Miami’s Dining Scene Accelerates with 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in 2026
Miami’s culinary landscape is experiencing a remarkable transformation in 2026, marked by a series of exciting restaurant openings and notable returns. This vibrant dining scene is particularly appealing to visitors attending events like the World Cup or simply seeking a memorable meal. The following ten restaurants exemplify the best that Miami has to offer at this moment.
Gigi Rigolatto at Delano Miami Beach, South Beach
Gigi Rigolatto, an Italian restaurant by Hugo Toro, made its debut on May 7, 2026, at the Delano Hotel. This establishment is part of the hotel’s revamped food and beverage program in collaboration with Paris Society. The menu features dishes such as Vitello Tonnato, Gambero Rosso, and Spaghetti Limone e Caviale, served in various settings including the restaurant, the Bellini Bar, and beach cabanas. Gigi Rigolatto has quickly become a glamorous dining destination in South Beach.
Slim’s, Bal Harbour Shops
Stephen Starr’s Slim’s opened in March 2026 at Bal Harbour Shops, offering a long-awaited steakhouse experience. The restaurant features a striking design with a checkerboard marble floor and Art Deco-inspired murals. The menu includes prime cuts, a raw bar, and a signature Wagyu cheesesteak. Slim’s operates nightly from 5 to 11 p.m., and reservations are highly sought after.
The Surf Club Restaurant, Surfside
Thomas Keller’s The Surf Club Restaurant remains a premier dining option within the Four Seasons Surf Club. Known for its classic American cuisine, the restaurant is celebrated for its technical precision and tableside presentations. Guests are advised to make reservations three to five weeks in advance to secure a table.
China Grill, Bal Harbour Shops
China Grill, a legendary establishment in South Beach, reopened on June 9, 2026, at Bal Harbour Shops. Founded by Jeffrey Chodorow, the restaurant has returned with its signature dishes, including Lobster Pancakes and Spicy Beef Dumplings. This reopening marks a significant moment for Miami’s culinary community, as it returns after a 14-year hiatus.
A’Riva, Sunset Harbour, Miami Beach
Located in Harbour Club on Bay Road, A’Riva is led by Naples-born Chef Michele Esposito. The restaurant offers seasonal Italian dishes such as bluefin crudo and handmade pastas. A’Riva is unique as it is the only public-facing space within a members-only club, providing an intimate dining experience.
COTE Miami, Design District
COTE Miami continues to be a standout dining experience, merging high-end Korean barbecue with a sleek steakhouse format. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers a full tasting menu that exceeds $400 per person. Reservations should be made three to five weeks in advance to enjoy this exceptional culinary journey.
Gaia, South of Fifth, Miami Beach
Gaia, which opened in April 2026, is a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant located at 801 South Pointe Drive. Founded by Chef Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin, the restaurant features a 9,160-square-foot space with a unique Ice Market showcasing fresh seafood. Gaia emphasizes seasonality and shared dining experiences, making it a notable addition to Miami’s dining scene.
Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, Faena Miami Beach
Los Fuegos, located at Faena Miami Beach, is renowned for its live-fire cooking. The Forbes Four-Star restaurant features an open barbecue and offers a theatrical dining experience. Guests are encouraged to book the outdoor terrace when weather permits for an enhanced experience.
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Miami Beach
Florida’s only two-Michelin-star restaurant, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, is recognized for its meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant features a counter-style format and serves dishes like filet mignon and wagyu beef. Reservations are essential, and diners are advised to arrive hungry.
Chateau ZZ’s, Brickell
Chateau ZZ’s, operated by Major Food Group, is located in a historic 1931 chateau on Brickell Avenue. This Mexican fine dining restaurant offers a visually stunning atmosphere and a menu that includes tableside guacamole and a vast selection of tequila and mezcal. The second level is reserved for ZZ’s Club members, adding to the exclusivity of the dining experience.
YASU Omakase, Miami Design District
YASU Omakase, opened by Chef Yasu Tanaka in January 2026, features an eight-seat counter in Miami’s Design District. The restaurant offers a 14-to-16 course menu that changes with the seasons, focusing on premium nigiri and handcrafted elements. At $250 per person, it is considered one of the most intimate dining experiences in Miami.
Mimi Kakushi, Delano Miami Beach
Mimi Kakushi, the second concept from Paris Society at the Delano, opened on May 1, 2026. This upscale Japanese restaurant draws inspiration from 1920s Osaka jazz culture and features a menu with dishes like Wagyu gyoza and miso black cod. The Nara Nara Martini, served in a block of ice, adds to the unique experience.
Boia De, Buena Vista
Boia De, located in the Buena Vista shopping center, is known for its Italian-leaning menu that changes weekly. Chefs Luciana Giangrandi and Alex Meyer focus on handmade pastas and natural wines, creating a beloved dining spot that defies its unassuming location.
Claudie, Brickell
Claudie, opened in 2024, brings the essence of the French Riviera to Brickell. The restaurant offers a menu that includes seafood towers and lobster linguini, complemented by a picturesque outdoor patio. The ambiance is lively yet refined, making it a desirable destination.
Daniel’s, Coral Gables
Daniel’s, which opened in July 2025, quickly gained recognition as one of the top steakhouses in the country. Led by father-daughter duo Thomas and Kassidy Angelo, the restaurant features a diverse menu that includes premium steaks and local seafood. It has been recommended by the Michelin Guide and is celebrated for its exceptional hospitality.
As reported by hauteliving.com.
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Published on 2026-07-14 22:31:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk