MIAMI, FL - South Beach is a haven for food lovers, boasting an impressive selection of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you're looking for a Miami twist on Italian cuisine at Carbone, indulgent steaks at RED South Beach, flavorful Israeli dishes at Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen, or mouthwatering Italian fare at Prime Italian, SoFi offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and occasions. These restaurants are all worth a visit to experience the vibrant food scene that Miami has to offer.
Where to Eat in South Beach Miami
1. Osteria Morini
Osteria Morini, situated inside the Kimpton Palomar South Beach, serves cuisine from Northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. Dishes like seafood salad, prosciutto, mortadella meatballs, truffled ricotta ravioli with prosciutto, red wine-braised octopus, and grilled New York strip steak are popular.
2. Stubborn Seed
One standout establishment is Stubborn Seed, a culinary gem led by the talented Jeremy Ford, winner of Top Chef. This restaurant seamlessly blends comfort and culinary excellence, offering a seasonal menu that showcases regionally inspired dishes. Think mouth-watering combinations like local tomatoes paired with foie gras "snow" and ginger and chili-steamed walu. With its innovative flavors and artful presentation, it's no surprise that Stubborn Seed ranks as the best restaurant in South Beach.
3. Casa Isola Osteria
Casa Isola Osteria, located in Sunset Harbour, offers Italian dishes with a nod to chef Santo Angello's childhood. Highlights include prosciutto bread with parmesan honey butter, burrata Panzanella, veal chop parmigiana, braised lamb ragu, and short rib and taleggio cheese ravioli.
4. Lucali
Lucali, an NYC import, has been a Miami favorite for nearly a decade. Handmade dough is crafted into thin sheets using wine bottles before being baked in a wooden oven. Simple yet delicious, Lucali's pizzas and calzones feature top-quality ingredients.
5. True Loaf Bakery
True Loaf Bakery showcases owner Tomas Strulovic's baking skills, cultivated after leaving a finance career. The bakery is known for its exceptional croissants and picture-perfect pastries.
6. Carbone
Located in Miami, Carbone is a restaurant that originated in New York City and offers a unique twist on classic Italian cuisine. As guests enter the doors, they are greeted with an elegant and Miami-inspired décor. With palm frond arrangements adorning the walls and crystal chandeliers casting a soft glow, the atmosphere perfectly captures the city's vibrant energy. It is often seen as a status symbol to have dined at Carbone, making it the perfect place to celebrate special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.
7. RED South Beach
For those who love meat, RED South Beach is a paradise waiting to be explored. This restaurant offers a variety of perfectly cooked steaks that satisfy even the most discerning palates. Accompanied by delectable sides like creamy mashed potatoes and indulgent macaroni and cheese, a meal at RED is an experience worth splurging on. Additionally, RED offers an exceptional rotating Miami Spice menu, allowing guests to sample different culinary creations.
8. Sushi Bar
Sushi Bar Miami Beach, located inside the Esme Hotel, offers a unique omakase experience led by Chef Ambrely Ouimette. Known for its contemporary nigiri, the 17-course meal features ferments, salts, and unique condiments. The menu changes daily, but standout items include aged bluefin akami with dehydrated red miso and everything bagel spice, as well as Hokkaido scallop with white truffle salt, shaved black truffle, and spherified truffle caviar.
9. Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen
Located beneath magenta bougainvilleas, Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen is a SoFi hotspot owned by the same group as Pura Vida. This restaurant offers flavorful Israeli cuisine that is a feast for the senses. Whether you visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can expect dishes such as avo egg feta open-faced toast and authentic shakshuka that will transport you to the streets of Tel Aviv. For a quick and delicious brunch on the go, grab one of their buttery egg and feta burekas and head to nearby South Pointe Park for a scenic picnic.
10. South of Fifth (SoFi)
While Prime Italian may not be the trendiest restaurant in South of Fifth (SoFi), it consistently delivers mouthwatering Italian fare that keeps diners returning for more. Their menu features classic dishes such as chicken parmesan, meatballs, and Chilean sea bass that are expertly prepared and never disappoint. One standout option is their namesake chopped salad, which is perfect for those who enjoy sharing plates with their dining companions.
