While everyone is at the beach or busy barbecuing, Labor Day Weekend in Miami is the perfect time to indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these seven restaurants offer a memorable dining experience for every taste.
Barsecco
Elevate your Labor Day Weekend with a stop at Barsecco. Located in the heart of Brickell, this neighborhood institution is the perfect spot for a celebratory brunch or a romantic dinner over the long weekend. Sip on their signature cocktails while savoring delights like the Sicilian arancini and creamy Parmesan risotto balls stuffed with nduja and mozzarella.
Their pasta dishes, like the black truffle rigatoni alla vodka, are a must-try as well. For something lighter, consider the burrata and berries or the tuna poppy tataki. The menu has a little bit of everything, so we recommend trying something from each section to make the most of your visit.
Bar Tulio’s
Spice up your Labor Day Weekend at Bar Tulio’s, a lively Mexican spot in Wynwood known for its fun decor and bold flavors. Kick off your meal with their delicious elote (Mexican street corn) or the ceviche rojo, the latter of which features delicious marinated shrimp and grouper in a goblet; the portion is gigantic.
The main attraction here is the tacos. Pick your protein: chorizo, chicken, lobster, shrimp … the list keeps going. We’re partial to the short rib birria tacos, which come three to an order and are packed with flavor and heat. There are a ton of non-taco options, too, including burritos, quesadillas, and a sleeper hit of a salmon. Pair your meal with a refreshing margarita or a crisp Mexican brew for the perfect fiesta.
Emmy Squared
Detroit-style pizza takes center stage at Emmy Squared. This Coral Gables hotspot serves up thick, cheesy squares with a crispy, caramelized crust. The signature Colony pie, topped with red sauce, ezzo pepperoni, pickled jalapeños, and honey, is perfect for first-timers trying to see what this place is all about.
But don’t stop there: Their Le Matt burger, featuring two juicy patties, American cheese, and Sammy sauce on a pretzel bun, is equally impressive; expect to take a long nap afterward, though. Of course, wash it all down with something from their full bar. Needless to say, there’s a lot to like here.
Emmy Squared is located at 230 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134. For more information, visit their official website.
Islas Canarias
You can’t consider yourself a true Miamian if you haven’t tried the iconic croquetas from Islas Canarias. Located in West Miami, this beloved Cuban spot has been serving up these memorable crispy bites for decades; we’ve always enjoyed them with a cup of Cuban coffee in hand. But while the croquetas are arguably the most famous item at Islas Canarias, the menu features so much worth your while. Expect to find an assortment of Cuban staples like vaca frita and fried pork chunks, all bursting with flavor and coming out quickly from the kitchen. For dessert, indulge in a slice of tres leches or a flan.
Islas Canarias is located at 13695 SW 26th St, Miami, FL 33175. For more information, visit their official website.
Jarana
Dive into the bold and vibrant flavors of Peru at Jarana in Aventura. This stylish restaurant at Aventura Mall offers a modern take on traditional Peruvian cuisine that’s a must this Labor Day weekend. You can’t visit without trying at least one of their ceviches; the ceviche criollo with its mahi mahi and crispy calamari makes for a flavorful combo.
Other traditional items you can expect are causas and tiraditos, which are perfect for splitting with a party (or keeping everything to yourself). For a heartier option, try Jarana’s lomo saltado; the beef tenderloin is sauteed with onion, tomato, ají, & potato (and you can throw an egg on it!). In terms of drinks, pisco sours abound, and for good reason: They’re awesome.
Jarana is located at 19505 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 5150, Aventura, FL 33180. For more information, visit their official website.
Kissaki
Indulge in the finer things at Kissaki, an upscale Japanese restaurant in the South of Fifth neighborhood. This gorgeous spot is perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends during Labor Day weekend (or any weekend, really). The sushi rolls are a work of art, and the mains are just as delightful. Think char siu ribs, king crab legs, wagyu fried rice, and whole branzino.
The menu is huge, but don’t worry if you can’t decide: Kissaki offers a number of tastings and flights, so you get the best bang for your buck; take advantage of these options to get the most out of the menu. And it goes without saying: Get some sake while you’re at it.
Ogawa
Craving great sushi on the mainland? Embark on a culinary journey to Japan at Ogawa. This hidden gem in Little River offers an intimate omakase experience you will never forget. The menu changes constantly, so there’s no point in writing about the offerings much. Just know that you’re enjoying some of the highest-quality fish in town.
Also note: This place is not for those on a budget. It is a splurge and worth every dollar. Reservations are a must and fill up fast, but keep an eye out for spots that might open up over the long weekend.
