The hottest destination in the US, not just because of the weather, is Miami. With a lot of the heavy hitters decamping for tax reasons — seriously — they need somewhere to eat. The restaurant scene in Miami has never been better. Here’s the 10 best hot restaurants in Miami, to put on your list.
Amara al Paraiso
The Food: Latin American with Miami influence
Why: This is a reason to leave South Beach, and head to the Miami side of town. The kitchen is helmed by James Beard award-winning Chef Michael Schwartz, so the eats are top notch. The setting of the restaurant is right on the water, views are a highlight. The atmosphere is chic and elegant, which match the food. Amara makes the hot list of restaurants in Miami now because of the food. Yuca cheese puffs, arroz verde and yellowfin tuna tostada are fun, shareable bites.
Carbone Miami
The Food: Old school Italian, a la Major Food Group
Why: Probably one of the trendiest restaurants in Miami of the moment. Plan to pledge your first born to get a reservation here. Otherwise use your connections to get in. As many know from the NYC original, food is above average, and scene is always entertaining.
Cecconi’s
The Food: Italian and American Cuisine
Why: The food, vibe and service are consistently good at Cecconi’s. It’s the public part of Soho House and always solid and good fun. It’s especially nice to hang out during the daytime. Avocado toast is always a good idea as are their signature pizzas.
KYU
The Food: Asian-inspired and wood-fired cuisine
Why: Possibly the hardest reservation after Carbone. It’s in the trendy Wynwood neighborhood and the food never disappoints. We also like that this is not a New York transplant, like other restaurants to match those who relocated to Miami. Get ready to get your meat sweats on too; crisp pork belly, baby back ribs and braised short ribs rule.
Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann at the Faena Hotel
The Food: South American-inspired cuisine
Why: No matter what hot new hotel opens in Miami, the Faena is always a good idea. This is not one of the new restaurants in Miami, but as its name suggests, it’s still a hot scene. The Living Room bar/lounge has live music, and the club downstairs makes a good night. No one does an Argentine grill like Francis Mallmann. The Australian lamb rack and prime beef tenderloin with foie gras are decadent. Pescetarians aren’t left out though, with branzino and red snapper.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro
The Food: Greek
Why: This is one of those restaurants that’s super hard to get a reservation, not just because of the scene. The food here is some of the best in Miami right now.
Macchialina Taverna
The Food: Italian. Actually, excellent Italian.
Why: This is a nice grown up place to eat, and social in a beautiful place that’s not a circus. The garden is lovely and the food borders is described by our Tastemakers at Galavante as superb. The burrata appetizer is a standout.
Prime 112
The Food: Steakhouse
Why: If you’re looking for a scene, you’ve found it here at Prime 112. Even with a reservation you end up with a wait. Yet, people continue to come. So order up a martini at the bar and accept it for what it is and enjoy yourself. You’ll work up an appetite for that Porterhouse steak and creamed spinach.
Red Rooster Overtown
The Food: Soul food from the talented Chef Marcus Samuelsson
Why: More of you Manhattanites will come to this location versus the one closer to home in Harlem. This Red Rooster though is trendier and has a unique menu from the original. It’s also in one of Miami’s up and coming neighborhoods which adds to the vibe.
Strawberry Moon
The Food: Turkish and Mediterranean
Why: Somehow, even with the celeb-studded opening (check out our update on hotel) The Good Time hotel’s Strawberry Moon achieves scene without crossing over into obnoxious. Not bad for musician now hotelier Pharrell, for his first project. Our insiders rates the food within the awesome range. Lobster is a highlight on the menu. This is one spot to bring your entourage, as the setting is perfect for a large group.
