Downtown Miami has transformed remarkably over the past few decades. Once a commercial district, it now pulses with vibrant life. Residential growth and cultural efforts have breathed new life into the area.
Its dining scene is where old meets new, and history mingles with culture. Miami’s downtown restaurants embody this transformation, like the Biscayne Bay Brewing Company, which opened in a historic post office, blending historical charm with modern brewing techniques.
The area’s restaurants draw a varied crowd. High-end spots like Zuma cater to those seeking luxury. Here, you can enjoy dishes like sea bass sashimi with yuzu. In contrast, casual joints like Eleventh Street Pizza serve New York-style and Sicilian slices, perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
Additionally, food halls are worth mentioning, adding to the area’s appeal. Julia & Henry’s features a sleek design and a variety of international vendors. This communal eating space encourages exploration and connection. Whether you crave high-end sophistication or casual comfort, the area’s eateries offer something for every taste.
Zuma
270 Biscayne Boulevard Way, EPIC Hotel, Miami, FL 33131
Japanese
Price: $$$$
This riverfront restaurant in the EPIC Hotel offers a wide selection of modern Japanese dishes and one of the best brunches in town. The spacious open kitchen adds to the vibrant atmosphere, for enjoying sushi, robata grill dishes, and cocktails. Zuma’s brunch is particularly famous, featuring an extensive buffet with a focus on quality and presentation.
Image Courtesy: El Vecino
El Vecino
698 NE 1st Ave, Suite G-172, Miami, FL 33132
Cigar and Cocktail Bar
Accepts Apogee Indigo Wallet Payment
Price: $$$
El Vecino is a premium cigar and cocktail bar in the Miami World Center. It offers an upscale experience with a large selection of fine cigars, exquisite drinks, and a vibrant ambiance. The lounge features vintage decor, leather furniture, and a custom-built walk-in humidor. It’s an ideal spot for cigar aficionados and those looking to enjoy a sophisticated night out.
Image Courtesy: Laurel Brasserie
Laurel Brasserie
698 NE 1st Ave, Suite G170, Miami, FL 33132
French, Cocktail Bar
Accepts Apogee Indigo Wallet Payment
Price: $$$$
Laurel Brasserie, part of Chef Michael Beltran’s Ariete Hospitality Group, offers upscale French-inspired cuisine in a sophisticated setting. The restaurant features dishes like French Onion Soup, Seared Scallops, and Boeuf En Croûte. With a Michelin Star under his belt, Chef Beltran brings a high level of culinary excellence to this Miami Worldcenter location. The brasserie also boasts a vibrant bar, perfect for enjoying crafted cocktails.
Mr. Omakase
163 SE 1st St, Miami, FL 33131
Japanese
Price: $$$
Mr. Omakase is a laid-back, counter-style omakase spot where sushi chefs expertly roll maki to an old-school hip-hop soundtrack. The dining experience includes several tiers, with options ranging from a 10-course meal at $89 to an 18-course meal at $149. Each meal features a variety of fresh sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies, served with unique sake pairings. The intimate setting allows diners to interact with the chefs and enjoy the meticulous craftsmanship of each dish, making it a top choice for sushi enthusiasts.
Image Courtesy: Primo’s Italian Kitchen & Bar
Primo’s Italian Kitchen & Bar
1717 N Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33132
Italian
Accepts Apogee Indigo Wallet Payment
Price: $$
Primo’s Italian Kitchen & Bar, located in the DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay, offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu of classic Italian dishes. The restaurant features favorites like Fettuccine Alfredo, Linguine Seafood, and Margherita Pizza. Guests can enjoy a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Known for its friendly service and extensive wine list, Primo’s is perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
Biscayne Bay Brewing Company
100 NE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33132
Brewery
Price: $$
Biscayne Bay Brewing Company offers a range of craft beers brewed in-house, alongside a menu of pub-style fare. The brewery provides a laid-back atmosphere perfect for casual outings with friends. Enjoy their signature beers such as Miami Pale Ale and Double Nine IPA, which pair perfectly with their bar snacks and sandwiches.
NIU Kitchen
104 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132
Spanish Tapas
Price: $$$
Hidden among bodegas and parking lots, NIU Kitchen serves inventive dishes that blend Spanish tapas with experimental ingredients. The shareable plates, such as their signature tomato bread with anchovies and the cold tomato soup with mustard ice cream, are a must-try. Pair your meal with a carefully selected bottle of Spanish wine to complete the experience.
Image Courtesy: Sokai Sushi Bar – Downtown
Sokai Sushi Bar – Downtown
1371 NE Miami Ct, Miami, FL 33132
Japanese, Sushi, Peruvian
Accepts Apogee Indigo Wallet Payment
Price: $$$
Sokai Sushi Bar offers a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine with a creative twist. The restaurant features an extensive menu including sushi rolls, sashimi, tiraditos, ceviches, and hot dishes such as Lomo Saltado and Chicken Katsu. Guests can enjoy dishes like the Sokai Delight Salmon, Dragon Roll, and Japanese Tacos. The ambiance is contemporary and inviting, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The service is known to be attentive and friendly.
Motek Café
36 SE 1st St Suite 132,, Miami, FL 33132
Israeli
Price: $$
Motek Café serves authentic Israeli delights, including crispy falafel, juicy schnitzel, and creamy house-made hummus. The arayes burger, a dish featuring pita stuffed with spiced beef, is a standout. The vibrant café atmosphere is perfect for casual dining, whether you’re enjoying a meal with friends or family. The menu emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering a true taste of Israeli cuisine in the heart of Miami.
Miami Slice
1335 NE Miami Ct, Miami, FL 33132
Pizza
Price: $
Miami Slice offers New York-style pizzas made with high-quality ingredients. The crispy, well-done crusts are topped with delicious combinations such as smoky bacon, creamy mushrooms, and hot honey-drizzled pepperoni. The pizza dough is audibly crunchy yet airy inside, delivering a perfect bite every time. Miami Slice operates on a walk-in basis with limited seating at the slice bar, ensuring each pizza is freshly made to order. Their vibrant, casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends.
Over Under
151 East Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33131
Gastropub
Price: $
Over Under offers a full Florida kitsch experience with a menu featuring local ingredients like gulf oysters and wahoo-smoked fish dip. The standout cheeseburger is a must-try. This gastropub provides a relaxed, quirky atmosphere with a commitment to using fresh, regional produce. The eclectic decor and casual vibe make it a perfect spot for unwinding with friends or enjoying a laid-back meal.
Mangrove
103 NW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33128
Jamaican and Caribbean
Price: $$
Mangrove provides tropical speakeasy vibes with a cocktail menu that complements its Jamaican and Caribbean-inspired fare. The restaurant transitions from a casual dining space during the day to a moody lounge by night. The dinner menu features flavorful dishes such as jerk skewers, ginger rosemary snapper, and a signature fried jerk chicken sandwich. The bar offers island-inspired cocktails like the “Red Red Wine” and the “Hotstepper.” With its eclectic decor, including vintage barware and local art, Mangrove creates an immersive experience that celebrates Caribbean culture. Weekly reggae nights and happy hours add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Giselle
15 Northeast 11th Street, Miami, FL 33132
Contemporary American
Price: $$$$
Giselle, located atop the E11even ultra-club, offers a lavish dining experience with elaborate presentations, reminiscent of Las Vegas. The restaurant features a menu blending French, Asian, and seafood cuisines. Signature dishes include Flaming Lobster Thermidor and Wagyu Dumplings. The chic ambiance, complemented by live DJs and an upscale atmosphere, makes it perfect for special occasions and a vibrant night out.
Soya & Pomodoro
120 NE 1st St, Miami, FL 33132
Italian
Price: $$$
This family-owned trattoria offers fresh, homemade Italian dishes in a unique and cozy ambiance, perfect for a date night. Nestled in a historic building, the restaurant provides a European feel with live jazz music enhancing the dining experience. Popular dishes include pasta bolognese and braised lamb shank, all served by a welcoming staff in an intimate setting reminiscent of a charming Italian street.
Meraki Greek Bistro
142 SE 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33131
Greek
Price: $$
Meraki Greek Bistro serves hearty Greek comfort food, ideal for a power lunch or a dinner before a night out. It’s open late on weekends, perfect for a post-dinner gyros fix. Nestled in a hidden courtyard, this bistro offers a cozy and charming atmosphere with a menu featuring traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, gyro, and moussaka, all prepared with fresh ingredients.
