Miami is a vibrant city, full of color that you can easily fall in love with. The sun, the beaches, the people and the extraordinary variety of food is endless. How to choose what to eat or where to go? Here are my five favorite places to wine, dine and learn about Miami’s local culture thru the lens of food.

 

ZUMA

This restaurant is situated at the edge of Brickell Avenue, overlooking the Miami River. It features indoor & outdoor seating, an open robata grill kitchen and a sushi bar. It has quite a unique atmosphere. The first time I entered this place I thought that the decor was the epitome of a contemporary and sophisticated food destination. They specialize in modern Japanese cuisine served “izakaya” style, which means that everyone at the table shares the food.

 http://www.zumarestaurant.com/

 

JUVIA

Juvia is not an ordinary spot as it is situated on the top of a building that offers a panoramic view of Miami Beach. This breezy location serves up a fusion of Japanese, French and Peruvian cuisine that offers flavors that are far from shy. Juvia is a “culinary collaborative” comprised of a group of chefs and restaurateurs who work together to create a unique dining experience. This 10,000 square foot penthouse rooftop restaurant radiates a radical energy at night when the vibe is more lounge-like and hip.  Go for the views, the feel and most importantly, the food.

 http://www.juviamiami.com/

TAP TAP HAITIAN RESTAURANT

The restaurant gets its name from Tap Taps, which are gaily-painted buses, or pick-up trucks that serve as share taxis in Haiti. Tap Tap is a feast, both for the eyes and the palate. The restaurant is a riot of color. Murals adorn the walls, every wall, from the entrance to the toilets to the ceilings. Just being in an atmosphere like this is delicious. And the food? Down-home Haitian fare at its best.

 819 5th St | Miami Beach FL 33139

305.672.2898

SCHNEBLY REDLANDS WINERY

This winery is in the middle of nowhere but once you go inside, it’s another world.  It’s a good place to take friends, families and it is great for couples.

They make wines out of a variety of fruits, which is unique. They also started a brewery with Miami as inspiration by unlocking new taste combinations using fruits, spices, and herbs.  They are Miami’s first producer of craft brews. Try the avocado wine. It’s divine.

http://www.schneblywinery.com/

MIAMI CULINARY TOURS

Miami Culinary Tours takes you on walking and bus tours around the city of Miami, most notably the famous South Beach, also called SOBE, the neighborhood of Wynwood and Little Havana, a community with an abundance of Cuban expats who brought along their food, culture and joie de vivre to the area.

I have been living in Miami for a long time and learnt so much on these tours that did not know about my own backyard. It is not just a food tour; it also introduces you to the local history, architecture and the roots behind the dishes tasted. Detailed explanations are given about the food, restaurants and Chefs who are making a real contribution to enlivening the culinary scene in Miami.

http://www.miamiculinarytours.com/

*Restaurant menus are subject to change at anytime. Check their website or call before you visit