Everyone wants to be on the water. Waterfront homes, waterfront dining, waterfront entertainment, waterfront parks, water sports – they’re all in high-demand and Miami delivers on all fronts. Today we’re focusing on our favorite spots for amazing food with gorgeous water views.
It’s hardly surprising that there’s no end of debate about which are THE BEST waterfront restaurants in Miami, and we have our hot picks like everyone else. We’ve made up our list based on our team’s lifetime of experience dining out in Miami, plus input from some of our favorite foodie clients.
Bon appétit!
Redfish by Chef Adrienne
At Matheson Hammock Park
9610 Old Cutler Road
Coral Gables
Set at the water’s edge inside historic Matheson Hammock Park, Redfish by Chef Adrienne became an instant hotspot upon opening. The only waterfront restaurant in Coral Gables serves only the freshest seafood, showcasing Chef Adrienne Calvo’s signature Maximum Flavor style and highlighting internationally inspired recipes. The extensive beer, wine, and whiskey library, along with craft cocktails, are designed by the chefs rather than mixologists, guaranteeing perfect pairings. The Miami New Times named Redfish among the Top 100 Miami Restaurants, and awarded it The Best Summer Menu.
Malibu Farms by Chef Helene Henderson
At the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami Beach
4525 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach
This lovely Mid-Beach eatery is a heavenly blend of rustic and opulent. The second of Chef Helene’s restaurants, the menu here is inspired by its California sister, sourcing organic and locally grown ingredients. A wondrous prix fixe menu is available Monday through Friday, and reservations are highly encouraged. Among the many accolades for luxury experiences that the Eden Roc has received, Malibu Farms is a Travel Weekly Magellan Award winner for best restaurant design.
Kiki on the River
450 NW North River Drive
Miami
Self-described as a “windswept waterfront garden,” Kiki on the River is a truly original dining experience. Weekday visitors enjoy a quiet, romantic atmosphere and authentic Greek fare. On Friday nights, the best party on the river kicks off with a live DJ and dancing. Chef Steve Rhee invites you to dock your yacht and join the festivities. Opa!
Il Gabbiano
335 S Biscayne Blvd
Miami
The second restaurant for brothers Gino and Fernando Masci, Il Gabbiano has it all: fabulous waterfront views, an enchanting atmosphere, exceptional service, and world-class, authentic Italian food. Pasta is made on-premises, and every dish is made to order — and to please. Il Gabbiano is no stranger to recognition, receiving awards and accolades since the day its doors opened. Reviews suggest there’s no better place to propose marriage, and Il Gabbiano offers an exclusive private dinner for two to put the perfect finishing touch on the occasion.
Smith & Wollensky
At South Pointe Park
1 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach
You can’t beat the location of “Ultra A-List” Smith & Wollensky in Miami Beach, inside famed South Pointe Park. Diners can work up a healthy appetite prior to their absolutely-must-have reservation by exploring the park or strolling on the beach. You’ll definitely want to get out on the Overlook Deck — a second-story terrace with unobstructed views of South Pointe Park, Government Cut waterway, super elite Fisher Island, and Brickell/Downtown Miami. The menu is alluring and extensive, featuring USDA-Prime dry-aged steaks, and the award-winning wine list that perfectly accentuates every meal.
Lido Bayside GrilleAt The Standard Spa Hotel on Belle Isle
40 Island Avenue
Miami Beach
Fresh, fun, and casual, Lido Bayside Grille is the perfect choice for friends to gather and enjoy tapas and fruity drinks. Named for the view that resembles that of the Lido across San Marco Bay in Venice, this best-kept secret among the best waterfront restaurants in Miami has a menu is inspired by seasonal and local offerings, guaranteeing vibrant flavors and original dishes. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are offered to ensure an inclusive experience for everyone. The Miami New Times named Lido Bayside Grill Best Waterfront Restaurant.
Amara at Paraiso
3101 NE 7th Avenue
Miami
Few restaurants can compete with Amara’s dual appeal of location and ambiance. Front and center on Biscayne Bay, it boasts a menu curated by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Schwartz that’s as alluring as the pristine views. Even guests dining indoors are treated to wow-factor views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Latin American fare is fused with the freshest local ingredients and prepared to perfection using age-old techniques. Fully aware of its romantic distinction, the restaurant’s event planning team offers a proposal package, with plenty of customizable options to make your special moment even more personal and unforgettable than it already will be. Upon its debut, Amara at Paraiso won the Miami Eater’s Restaurant of the Year Award.
Monty’s Raw Bar
2550 S Bayshore Drive
Miami
It just does not get more “Miami icon” than Monty’s in Coconut Grove. A famous (some might say infamous) favorite since 1969, Monty’s has starred in countless music videos, TV series, movies and, needless to say, selfies! Monty’s does it all — from beach party happy hours and live entertainment, to sophisticated waterfront weddings and events. Seafood and island fare are Monty’s claim to fame, and the Famous Raw Bar Boat is available every happy hour, Monday through Friday, freshly stocked by Monty’s very own fishermen in the Florida Keys. The accolades are too numerous to list but, most recently at the time of this publishing, Time Out Miami placed Monty’s on their 2021 Best Waterfront Bars List.
La Mar by Gaston Acurio
At the Mandarin Oriental Miami
500 Brickell Key Drive
Miami
Award-winning chef Gastón Acurio brings Peruvian delights to this Brickell-based eatery. An array of inventive ceviche is the highlight here, and the menu ranges from novo-Andean fare to Asian-Peruvian fusion. Diners can’t get enough of the outstanding views of Biscayne Bay and the glittering Miami skyline. Three bars serve up specialty cocktails, and customizable special event menus round out the tempting offerings here.
Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market
398 NW N River Drive
Miami
This family-owned restaurant has been a Miami fixture since 1964. Started by the Garcia brothers in 1964, it was originally a seafood market (and continues as such), as the brothers were fishermen by trade. Eventually, the business grew to include a restaurant, and the family still proudly boasts a varied menu made from their very own fresh catches of the day. Sustainability is a priority for the family, and it inspires their unique menu. Money Inc. named Garcia’s among The 20 Best Seafood Restaurants in Miami.
Have you been to any of these eateries? What did you think? Have our own favorites to share? Let us know in the comments below!