Kendall West's Top Local Dining Secrets Unveiled


The Restaurant Guide
Elastika: New social club in the Design District serving modern American dishes in an amazing setting. Inspired by Miami’s international community and The Moore’s century-long legacy of art, design and culture, Elastika acts as a culinary canvas, where eclectic dishes and soulful cooking come to life in an approachable environment. The Moore Miami Building holds the unique distinction of being the first and oldest standing building in the Miami Design District. Impeccably preserved, it’s been a venue of rotating uses in recent years, for art fairs and private events, public markets and chic parties. But today, every inch of this 90,000–square-foot building is getting put to good use; especially the first floor with Elastika, an architecturally stunning restaurant with flavors to match. The abstract floor tiles, curved sage seating and Taj Mahal quartzite on every surface evoke a feeling of serene playfulness, but the true star of the entire room is Elastika itself, a sculpture by Zaha Hadid commissioned for the inaugural Design Miami in 2005 for which the restaurant is named. There is no feeling quite like sitting under it, imagining it expand and contract like putty as it stretches from the bottom all the way up to the fourth floor of this light-filled space.


Dish Miami
Entertaining your in-laws when they’re in town can be a daunting task—but it’s easy when you know the best restaurants around. Caracas Bakery in MiMo offers a delightful glimpse into Venezuelan cuisine. Start your day with their renowned cachitos, buttery croissants filled with savory ham and cheese, or indulge in the sweet pastries and empanadas that showcase the country’s vibrant culinary traditions. The spacious spot and friendly staff make this a welcoming place for families to gather and enjoy a taste of one of Miami’s best bakeries. Come early to beat the long lines, but even if you wake up late, it’s worth the wait.


The OH
ZURI is a true gem in the heart of Wynwood! As soon as I stepped inside, I was transported to Morocco through the vibrant colors, intricate tiles, and VIBRANT atmosphere. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel like royalty. The food? Absolutely divine! We ordered a variety of dishes, including the tagine, couscous, and kebabs, and each one was more delicious than the last. The flavors were rich and bold, with a perfect blend of spices. And don’t even get me started on the cocktails - the signature “Zuri” drink was a refreshing blend of mint, ginger, and citrus. The highlight of our night was the live music and belly dancing performance - it was mesmerizing! Overall, ZURI exceeded our expectations in every way. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience in Miami.


MIAMI EATS GUIDE
Coffee Break Enjoy! is the perfect place to stop by after a beach day for some good desserts and coffee 🧁 ☕️ Cool off this summer and enjoy a delicious brunch at Coffee Break! See you there!


THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
ADDiKT at W Miami The 15th floor rooftop of the W Miami is quite impressive. Both spacious and luxurious, it is home to a 90 meters long rooftop infinity pool, and to the rooftop bar and restaurant ADDiKT. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, here you can enjoy breathtaking views over Biscayne Bay and the city skyline, along with fantastic and global dishes from Executive Chef Ricardo Jarquin and crafted mixology cocktails.


Time Out Miami
Eleventh Street Pizza serves up two kinds of pies that both are stellar representations of their pizza genres. While a monster slice of NYC-style pep does a great job soaking up late-night drinking, the finest things here are thick Sicilian slices, big towers of dough covered with cupped pepperoni, wild maitake mushrooms with caramelized onions and a Provencal number with roasted red onions, confit garlic and pepperoncini. Time Out tip: The Japanese milk bread garlic rolls are both sweet and savory, so much so that you’ll probably want a second order for dessert.


Dish Miami
La Natural This Little River hotspot is renowned for its sourdough pizzas. The restaurant’s minimalist approach to ingredients allows the quality of each component to shine, making every bite a testament to their culinary dedication… What a creative and unique experience. This Bib Gourmand winning restaurant exceeded our expectations. The decor and overall vibe of the place feels like a vacation and the menu definitely caught our attention. But the flavors sealed the deal! You’ll find unique dishes you wouldn’t normally see at a pizza joint like papaya with anchovy, Japanese sweet potato with brown butter, and grilled onions with tahini. Then came their famous sourdough pizzas! The texture? PERFECT. They’re also known for their delicious all natural wines.
See also
Dining in Pinewood: Explore Top Local Dining Experiences and Foodie Favorites Near Miami


THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Area 31: a rooftop bar and rooftop restaurant, offering fantastic views over Miami's skyscrapers and the Miami River, as well as great food created by Executive Chef Wolfgang Birk. Perched on the 16th floor of the great Kimpton EPIC Hotel in downtown Miami. Focusing mainly on innovative seafood, the rooftop is open from early morning to late evening for food an drinks, and during weekends also for a Miami rooftop brunch. Starting already at 8am, this is heaven for the early birds, where you can indulge in more classics brunch-dishes like 'Buttermilk Pancakes' and 'Main Lobster and Crab Benedict', as well as more unusual items like 'Korean BBQ Short Ribtaco' and 'Fresh Whole Fish'. To complete the menu, Mimosas, Bellinis, Aperol Spritz and Bloddy Mary's are (of course) also available. When: Saturday & Sunday, 8am - 2pm


Dish Miami
Miami Barsecco Restaurant Enjoy their tantalizing margaritas—the spicy cucumber margarita will awaken your taste buds—and pair them with gourmet tacos. The eatery and lounge is home to some delicious wagyu Asian street tacos, birria taquitos, and baja chicken tacos. Stylish restaurant + lounge transforming from bright and airy to sensual and inviting by night. Open for Happy Hour, Dinner, Late-night & Brunch. Every Wednesday, all ladies receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco. 🥂 Cheers!


The Hungry Post
🇯🇵 Top-quality dishes featuring fish flown straight from Japan! There’s a new hidden omakase that you need to know about! Located behind a secret door inside Whitman’s Miami, Gold Standard Omakase is Wynwood’s newest omakase experience. With only 8 seats available per reservation this is an intimate experience in a much more laid back setting.


The Hungry Post
Right next to a railroad crossing, you’ll arrive at an unpretentious and minimalistic house. Immediately when entering OGAWA, you’ll feel as if you’ve landed in Japan. Tucked away in Little River, Alvaro Perez has opened his fourth and newest Japanese restaurant that just earned a well-deserved Michelin Star. As you turn the corner of the dining room, you will be met with the most impeccably set Omakase bar. Feel free to enjoy a pre-dinner drink in their peaceful Japanese garden in the back or take a seat, and get ready for Chef Masayuki and Chef Royce’s thoughtful Omakase journey. At Ogawa intimacy and ‘kikubari’ (the Japanese art of caring for others) are valued at the highest level. This very personal dinner experience for 11 guests at a time focuses on seasonal and unique Japanese ingredients flown in daily. The first part consists of crudos with cooked dishes from the kitchen between each course. Next, you’ll move on to the most incredible sushi flight, followed by a miso soup, and finish off with desserts (that’s not a typo, there’s more than one). Our favorite dishes when we went included the best Hotate Nigiri we’ve seriously ever had, balanced with a touch of Key lime and salt (we literally won’t shut up about it); the Ensui Hokkaido Uni Gunkanmaki which is preserved in salt water so you can taste the Uni right from its natural habitat; the Uni and Ikura Hand Roll; and a special shout out to the Matcha Mochi Cookie Anko with Satsumaimo (Japanese sweet potato) Ice Cream by Chef Jamie, picture your childhood Whoopie Pie but soooooo much better.


Epicured Miami
This is your sign to have brunch on Sugarcane’s gorgeous outdoor patio 🍽️ $35 bottomless drinks featuring the most delicious sangrias🍷 Besides their usual amazing menu, their Waffle Week is in full effect with 4 insane waffle creations that you can only get this week🧇🔥 • Duck and Waffle • Classic Buttermilk • The Full Elvis • Caramelized Banana • Hamachi Tacos • Torched Salmon Crispy Rice • Korean Short Ribs • Spanish Octopus


Time Out Miami
The best view in Miami and the city's finest representation of Peruvian Nikkei puts out a brunch that ought to be on the list of anyone who relishes a midday splurge. Aside from executive chef Diego Oka buffet, the brunch includes a full entree from the dinner menu and also a tower of desserts delivered tableside. The $135 price includes endless pours of many drink options, including the house specialty pisco sour, a fresh, foamy cocktail that'll get your Sunday started right.


MIAMI EATS GUIDE
Palo Quemao Miami: Check out this Colombian restaurant in Midtown! 🇨🇴 Experience the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Colombia right here in Miami. From mouthwatering arepas and empanadas to delicious bandeja paisa and fresh ceviche, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of Colombia that you won’t want to miss. 🌴✨ Perfect for a casual lunch, a festive dinner, or just enjoying some great food with friends. Dive into the heart of Colombian cuisine and feel the warmth of its hospitality.
See also
Discover Pinewood's Local Community: Anonymous Chats & Trending Discussions Near Miami


The Hungry Post
Pasta e Basta is a cozy Italian restaurant in Midtown that you already know we love. This time we stopped by to try their new brunch menu and we’re what you need to know 👇🍝 Their menu currently offers a variety of paninis and pasta trios, perfect for sharing and for those who always want a little bit of everything 👀 We kicked off our meal with the Panino Polpette e Mozzarella, but the Trio Romano stole the show. For $69 you get this pasta tower that includes Rigatoni Carbonara, Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe and Rigatoni Amatriciana. And the best part? You can now customize your own trio for $79. For dessert we had the Nutella crepes and the tiramisu which is always🔥 PS: If you’re brave enough to dine with a toddler they’ve got a kids menu too and a whole lot of patience ❤️


Secret Miami
Soak up the sun on a breezy rooftop of the Sugar, Brickell! Nestled on the 40th floor of EAST Miami — making it the city’s highest rooftop bar — Sugar offers 360-views of Brickell paired with tasty cocktails and a swank crowd. Beware though — it’s quite popular so booking a table ahead of time, especially if you’ll be wanting something to eat, is highly recommended!


MIAMI EATS GUIDE
French breakfast in the Ьшфьш Aventura area you will find in La Boulangerie Boul'Mich 🇫🇷 French style bakery with a Latin twist!


Miami Guide
Where to Celebrate National Tequila Day in Miami? The Henry is your go-to spot for both satisfying Happy Hour and delicious brunches. The Henry in Brickell City Centre throws a happy hour fiesta with $12 bites and specialty cocktails from 3-7 PM, Monday through Friday. Their bar and patio are the perfect spots to celebrate with their SMOKED PINEAPPLE MARGARITA or the classic GREATEST NEIGHBORHOOD MARGARITA. They also have $7 beers and $10 wines for those with different tastes.


Marlee Lewin
Pastis Miami is all the French we need in Wynood. Tucked away in its own little outdoor paradise they offer a range of classic french dishes with my favorite being the Pâté de Campagne. Never settle for anything less than an evening of great company, profiteroles and martinis, ma chère. 🍸


The Hungry Post
MIAMI’S BEST RESTAURANT WITH “AMBIENTE” Where the vibe is more important but the food is still good The iconic NYC staple, Pastis, expanded its presence from the Meatpacking District to the vibrant neighborhood of Wynwood. The restaurant stays true to its New York roots, offering the same menu filled with classic Parisian bistro-style dishes and an incredible ambiance that won’t make you feel like you’re in Miami. You’re heading here for a chic lunch or dinner and sitting at their gorgeous outdoor patio decorated with ceiling fans, red patio umbrellas, and twinkly lights. We’d start with some drinks (of course), if you’re a spritz person looking to relax, start your meal with their St. Tropez Spritz made with St. Germain, lemon, aperitif, sparkling wine, and strawberries. But if you’ve had a long day (or week) then kick off your meal with a tiny Le Petit Pickle martini. As for the food, we like to start with a few hors d’oeuvres for the table. We usually go for the Tuna Carpaccio with lemon vinaigrette, Escargots with garlic-parsley butter, Onion Soup, and Crispy Artichokes with garlic aioli. Moving on to the entrées we love their Chicken Paillard with almonds and picholine olives, and we always love to get an order of the Moules Frites with white wine and garlic for the table (don’t forget to dip the bread in the sauce). If you still have a little room, the grand finale is the airy Profiteroles, delicately filled with velvety smooth vanilla ice cream, and generously drizzled with warm chocolate sauce.


Time Out Miami
Tinta y Café You can find everything we love about Coral Gables in Tinta y Café, which also has a location in Miami Shores. It’s quirky, local and deliciously Cuban, with a cozy midcentury vibe that’s both moody and light-filled. It’s also pretty laid-back and you can grab a legit Cuban coffee during the lunch rush without having to fight several elderly gentlemen, as well as delicious sandwiches that put a new spin on classics. Note: this is not the place to treat as your satellite office; there’s no wifi, and laptops are politely declined. This is, however, the perfect place to catch up with an old friend or take a break from the hustle.
See also
Networking Events & Community Gatherings in Pinewood Near Miami: Socialize & Connect


Dish Miami
Dinner at Shimuja Ramen This Friday, July 26, find us slurping away at Shimuja Ramen, a beloved South Florida gem. Since opening its doors in Miami in 2018, Shimuja Ramen has quickly become a local favorite, earning the title of “Best Ramen Shop in Miami 2024” from The Miami New Times. Originally founded in Kagoshima City, Japan, in 2011, Shimuja Ramen brings its rich heritage to Miami through the culinary artistry of Chef and Owner Keiichi Maemura. Chef Maemura’s meticulous 13-hour pork-bone broth forms the heart of an extensive ramen menu that includes delicious vegetarian options. Shimuja Ramen is known for its richly flavored broths and fresh ingredients. Their standout dish, the Kagoshima Special, is a delightful combination of smoked pork belly, mixed vegetables, scallions, naruto, fried burdock, a soft-boiled egg, and thick wavy noodles. Other favorites like the Satsuma Tonkotsu and Tokyo Shoyu offer a more classic approach to authentic flavors straight from Japan. Don’t miss out on the quintessential Florida ramen either — the Key Lime, prepared with chicken slices, key lime juice, lettuce, red onion, scallion, thin straight noodles, and half soft boiled egg.


Time Out Miami
The most romantic restaurant in Miami: Boia De Real-life chef couple Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer own and operate this cozy Little Haiti spot that oozes with charm. If your date doesn’t make you swoon, watching these two cook together will. Sit side by side at the counter while you slurp excellent fresh pasta together and trade sips of your organic wines. Bonus: The tightly edited menu keeps quarrelsome couples from agonizing over dishes they’ll both like.


Miami Guide
Unwind to Classic Cocktails and Cutting-Edge Beats at Jolene Sound Room Jolene Sound Room: Descend into the heart of Downtown’s resurgent Flagler Street and discover Jolene Sound Room, a midcentury-inspired escape. This hidden gem boasts a state-of-the-art sound system and a laid-back 1970s aesthetic. The dance floor pulsates with the best of disco, house, and techno from international DJs, while award-winning cocktails keep the energy high. THURSDAY - SUNDAY 10:00PM - 4:00AM


Dish Miami
Forget fancy attire and head to El Turco for a casual yet delicious culinary adventure. Their menu, filled with traditional Turkish specialties, is sure to please every palate. Indulge in some manti dumplings, sample their flavorful dips like hummus and cacik, or savor the rich flavors of their lamb casserole. With its relaxed atmosphere and authentic fare, El Turco is the perfect spot for a low-key night out.


Secret Miami
Bring your furry fiends along to brunch this weekend! It’s not uncommon to find sweet pooches accompanying their owners for weekend brunch in GreenStreet Cafe’s expansive patio. Whether you’re at GreenStreet for an omelette or their Nutella-filled French toast, the best part about bringing your best friend along is that they’ll usually get a little treat of bacon slices or pieces of grilled chicken, as well as their own bowl of ice water.


Dish Miami
For a contemporary and adventurous dining experience that will wow the in-laws, Kojin in Coral Gables is an excellent choice. This modern American restaurant with Japanese flair boasts a menu that’s both innovative and approachable, featuring dishes that showcase a masterful blend of fun flavors and textures. Because the kitchen loves to experiment, dishes are subject to change regularly, but you can’t go wrong with the chicken sando, the namesake Caesar salad, and the short rib off the a la carte menu. If you have the budget for it, opt for one of the tastings that will treat you to a feast of the senses.


Dish Miami
Still deciding where to celebrate Cinco De Mayo 2024?! 📍 BAKAN Wynwood Restaurant - a mariachi band will perform from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and guests can enjoy the restaurant’s usual menu of delicious tacos, moles, quesadillas, and other signature plates. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of margaritas and micheladas.
See also
Discover the Best Cocktails and Trending Rooftop Bars in Pinewood near Miami


Time Out Miami
Cocktail Celebrations at Cafe La Trova Little Havana’s award-winning cantinero cocktail haven toasts July with back-to-back parties celebrating—what else?—classic cocktails. Kick-off National Mojito Day on July 11th with $8 classic and exotic mango mojitos from 4pm to midnight. Then, drink to National Daiquiri Day on the 19th with three $8 signature daiquiris, featuring a guest bartender straight from Cuba’s famed Floridita Bar. Top off the fiestas with a night of Tequila Mijenta on the 24th, featuring 1-oz pours for $24 all night long. ¡Salud!


Miami Bucket List
Back 2 The Video Store: A 90s Speakeasy Bar - Miami Time to go back… Back 2 The Video Store for a unique drinking experience inspired by the art of renting videos during the greatest throwback era. 🍸 Choose your movie-themed cocktails of the night as you browse the video store shelves. Instead of pulling down a movie, now your selection off the wall will be how you choose your drinks. With curated cocktails inspired by award-winning films, which will be your top pick? 📼 You’ll enter this hidden Video Store Bar and transport back to a simpler time - where Friday nights at the video store was an experience! From lava lamps to pog-playing stations & very memorable TV/Film scenes turned into photo moments, there is no shortage of things to blast you back in time!
Discovering Local Dining Experiences in Kendall West
Nestled just outside the hustle and bustle of Miami, Kendall West offers a myriad of local dining experiences that cater to both residents and visitors alike. This quaint yet vibrant neighborhood has evolved into a culinary hotspot, renowned for its eclectic mix of restaurants, ranging from chic bistros to cozy brunch spots, each providing a taste of the area's unique flavor. Here are some trending spots and hidden gems that are must-tries for any foodie.
La Mesa Restaurant: A Top Dinner Destination
For a delightful dining experience, La Mesa Restaurant stands out as one of Kendall West’s prime dinner destinations. Known for its elegant ambiance and mouthwatering menu, La Mesa offers an array of dishes that reflect the essence of Latin American cuisine with a modern twist. Make sure to try their signature dish, the "Churrasco a la Parrilla," a succulent grilled skirt steak complemented by a delicious chimichurri sauce. Pair your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails, and you have yourself a memorable evening in Kendall West.
The Brunch Club: A Morning Delight
The Brunch Club is a celebrated spot among locals for its contemporary take on the classic brunch. Nestled in the heart of Kendall West, this trendy location serves up an array of decadent breakfast and brunch options. A favorite among patrons is the "Brioche French Toast," which is an indulgent treat topped with fresh seasonal berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether you're in the mood for a light avocado toast or a hearty eggs benedict, The Brunch Club does not disappoint.
Hidden Gem: Urban Smokehouse BBQ & Grill
For those seeking a rustic and authentic dining experience, Urban Smokehouse BBQ & Grill is a hidden gem that promises to impress. This local eatery is known for its flavorful and tender smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. One of their crowd-pleasing options is the "BBQ Platter," which comes with a generous selection of their best-smoked meats and a range of classic side dishes like mac ‘n’ cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread. The down-to-earth vibe and friendly staff make this spot a beloved treasure among barbecue enthusiasts in Kendall West.
Café Con Leche: Coffee and Casual Eats
For a relaxed and casual dining experience, Café Con Leche is a delightful spot that caters to coffee lovers and those looking for a quick bite. This charming café, adorned with cozy décor, serves up a variety of coffee blends and light bites that are perfect for any time of day. Don’t miss their "Cubano Sandwich," a beloved staple that’s both flavorful and satisfying, making it a local favorite. Café Con Leche also offers a selection of homemade pastries, making it an ideal place to unwind.
Fusion Flavors at Marumi Sushi
If you’re in the mood for a fusion of Japanese flavors with a touch of local flair, Marumi Sushi is the spot to visit. Known for its fresh and inventive sushi rolls, Marumi Sushi brings a unique twist to traditional dishes. One of the standout items on their menu is the "Miami Roll," which combines fresh tuna, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a burst of flavor. The restaurant also offers an immersive dining experience with their live sushi bar, where you can watch skilled chefs prepare your meal with precision and artistry.
Foodie Favorites: Local Insights
For those looking to delve deeper into Kendall West’s culinary scene, gaining local insights through platforms like Kikihub can be incredibly beneficial. Residents often share their personal experiences and tips about the best dining spots, hidden treasures, and must-try dishes, allowing you to explore the area like a true local. Join in on the anonymous chat to discover more about where to find the best cocktails, the trendiest brunch spots, and the newest restaurants making waves in Kendall West.