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Platter from Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab

16 South Florida Tourist Traps That Are Actually Good

Worth the time for visitors and locals

by Alona Martinez Updated
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Platter from Joe’s Stone Crab
| Joe’s Stone Crab
by Alona Martinez Updated

Miami has been drawing in the crowds since word got out that one could be frolicking in turquoise, warm waters instead of shoveling out of another bitter northeastern storm. As with any popular destination, plenty of dining options are overpriced and underperforming, but tourists will overlook that for a chance of some sun.

However, some establishments are set on catering to outsiders — because they offer a fabulous view, have a long history with the Sunshine State, or are a very buzzy place — that come through with solid food options. Here is a list of some of the biggest tourist destinations in South Florida that are worth a visit. Consider them the next time family or friends come to town.

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El Palacio de los Jugos (Multiple locations)

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Translated from Spanish El Palacio de los Jugos means “the palace of the juices.” It’s a nod to all the on-site drinks from local tropical fruits like mamey, maracuya (passion fruit), and guayaba. But there’s plenty more here, like large portions of Cuban classics like chicharrones (fried pork), sandwiches, rice dishes, and sweets. At the same time, it can be daunting to order, as there are multiple counters with different vendors; diners need to travel from one spot to another, picking and paying for what they’d like before enjoying their budget-friendly meal.

2038 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33142
(305) 636-0832
(305) 636-0832

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Verde

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Tucked behind the Perez Art Museum Miami, this waterfront restaurant provides the ideal meal after exploring the city’s cultural offerings. With a rotating menu serving seasonal fare, the menu is divided into small plates (with dishes like yellow tomato gazpacho), large plates and handhelds like the Verde burger, salads, and pizzas like the “First Love” featuring stracciatella cheese, tomato sauce, prosciutto di parma, arugula, and sundried tomato puree. Brunch is also served. If the weather is nice, enjoy the expansive patio area.

1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
(786) 345-5697
(786) 345-5697

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Gianni's At The Former Versace Mansion

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Housed inside the Villa Casa Casuarina, the former home of the late fashion designer Gianni Versace, this Italian restaurant's expansive courtyard offers dishes like Kobe beef carpaccio, lobster spaghetti, and scallops with black truffle sauce while marveling at the ornate gold-lined mosaic pool that serves as the restaurant’s centerpiece.

1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 485-2200
(786) 485-2200

Also featured in:

Elcielo By Juan Manuel Barrientos

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Latin American dishes with a molecular gastronomy twist make this intimate Michelin-starred restaurant on Brickell a popular spot to take visitors. That and washing one’s hands with warm chocolate (called “Chocotherapy”), an experience most people have dreamed of doing since the age of nine. The menu rotates regularly but begin with the show-stopping Tree Of Life, an edible bonsai-looking work of art made from yucca flour.

31 SE 5th St, Miami, FL 33131
(305) 755-8840
(305) 755-8840

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Joe's Stone Crab

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Open since 1913, this restaurant is an institution and is thought to have started the stone crab craze that captures Miami to this day. Ordering the namesake stone crabs, served with a mustard sauce that is a legend in its own right, is a must (the season runs from Oct. 15 through May 1), but stone crabs aren’t the only notable item on the menu. There is something for all tastes, from seafood dishes to steaks to the popular fried chicken. And don’t forget the sides: creamed spinach and coleslaw are favorites, but the hash browns and the roasted tomatoes are worth the order, too. Also, the Key lime pie is one of the best in town.

11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-0365
(305) 673-0365

Also featured in:

Delilah Miami

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Step into Miami’s supper club trend in fashion at this swanky, sultry speakeasy-with-a-view. The setting alone promises to be memorable, featuring plush velvet booths, dark woods with brass accents, lush foliage, and decadent chandeliers. Dinner options are reminiscent of a classic steakhouse. Brunch was recently introduced and offers tasty bites like lemon ricotta pancakes, bread pudding french toast, and an egg sandwich—but the real winner is the fried chicken and waffles and, of course, the one-of-a-kind Bloody Mary cart circulating the room.

301 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, Florida 33131

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Cafe La Trova

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Those looking for an authentic Miami Cuban night out will be well served heading to this Calle Ocho spot boasting two bars with real-deal Cantineros (Cuban old-school bartenders) and, under the helm of James Beard Award-winning Chef Michelle Bernstein, excellent food. There’s a live band that can lead to dancing, so be sure to wear comfy shoes.

971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130
(786) 615-4379
(786) 615-4379

Also featured in:

Ball & Chain

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Located in Miami’s famous Calle Ocho, this legendary music venue first opened in 1935 and hosted greats like Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Chet Baker back in the day. Reopened in 2021, diners can enjoy live music, salsa dancing, Latin-inspired fare, and cocktails like the cafecito bourbon, banana daiquiri, and mojito. Be sure to stay for the midnight conga line.

1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 643-7820
(305) 643-7820

Also featured in:

Sanguich

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Everyone visiting (or living) in Miami seeks the best Cuban sandwich, and this tiny spot (now with several locations) that got a nod from the Michelin Guide stands out as the real deal. Everything, including bread, pickles, and mustard, is made in-house. The croqueta preparada sandwich (ham, pork, croquettes, Swiss cheese, and mustard) is a popular favorite, but there’s no wrong choice.

2057 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 539-0969
(305) 539-0969

Also featured in:

La Mar by Gastón Acurio

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Tucked inside the Mandarin Oriental, Miami, this upscale Peruvian restaurant with a gorgeous waterfront view never disappoints. Whether opting to kick off dinner with a classic ceviche, tiradito, or the causa Nikkei (a chilled, layered potato salad featuring Peruvian trout tartare), guests will surely be impressed. Follow it up with lomo saltado (a Peruvian classic), crispy pork belly, or seafood rice. The restaurant recently launched “Amano by Oka,” an 8-course tasting menu on ceramic tableware handcrafted by Chef Diego Oka himself.

(305) 913-8358
(305) 913-8358

Also featured in:

Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine

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The center of Cuban-American relations, the “ventantita” or little window, is the heartbeat of this Little Havana landmark that opened in 1971. Go for a Cuban coffee, croquetas, and a hearty dose of good ole’ Latin love (and politics). There’s no need to speak Spanish, although it doesn’t hurt. Inside, dine on a feast of Cuban favorites like the medianoche sandwich, ropa vieja, and chicken and yellow rice. The tres leches, or flan, have just the right amount of sugar to get through the remainder of the day, but wash it down with a cortado for the extra caffeine buzz.

3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 444-0240
(305) 444-0240

Also featured in:

Rusty Pelican Miami Restaurant

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Head to this waterfront landmark on Key Biscayne for arguably the best sunset view in town. Dishes include the tomahawk ribeye steak, lobster and shrimp risotto, and herb-marinated grilled octopus. The caviar and black truffle twice-baked potato is a worthy side, as is the smoked sweet plantain mash.

3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 361-3818
(305) 361-3818

Also featured in:

Monty's Raw Bar

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For those craving a Key West vibe in Miami, head to this iconic, easy-going spot serving frozen cocktails like painkillers, mango margaritas, and rum runners. Drinks pair well with the unpretentious seafood grub — coconut shrimp, oysters, and peel-and-eat shrimp come to mind.

2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133
(305) 856-3992
(305) 856-3992
Frozen cocktails at Monty’s.
Giovanny Gutierrez @chatchowtv

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Knaus Berry Farm

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While the sticky bun king is only open for less than half a year, South Floridians flock to Knaus Berry Farm when it does open its doors. The lines are long but worth the wait. The concept began with a roadside strawberry stand and grew into a Redland staple in 1959. Aside from the popular sticky buns, Knaus Berry Farm also sells produce, baked bread, pies, cheesecakes, and jellies. Make sure to grab a shake to-go or enjoy while picking some fresh berries on the farm. Open yearly November through April.

15980 SW 248th St, Homestead, FL 33031
(305) 247-0668
(305) 247-0668

Also featured in:

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand

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Those headed to the Everglades or the Florida Keys know to make a pitstop at this family-owned tropical fruit stand featuring local produce, addictive fruit shakes, and an array of honey and baked goods.

19200 SW 344th St, Homestead, FL 33034
(305) 246-1592
(305) 246-1592
Signature fruit shakes.
Robert Is Here Fruit Stand /Instagram

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El Palacio de los Jugos (Multiple locations)

2038 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33142

Translated from Spanish El Palacio de los Jugos means “the palace of the juices.” It’s a nod to all the on-site drinks from local tropical fruits like mamey, maracuya (passion fruit), and guayaba. But there’s plenty more here, like large portions of Cuban classics like chicharrones (fried pork), sandwiches, rice dishes, and sweets. At the same time, it can be daunting to order, as there are multiple counters with different vendors; diners need to travel from one spot to another, picking and paying for what they’d like before enjoying their budget-friendly meal.

2038 NW 27th Ave, Miami, FL 33142
(305) 636-0832
(305) 636-0832

Verde

1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132

Tucked behind the Perez Art Museum Miami, this waterfront restaurant provides the ideal meal after exploring the city’s cultural offerings. With a rotating menu serving seasonal fare, the menu is divided into small plates (with dishes like yellow tomato gazpacho), large plates and handhelds like the Verde burger, salads, and pizzas like the “First Love” featuring stracciatella cheese, tomato sauce, prosciutto di parma, arugula, and sundried tomato puree. Brunch is also served. If the weather is nice, enjoy the expansive patio area.

1103 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
(786) 345-5697
(786) 345-5697

Gianni's At The Former Versace Mansion

1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Housed inside the Villa Casa Casuarina, the former home of the late fashion designer Gianni Versace, this Italian restaurant's expansive courtyard offers dishes like Kobe beef carpaccio, lobster spaghetti, and scallops with black truffle sauce while marveling at the ornate gold-lined mosaic pool that serves as the restaurant’s centerpiece.

1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 485-2200
(786) 485-2200

Elcielo By Juan Manuel Barrientos

31 SE 5th St, Miami, FL 33131

Latin American dishes with a molecular gastronomy twist make this intimate Michelin-starred restaurant on Brickell a popular spot to take visitors. That and washing one’s hands with warm chocolate (called “Chocotherapy”), an experience most people have dreamed of doing since the age of nine. The menu rotates regularly but begin with the show-stopping Tree Of Life, an edible bonsai-looking work of art made from yucca flour.

31 SE 5th St, Miami, FL 33131
(305) 755-8840
(305) 755-8840

Joe's Stone Crab

11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Open since 1913, this restaurant is an institution and is thought to have started the stone crab craze that captures Miami to this day. Ordering the namesake stone crabs, served with a mustard sauce that is a legend in its own right, is a must (the season runs from Oct. 15 through May 1), but stone crabs aren’t the only notable item on the menu. There is something for all tastes, from seafood dishes to steaks to the popular fried chicken. And don’t forget the sides: creamed spinach and coleslaw are favorites, but the hash browns and the roasted tomatoes are worth the order, too. Also, the Key lime pie is one of the best in town.

11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-0365
(305) 673-0365

Delilah Miami

301 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, Florida 33131

Step into Miami’s supper club trend in fashion at this swanky, sultry speakeasy-with-a-view. The setting alone promises to be memorable, featuring plush velvet booths, dark woods with brass accents, lush foliage, and decadent chandeliers. Dinner options are reminiscent of a classic steakhouse. Brunch was recently introduced and offers tasty bites like lemon ricotta pancakes, bread pudding french toast, and an egg sandwich—but the real winner is the fried chicken and waffles and, of course, the one-of-a-kind Bloody Mary cart circulating the room.

301 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, Florida 33131

Cafe La Trova

971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130

Those looking for an authentic Miami Cuban night out will be well served heading to this Calle Ocho spot boasting two bars with real-deal Cantineros (Cuban old-school bartenders) and, under the helm of James Beard Award-winning Chef Michelle Bernstein, excellent food. There’s a live band that can lead to dancing, so be sure to wear comfy shoes.

971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130
(786) 615-4379
(786) 615-4379

Ball & Chain

1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Located in Miami’s famous Calle Ocho, this legendary music venue first opened in 1935 and hosted greats like Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Chet Baker back in the day. Reopened in 2021, diners can enjoy live music, salsa dancing, Latin-inspired fare, and cocktails like the cafecito bourbon, banana daiquiri, and mojito. Be sure to stay for the midnight conga line.

1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 643-7820
(305) 643-7820

Sanguich

2057 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

Everyone visiting (or living) in Miami seeks the best Cuban sandwich, and this tiny spot (now with several locations) that got a nod from the Michelin Guide stands out as the real deal. Everything, including bread, pickles, and mustard, is made in-house. The croqueta preparada sandwich (ham, pork, croquettes, Swiss cheese, and mustard) is a popular favorite, but there’s no wrong choice.

2057 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 539-0969
(305) 539-0969

La Mar by Gastón Acurio

Tucked inside the Mandarin Oriental, Miami, this upscale Peruvian restaurant with a gorgeous waterfront view never disappoints. Whether opting to kick off dinner with a classic ceviche, tiradito, or the causa Nikkei (a chilled, layered potato salad featuring Peruvian trout tartare), guests will surely be impressed. Follow it up with lomo saltado (a Peruvian classic), crispy pork belly, or seafood rice. The restaurant recently launched “Amano by Oka,” an 8-course tasting menu on ceramic tableware handcrafted by Chef Diego Oka himself.

(305) 913-8358
(305) 913-8358

Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine

3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

The center of Cuban-American relations, the “ventantita” or little window, is the heartbeat of this Little Havana landmark that opened in 1971. Go for a Cuban coffee, croquetas, and a hearty dose of good ole’ Latin love (and politics). There’s no need to speak Spanish, although it doesn’t hurt. Inside, dine on a feast of Cuban favorites like the medianoche sandwich, ropa vieja, and chicken and yellow rice. The tres leches, or flan, have just the right amount of sugar to get through the remainder of the day, but wash it down with a cortado for the extra caffeine buzz.

3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
(305) 444-0240
(305) 444-0240

Rusty Pelican Miami Restaurant

3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

Head to this waterfront landmark on Key Biscayne for arguably the best sunset view in town. Dishes include the tomahawk ribeye steak, lobster and shrimp risotto, and herb-marinated grilled octopus. The caviar and black truffle twice-baked potato is a worthy side, as is the smoked sweet plantain mash.

3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 361-3818
(305) 361-3818

Monty's Raw Bar

2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133

For those craving a Key West vibe in Miami, head to this iconic, easy-going spot serving frozen cocktails like painkillers, mango margaritas, and rum runners. Drinks pair well with the unpretentious seafood grub — coconut shrimp, oysters, and peel-and-eat shrimp come to mind.

2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133
(305) 856-3992
(305) 856-3992
Frozen cocktails at Monty’s.
Giovanny Gutierrez @chatchowtv

Knaus Berry Farm

15980 SW 248th St, Homestead, FL 33031

While the sticky bun king is only open for less than half a year, South Floridians flock to Knaus Berry Farm when it does open its doors. The lines are long but worth the wait. The concept began with a roadside strawberry stand and grew into a Redland staple in 1959. Aside from the popular sticky buns, Knaus Berry Farm also sells produce, baked bread, pies, cheesecakes, and jellies. Make sure to grab a shake to-go or enjoy while picking some fresh berries on the farm. Open yearly November through April.

15980 SW 248th St, Homestead, FL 33031
(305) 247-0668
(305) 247-0668

Robert Is Here Fruit Stand

19200 SW 344th St, Homestead, FL 33034

Those headed to the Everglades or the Florida Keys know to make a pitstop at this family-owned tropical fruit stand featuring local produce, addictive fruit shakes, and an array of honey and baked goods.

19200 SW 344th St, Homestead, FL 33034
(305) 246-1592
(305) 246-1592
Signature fruit shakes.
Robert Is Here Fruit Stand /Instagram

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