One thing that distinguishes South Florida’s culinary scene is its vibrant diversity of gastronomic offerings. It is not for nothing that this is one of the states where you can find some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants, which celebrate good cuisine, the highest quality, and attention to detail.
That is why we have selected the best restaurants in South Florida for you in this article. Each one, except L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, has been awarded a Michelin star, so if you are looking for a higher-level experience, you may have to go to another state. However, we assure you it will be a dinner you will always remember.
Are you ready for an unforgettable evening? Then join us.
What Does It Mean for a Restaurant to Earn a Michelin Star?
Knowing some history is good for understanding where this guide comes from. Its creator, André Michelin, originally intended it to be the last section of a magazine for drivers, focused on restaurants and accommodations. But it caught the public’s attention and became one of the most important.
Its main feature – star rating – dates back to 1926 and was standardized as we know it ten years later.
A Michelin star indicates that a restaurant is among the best, characterized by superior cuisine, distinctive dishes, and a consistently high level of quality. This distinction is only awarded if a restaurant meets various criteria, such as the quality of ingredients, mastery of culinary techniques, creativity when developing dishes, and the standard of perfection, which must be consistently maintained over time.
The number of Michelin stars a restaurant has considerably raises the level of the experience and can be measured as follows:
- One star: top-quality ingredients, unique dishes, and consistently high standards.
- Two stars: refined cuisine that showcases the chef’s talent and personality.
- Three stars: out-of-the-ordinary cuisine that is worth any trip.
And now that you know this, how about showing you our favorite restaurants?
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Miami
Our first choice is Robuchon’s French cuisine in the Miami Design District. It is the only restaurant on the list awarded two Michelin stars, highlighting its exclusivity.
Its hallmark is an open kitchen, where diners can see how each dish is prepared from start to finish. Going to L’Atelier is much more than just dining out. It’s also about witnessing a five-star show. If you want to see the real magic of haute cuisine happen, this is your place, kid.
You can choose between two options: tasting portions and large plates. If you’re looking for flavor, Le Chocolat Sensation is your dessert. It’s a paradise of chocolate.
Each dish is a masterpiece that combines classic French techniques with a modern twist, so if you like to innovate but also love the classics, this option is your best choice.
- Phone: 305-402-9070
- Address: L’Atelier Miami 51 NE 41ST ST. Suite 235. Miami, FL, 33137.
- Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Capa
There are good steakhouses in Orlando. There are also exclusive restaurants, and then, above them all, there is Capa, which has wood-fired prime cuts of meat and a view of the city that will take your breath away.
Located on the 17th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel in Orlando, it is influenced by Spanish cuisine. In addition to enjoying traditional meat dishes such as the Porterhouse Steak, you can also choose from preparations such as pan con tomate to more creative options, like their octopus version with paprika and black pepper glaze.
This steakhouse is famous for its dulce de leche-based lava cake, which will delight your palate and heart. Ask for their banana ice cream if you want a unique combination. You will thank us for it.
- Phone: +1 407-313-7777
- Address: 10100 Dream Tree Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836.
- Hours: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
The Surf Club Restaurant
Many things make The Surf Club a unique restaurant, starting with its understated, elegant ambiance and Art-Deco aesthetic. But undoubtedly, the real magic of this charming place is in its revamped American cuisine, infused with chef Thomas Keller’s sophisticated vision.
Its outstanding dishes are the crab cake with spicy mayonnaise and the delicious Maine lobster thermidor style. It also has an exclusive wine list that is as extensive as interesting.
As an additional point, the restaurant has one of the most beautiful views in Miami, making it a great alternative if you are looking to relax.
- Phone: +1 305-768-9440.
- Address: 9011 Collins Ave., Surfside, 33154, USA.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
Hiden
As its name suggests, this restaurant is a hidden gem in the bustling Wynwood district. At first glance, you might mistake it for a taco stand. Still, suppose you know the password and are willing to have a completely different experience. In that case, you will enjoy one of the most exclusive omakase restaurants in the country, run by chef Seijun Okano.
With only eight seats, this intimate venue offers a personal journey through the best flavors of Japan, presented with precision and creativity. Its hallmark is the highly fresh fish in decidedly perfect cuts offered to diners. Of course, as with any omakase experience, you don’t get to choose your dish. Everything is literally in the hands of the chef.
- Phone: +1 619-288-2853.
- Address: 313 NW. 25th St., Miami, 33127, USA.
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm.
Elcielo Miami
Elcielo Miami, run by chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, brings the essence of Colombian gastronomy to the heart of Miami. Since 2015, this place has enchanted diners with innovative dishes that are visually stunning and delicious. In addition, its palette of flavors, including ingredients such as queso fresco, corn, and tapioca, pays a well-deserved tribute to Latin American dishes without losing the refinement of haute cuisine.
We recommend you go without a specific dish in mind and dare to live the culinary experience with excitement and curiosity. Try Colombian coffee or a shot of aguardiente to close with a flourish and cleanse the palate. You will love it.
- Phone: +1 305-755-8840.
- Address: 31 SE. 5th St., Miami, 33131, USA.
- Hours: Wednesday to Monday, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Lilac
In Tampa, Lilac offers an exciting proposal with its coastal-inspired décor and a menu that celebrates the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Here, freshness is paramount, with dishes made with local seafood and seasonal produce.
The restaurant successfully mixes influences, among which stand out the Mediterranean influence, the ingredients from South Florida, and the use of French techniques, as shown in its Maine Lobster Chowder. In addition, its list of champagne-based cocktails is one of its attractions.
- Phone: +1 813-221-4600.
- Address: 500 Channelside Dr., Tampa, 33602, USA.
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Ariete
Ariete in Coconut Grove offers a creative twist on contemporary cuisine. Chef Michael Beltran’s Cuban roots influence the innovative dishes, making it a standout in Miami’s competitive dining scene. The warm and welcoming atmosphere is also a plus.
The menu showcases creativity, talent, and delicious quality ingredients.
If you go for the first time, it is best to try the tasting menu, as this will give you a broader view of the flavors and the chef’s talent. Among his most representative dishes, the hake with escabeche, the tomato ragout, and the venison tartar stand out. They are incredible.
- Phone: +1 786-615-3747.
- Address: 3540 Main Hwy., Miami, 33133, USA.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.
Stubborn Seed
At Stubborn Seed, chef Jeremy Ford turns simple ingredients into complex and creative compositions. This South Beach restaurant showcases ingenuity and a meticulous approach to its menu.
Their signature dishes include truffled chicken, Japanese-style milk bread with honey glaze and sesame seeds, and veal tartar cannelloni. As for cocktails, the Purple Haze is the most requested, so if you go for the first time, be sure to try it.
- Phone: +1 786-322-5211.
- Address: 101 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, 33139, USA.
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, to 6:00 pm from 10:00 pm.
Kadence
Kadence, in the heart of Orlando, offers an intimate sushi experience with its meticulously crafted omakase menu. Jennifer Bañagale and Mark Berdin drive this proposal, and their cooking style fuses Japanese food with visually appealing plating.
Its most emblematic dishes are oysters with yuzu vinegar and blue crab cakes. For desserts, the hojicha ice cream is a must. Undoubtedly, it is an experience worth enjoying and repeating.
- Phone: +1 321-203-4448.
- Address: 1809 Winter Park Rd., Orlando, 32803, USA.
- Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm.
Conclusion
South Florida’s Michelin-starred restaurants are more than just places to eat; they are destinations offering a journey through high culinary art. Each restaurant on this list promises a unique experience that goes beyond the plate, making each visit a cherished memory for those who appreciate the art of fine dining.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dining havens will impress with their unparalleled service, exquisite cuisine, and the lush ambiance that defines luxury living in South Florida. And if you want to show up in style don’t forget to rent a luxury car at Prestige Luxury Rentals.
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