This weekend Peter and I flew down to Miami for the second stop of our USA Farewell Tour. There are many reasons a person would want to visit Miami (the beaches! The nightlife!) but for me, it’s the food. IT’S ALWAYS THE FOOD.
I lived in Miami for two-ish years; it’s even where Peter and I met! During our time there, we loved exploring this vibrant city through the incredible food scene. Every neighborhood is different, and the bars and restaurants definitely reflect that. This trip was an amazing opportunity for us to revisit some old favorites and fall in love with new places! Read on for five bars and restaurants you should absolutely put on your Miami Itinerary.
Three Old Faves
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
Go For: Brunch
Located in South Beach just steps off the Lincoln Road Mall, Yardbird is the perfect spot to fill up on Southern classics before a long day of shopping. They may be famous for their Chicken ‘N’ Watermelon ‘N’ Waffles, but I am telling you, get the Shrimp N’Grits. Not to be too dramatic, but the PBR ju changed my life. Be sure to pair it with a Yardbird Old Fashioned – it’s made with bacon infused bourbon and maple syrup! If you are interested in stopping by, you can see the rest of the menu here. Just don’t forget to make a reservation – this place is always PACKED!
Lido Bar & Lounge
Go For: Cocktails
Fabulous people watching, a great location and a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays?! It’s really tough to beat the retro-meets-glam Miami feel at the Lido Bar & Lounge. Head over to The Standard for cocktails before dinner and catch an amazing sunset on the bay. Get a F’rosé to cement the vacation vibes, but even if drinks are the main event, don’t skip the Whipped Feta!
Confession: I forgot my phone when we went to Lido this time. These pictures are actually iPhone pictures from 2016, but if you need more convicing check out this article by Thrillist!
Fifi’s Seafood Restaurant
Go For: Dinner
A person could be forgiven for missing it as they hustle up Collins Avenue, but Fifi’s is truly a gem. Tucked away in the North Beach neighborhood, Fifi’s offers some of the best (and freshest) seafood in Miami. Some reviewers knock it for what it lacks in ~ambiance~, but I say embrace it! Grab a table outside and watch as luxury cars whiz by. Order the Mixed Ceviche to start and cross your fingers that the catch of the day is Hogfish! See the full menu here.
Two New Loves
Amara at Paraiso
Go For: Brunch
Nestled off Biscayne Bay, this Edgewater eatery was almost overwhelming for my senses. The restaurant itself is gorgeous, but the beautiful tile work, hanging greens and statement light fixtures pale in comparison to the food and drinks!
Amara at Paraiso features dishes inspired by various Latin and South American cultures. In addition to the more traditional menu set up, two food carts offering sweet or savory items tempt diners tableside. Have you ever started brunch with a la carte Chorizo? I have now, and I would absolutely do it again. We sampled everything from the Tiraditos to Empanadas to Steak and Eggs. I recommend it all. Like, literally the whole menu. For drinks, you can’t go wrong with the Hibiscus Spiked Fresca or the Woke Up Like This (pictured at the top of the article).
The Betsy Hotel
Go For: Lunch
Specifically, go for lunch at the roof top pool! The lunch menu features a slightly paired down selection from LT Steak & Seafood. We enjoyed Tuna Tartare and Pina Coladas, served with a view of South Beach and the Atlantic. For the most part, food and drinks are VERY expensive in Miami, but we felt that the prices here were totally reasonable for South Beach.
To enjoy the pool, Peter and I purchased a day pass. While I’m positive a true Miami native would tell you not to bother, I’m a rule follower. However, there are actual benefits to buying it- for $30, we got access to both pools, the fitness center and received FREE glasses of prosecco at check in!
So there you have it! If you’re visiting Miami you should definitely make room for these five restaurants and bars!
