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The ethnic mosaic of Miami is reflected in many aspects, among which the food is the most popular of all. While the city keeps its tradition alive, it also celebrates diversity and influences from around the world, which is what makes every tour a memory etched in the deepest part of the heart.
All over the city, you’ll come across many famous restaurants renowned for their signature dishes, but in the midst of the lavish eaters, what lies at the heart of the city are the most unassuming places and local joints, where flavours mingle and create a delicious meal every time you visit.
In this city, you’ll find several places that use the abundant supply of fresh seafood, of which stone crab is a beloved choice. There are also numerous Cuban restaurants where you can savour the famous Cuban sandwich. And when talking about diversity, Indian food can be left out, which is a talk of the town. Explore what's more in the city. Try some casual dishes or go for something adventurous like gator bites. Learn more about the famous foods of Miami below and check out the restaurants that serve them best.
7 Famous Foods In Miami And Where To Have Them
1) Stone Crabs: Joe’s Stone Crab
Image Credit: Joe’s Stone Crab
Stone crabs are succulent crustaceans harvested from the Atlantic Coast, particularly Florida's shallow waters. This treat is celebrated for its delicious taste and tender texture of crab meat. Locals who know the dish best go for the juicy claw meat rather than just being satisfied with the inner edible meat. While you can get this dish from many eateries, Joe's Stone Crab should be the first that you check out. Stone crab dishes are complemented by a tangy mustard sauce, which gives them an unforgettable aftertaste. Also, get the lobster mac n' cheese as a side dish for your meals.
Location: 11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 11:30 am–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30 am–11 pm
Must-Try: Stone Crabs, Hashbrowns, and Key Lime Pie
Price for 2: $100+
2) Arepas: Doggi's Arepa Bar
Image Credit: Doggi's Arepa Bar
To get the taste of Latin America, try out the famous Arepas at Doggi's Arepa Bar in Miami. These fluffy, muffin-like bread patties are made with ground maize flour and then grilled and stuffed with mouthwatering fillings like meat, cheese, avocado, and more. Originating from South America, arepas have become a beloved culinary delight across the region. At Doggi's, you'll find a variety of tempting options, including a Mexican-inspired version loaded with churrasco, avocado, and pico de gallo. It's a handheld treat bursting with flavour, perfect for satisfying your cravings on the go.
Location: 1246 SW 22nd St., Miami, FL 33145
Open Hours: Sun-Wed: 9 am–10 pm; Thu-Sat: 9 am–11 pm
Must Try: Arepas, Empanadas, Cachapa, Mariale, Tequeños, Patacon, Churrasco, Pabellón, and Chicha
Price for 2: $30 approx.
3) Indian Food: Bombay Darbar
Image Credit: Bombay Darbar
When the cravings call for spicy satisfaction, grab some delicious Indian food at Bombay Darbar in Miami. This famous restaurant serves up tasty chicken curry, fluffy flatbreads, and several other intriguing dishes that just amaze by their descriptions on the menu. The restaurant recently relocated to expand its services and enhance its menu. Try classics like butter chicken and chicken tikka masala and wash it down with Indian beers or fresh mango juice.
Location: 2901 Florida Ave., Miami, FL 33133
Open Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:30 am–10 pm; Fri: 11:30 am–11 pm; Sat: 12–11 pm; Sun: 12–10 pm
Must Try: Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Naan, Tandoori Chicken, Vindaloo
Price for 2: $60, approx.
4) Cuban Sandwich: Versailles Cuban Bakery
Image Credit: Versailles Cuban Bakery
A classic Cuban dish formulated by the Cuban immigrants in South Florida, this Cuban sandwich has become a beloved treat in Miami and Versailles Cuban Bakery makes the best of it. The sandwich features layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all placed between the slices of fresh, fluffy Cuban bread. Versailles Restaurant serves up one of the most delicious versions, where the flavours of the meats and cheese perfectly blend, while the pickles add a zesty kick.
Location: 3501 SW 8th St., Miami, FL 33135
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 8 am–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 8 am–12 am
Must Try: Cuban Sandwich, Cuban Coffee, Croquettes, Cuban Pastries
Price for 2: $20, approx.
5) Key Lime Pie: Icebox Cafe
Image Credit: Icebox Cafe
This back-to-the-basics classic American dessert is a perfect way to soothe the taste buds after a lavish meal. With every slice giving you a sense of tropical bliss, Key Lime Pie at Icebox Cafe has become a Coyotes culinary tradition with its sweet and tangy flavour. Made with Key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, this pie features a creamy custard infused with the vibrant taste of fresh Key limes. Icebox Cafe's award-winning Key Lime Pie is renowned for its perfect balance of sweet and tart, topped with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream.
Location: Miami International Airport, Terminal D, Gate D-8, Miami, FL 33126
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 6 am–11 pm
Must Try: Key Lime Pie, Sandiwich, Pizza
Price for 2: $20, approx.
6) Alligator Bites: KUSH Wynwood
Image Credit: KUSH
Feeling adventurous? Try the renowned alligator bites from Kush in Miami. These crispy, bite-sized morsels are made with tender alligator tail meat, battered, and fried golden. The taste is almost comparable to chicken popcorn, but richer and with a kick of adventure. When no one dares to serve this meal up, Kush exclaims “hold my beer” and crafts these utterly delicious bites to give everyone a taste of Florida. Here, you also get other tasty treats alongside local craft beers and mouth-watering burgers.
Location: 2003 N Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127
Open Hours: Sun-Tue: 12–10 pm; Wed–Sat: 12–11 pm
Must Try: Gator Bites, Chicken and Waffles, Key Lime Pie
Price for 2: $30 approx.
7) Miami-Style Donuts: The Salty Donut
Image Credit: The Salty Donut
Treat yourself to Miami-style donuts at The Salty Donut in Miami. These aren't your ordinary glazed treats—here, you'll find unique flavour combinations that will tantalise your taste buds. From White Chocolate Tres Leches to Guava Cheese, each donut is crafted from a 24-hour brioche base and topped with delectable ingredients. Whether you're craving something sweet to start your day or a delightful snack, these eccentric donuts, paired with a cup of coffee, are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Location: 6022 S Dixie Hwy, South Miami, FL 3314
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 6:30 am–7 pm; Fri-Sat: 6:30 am–10 pm
Must Try: White Chocolate Donut, Hazelnut Donut, Glazed Donut, Tiramisu Donut
Price for 2: $10 approx.
