Home to nearly 10,000 restaurants, Miami is a vibrant culinary destination. Yet, it can be difficult to find a table amid the popular spots helmed by big-name chefs and those that draw crowds with its scene.
To uncover Miami’s lesser-known jewels, we turned to Andiago, an app that recommends trending restaurants based on real experiences. From Little Havana to Little Haiti, fine dining to fast casual, these eateries are worth seeking out.
It’s easy to overlook this Japanese gem with its nondescript exterior in Brickell Key. But it’s one of Miami’s most exclusive dining experiences. The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurant accommodates only four diners per seating, ensuring plenty of one-on-one time with chef/owner Kevin Cory.
What to order: The omakase menu is the sole option, but it’s all you will need. Leave the exquisite multicourse meal in the talented hands of Cory.
Extra bite: Cory makes everything he serves, including the soy sauce.
The bustle of the New York City streets meets Amalfi Coast splendor at this atmospheric, 60-seat Italian restaurant. Enjoy rustic Italian recipes in the brick-walled trattoria or alfresco in the garden or on the sidewalk.
What to order: Made-from-scratch mezzaluna and the creamy polenta with a wild mushroom ragu.
Extra bite: Leave room for dessert — you don’t want to miss out on the beloved bread pudding.
At this intimate Little Havana spot, sit in the charming patio’s small wooden tables set aglow by string lights and savor some of the best authentic Thai cuisine in the city.
What to order: Khao soi (egg noodles with yellow curry, coriander, red onions and your choice of protein) or anything else listed as the “chef’s recommendation.”
Extra bite: Afterward, sip drinks at Ball & Chain, an iconic ’50s Cuban-style nightclub that’s a four-minute stroll from the restaurant.
In Little River, you’ll find natural wine and naturally leavened pizzas, vegetable-forward plates and a laid-back, organic atmosphere.
What to order: Japanese sweet potato, oyster mushrooms and burrata pizza, along with a bottle of juicy pét-nat (short for pétillant naturel, or natural sparkling wine).
Extra bite: If you need help diving into the world of natural wine, your server will be more than glad to act as your tour guide for the evening.
From the team behind Broken Shakers, this cozy bar uncorks unique and exciting wines in the historical Ingraham Building, styled with warm Scandinavian wood accents, minimalist furniture and soaring ceilings.
What to order: The salmon crudo pairs beautifully with anything from the natural wine list or one of the bar’s signature low-ABV cocktails.
Extra bite: Expect top-notch musical accompaniment courtesy of the expertly curated soundtracks playing from the bar’s vintage sound system.
This downtown sushi bar offers both coursed menus and à la carte dishes. The bar’s limited counter seating and mellow vibe create an intimate dining experience.
What to order: The 10-, 14- and 18-course dinners are all winners.
Extra bite: Walk around the block to Margot Natural Wine Bar for a nightcap.
Part the curtains and find a too-cool cocktail bar serving unforgettable drinks accompanied by plates of delectable pasta.
What to order: Warm parkerhouse rolls and agnolotti stuffed with corn, blue crab, saffron and marcona almonds.
Extra bite: Drop in between 5 and 7 p.m. for a very happy hour (or hours) complete with oysters and “tiny tinis” with either gin or vodka.
Inspired by Argentine culture and cuisine, this restaurant and bar comes with a gorgeous green interior and seating along the water.
What to order: Dulce de leche flan, steak and eggs (on the Sunday brunch menu) and buñuelos (beignets with Swiss chard, kale and aged Gouda).
Extra bite: The waterfront patio is adjacent to a manatee sanctuary, which provides mealtime entertainment.
Tucked away in a shopping plaza in Little Haiti, Boia De delivers modern American fare with an emphasis on Italian, resulting in some irresistible pasta. The dining experience is as quaint as the neon sign that hangs outside the front door.
What to order: Start with favorites like the chopped salad and the elevated potato skins with caviar. Then move on to the pasta, like the sweet corn agnolotti, king crab tagliolino nero and gnocchi with chunks of sausage.
Extra bite: Snag an outdoor seat. Tables are perched alongside a little canal with a peaceful and secluded vibe.
