The 5 Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Miami
Miami’s culinary scene is rich with Mediterranean influences, offering no shortage of flavors from across the region. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Turkish fare or Israeli delights, these five standout spots bring the best of the Med to the Magic City.
Aba
Step into Aba at Bal Harbour Shops, where the Mediterranean flavors are as stunning as the surroundings. This upscale restaurant offers a refined take on Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes like halibut piccata, house-made stracciatella, truffle-baked orzo, and sticky date cake. With its lush decor and sophisticated vibe, Aba is ideal for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Aba is located at 9700 Collins Ave # 101, Bal Harbour, FL 33154. For more information, visit their official website.
Costa Med
Costa Med, a Mediterranean bistro tucked away in Key Biscayne, offers an upscale yet relaxed dining experience. The menu showcases a blend of Mediterranean flavors with European influences, featuring dishes like grilled octopus, burrata, and prosciutto, and Mediterranean mussels for starters. The mains include fresh seafood like honey-roasted salmon and branzino Greek style, along with land options like veal piccata and skirt steak. Their diverse pasta and risotto offerings are equally impressive, with lobster ravioli and squid ink risotto among the many highlights.
El Turco
El Turco brings the vibrant flavors of Turkey to Miami’s Upper East Side, offering a menu packed with delicious dishes like lamb casserole, meze platters, and over-rice meals. Perfect for sharing, El Turco’s hefty dishes capture the rich history of Turkish cuisine with a modern twist. You’ll also find a selection of tasty Turkish breakfast/brunch plates, including simit (think bagel sandwiches) and shakshuka, perfect for a relaxing start to the day.
Motek
Motek delivers a delightful Israeli and Mediterranean experience in Coral Gables. The vast menu shines with classic favorites like grilled halloumi, crispy eggplant, and baby lamb chops. Their chicken shawarma is another must-try, and for a lighter bite, Motek offers vibrant salads like an exquisite fennel pomegranate option. If you’re not counting calories, the award-winning arayes burger is worth a look, as is the babka bread pudding.
Motek is located at 45 Miracle Mile, Miami, FL 33134. For more information, visit their official website.
Zaytinya
Zaytinya by Chef José Andrés brings a refreshing modern take on Mediterranean cuisine to South Beach. The menu is inspired by flavors from Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon, offering a wide range of selections that are ideal for group dining (and more than plenty for solo diners).
You can expect beautifully executed dishes like sea scallops, bone marrow kibbeh, crispy Brussels sprouts, and whole sea bass. The space itself is bright and contemporary, with an open, airy vibe that complements the lighter flavors of the menu. Whether you’re grabbing cocktails or indulging in a full meal, Zaytinya delivers one of the best high-end yet approachable dining experiences on this side of town.
Zaytinya is located at 1 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
