Best Miami Restaurants for Newcomers

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So you are finally and officially a resident of Miami, Fl. The moving days are behind you, and it’s time to forget about the relocation stress and start settling. You might have visited some of the famous sites and landmarks. And after getting to know your neighborhood and finding important institutions, such as your local school or church, you can move on to discover places you will visit for entertainment. You probably had a favorite cafe in your old neighborhood, as well as a favorite restaurant. Why not try to find one here in Miami? You can start feeling at home sooner, and finding some good restaurants will enable you to invite your new friends and acquaintances to a nice dinner. So what are the best Miami restaurants for newcomers? If you need some recommendations, look no further. Miami Movers For Less is here to help you choose.

The qualities of a good restaurant

There are, of course, some qualities of a good restaurant that everyone universally agrees about. You might even call them some common sense qualities. They include tasty and high-grade food and a pleasant ambiance. However, even these can have different notions for different people. So, before trying to find out about the best restaurants in Miami, you should think about your own perception of a good restaurant. When people talk about restaurants, they usually consider these traits:

  • High-quality food
  • Overall dining experience
  • Cleanliness of the restaurant
  • Uniqueness
  • Ambiance
  • Price

Do you like high-end or regular family places? Are food prices an important factor for you when choosing where to dine? Do you enjoy a unique place with uncommon food? Are you a person who always notices how clean the restaurant is? Miami restaurants have so much to quality, and you can surely find at least a couple of places suitable for you. Here are a few restaurants that would be best for a newcomer, recommended by local movers in Florida.

plate in one of the best Miami restaurants
The best Miami restaurants promise delightful experiences for every newcomer

Places to visit in Miami

If finding a restaurant according to your particular taste is a big deal to you, Miami has a lot to offer! This city has an abundance of wonderful restaurants. Finding the one that suits you best might even help you deal with feeling homesick in the period after moving. So there are so many restaurants to choose from. There’s cheap and friendly. There’s ethnic and unique. Posh and pricey. You name it, Miami is there to help you. However, there has to be a choice of the best restaurants in Miami. Among many of them, we recommend a few of the best.

Indulge in an Unforgettable Culinary Experience When You Move to Miami: The Splendor of Stubborn Seed

Making the move to Miami invites an assortment of captivating experiences, one of which is the renowned Stubborn Seed restaurant. Nestled in the heart of South Beach, this gem is the creation of Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford. It offers an unforgettable exploration of New American cuisine, leaving you longing for more after every visit. Located at 101 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, 33139, Stubborn Seed is easily accessible via bus routes 103, 123, and 150. The restaurant sparkles amidst the extravagant South Beach scene, thanks to its Michelin star and Ford’s masterful culinary artistry. Combining novel twists with comforting familiarity, Ford’s unique cooking style offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. For first-time visitors, reserving a table for a Friday or Saturday evening is highly recommended. During these times, an exceptional eight-course chef’s tasting menu takes center stage, providing the ideal introduction to Stubborn Seed’s culinary brilliance.

From the meticulous attention to detail evident in its seasonally-inspired menu to the artful presentation of dishes, Stubborn Seed – Ford’s first solo venture – truly exemplifies passion. Whether it’s the Spanish-inspired smoked foie gras coupled with quince paste or the lush celery root purée topped with crispy maitake mushroom, surprises await at every turn. Open from 6 to 11 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, Stubborn Seed is a must-visit for any cocktail enthusiast. The Silver Dollar old-fashioned is a DIY wonder that allows patrons to mix their drink, served on a silver platter. After you move to Miami, make sure to set aside an evening to experience the culinary wonder that is Stubborn Seed.

plate in one of the best Miami restaurants
Taste food cooked by one of the best Miami chefs – Jeremy Ford

Itamae: A Standout in Miami’s Local Cuisine Scene Offering an Exhilarating Peruvian Adventure

From humble beginnings as a small stall in the local Mia Market, Itamae has evolved into a dazzling culinary establishment at its prime location, 140 NE 39th St, #136, Miami, 33137. Located in the heart of the Design District’s Palm Court, this family-owned, Nikkei-inspired restaurant is helmed by the illustrious Chang family – Fernando and his children, Valerie and Nando. Itamae’s unique allure in Miami’s local cuisine lies in its vividly innovative interpretation of Peruvian cuisine, especially in its endless imaginative array of raw fish dishes. Diners can delight in a diverse range of cebiches and other South American favorites. The standout, however, is the Conchitas a la Parmesana, a towering delicacy of fish, seared scallops, and avocado promising a scrumptious culinary adventure, topped off with a cascade of parmesan flakes.

With its successful transition from stall to standalone restaurant, Itamae continues to evolve. The menu now boasts a new selection of bañaditos – maki-style rolls luxuriously bathed in sauce. Also, don’t miss the Torrejitas de Choclo, a beloved corn fritter dish from the Changs’ native Chiclayo, served with a tangy Leche de Tigre dip. Open from noon to 6 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and from noon to 4 pm, and from 5 to 8:45 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, Itamae sets itself apart as an exceptional destination on Miami’s culinary map. Make sure to set aside some time to explore this gastronomic delight.

Don’t Miss Out on La Mar, a Peruvian Culinary Jewel in Miami

As you probably already know, moving to Florida presents a world of new flavors to explore, and La Mar, a high-end Peruvian restaurant, is a location not to be missed. Situated in the opulent Mandarin Oriental in Miami, La Mar is helmed by the supremely skilled Chef Diego Oka, a protégé of the celebrated Chef Gastón Acurio. La Mar’s reputation is built on its precise execution of complex raw dishes, such as ceviche and tiradito, each garnished with decorative foams and edible flowers. Chef Oka’s culinary expertise shines through each meticulously crafted dish inspired by his travels and the changing seasons. Noteworthy dishes include the Tiradito Bachiche, featuring snapper elegantly adorned with aged parmesan and the slowly braised Chicha Morada Brisket.

Peruvian food in one of the best Miami restaurants
Try Peruvian dishes in La Mar

Adding to La Mar’s appeal is its waterfront patio, which offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Downtown Miami and Brickell. For an immersive dining experience, La Mar’s weekend brunch comes highly recommended. Guests can indulge in a buffet of individually portioned ceviche and other raw-bar favorites, an anticucho station, and a custom sancocho bar. Before you wrap up your evening, take a detour to the MO Bar + Lounge next to the restaurant. Offering craft cocktails and live music, it’s the perfect spot for a nightcap. La Mar is located at 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, and is accessible via Bus 11. Opening hours are from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm from Monday to Saturday and from noon to 3:30 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm on Sundays.

Experience a Taste of the Aegean at Mandolin Bistro in Miami

When you’re finally settled in your new home by your local movers in Miami, you’ll want to start exploring the best Miami restaurants. One such gem to add to your list is Mandolin Aegean Bistro, a captivating outdoor eatery that’s an oasis of Greek culinary delights nestled in Buena Vista. Inspired by the stunning Cycladic landscapes, Mandolin embodies the alluring white-and-blue hues often seen in picturesque Aegean vistas. The eatery offers a dreamy ambiance perfect for romantic outings. A menu filled with sharable traditional Greek dishes— from an array of mezzes and baskets of freshly baked pita bread to a delightful whole grilled fish for two—further enhances this enchanting setting.

As you sip Mandolin’s delicious homemade sangria, you’ll feel as if you’ve been whisked away on an island vacation. The intoxicating blend could easily make you mistake the bistro’s whitewashed exterior for Santorini. Its vibrant blue doors and soothing splashes of cerulean create an atmosphere reminiscent of the Aegean coast. The bistro’s selection of traditional mezzes, just-caught seafood, and refreshing sangria combine to provide a light, fresh, and unforgettable dining experience. Find Mandolin Aegean Bistro at 4312 NE Second Ave, Miami, accessible via Bus 9, 10, 22. It’s open daily from noon to 11 pm.

Jaguar Sun: A Shining Star in Miami’s Vibrant Cocktail Scene

After the dust has settled and the moving companies in Miami Dade have left, one place you’ll want to add to your list of Miami adventures is the Jaguar Sun. This Downtown bar and restaurant, which ingeniously transformed into an outdoor steakhouse during lockdown, is now back and stronger than ever. Its return is celebrated with a revamped dining room and a new prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award. The magic of Jaguar Sun is in the seamless collaboration between Chef Carey Hynes and bar director Will Thompson. They’ve mastered the art of food and drink harmony. An order of the market crudo wouldn’t be complete without a fino martini, the Parker house rolls find their perfect companion in the Madame Butterfly, and the Very Strong Baby drink needs a spicy rigatoni bowl as its sidekick to avoid a Very Drunk Diner scenario.

pasta plate
You must try paste dishes in Jaguar Sun

To truly enjoy the Jaguar Sun experience, one of the best Miami restaurants, there are three things you simply must try: a martini, a pasta dish, and an ice cream sandwich. Anything else you order is just the cherry on top of a perfect meal. Find this unique cocktail bar at 230 NE 4th St, Miami, open from Tuesday to Thursday, 5 pm to midnight, and on Fridays and Saturdays, 5 pm to 2 am.

Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink: An Unforgettable Taste of Miami’s Design District”

Once your residential movers in Miami have done their job and you’ve settled into your new Florida home, an unforgettable culinary adventure awaits at Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink. This remarkable restaurant, nestled in the heart of the Design District, is the masterpiece of James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz. For over 16 years, Michael’s Genuine has been a beloved fixture in Miami, drawing locals and tourists alike. It has managed to stay relevant and exciting. Especially after a recent renovation that expanded its space, broadened its menu, and added a dash of modernity to its decor. The expanded menu now features an array of innovative dishes. You can find everything from Sicilian-style grilled pork collar to grilled maitake mushroom “shawarma” with herbed yogurt and pickled onion. The renovated venue has a bright and warm ambiance, seamlessly merging the indoors with the outdoors.

This redesign includes high ceilings, floating wood pendant lights, lush greenery, and a new, double-sized kitchen. The original artwork and bolero red accents blend perfectly with these new elements, creating a space that is both familiar and fresh. Whether you’re looking for a quick happy-hour cocktail, a business lunch, or a romantic date-night dinner, Michael’s Genuine is the place to be. And don’t forget to check out their standout happy hour, Monday through Friday, from 4:30 until 7 pm, where you can enjoy half-off on wines, beers, specialty cocktails, and a variety of savory snacks. You can find Michael’s Genuine at 130 NE 40th St, Miami, open from Monday to Thursday, 11:30 am to 11 pm; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 am to midnight; and Sunday, 11:30 am to 3 pm and 5:30 pm to 10 pm.

grilled pork in one of the best Miami restuarants
Grilled pork is one of the specialties of Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink

NIU Kitchen: A Hidden Culinary Jewel Offering Catalan Cuisine in Downtown Miami

Imagine having just completed your move, feeling a little tired and definitely hungry. Your long distance movers in Miami have done their part, and now it’s time to take a break and explore your new hometown. A delight awaits you in the heart of Downtown Miami – the NIU Kitchen. Run by the dynamic duo of chef Deme Lomas and wine director Karina Iglesias, this Catalonian gem is one of the best Miami restaurants tucked away amidst bodegas and parking lots.  They’ve recently moved to a larger space next door from their original location. Now, it has been transformed into a cozy wine bar, NIU Wine. The kitchen at NIU is renowned for transforming simple ingredients into a dazzling array of flavorful Spanish tapas. Be ready to dive into a seasonal lineup that includes dishes like branzino tartare served with white garlic soup and pan-seared foie over honey bread and fruit.

The pa amb tomàquet, a traditional rustic bread topped with vine-ripened tomatoes, olive oil, and salt, is a must-try. One standout dish is the ‘ous’ – a creamy concoction of poached eggs, truffled potato foam, jamón ibérico, and black truffle. Pair these mouthwatering dishes with a selection from their extensive natural wine list, and you’re all set for a meal to remember. If you’re in the mood for a drink before dinner, NIU’s sister restaurant, Arson, at 104 NE 2nd Ave, is an excellent choice, with the same operating hours as NIU. NIU Kitchen is located at 134 NE Second Ave, Miami, and is open Monday to Thursday, noon to 3:30 pm, 6 pm to 10 pm; Friday, noon to 3:30 pm, 6 pm to 11 pm; Saturday, 1 pm to 4 pm, 6 pm to 11 pm; Sunday, 1 pm to 4 pm, 6 pm to 10 pm.

Sanguich de Miami: Savoring the Flavor of a Cuban Cafeteria Amidst the Hustle and Bustle

So, you’ve made a big move to the vibrant city of Miami. The moving services Miami movers provide are top-notch and save you a lot of physical strain. However, orchestrating a move still leaves you with a certain kind of hunger. That’s when you discover one of the best Miami restaurants – Sanguich de Miami. Here, tradition meets innovation. The restaurant offers a modern spin on the classic Cuban cafeteria. It features a cozy counter selling a range of quick, hearty bites, including pressed sandwiches and croquetas. The pride of Sanguich is its Cubano sandwich. They make it extra special by using house-made ingredients. You’ll love the cured ham, the brined pork, the fresh pickles, and the artisanal mustard.

food plate
Eat pressed sandwiches and croquetas at Sanguich de Miami

Believe it or not, even the bread, crucial to a good Cuban sandwich, is made to Sanguich’s exact specifications. The result? You’ll taste one of the best Cubanos in Miami here. The menu also includes Cuban-style nachos, loaded with fried plantain strips and garlic aioli sauce, which are absolutely divine. Located at 2057 SW 8th St, this quaint, 25-seat eatery serves a selection of seven made-to-order batidos, a must-try Cuban milkshake. The restaurant’s adorable ventanita, or little window, makes grabbing a quick cafecito a breeze. Its hours are Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to midnight, and Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm. You can easily reach it via bus number 8.

Wrapping Up Our Adventure Through the Best Miami Restaurants

In conclusion, Miami’s food scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. The eateries mentioned above are just a sampling of the best Miami restaurants that have something for every palate. Their delicious dishes, fantastic ambiance, and unique flavors offer a true reflection of the city’s multicultural roots. Whether you’ve just moved here or are planning to, having reliable interstate moving companies in Miami can ease your transition and let you explore these culinary gems more quickly. No matter where you’re from, these best Miami restaurants guarantee to make Miami feel like home.

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