Categories: Food and Drink

Where to Find the Best Starters in Miami

They say patience is a virtue, but when the appetizers hit the table, all bets are off. Miami’s dining scene is packed with small bites that pack a big punch—crispy, cheesy, savory, and straight-up irresistible. Whether you’re at these restaurants for a full feast or just grazing over cocktails, the following starters set the tone for an unforgettable meal.

Barsecco

At Barsecco, it’s all about the vibes—think stylish decor, a buzzing crowd, and a menu that delivers just as much as the ambiance. The tuna tartare is a fresh, citrusy bite that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful, making it the perfect light start. But if you’re in the mood for something crispy and indulgent, the Sicilian arancini are a game-changer—oh so rich and delicious. Order both, sip a cocktail, and soak in the Brickell energy—this is how you kick off a night out.

Barsecco is temporarily closed for renovations.

Chimba

At Chimba in Midtown Miami, you’ll find appetizers that will keep you coming back for more. The crispy octopus chicharrón, served with chimichurri, is a must-try, and the spicy Brussels sprouts with bacon make for the perfect bite. The elote, with red jalapeño aioli and tajín, is the perfect mix of sweet and heat. Add in the pork belly tacos or the birria arepa, and you’ve got a meal full of flavor from start to finish.

Chimba is located at 2830 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137. For more information, visit their official website.

El Turco

El Turco brings the best of Turkish cuisine to Buena Vista, and their appetizers are the perfect introduction to the flavors of the Mediterranean. Kick things off with the rich, cheesy su borek or go for the spiced sariyer borek with ground beef and paprika. If you’re after something lighter, dive into the El Turco salad, made with fresh tomatoes, Persian cucumber, and green peppers, or the tangy tomato salad with walnuts, Turkish olives, and crumbled feta. No matter what you choose, you’re in for a treat.

Gao

If you’re looking for a spot where the flavors hit just as hard as the Miami Beach vibes, Gao is it. The crispy spring rolls bring the crunch, the har gow shrimp dumplings are delicate and delicious, and the mushroom gyoza pack a truffle-kissed punch. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these appetizers are a great intro to the bigger flavors to come.

GAO is permanently closed.

Rosemary’s

Rosemary’s in Wynwood invites you to savor the essence of Italy in every dish, from the aromatic rosemary focaccia to the delectable mussels and delicately grilled octopus—to name a few. The menu is a celebration of seasonal, high-quality ingredients, where every bite reveals deep, flavorful simplicity. Here, the appetizers are the perfect start to a meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.

Rosemary’s is located at 322 NW 25th St, Wynwood, FL 33127. For more information, visit their official website.

Geoffrey Anderson

Geoffrey Anderson Jr. is a contributing/staff writer for Dish Miami. For over six years, he has covered the South Florida dining scene with his wife for the award-winning local food blog Miami Food Pug. When he's not writing about food, he's eating it—or attending rock concerts and traveling.