Like any touristy city, Miami’s culinary scene straddles between absolutely incredible restaurants and places that pretend to be bougie to mask their underwhelming food. It’s difficult not to fall for the latter, which often hide their mediocrity behind social media-ready decor and well-placed influencer marketing. Even as a local, I sometimes end up parting with my hard-earned money for meals that are only slightly better than what I could get at Chili’s.
While I’ve accepted that occasionally subpar food is the price you pay to try new restaurants, I rely on my tried-and-true favorites when I’m not in the mood to play gastronomical Russian roulette. These spots are perfect for days when I want something reliably delicious, as they deliver high quality and flawless service every single time. They’re also the places that I recommend to friends when they’re visiting the city. If you’re coming to Miami and are overwhelmed by the absurd amount of choices, this guide is a good place to start. It includes underrated spots only locals know about as well as nationally-recognized establishments. Try them all or hit up a few. Either way, you’ll get to eat at some of Miami’s best restaurants.
Lido Restaurant at the Surf Club
This grandiose restaurant is set in the former ballroom of the legendary Surf Club, a social club that once received the likes of Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor. Now part of the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, Lido Restaurant has kept the tall arches of the ballroom which recall those of a cathedral. These arches also create a seamless transition between the restaurant and the adjacent Champagne Bar at the Surf Club, included in the World’s 100 Best Bars.
Besides a timeless and elegant atmosphere, Lido Restaurant boasts an impeccable dining experience. Florentine chef Marco Calenzo brings international flair to dishes and flavors from his native country. Diners can choose from an eight-course tasting menu or an à la carte menu. Both change seasonally to reflect fresh ingredients, but serve dishes like yellowtail cacio e pepe, seared bluefin tuna in black truffle, wagyu beef carpaccio, and risotto made with Jerusalem artichokes and Kurobuta pork belly…