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Miami food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Miami.
What to eat in Miami
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Cuban Sandwich
A pressed sandwich layered with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. It's a savory, pressed delight that embodies Miami's Cuban heritage.
Stone Crabs
Sweet, succulent crab claws served chilled with a mustard dipping sauce. A seasonal delicacy, best enjoyed from fall through spring.
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef stewed with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, typically served with rice and beans. A hearty and flavorful Cuban classic.
Key Lime Pie
A tart and sweet custard pie made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk in a graham cracker crust. The perfect zesty finish to any meal.
Mojo Chicken
Tender chicken marinated in a vibrant citrus and garlic mojo sauce, then roasted or grilled. Its tangy, garlicky flavor is a Cuban staple.
Arepas
Cornmeal pockets filled with various savory ingredients like shredded beef, chicken, cheese, or black beans. A versatile and satisfying street food.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Vibrant and culturally rich, with a strong Cuban influence.
Glamorous and lively, known for its Art Deco architecture and trendy dining scene.
Artsy and bohemian, with a burgeoning food scene alongside street art.
Bohemian and lush, offering a more relaxed, upscale dining experience.
Dietary notes
While Miami has a diverse culinary landscape, traditional Cuban and Latin American dishes can be meat-heavy. However, with the city's international influence, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are increasingly available, particularly in trendier neighborhoods and dedicated health-conscious eateries.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary, generally 18-20% for good service at restaurants.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •Dress code varies; South Beach can be more upscale, while Little Havana is casual.
- •Be prepared for a casual dining atmosphere in many Cuban eateries; service can be brisk but friendly.
Plan the rest of your Miami trip
Food guides elsewhere