Miami’s vibrant culinary scene offers a plethora of exceptional restaurants that combine exquisite cuisine with inviting outdoor dining spaces. Here are some standout establishments that provide memorable al fresco dining experiences.
El Turco
Nestled in Miami’s Upper Buena Vista neighborhood, El Turco is a celebrated Turkish restaurant that has garnered acclaim for its authentic flavors and charming outdoor setting. Recognized with the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, and 2024), El Turco offers diners a delightful escape into the rich culinary traditions of Turkey.
The restaurant’s outdoor dining area is shaded by a majestic 150-year-old banyan tree, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, including handmade mantı (Turkish dumplings), İzmir köfte (meatballs), and a selection of Aegean and Mediterranean mezes such as baba ganoush and hand-rolled grape leaves. El Turco is also renowned for its legendary Turkish breakfast, featuring items like menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers) and sucuk (spicy Turkish sausage) with eggs.
Gao
Situated in Miami Beach, Gao offers a sophisticated dining experience that combines Asian culinary traditions with modern flair. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy their meals in a serene environment, enhanced by stylish furniture and ambient lighting in a well-thought-out garden setting. Gao’s menu is curated to provide a journey through Thailand, featuring dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition. The outdoor dining space is designed to complement the culinary offerings, providing a tranquil setting that enhances the overall dining experience.
Ironside Pizza
Tucked away in Miami’s historic Upper East Side, Ironside Pizza is a hidden gem that transports diners to the heart of Italy with its authentic Neapolitan pizzas and rustic charm. The restaurant’s outdoor garden patio, adorned with lush greenery and twinkling lights, creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for casual gatherings and romantic evenings alike.
The menu features a variety of wood-fired pizzas made with imported Italian ingredients and traditional techniques. Favorites include the classic margherita, topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, and the diavola, featuring spicy salami and chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. In addition to pizzas, Ironside offers a selection of salads, pastas, and antipasti, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every craving.
The commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, making Ironside Pizza a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a genuine Italian dining experience in a charming outdoor setting.
La Mar
Situated within the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel on Brickell Key, La Mar by Gastón Acurio offers an upscale dining experience with breathtaking waterfront views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. The restaurant’s expansive terrace allows guests to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine in an elegant outdoor setting.
La Mar’s menu showcases a diverse range of Peruvian dishes, including cebiches, causas, and anticuchos, each prepared with a contemporary twist. Signature offerings such as the cebiche clásico, featuring fresh fish marinated in leche de tigre, and the lomo saltado, a stir-fry of tender beef with onions and tomatoes, exemplify the restaurant’s commitment to authentic yet innovative cuisine.
The outdoor dining area, with its stylish furnishings and ambient lighting, provides a sophisticated backdrop for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. The attentive service and meticulously crafted cocktails further elevate the dining experience, making La Mar a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional Peruvian fare with a view.
La Mar by Gaston Acurio is located at 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131. For more information, visit their official website.
Paya
Situated in the heart of South Beach, Paya is a contemporary restaurant that offers a fusion of tropical flavors in a chic and modern setting. The outdoor dining area provides a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant energy of Miami while indulging in a diverse menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Paya’s menu features a variety of dishes that blend Caribbean and Latin American influences, offering a unique culinary experience that reflects the multicultural fabric of Miami. The outdoor seating area is designed to provide a comfortable and stylish environment, making it an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
Paya is located at 1209 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Sunny’s
Located off-the-beaten-path, Sunny’s is a vibrant eatery known for its eclectic menu and lively atmosphere for those in the know. The massive outdoor dining space offers guests the opportunity to enjoy meals al fresco in lush surroundings with an outdoor bar and a view of the open kitchen.
Sunny’s menu is diverse, featuring a range of dishes that cater to various tastes and preferences. The outdoor area is thoughtfully designed to provide a pleasant dining experience, with comfortable seating and a welcoming ambiance that captures the essence of Miami’s emerging hip dining scene.
Sunny’s Miami is located at 7357 NW Miami Ct, Miami, FL 33150. For more information, visit their official website.
Verde at Pérez Art Museum Miami
Located within the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), Verde offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends art, culture, and cuisine. The restaurant’s expansive terrace overlooks Biscayne Bay, providing diners with stunning waterfront vistas that complement the contemporary American menu.
Verde emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create seasonal dishes that cater to a variety of palates. Menu highlights include artisanal pizzas, vibrant salads, and hearty sandwiches, all crafted with an emphasis on flavor and presentation. The weekend brunch is particularly popular, featuring indulgent options like avocado toast topped with poached eggs and lemon ricotta pancakes drizzled with seasonal fruit compote.
The airy, open design of the outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy Miami’s balmy weather while taking in panoramic views of the bay. Whether visiting the museum or simply looking for a picturesque dining spot, Verde offers a serene and scenic setting that enhances any meal.
Verde is located inside Pérez Art Museum Miami at 1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132. For more information, visit their official website.
