Savor Hidden Foodie Gems in Miami's Design District
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.
Miami Guide
Celebrate National Tequila Day in Miami Style! Escape the ordinary with a splash of Italy at Petralunga! This hidden gem overlooking the North Bay Village marina boasts a vibrant atmosphere, delectable contemporary pizzas, gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, and expertly crafted cocktails – including a collection of over 150 tequilas! Don’t miss their “Pizza & Tequila” Tuesdays (and every Tuesday!) with 50% off pizzas and tequilas from 5-6 PM. Weekly specials like “Pasta Lovers’ Mondays,” “Wine Lovers’ Thursdays,” and “Lychee Ladies Night” ensure there’s something for everyone. Experience a taste of Italy with a Miami twist!
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.
Time Out Miami
Harry’s Pizzeria Design District James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz slings pizza from Harry's locations in Coconut Grove and South Beach. A wood-burning oven puts out thin-crust pizzas using fresh dough and wheat flour (though a gluten-free option is also available). Go to town on the rock shrimp pizza with grilled lemon, buttery Manchego, scallions and ribbons of cilantro or a totally unique creation of roasted eggplant and harissa with a ribbon of sesame seeds along the crust. Time Out tip: The meatballs are a must-order side, along with the polenta fries with spicy ketchup.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
HIGHBAR at Dream South Beach: The quintessential rooftop party destination. Has everything you could think of, including a swimming pool, a fun atmosphere, and beautiful views of the ocean. HIGHBAR is a pool bar by day, and a cocktail lounge by night, which means it can entertain a large variety of people throughout the day. The rooftop pool is surrounded by comfortable sunbeds and lounge sofas, as well as shaded areas to protect you from the sun. Though it's located in a hotel, HIGHBAR is open to all, offering a vibrant atmosphere, live DJ music, and both excellent drinks and food.
Time Out Miami
Blue Collar Miami: this comforting neighborhood staple in MiMo is offering deals for lunch and brunch and dinner throughout Miami Spice. It's a pretty amazing deal no matter which route you take: Pick any app, entree and dessert from their regular menus. This is an ideal time to check out the restaurant's new, expanded space (across the street from the original location), and they've got a full bar now, too.
Miami Guide
Baia Beach Club, the tropical waterfront oasis located at the iconic Mondrian South Beach. Guests can choose from a divine selection of Summery, tequila-based cocktails such as the Among the Stars, a subtle yet fruity mixture of Don Julio Blanco, passion fruit puree, yellow peppers & hints of lime or the Day Off, a harmonious blend of Dobel Tequila, Chopin, Brugal 1888, #3 Gin, Luxardo, Apricot, Mango Puree, Lime & fresh berries.
See also
Dining in Pinewood: Explore Top Local Dining Experiences and Foodie Favorites Near Miami
Dish Miami
Miami Spice Dinner at Kissaki Yes, yes, y’all, the holy month for Miami foodies is finally here. August is when Miami Spice is in full swing, and this year many of our favorite restaurants are participating. Luckily, Kissaki is no exception. The South of Fifth Kaiseki restaurant is bringing the heat with its $45 3-course dinner menu. Starters include options like hamachi tiradito with serrano chilis and sudashi-soy or Chef’s signature 4-piece nigiri flight. For entrees, there’s miso black cod or wagyu fried rice topped with a poached egg. Then, for dessert, choose between bruleed torija, bourbon-spiked peach cobbler, or ice cream. We can’t wait. August 15.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Rooftop brunch Miami Elevate your day in style, with yummy food and yummy view. Located in the central parts of Miami Beach, Juvia is a hip and modern rooftop bar and restaurant. Its simplicity, great atmosphere and eclectic menu options make it a major hub for young creatives and foodie enthusiasts on a busy day. Perched nine floors above Lincoln Rd, this stylish and beautiful venue comes with both an indoor sky restaurant with floor-to-ceiling window, and a large wooden decked rooftop terrace, surrounded with magnificent panoramic views of Miami Harbor and the city skyline. Open nightly for refreshing speacialty cocktails and innovative French, Japanese and Peruvian dishes, Juvia also offers a fantastic Sunday rooftop brunch. The á la carte menu includes appetizers like 'Ceviche Carretillero' and 'Wagyu Beef Gyoza', as well as mains like 'Smoked Salmon Egg Benedict' and 'Perigord Truffle Risotto'. For an extra festive touch, gor for the 'Bottomless Brunch', which gives you 2 hours of flowing Mimosa, Bellini, Prosecco or Avion tequila Margarita.
The OH
AUTHENTIC INDIAN RASOI We recently had the pleasure of dining at Indian Rasoi in North Bay Village, and it was an exceptional experience! We started with the Samosas, which were crispy on the outside and filled with a deliciously spiced potato mixture. The Butter Chicken was rich and creamy, with tender pieces of chicken that melted in my mouth. The Garlic Naan was the perfect accompaniment, soft and flavorful. The service was top-notch; the staff were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. I also appreciated the variety of vegetarian options available, making it a great spot for everyone. Overall, Indian Rasoi offers a delightful dining experience with authentic flavors and excellent service. Highly recommended for anyone craving genuine Indian cuisine!
The Restaurant Guide
Sip, savor, and stumble into happiness at Tropezón Tapas Bar & Restaurant Miami! POV: You stumbled into the best tapas experience in the heart of Espanola Way. 🦝🍹 Don’t say we didn’t warn you, but all it takes is one bite of our paella to be hooked. SAVE this post as reminder to join us every Sunday for our Bottomless Paella special.
The Restaurant Guide
BeyBey: Supper club energy with Mediterranean and Lebanese dishes meant to be shared, good music, and cocktails. Tucked in Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour neighborhood, BeyBey is a restaurant and lounge designed to feel like a home. Serving contemporary cuisine from award winning Chef Geoff Lee and regional takes on classic cocktails inspired by their roots in Beirut, as well as an extensive collection of unique and rare wines, BeyBey has quickly become the talk of the town in Miami. The venue offers multiple spaces that compliment a dynamic evening’s needs, including an eclectic, art-strewn dining room, outdoor garden for meals al fresco, and chic social lounge to enjoy cocktails while vibing to an expertly curated soundtrack. With a nightly transition from Sunset Happy Hour to proper dinner service to intimate social lounge, BeyBey was created with the lifestyle of this special part of South Beach and its residents in mind.
The OH
Just had an amazing dining experience at El Patio Miami Beach! The Mediterranean cuisine was top-notch, and the ambiance was so inviting. Definitely recommend trying their dishes, especially the falafel and hummus, Greek salad and the dessert was to die for! Can’t wait to go back for more delicious meals!
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 alsoDiscover Pinewood's Local Community: Anonymous Chats & Trending Discussions Near Miami
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.
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 ❤️
The Restaurant Guide
Joe’s Stone Crab: America’s Premier Seafood Restaurant For 111 Years 🦀 Summer days call for Oysters on the Half-Shell! Fresh, delicious, and waiting for you at Joes Stone Crab. Open all season long.
The OH
We recently had the pleasure of enjoying a fantastic Sunday brunch at El Patio in Miami, and we were thoroughly impressed! The moment we walked in, we were greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who ensured our every need was met. The Antipasto Board, which was generously portioned and packed with cured meats, cheeses, olives, fruits and much more. Each bite was a flavor explosion! And let’s not forget the Mango Margarita, which was sweet, tangy, and utterly delightful. The perfect accompaniment to my meal! Overall, our Sunday brunch at El Patio was a resounding success. With its fresh and delicious dishes, attentive service, and beautiful atmosphere, this Miami gem is a must-visit destination for any food lover. Can’t wait to return and try more of their culinary delights! Recommendation: Don’t miss the Antipasto Board - it’s a flavor sensation! And be sure to pair it with a Mango Margarita for the ultimate brunch experience.
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.
The OH
Discovered a hidden gem EL Patio in Miami! This charming spot serves up authentic Spanish, Mediterranean, and Colombian cuisine that will leave you wanting more! From savory empanadas to flavorful arroz con pollo, every bite is a delight. Don’t miss out on their generous portions and warm hospitality! 5/5 stars for El Patio Restaurant - a must-visit for food lovers in Miami!
The OH
Tanuki South Beach is a sushi lover’s paradise! This trendy spot delivers fresh, innovative sushi rolls that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The vibe is lively and fun, perfect for a night out with friends or a date night. The menu is extensive with creative rolls like the signature Miami Vice with tuna, avocado, mango and a sweet chili sauce that packs a punch. The Tuna Tataki is another must-try ❤️ The space is sleek and modern with an open kitchen where you can watch the sushi chefs at work. The sake list is impressive for pairing with your sushi. Service is attentive without being overbearing. Whether you’re a sushi purist or adventurous eater, Tanuki South Beach has something for everyone. It’s a lively spot that delivers both on flavor and ambiance. Put this Miami Beach gem on your sushi bucket list!
See alsoNetworking Events & Community Gatherings in Pinewood Near Miami: Socialize & Connect
Time Out Miami
The best brunch in Miami - Jaya at the Setai At Jaya, the tables spread out in a charming open-air courtyard surrounding the pool. On Sundays, there’s a jazz band on a stage right there in the middle of the water. You’ll see people in their best flowy dresses and sports jackets. The food, from executive chef Vijayudu Veena, is far from the standard fare, with everything from Indian to Indonesian, and was recently updated to include Peking duck and grilled-to-order stations. The drinks are, of course, endless: The $105 price includes bottomless champagne, white wine, rośe and a mojito bar.
Secret Miami
Cafe Prima Pasta, Miami Beach When it comes to Miami restaurants, this Italian bistro appears to be a long-time favorite for Messi. Even before his Inter Miami days, he’s been visiting Cafe Prima Pasta with his family for the last 12 years, as revealed by owner Gerardo Cea in an interview with The New York Times. The Argentine-owned establishment features a menu of Italian classics that will please any pasta aficionado, from Crab Raviolotti to Black Linguini Seafood!
Dish Miami
Miami Casual Restaurant for When You Don’t Feel Like Dressing Up: Wabi Sabi Embrace the Japanese concept of finding beauty in imperfection at Wabi Sabi. This neighborhood sushi joint is all about fresh, flavorful dishes served in a relaxed setting that will make you feel great. Think artfully plated bowls, rolls bursting with flavor, and an impressive nigiri and sashimi selection that will make you want to linger. This place is also home to one of the more reasonably priced omakase offerings in town; definitely take advantage if you have the funds and time.
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.
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.
Time Out Miami
Angelina's Eatery & Cafe Angelinas is Midtown’s neighborhood coffee shop, and a rebrand in 2022 brought on both a cleaner look and new menu to the space. Now, you can grab a delicious shakshuka with a drip coffee, or opt for other AM hits like avocado toast and sandwiches. It’s a great spot for a simple Sunday morning, a midweek break, or a quick cortado to go.
The OH
So we recently visited the Sugar Factory and let me tell you, it was an absolute treat! 🍭 The ambiance was lively and fun, perfect for a sweet escape. The menu offered a wide variety of indulgent treats, from their famous goblet drinks to their mouthwatering desserts. 🍹🍰 The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The presentation of the dishes was top-notch, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. 😋 Overall, we highly recommend the Sugar Factory for anyone with a sweet tooth looking for a memorable dining experience!💛
See alsoDiscover the Best Cocktails and Trending Rooftop Bars in Pinewood near 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!
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
Discovering Local Food Gems in the Design District Near Miami
The vibrant and trendy Design District near Miami is not just a paradise for art and fashion aficionados; it also offers a remarkable array of local food experiences that entice food lovers from all over. This area boasts an eclectic mix of eateries, each offering a unique culinary adventure. Whether you're a foodie craving the latest trending eateries or simply looking for a satisfying dining experience, the Design District has it all.
Upscale Dining Experiences
For those who enjoy a touch of luxury, the Design District is home to some high-end restaurants that promise not just delicious food but also a sophisticated ambiance. One such place is the iconic Mandolin Aegean Bistro, known for its Mediterranean flavors and charming outdoor seating. Their meze platters, filled with feta, olives, and freshly baked bread, provide the perfect start to any meal. Another must-visit is Michael's Genuine Food & Drink, where farm-to-table freshness is the highlight. Michael Schwartz’s seasonal menu features everything from wood-fired pizzas to locally caught seafood, all of which come highly recommended by locals.
Brunch Hotspots
If you find yourself in the Design District over the weekend, don't miss out on the delicious brunch options. Yardbird Southern Table & Bar is a local favourite for its classic Southern breakfasts, such as shrimp and grits and chicken 'n' waffles. The biscuits and gravy will remind you of warm, comforting home-cooked meals. Another popular spot is The Salty Donut, where craft donuts and artisanal coffee draw in the crowds. Their inventive flavors, such as maple bacon or guava and cheese, have received rave reviews.
Hidden Cafés and Bistros
The Design District isn’t just about the well-known places; it’s also home to hidden gems that offer a more intimate and unique dining experience. Crumb on Parchment, tucked away inside the district, provides a charming respite with its cozy atmosphere and wholesome dishes like roasted veggie sandwiches and homemade pastries. Then, there's Otl (short for "Out to Lunch"), a modern café that emphasizes healthy options with an inviting ambiance. Their quinoa bowls and avocado toast have earned them a dedicated local following.
Trendy Eateries and Pop-Ups
For those in the know, the Design District is also a hotspot for seasonal pop-ups and trending eateries. One spot that’s currently making waves is St. Roch Market, a food hall featuring a variety of vendors showcasing global cuisine. From Vietnamese pho to New Orleans-style beignets, this market is perfect for those wanting to explore a myriad of flavors in one visit. Keep an eye on local forums or Kikihub chats to stay updated on the latest pop-up events and trending eateries, as they can be an exciting way to discover new food trends and culinary talents.
Delectable Street Food
The Design District’s street food scene is equally impressive, offering quick bites that don’t skimp on flavor. The widely popular Coyo Taco serves up mouthwatering tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Don't miss their famous pescado taco, packed with lightly battered fish and fresh pico de gallo. For those looking for something more exotic, the food truck Maciel's Plant Collective offers vegan and plant-based options that are both inventive and flavorful. Try their jackfruit tacos or vegan buffalo cauliflower for a deliciously different take on street food.
Exclusive Cocktails and Nightlife
No dining experience is complete without a crafty cocktail, and the Design District doesn’t disappoint. For artfully crafted cocktails with a relaxed vibe, head to Miami Mojito Company. Located in a lush tiki garden, it’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Alternatively, The Sylvester offers a retro-inspired setting and signature cocktails such as 'Midnight Marauder' and 'Crazy Uncle Louie’s Old Fashioned'. If you're in the mood for something more sophisticated, check out Kaido, a stylish lounge known for both its innovative drinks and Asian-fusion bites.
From dinner and brunch spots to cocktails and street food, the Design District near Miami caters to every craving and culinary curiosity. For true foodies looking to gain deeper insights and discover local secrets, Kikihub offers a platform where you can engage in anonymous chats to obtain real opinions and uncover the hidden gems of this gastronomic haven.
