiches in Miami

Miami's coast offers a bounty of seafood, and the fish sandwich is a testament to these rich waters. Choose from an array of fish types, sizes, and preparations. Brace yourself for a feast, as these sandwiches tend to be generously portioned – as do many meals in Florida! Whether you prefer it fried, grilled, or blackened, Garcia's Seafood Grille and Fish and Mahi-Mahi Grouper Sandwiches are excellent choices.

Arepas in Miami

A culinary star in Miami, the arepa has earned its place on the city's food scene. Enjoy this versatile dish with meat, cheese, vegetables, or simply on its own. For an authentic twist, try it with succulent pork and melted cheese or even avocado. Satisfy your arepa craving at La Latina, a popular eatery where you can experience this beloved treat.

Cuban sandwich in Miami

The Cuban sandwich holds a special place in Miami's culinary landscape, thanks to the influence of Cuban nationals in the 19th century. This delicious creation is a delightful fusion of ham, cheese, and tradition. A true emblem of Miami, the Cuban sandwich is a marriage of Cuban bread, roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard, and pickles. The iconic Versailles Restaurant is a go-to for this classic.

While this list only scratches the surface, Miami's culinary offerings are truly limitless. Indulge in the flavours of Churrasco, a fusion of Peruvian and Cuban cuisine, at an Argentinian steakhouse that serves it alongside chimichurri sauce. Relish the tang of Key lime, the comfort of mofongo, and the crispy goodness of fried snapper – all cherished by Miami locals.

Top restaurants in Miami for unforgettable meals:

  • Taquizza, Miami Beach
  • Ghee Indian Kitchen, Kendall
  • Ariete, Coconut Grove
  • Pinch Kitchen, Biscayne Blvd
  • 27 Restaurant, Miami Beach
  • Zuma, Biscayne
  • Ortanique on the Mile, Coral Gables
  • Mandolin Aegean Bistro, Miami Beach
  • Pastis Miami, Winwood
  • Zeru Miami, Brickell
  • Tam Tam, Downtown

Useful links:

Miami Eater

Time Out Miami

The Culture Trip

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

Anne-Lise studied Psychology for 4 years in the UK before finding her way back to Mauritius and being a journalist for 3 years and heading Expat.com's editorial department for 5. She loves politics, books, tea, running, swimming, hiking...

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