Summer’s gone, and Miami’s restaurant scene is going to pick up again—fast. Don’t let out-of-towners snag these hot tables; make your reservations now.
Casa Isola
Italian cuisine is a dime a dozen in Miami, and few places really stand out. One of those stellar spots is Casa Isola from the team behind the renowned Pubbelly brand. At this cozy South Beach establishment, guests can expect to be wowed by signature pastas like the rigatoni alla vodka and other specialties like mushroom polenta, branzino, and short rib ravioli. There are always specials, too, to keep diners on their toes.
Casa Isola is located at 1418 20th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Costa Med
If a trip to the Mediterranean isn’t feasible right now, then Costa Med is the next best thing. This Key Biscayne gem takes its guests on a culinary adventure that encompasses cuisine from France, Greece, and other European destinations. Enjoy selections like French onion soup, escargots, Greek branzino, chicken rotolato, and octopus carpaccio, all complemented by a fantastic wine list full of hard-to-find favorites. Plus, FREE PARKING!
Costa Med is located at 260 Crandon Boulevard, Suite 46, Key Biscayne, FL 33149. For more information, visit their official website.
COTE Miami
At COTE Miami in the Design District, you’re encouraged to play with your food. Crowds are a common sight at the Korean steakhouse, where reservations are practically required. Those lucky enough to snag a seat will find plenty to like. It’s an interactive experience, so expect to cook most of your meal at your table. Succulent cuts of beef abound, including dry-aged New York strip, ribeye, short rib, and filet mignon. Surprisingly, it’s not too pricey here—you can get a hearty Butcher’s Feast for $58 per person—an awesome deal.
COTE Miami is located at 3900 North Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33127. For more information, visit their official website.
Hiyakawa
At Hiyakawa in Wynwood, an epic Japanese feast awaits. The gorgeous restaurant is home to incredible chef’s tastings that you’ll be thinking about well after your meal; every part of the dining experience is meticulous. To get the best bang for your buck, the omakase is the way to go. That said, a la carte options are available if that’s more your style. Either way, you’re in for a treat.
Hiyakawa is located at 2700 North Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33127. For more information, visit their official website.
Kosushi
Another notable Asian-inspired eatery: Kosushi in South of Fifth. Cold dishes, hot dishes, sushi, sashimi… Kosushi has it all. Highlights on the menu include the crispy tuna rice, salmon aji Amarillo with caviar, wagyu gyoza, and the salmon belly. We recommend visiting in a large group, so everyone can share and you can enjoy everything that the menu has to offer. Can’t decide on what to get? Consider one of the Chef’s Choice menus to eliminate the guesswork.
Kosushi is located at 801 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Osteria Del Teatro
Miami Beach’s Osteria Del Teatro is another great eatery that’s best enjoyed in a large group. The menu at this Ocean Drive Italian spot is huge and packed with proteins, pastas, and the kitchen sink. Begin your dining experience with delectable delights such as eggplant parm and fish soup and then dive face first into the crab pappardelle, veal scallopini, and wild ahi tuna. Do your research beforehand and study the verbal menu on their website so you can impress your friends.
Osteria Del Teatro is located at 1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Peacock Garden
Peacock Garden in Coconut Grove is a locals spot through and through. The “secret” eatery is easy to miss; you can’t really see any of it from the street except for a sign. But if you manage to find yourself at this neighborhood hangout, you’re going to love your time here. There’s no one cuisine that makes up most of the menu; it’s a grab bag of tasty selections that has something for everyone—and it works. If you want seafood, they have a ton. Like pastas? They got them, too. Salads? You betcha. Don’t even think about visiting without a reservation—it’s always busy.
Peacock Garden is located at 2889 McFarlane Road, Miami, FL 33133. For more information, visit their official website.
RED South Beach
When it comes to great steaks, RED South Beach always hits the spot. The South of Fifth institution is known for its meats, but there’s more than meets the eye here. Not only will you find c.a.b. prime filet mignon, bone-in rib eye, and porterhouse, but you’ll find a wealth of delicious non-meat specialties as well. Some of our favorites: tuna tataki, red Alaskan king crab, four-cheese mac and cheese, truffle pasta, and lemon garlic shrimp.
Red South Beach is located at 801 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
