Our fav local spots in Miami for dinner + wine

Miami boasts some of the finest restaurants in the world, offering an endless array of dining options. From chic, upscale eateries to charming local gems, the city's culinary scene has something for everyone. Our favorite spots strike the perfect balance between cozy atmospheres, high-quality food, and great value. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a delightful meal, Miami's dining scene won't disappoint! Below are some of favs! 🍝🥐🍦

MEDITERRANEAN + SEAFOOD

Mandolin Aegean Bistro is a beloved spot in the Design District, and it’s even Michelin-recognized! Stepping in feels like a quick trip to the Mediterranean. It’s one of our top picks in Miami, perfect for a romantic meal or a fun lunch with friends. Reservations recommended…it’s always busy!

Our must-try dishes include the Greek sampler, fresh Greek village salad, grilled octopus, mussels in white wine, sea bass, lamb chops, and the delicious saganaki. It’s a great place to order a bunch of dishes to try it all!

OUTFIT: Romantic Cove Ruffle Dress Dress 

Mignonette Oyster Bar - If you're craving fresh seafood, this is the spot to hit—Michelin-recognized, too! The atmosphere is charming, set in a 1930s gas station turned oyster bar. My top picks? The fresh cornbread, oysters, lobster rolls, lobster deviled eggs, and crab cakes. It's a seafood lover's paradise! 

ASIAN 

 KYU - Nestled in the heart of Wynwood, this restaurant is a true gem. Specializing in Asian-inspired, wood-fired grilled dishes, it consistently delivers incredible meals every time. The menu is perfect for sharing, with must-haves like roasted cauliflower, pork belly buns, and fried chicken. And don’t even think about skipping dessert—the coconut cake is pure bliss!

Within the luxurious Bal Harbour Shops are two of my favorite dining destinations, Makoto and Le Zoo which are perfect for combining a day of shopping with an delicious lunch.

Makoto, located on the top floor of the mall, offers some of the freshest sushi you'll ever taste. My absolute favorites? The Rock shrimp tempura, dynamite hand roll,  lamb chop, tender sea bass, and the mouthwatering salmon maki.

FRENCH

LeZoo is the epitome of French dining perfection. Our obsession? The Cheeseburger. Imagine a gourmet take on a classic Big Mac, elevated to new heights. Having dined here countless times, we can vouch for the unwavering consistency and impeccable service. As I write, I'm already craving my next visit. Trust me, make your way to LeZoo and eat a burger!

OUTFIT: Zyanda Wrap Dress

BAKERIES

If you're after the best peanut butter cookie of your life, head to True Loaf Bakery in Sunset Harbour. A word of advice: come early! Their baked goods sell out quickly. We've often arrived too late and found the shelves empty. You can always order ahead to make sure you get your favorites. Once inside, you'll want to eat everything! From sourdough bread and banana bread to almond croissants and dulce de leche donuts, you can't go wrong. But trust me—try the peanut butter cookie!

**Exciting News!** 🌟 Sunset Harbour's newest gem, Maman, has just opened its doors, and it’s the most adorable French café in town! Their coffee? Absolutely divine—hands down the best you'll find in the Sunset Harbour/Lincoln Road area. Trust me, once you step inside, you’ll never want to leave this cozy haven! ☕✨

Pro tip - if you live in the Edgewater area jump on the ferry in front of Casa Donna to take you over to Sunset Harbour. It’s a beautiful 20 minute boat ride!

  Casa Tua Cucina in Brickell City Centre is ideal for any meal. Conveniently located next to Saks Fifth Avenue, it’s perfect for a shopping and lunch combo. The vibe is casual yet trendy. The staff is incredibly friendly and always remembers our favorites—cappuccino, latte, and almond croissants! Yum! 🥐 ☕️

 

PIZZA

Miami Slice has quickly become a favorite pizza spot in town. Their pepperoni proper with the "kicks+ - stracciatella cheese with hot honey are absolutely delicious. If you can, get there early—there's always a line! Try snagging a seat at the bar to watch the pizzas being made in the oven while you eat, or grab a pizza to go and enjoy it outside. Seating is limited, and they don't take reservations, so arriving early is a must. Trust us, it's worth it. Don't forget to grab a brownie for dessert! 🍕 🍕 🍕

 

 

ITALIAN

 Sometimes we love taking our own special bottle of red wine when we go out to our fav Italian restaurants , especially when we have family visiting from out of town. Lately, I've been obsessed with the 2017 Donnafugata Dolce & Gabbana Cuordilava—a delicious collaboration between Dolce & Gabbana and Donnafugata winery. It's a special treat that's just sooo yummy!

 We usually pick up our Italian red wine at the cutest wine store, Sobe Liquors, located on Alton and Lincoln Road. It's run by a wonderful mother-daughter duo who know everything about Italian wine (ask them for the Dolce/Donna wine)They even have all the essentials for creating charcuterie platters, all sourced from Italy!

Pane Vino is a charming, cozy restaurant where you can watch house-made pastas being crafted right in the window. The atmosphere feels like a quaint, inviting home, with the soothing sounds of Bossa Nova playing as you sip on a glass of vino. Indulge in delicious dishes like Paccheri con Gamberi e Pistacchi and Gnocchi Gorgonzola e Noci.

Hostería Romana

This fun restaurant is in the heart of Espanola Way. Lots of great people watching and an easy dinner out. It’s a great place to go when you don’t have a reservation.  They have a lot of great options on their menu!  🍝For dessert head across the street to Aubi and Ramsa for liquor ice cream! It looks like a bar so grab a stool and order your fav mix of ice cream and liquor - yum! Our favs are Coco Loco and Jack and Chocolate 🍦

ARGENTINIAN

Being married to an Argentinian has introduced me to some incredibly delicious food. From creamy gelato and perfectly grilled steak to flaky media lunas and sweet dulce de leche. Here is Miami's best Argentinian restaurants.

Freddo Gelato offers the best gelato I've ever had outside of Italy. It's incredibly creamy and delicious. My go-to order? A mix of Mascarpone and Dulce de Leche Temptation 🍦

Bunbury  is probably one of the best Argentinian steak places that has classic dishes of empanadas, Milanese, and classic pancake with dulce de leche