Restaurants near Miami Beach – a local guide to the best places to eat

Miami Beach’s dining scene is more than just the famous spots on Ocean Drive. While tourists flock to the bustling boardwalks, locals head to hidden gems that offer exquisite cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. This guide reveals where Miami Beach connoisseurs actually eat, where you can admire spectacular sunsets over the water, and what reservation strategies to adapt to secure a table at the city’s most sought-after restaurants. Oh, and one more thing: we’ll show you how to get anywhere in Miami comfortably and on time. Ready? Let’s get down to the delicious details!

Where do locals actually eat near Miami Beach?

Locals seeking culinary experiences prefer the quieter neighborhood of Alton Road and the residential western part of South Beach. It is there, away from the tourist hustle and bustle, that you will find Miami’s unique restaurants near South Beach Miami.

Macchialina on Alton Road has been a local favorite since 2012. This rustic Italian restaurant serves exceptional homemade pasta and boasts a Michelin-awarded wine list.

The seasonal menu changes frequently, but locals can always count on excellent cacio e pepe and the chef’s four-course tasting menu. This makes it one of the best restaurants Miami Beach offering authentic Italian cuisine. You don’t have to go to Europe to taste it. Really!

To experience the real culture of Miami, head to Las Olas Café on 6th Street. Here you’ll find unique Cuban sandwiches, as well as Cuban coffee and croquetas that embody the true heritage of the region. It’s one of those South Beach restaurants that captures the true spirit of Miami and doesn’t pretend to be anything else.

Locals also frequent La Sandwicherie on 14th Street. This place really comes alive at night: after a night out, you can enjoy Napoli sandwiches drizzled with vinaigrette here. Puerto Sagua Restaurant offers hearty Cuban meals with authentic flavors, while Pummarola serves excellent pizza and pasta in an intimate atmosphere. Another place in this category: Harry’s Pizzeria offers artisanal pizzas and carefully crafted cocktails. In a nutshell, good restaurants in Miami combine quality with affordable luxury.

Which waterfront restaurants are worth visiting to watch the sunset?

Okay, let’s face it. Miami is all about the ocean and water. Monty’s Sunset at Miami Beach Marina is the undisputed leader among the best waterfront spots. Here you can enjoy the sunset while savoring a great meal. Located by the pool at 300 Alton Road, it offers “the most beautiful sunsets in South Florida,” according to locals. This elegant waterfront spot serves freshly caught local seafood, plus live music and a unique atmosphere. During golden hours, enjoy top-quality stone crab claws, fresh oysters, and professionally prepared mojitos. All this in a unique atmosphere.

Or maybe something else? The Lido Bayside Grill at The Standard Spa offers sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami, while Smith & Wollensky Miami Beach is an excellent steakhouse in a unique location. These are some of the top restaurants in Miami, combining exceptional cuisine with breathtaking views.

Another suggestion. Artisan Beach House at The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour offers the ultimate in luxury at sunset. All this on an elegant terrace overlooking the ocean. The restaurant recently received OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice Award for 2024 and is recognized among the Miami restaurants for unforgettable occasions.

Among the best places to watch the sunset is Joia Beach Miami, offering exquisite cuisine by the sea “under swaying palm trees.” The venue also offers craft cocktails that perfectly complement the sunset view. Also worth a visit is Black Point Ocean Grill, which offers sophisticated dishes by the sea with the opportunity to watch dolphins at Black Point Marina.

Do you need to book a table during the season and when should you do it?

The season in Miami Beach runs from December to April. There is no doubt about it: during this time, it is necessary to plan your visits to the best restaurants in Miami in advance. The busiest meal times are 8:00-9:00 p.m. on weekends, although many South Beach Miami restaurants are filled to capacity until midnight.

For the most exclusive venues, reservations should be made 30 days in advance, preferably at the exact time when reservations open. In some cases, it’s worth thinking about reservations as early as 45 days in advance, and for the most exclusive restaurants in South Beach, you may need even more time.

Experienced connoisseurs have their strategies: they set up Resy alerts for last-minute availability. 

Many of Miami’s best restaurants reserve the best seats for special guests without reservations. The best advice? If you are planning to visit, call ahead and ask how exactly reservations work.

Availability is greater during the summer months. It’s worth taking advantage of the Miami Spice offer in August and September, when the best restaurants on Miami Beach participate in the program. They offer special lunch sets at desirable prices. You can travel there using a Miami car service.

Oh, and one more thing: when choosing a restaurant near South Beach in Miami, you also need to think about how you’re going to get there. By choosing a reliable car service in Miami Beach, you will gain comfort and prestige. Experienced drivers will help you plan your trip and provide guidance, allowing you to discover the endless culinary possibilities that Miami has to offer.