19 Fancy Restaurants in Miami, FL for 2024

Published on April 10, 2024 | 0 Comments
Fine dinning in fancy restaurants in Miami

Are you looking to try one of the many fancy restaurants in Miami? With its food scene evolving into a nexus of culinary temptation, Miami has more fancy dining options than ever before. Many restaurants that grace the city are run by world-renowned chefs, while others are carving out their niche in one of the world’s most popular entertainment destinations.

From sophisticated steakhouses to opulent and authentic Italian cuisine, Miami offers a diverse array of upscale dining establishments for an elevated and memorable time. If you are a local or you plan to visit the city, check out this list of fancy restaurants in Miami and secure a reservation at one of these top picks.  

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Find the Best Restaurants in Miami

Fancy restaurants in Miami are bountiful, and the culinary scene is even hotter than the weather. That’s why food tours in Miami are an exceptional way to taste the rainbow of cuisine from all over the globe that make up Miami’s vibrant atmosphere. If you want nothing but the best, a food tour will ensure you get exactly that. Whether you’re looking for the most fancy restaurants in Miami, the most authentic Italian or a top-of-the-line cocktail lounge, a professional guide will be sure to show you Miami’s most highly regarded hot spots. 

Along with the many fancy restaurants in Miami, there are also a lot of ways to indulge and explore its rich culinary scene. Cooking classes in Miami are a doorway into its magnificent culinary scene and the diverse flavors within it. From fusion cooking to Latin, Caribbean and Japanese, these hands-on experiences let you deep dive into the symphony of traditions and tastes among the most fancy restaurants in Miami. Expert chefs guide you through a culinary adventure where you’ll elevate your skills and master the art of flavor. Plus, if you’re looking for unique date ideas in Miami, these can be a great way to break the ice and get creative together.

The 19 Best Fancy Restaurants in Miami, FL

1. Cote Miami

Nestled in the center of the Design District is one of the most famous fancy restaurants in Miami: Cote Miami. This restaurant's supreme elegance offers a unique blend of Korean barbecue with classic steakhouse luxury. Cote is Michelin-starred for its superior quality and unforgettable dining experience.

The Vibe

The setting is contemporary and intimate. It offers a standing bar and cozy, comfortable seating. Each table offers interactive grilling so you can sit back, relax and receive your flame-grilled meal hot.

What to Order

The Butcher’s Feast is a must-try here, with various cuts of meats all fire-grilled to your liking. Another savory dish is the Fermented Soy Stew with anchovy broth, zucchini, tofu and potato. 

Cote Miami | 3900 NE 2nd Ave., Miami Design District, FL 33137 | $$$$

Cote is a fancy restaurant in Miami serving Korean cuisine
via Cote Miami

2. Carbone

Indulge in an Italian dining spectacle at Carbone, one of the most beloved fancy restaurants in Miami. It’s well known for offering a unique celebration of culture and modern flair.

The Vibe

Featured in the New York Times as a prestige, entertaining experience with Quentin Tarantino vibes, its opulent décor and oversized couch seating give the old-school yet bougie feel.

What to Order

Customers rave about the lobster ravioli and their world-famous spicy rigatoni, with a hint of picante that tastes so desirable. Put this on your list of fancy restaurants in Miami to visit.

Carbone | 49 Collins Ave., Miami, FL 33139 | $$$$

3. Pastis Miami

If you’re searching for fine dining in Miami, visit Pastis Miami. This fancy restaurant in Miami it’s a quintessential New York City Parisian-style brasserie and is now located in one of the most vibrant and booming neighborhoods of the Magic City.

The Vibe

Old-world French charm brings the delights of Paris to Florida’s sunny and tropical landscape, making Pastis an exceptional choice for fancy restaurants in Miami. It boasts tiled floors, an iconic curved zinc bar, gold-framed mirrors that grace its interior and a pretty outdoor garden for a fresh, luxurious feel. 

What to Order

Of course, a popular dish on the menu worth having is the French onion soup, bursting with sweet and savory flavors and smothered in cheese. A great midday option is the lobster cobb with Parisian ham and Fourme d'Ambert.

Pastis Miami | 380 NW 26th St., Miami, FL 33127 | $$$

Lobster cobb salad served with avocado on a ceramic plate
via Pastis Miami

4. Mirabella

Esteemed Chef Michael White leads an authentic Italian dining escapade at Mirabella. Tagged as one of the top fancy restaurants in Miami, you’ll immerse in the bold flavors of land and sea here.

The Vibe

Mirabella’s breathtaking nautical theme will sweep you. The luxury restaurant in Miami embodies the essence of fine Italian dining combined with an invigorating, coastal hue. Located along the seaside, you’ll be able to step onto a glass-enclosed balcony and take in the beauty of the ocean along a picturesque landscape.

What to Order

The branzino and lumache are fan favorites, and their desserts are impeccable, so leave some room for one. The tiramisu has been crowned by customers as absolutely delicious.

Mirabella | 4441 Collins Ave., Fontainebleau Miami Beach, FL 33140 | $$$

5. The Surf Club Restaurant

Helmed by renowned Chef Thomas Keller, The Surf Club Restaurant features reimagined continental cuisine. Its upscale atmosphere and à la carte menu make for a fabulous time. This restaurant is worth the splurge if you’re looking for superior fancy restaurants near Miami.

The Vibe

Feel as if you’ve been transported back to a romantic country club in the 1950s, with deep blue wood tones, cozy table settings and plush seating. Located on the beach, the ambiance of the swinging ’50s and ’60s emanates throughout the atmosphere of this fancy restaurant near Miami.

What to Order

Everyone says the ceasar salad is fabulous and it’s prepared tableside for a ceremonial experience. Some other popular menu items to try are the Maine lobster thermidor, the beef Wellington and ribeye which are cooked tender to perfection. 

The Surf Club Restaurant | 9011 Collins Ave., Surfside, FL 33154 | $$$$ 

Maine lobster thermidor is a classic dish on fancy restaurants in Miami
via The Surf Club Restaurant 

6. Klaw Miami

There’s no better place to go when you’re looking for fancy restaurants in Miami that serve crab. At Klaw, you’ll savor all of the world’s finest flavors and wines, indulging in exquisite fine dining. The Klaw provides an unforgettable experience and pushes beyond boundaries when it comes to luxury restaurants in Miami.

The Vibe

Located along the waterfront, this gem offers immaculate views of the ocean. One of the best romantic restaurants in Miami, it radiates an epic, classy feel. It offers picture-perfect table settings, a rooftop with unparalleled views and even a live DJ on the weekends.

What to Order

You must try the King Crab! It’s doused in garlic butter sauce that’s prepared tableside. Also, all of their steaks are aged over 30 days and cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Another loved dish is the black cod. Choose Klaw for exceptional fine dining in Miami.

Klaw Miami | 1737 N. Bayshore Drive, Miami, FL 33132 | $$$$ 

7. Rao’s Miami Beach

You can still find simplicity among some fancy restaurants in Miami if that’s what you’re on the lookout for. If you’re craving Miami foods that are simple by design, come to Rao’s Miami Beach. The chef himself promises simple, ‘shareable and craveable’ dishes, and this is what people come for. 

The Vibe

Rao’s Miami Beach atmosphere is described as cozy, luxe and sexy. It has hosted dinners for various celebrities over the years and boasts images of these encounters all over the walls. The décor is a classic and old-school luxury, and the meal service is not rushed, so come prepared to savor every moment.

What to Order

Even though Rao’s is listed as a fancy restaurant in Miami, simplicity is the name of the game here. Try the Fritto Misto and the sautéed mussels and for your main course, order the chicken Scarpariello. Rao’s is top of the line for luxury restaurants in Miami.

Rao’s Miami Beach | 1601 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139 | $$$$ 

Chicken served with sausage, peppers and onions
via Rao’s Miami Beach

8. L’atelier De Joël Robuchon

L’atelier De Joel Robuchon blesses the Design District as one of the most sought-after fancy restaurants in Miami. It stays true to its Parisian roots but draws inspiration from the vibrant culture of Miami to deliver an ultra-high-end experience.

The Vibe

This fancy restaurant in Miami receives rave reviews from patrons because of the quintessential ambiance, intimate seating and sublime service. The interior is trimmed with beautiful fresh flowers and gorgeous artwork.

What to Order

Patron favorites are the risotto cooked with saffron, razor clams and chorizo. Next up, for an entrée, you’ll love to devour the smoked salmon with truffle or the lobster. 

L’atelier De Joel Robuchon | 151 NE 41St., Ste. 235, Miami, FL 33137 | $$$$

9. Zuma Miami

Zuma is a cornerstone in Miami’s food scene and keeps a consistent stream of celebrities and foodies who seek fancy restaurants in Miami. Its posh dining experience offers modern Japanese cuisine with izakaya-style dining.

The Vibe

Graced with friendly staff and five-star service, you’ll come for more than just a meal at Zuma. Everyone who walks through the doors is treated like a VIP. It’s laid back and sophisticated and boasts a stunning waterfront view, making it a great choice for fancy restaurants in Miami. 

What to Order

Start with some classic edemame. For your entrée, you’ll love the gin-dara no saikyo yaki, a black cod marinated in saikyo miso wrapped in hoba leaf.

Zuma Miami | 270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131 | $$$$ 

Black cod marinated in saikyo miso wrapped in hoba leaf
via Zuma

10. Joe’s Stone Crab Miami

What began in 1913 as a lunch counter on the beach has evolved into a frequented fancy restaurant in Miami. Joe's Stone Crab is a family-owned and operated, award-winning establishment known as the place that began the stone crab obsession. 

The Vibe

A classy and chic interior welcomes guests with luxe décor and cozy seating, but what captivates its visitors is the warm and friendly atmosphere. The purpose of providing impeccable hospitality with a neighborhood feel radiates throughout this fancy restaurant in Miami. 

What to Order

You’ll want to make it a point to experience the succulent stone crab that Joe’s is famous for. It’s touted as the best stone crab in town and is served with Joe’s legendary mustard sauce. Top off the evening with a delectable Key lime pie. 

Joe’s Stone Crab Miami | 11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139 | $$$ 

11. Sexy Fish Miami

Sexy Fish is a fancy restaurant in Miami that had to make its appearance on this list because of its mesmerizing opulence. It’s a late-night bar and restaurant offering an Asian fusion menu with intriguing cocktails for those looking for an over-the-top night out.  If you're looking for out-of-the-box birthday ideas in Miami, indulge in this delicious experience.  

The Vibe

Sexy Fish is an immersive fancy restaurant in Miami, hosting experiences for their guests such as ‘Electric Fish Thursdays’ – an underwater-themed rave with acrobatics, dancers and other captivating performances. Bright colors and exotic sculptures of sea creatures line the restaurant and ceiling above.

What to Order

Many good things have been said about the crispy duck watermelon salad and the salmon teriyaki with cucumber. The shareable Omakase is an excellent option if you are dining with friends.

Sexy Fish Miami | 1001 S. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33130 | $$$$

sharable Omakase is an excellent choice in this fancy restaurant in Miami
via Sexy Fish

12. Matador Room

Offering reimagined menus inspired by Spanish, Latin and South American Cuisines, Matador Room is known as one of the most expensive and fancy restaurants in Miami. It’s perfect for couples wanting an intimate rendezvous.

The Vibe

When you enter, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another era where glamour and class reign supreme. The focal point is the black walnut and stone bar with floor-to-ceiling windows for a wonderful view of the ocean and a large chandelier that hangs overhead. It’s exactly what you would expect of a top-notch fancy restaurant in Miami.

What to Order

Some favorite dishes and plates served at Matador are the caviar with créme fraiche and chives, charcuterie cheese boards, grouper tacos and Iberico ham.

Matador Room | 2901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33140 | $$$

13. Swan 

Swan is one of the Design District’s famed fancy restaurants in Miami. Its menu is designed around market-driven ingredients and lighter fare with high shareable appeal.

The Vibe

The ambiance at this fancy restaurant in Miami is posh, contemporary, chic and energetic. It has beloved hints of a European eatery that give it a warm and inviting feel, with an elevated vibe that aligns perfectly with Miami. It has palm trees that line the outdoor courtyard and ample seating for private events.

What to Order

The branzino is a popular dish, loaded with artichoke, cherry tomato, salsa verde. For something shareable, try the chips and caviar or the baked clams smothered in shallot garlic butter.

Swan | 90 NE 39th St., Miami, FL 33137 | $$$

Branzino served with artichoke, cherry tomato and salsa verde
via Swan

14. Nobu Miami

Another establishment that makes the list of fancy restaurants in Miami is Nobu, a Japanese restaurant focused on enhancing the senses of its guests in every way. They offer an assortment of hot and cold dishes and also Tanoshi Hours, daily from 5-7, for guests to experience their cocktails with curated bar eats.

The Vibe

Nobu is home to beautiful banquet halls, bars and the most spectacular view over the city. The ceiling is lined with Chinese lantern lighting and the tables are adorned with luxury linens. 

What to Order

For cold dishes, try the sashimi salad with Matsuhisa dressing and the yellowtail jalapeño. For hot dishes, you’ll love the rock shrimp tempura and the black cod miso which is a filet of black cod marinated in Den miso sauce for a few days then baked and finished with a salamander broil.

Nobu Miami | 4525 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33140 | $$$$

15. Gekko

For fine dining in Miami, look no further than Gekko. A leader on the charts for fancy restaurants in Miami, Gekko is a popular hotspot boasting a steakhouse-style atmosphere with modern Japanese cuisine and flair.

The Vibe

This restaurant lounge gives off rich and dreamy vibes with its scarlet trimming, designer wallpaper and soft golden lighting. You'll feel like you stepped into a movie scene, featuring space for private and VIP events and luxe, red couches.

What to Order

The wagyu crispy rice at Gekko are tasty. The salmon truffle role and the Chilean sea bass are customer favorites.

Gekko | 8 SE 8th St., Miami, FL 33131 | $$$$

the wagyu crispy rice is a fan-favorite on this fancy restuarant in Miami
via Gekko

16. Fiola Miami

Those looking for another extravagant Italian restaurant will be pleasantly surprised when they visit Fiola. This fancy restaurant in Miami holds to its promise of bringing the cuisine and culture of Italy into the ‘City Beautiful.’ Their menu consists of palatable twists on Italian classics. Mark this on your list of need-to’s for fancy restaurants in Miami. 

The Vibe

Fiola is a special occasion spot offering stellar service, special menus and one of the best rooftop terraces in town. It radiates a delightful ambiance that’s both inviting and familiar, with the mouthwatering aroma of Italian cuisine permeating your senses.

What to Order

Be sure to order the lobster ravioli, which is a staple dish that’s been enjoyed since the 90s. The chef promises it will never come off the menu. Finish your evening with a gigantic slice of the Grand Chocolate Cake with gianduja ganache and hazelnut streusel.

Fiola Miami | 1500 San Ignacio Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33146 | $$$

17. Doya

On the must-visit list of fancy restaurants in Miami is Doya. This modern-age meze plus bar restaurant is sure to impress with its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. They believe that food tastes better when you share it with the people you love, and this value shines through in the experience they offer. 

The Vibe

Celebrating the cultures of Greece, Turkey, the Mediterranean and the Middle East, Doya is unlike the other fancy restaurants in Miami.  With beautiful light fixtures overhead, comfortable seating and artistic vibes throughout, you’ll enjoy a quaint time inside or outside on the patio.

What to Order

When you visit Doya, order the Char Smoked Mussels and the Char-grilled baby wings. Be sure to bring as many friends as you can, because most dishes are shareable.

Doya | 347 NW 24th St., Miami, FL 33127 | $$$

Mussels and baby wings are perfect for sharing in this fancy restaurant in Miami
via Doya

18. MILA Restaurant

MILA Restaurant is a breathtaking culinary destination, occupying a sprawling 13,000-square-foot space in the heart of the Magic City. In this fancy restaurant in Miami, modern elegance meets Mediterranean allure and every corner exudes sophistication and style.

The Vibe

MILA exudes an atmosphere of modern luxury fused with Mediterranean charm. The indoor dining area offers a sleek and sophisticated ambiance, while the outdoor terrace provides a relaxed yet elegant setting, perfect for enjoying Miami's vibrant atmosphere.

What to Order

Indulge in MILA's signature dishes, such as the shawarma-spiced wagyu dumplings for a unique fusion of flavors, or the Alaskan king crab tempura for a delightful seafood experience. Don't miss out on their exquisite selection of nigiri and sashimis for a taste of Japanese culinary excellence.

MILA Restaurant | 1636 Meridian Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139 | $$$

19. Stubborn Seed

Enter the world of culinary innovation at Stubborn Seed, where Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford reigns supreme. Located in the heart of Miami, this Michelin-starred gem is a testament to Ford's creative genius and commitment to excellence. With each dish, Ford pushes the boundaries of flavor and technique, delivering an unforgettable dining experience that tantalizes the senses.

The Vibe

This fancy restaurant in Miami offers an ambiance that blends modern elegance and laid-back charm. The sleek interior design is complemented by warm lighting and inviting décor, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and relaxed. 

What to Order

Indulge in Stubborn Seed's signature dishes, such as the beef tartare cannelloni with winter truffle, lemon dill aioli, and crispy potato, which showcases Ford's innovative approach to classic flavors. 

Stubborn Seed | 101 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139| $$$$

Winter truffle beef tartare cannelloni is a signature dish in the fancy restaurant in Miami
via Stubborn Seed

With a sensational array of fancy restaurants in Miami, your plans for a lavish time indulging in high-quality food and drinks are bound to be successful. Miami and Miami Beach are filled with a variety of cultures, atmospheres and cuisines suitable for all tastes and preferences. 

Each of these fancy restaurants in Miami offers something unique, and prices vary among each. All of these establishments go above and beyond to provide an incredible experience in Miami.

For even more ways to explore Miami and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.