Top Must-Try Local Dishes in Miami

Headed to Miami? Get ready to eat, eat, eat. Miami cuisine is truly unique, featuring an authentic selection of Latin American and Caribbean foods crafted by chefs from Cuba, Colombia, Venezuela, Haiti, Portugal, Spain, and beyond. You’ll have many opportunities to dance off those calories because most dishes are rich in meat and delicious carbs. Below, discover 10 local dishes you must savor and where you can enjoy them around the city.

Stone Crabs

Address: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

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Phone: +1 305-673-0365

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Stone crabs are a South Florida staple, served seasonally at Joe’s Stone Crab for almost a century. Enjoy them chilled with hash brown potatoes, coleslaw, and mayo for the ultimate Miami experience. These delicacies are available from October 15th through May 15th; during the off-season, you may have to settle for a fish sandwich.

Colombian Empanadas

Address: 18533 S Dixie Hwy, Cutler Bay, FL 33157-6845, USA

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Phone: +1 305-259-0404

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Although it’s a bit of a journey to reach this Colombian spot, Macitas is renowned for its crispy, hot empanadas served with a mild dipping salsa—just be cautious of burning your mouth! If you’re still hungry, consider trying pan de bono or a heaping plate of Bandeja Paisa, which includes red beans, rice, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, arepa, avocado, a fried egg, and fried pork belly.

Cachapas

Address: 3509 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137, USA

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Phone: +1 305-571-9655

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You can’t go wrong with any Venezuelan arepa, but Cachapas—sweet corn pancakes filled with melted cheese—are a personal favorite. At La Latina, located in Midtown, you can enjoy your Cachapa simply or add beef, pork, or chicken for a savory twist.

Croqueta Preparada

Address: 186 NE 29th St, Miami, FL 33137-4425, USA

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Phone: +1 305-573-4681

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Experience a Cuban sandwich like never before with a Croqueta Preparada, which is a Cuban sandwich stuffed with ham croquettes at Enriqueta’s. This indulgent and satisfying dish is best enjoyed with a side of the traditional Cuban sandwich.

Chicharron

Address: 2038 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33142, USA

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Phone: +1 305-636-0832

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El Palacio de los Jugos, open since 1977, is famous for its chicharron—crispy fried pork belly that perfectly captures Miami’s culinary heritage. Enjoy this delicious dish fresh from the fryer at one of their many locations across the city.

Cafe con Leche

Address: 3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135-4109, USA

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Phone: +1 305-444-0240

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This Cuban classic, affectionately dubbed “Cuban crack,” is served with every meal in Miami. You can find delightful variations such as cafecitos and cortaditos at local favorites like Versailles or La Carreta.

Key Lime Pie

Address: 1601 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

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Phone: +1 305-695-4550

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Discover a key lime pie at Lure Fishbar that rivals anything purportedly homemade in the Florida Keys. Its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors makes for an indulgent dessert experience in Miami.

Akra

Address: 819 5th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

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At Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant, try akra—delicious malanga fritters served with watercress dipping sauce. While you’re there, enjoy their stewed oxtail for a complete meal. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, visit on Thursdays or Saturdays for live music.

Spanish Tapas

Address: 2101 SW 22nd St, Miami, FL 33145, USA

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Phone: +1 305-854-9350

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Try the delightful offerings at Xixon or El Carajo, where you can indulge in classic Spanish tapas like patatas bravas and sautéed mushrooms paired with a refreshing glass of sangria.

Portuguese Feijoada

Address: 1698 SW 22nd St, Miami, FL 33145, USA

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Phone: +1 305-854-0039

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Experience a classic Portuguese feijoada at Old Lisbon. This signature black bean stew features salted and smoked pork and beef, producing a hearty dish. At their Coral Gables location, the unique feijoada con mariscos features seafood combined with traditional flavors.