When people think of Miami, it’s difficult not to do so fondly.
With the city full of vibrant nightlife, ever-popular beaches and its iconic collection of Art Deco architecture, the Florida metropolis has long been established as a go-to destination for those looking to find a second home in its characteristically never-ending summer oasis.
Naturally, an integral part of the city is its food culture. Renowned for its Cuban and Latin American-influenced cuisine, a visit to Miami would not be complete without hitting up a vast array of some of the city’s most celebrated, innovative and up-and-coming staples. In fact, one could argue that an entire vacation could be worth taking just to experience the multifaceted and multicultural cuisine Miami has to offer.
From kicking off the day with a trendy-but-nutritious Acai bowl to refueling after a day spent soaking up the sun with the best Cuban sandwich you’ll ever eat, REVOLT has got all your bases covered. With this year’s REVOLT Music Conference creeping up, taking place October 12-15, we’ve compiled a handy guide featuring ten must-visit spots in Miami. Food enthusiasts, take heed.
Coyo Taco
Address: 2300 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127 and 1111 SW 1st Ave Miami, FL 33130
Website/Menu: http://coyo-taco.com/wynwood/
Why it’s a must-visit: Located in the heart of Wynwood, Coya Taco is a laid-back taqueria that has a wide-ranging menu, with taco-fillings including items such as grilled cactus, charred octopus, slow-roasted pork shoulder, locally sourced vegetables and more, with each taco being built utilizing tortillas authentically pressed by hand. The kitchen, which is helmed by executive chef Scott Linquist, prepares each taco with care and in plain view, from behind a wide-set exhibition kitchen. As far as drinks go, the “paleta-rita” is a local staple with spiked Aguas frescas also a nice option. Coya also often features live music with a handful of reoccurring DJ nights, including Rum & Bass and Dubwise Miami. The line often stretches out the door, especially on weekends, but that’s further proof that this destination is worth checking out.
Jugofresh
Address: Several locations
Website/Menu: http://jugofresh.com/
Why it’s a must-visit: Miami is a city that plays hard and works hard. For the days when an extra nutritional boost is needed, Jugofresh has your back. The business, which has several locations scattered throughout Miami, places an emphasis on health-conscious items, ranging from wellness shots to cold-press juices to vegan/gluten-free snacks, and of course, the ever-popular Acai bowl. If you choose to indulge in the feel-good freshness Jugofresh provides, your future self will thank you.
Panther Coffee
Address: 2390 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127 + other locations
Website/Menu: https://squareup.com/store/panther-coffee-3
Why it’s a must-visit: This is definitely one of those hipster coffee places, but one that is less overwhelming for people who don’t consider themselves as coffee snobs. Its ambiance is on point, with plenty of outdoor seating and a soothing atheistic on the inside. The Miami-based specialty coffee roaster has come a long way since its humble beginnings, first getting its start as a cart on a bicycle serving cold brew at various food truck gatherings. The Wynwood location is a perfect place to get your caffeine fix or take a break from wandering the street-art laden neighborhood.
Dizengoff
Address: 250 NW 24th St, Miami, FL 33127
Website/Menu: http://www.dizengoffhummus.com/
Why it’s a must-visit: Dizengoff, named after one of Tel Aviv’s most iconic streets, first established itself in Philadelphia, and now has locations in Miami and New York City. This is where you will find the absolute best hummus in town, with the Wynwood location right next door to Federal Donuts (in case you want to eat healthy and then treat yourself). The reputed hummus is made fresh daily and is topped with a rotation of garnishes, including chickpeas, tehinas, lamb merquez and cabbage, as well as is served with a hearth-baked pita, chopped Israeli salad and pickles. While the Miami location opened this summer, it’s already becoming a local favorite.
GLAM Vegan
Address: 3301 NE 1st Ave Suite 103-1, Miami, FL 33137
Website/Menu: https://www.glam-vegan.com/
Why it’s a must-visit:
GLAM, which is short for Green Living Animals Matter, has an extensive menu that is sure to please those who prefer vegan options. The establishment is relatively brand new but is already solidifying itself as the best vegan restaurant in town. With an extensive menu full of creative meatless options, created by Todd Erickson, those hesitant to eat clean will be pleasantly surprised. Especially considering the restaurant has been dubbed as bringing “fast-casual vegan dining” to Midtown Miami, those looking to eat quickly (and therefore get back to what RMC has to offer) won’t have to sacrifice quality.
Enriqueta’s
Address: 186 NE 29th St, Miami, FL 33137
Website/Menu: http://southflorida.menupages.com/restaurants/enriquetas-sandwich-shop/
Why it’s a must-visit: While Miami is scattered with top-tier sandwich shops, there’s something special about Enriqueta. The sandwich shop, which is open for breakfast and lunch only, is renowned for its Cuban fare. Don’t be turned off by its simple decor, the focus here is on the food, which also just so happens to be reasonably priced in addition to being delicious. Win-win.
Versaille’s
Address: 3501 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
Website/Menu: http://www.versaillesrestaurant.com/
Why it’s a must-visit:
Versaille’s is essentially the quintessential go-to for Cuban cuisine and is exactly the type of restaurant that people think of when they think of Miami. Versaille’s, which was founded in 1971, hails itself as the “World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” and it’s hard to make a rebuttal proving otherwise. Lucky, its delicious food matches its reputation as a Miami landmark, with the Little Havana eatery doubling as the ideal gathering place and self-described “unofficial town square” for locals and tourists to enjoy.
Las Olas Café
Address: 644 6th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website/Menu: http://lasolascafesb.com/
Why it’s a must-visit: Yet another laid-back eatery featuring the ever-popular Cuban sandwich. But, hey, when in Miami, you may as well work to try them all! Las Olas Café also serves all-day breakfast, with many gravitating towards it divey vibe and fast service. The restaurant, which comes recommended by the likes of Anthony Bourdain, often has a crowd gathered in the morning hours. Also, take note and come prepared – this South Beach staple is cash-only, further adding to its old school charm.
El Palacio De Los Jugos
Address: Several locations
Website/Menu: http://www.elpalaciodelosjugos.com/en/
Why it’s a must-visit:
This local eatery, whose name translates to “The Juice Palace,” is an open-air restaurant featuring three different components: a juice bar, a sandwich counter and a hot-food area that dishes out incredible Cuban food, either by meal or by the pound. Prices also skew on the lower end of the spectrum, making it a one-stop spot depending on your cravings. They even serve various seafood dishes, with many favoring the lobster. Its family atmosphere adds to its allure, with the staff preparing its food “with the best ingredients and with love.”
Pinolandia
Address: 119 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33128
Website/Menu: http://places.singleplatform.com/tortillas-y-productos-nica-pinolandia/menu?ref=google
Why it’s a must-visit:
This Nicaraguan spot is open 24-hours, making it a perfect destination for the late night crowd. Despite its frequent crowds, Pinolandia is what many consider a hidden gem, with the food making up for the possible wait. Guests certainly get their money’s worth, with the portions extremely generous. If you want to get a taste of the local flavor and dust off your Spanish, plus get an incredible bang for your buck, this place is for you.
Bonus:
Yardbird
Address: 1600 Lenox Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Website/menu: http://www.runchickenrun.com/location/miami/#menus/
This is a must for those looking for classic Southern cooking while visiting South Beach, with the restaurant also having locations in Las Vegas and Singapore. The atmosphere is as enjoyable as the food, with the rustic eatery putting its own subtle twist on traditional Southern comfort food dishes, such as grits, chicken and waffles, smoked ribs, cornbread and fried green tomatoes.