Miami has always been a city where vibrant culture, ocean breezes, and culinary innovation converge. On my first summer visit, I quickly realized that exploring Miami isn’t complete without indulging in the city’s seafood scene. From bustling local fish markets to sophisticated waterfront dining, Miami offers a remarkable variety of flavors and textures for any seafood lover. During my travels, I created a personal list of the ten must-try seafood dishes, along with my experiences at the restaurants that serve them, practical tips for reservations, and insights into getting the best deals.
1. Stone Crab Claws at Joe’s Stone Crab
Address: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
What to expect: Joe’s Stone Crab is an institution in Miami Beach. Walking into this historic restaurant, established in 1913, I was immediately enveloped by the scent of the ocean and the bustle of diners. The interior has a classic, timeless feel, with dark wood and polished floors that speak to generations of seafood lovers.
Must-try dish: Stone Crab Claws, served cold with mustard sauce. These claws are plump, sweet, and perfectly cooked. I remember cracking into my first claw and savoring the natural sweetness—it was unlike anything I had tasted before.
Reservation tips: Reservations are essential, especially during summer weekends. I used OpenTable to secure a prime-time slot. Booking at least a week in advance helped me snag a table without the long wait.
Cost: Expect around \$50–\$70 per pound for stone crab claws. I found that visiting for lunch offered slightly smaller portions but at a better price point.
Extra tip: Pair the claws with a side of Joe’s famous hash browns—they are crispy and buttery, providing the perfect complement to the richness of the seafood.
2. Key West Pink Shrimp at Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market
Address: 398 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL 33128
What to expect: Garcia’s is a charming waterfront eatery located along the Miami River. Arriving at sunset, I loved watching the boats pass by while enjoying the salty air. The restaurant has a casual, laid-back vibe, but the quality of the seafood is impeccable.
Must-try dish: Sautéed Key West Pink Shrimp. Each shrimp is succulent and slightly sweet, cooked with garlic and olive oil. I remember the first bite—the delicate flavor exploded in my mouth, perfectly balanced with a hint of spice.
Reservation tips: Garcia’s offers a mix of walk-in and reservations. For waterfront seating, I highly recommend booking via Yelp Reservations or calling directly. I reserved a table around 6 PM and enjoyed the golden-hour view of the river.
Cost: The sautéed shrimp dish ranges from \$28–\$35.
Extra tip: Ask for a side of their fresh, locally baked bread to soak up the garlicky juices—it makes the dish even more memorable.
3. Ceviche at CVI.CHE 105
Address: 105 NE 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33132
What to expect: CVI.CHE 105 brings Peruvian flavors straight to Miami’s vibrant Brickell neighborhood. Stepping inside, I was greeted by bright colors, lively music, and a menu packed with seafood options. The atmosphere is energetic, perfect for a midweek lunch or dinner with friends.
Must-try dish: Classic ceviche with fresh snapper, marinated in lime juice and topped with sweet potato and corn. The tangy citrus marinade paired with the soft texture of the fish was simply irresistible. I found myself savoring every bite, dipping the fish into the sauce and tasting the bright flavors.
Reservation tips: Reservations aren’t always required, but during peak hours, I used Resy to ensure a table. Arriving around 7 PM, I noticed a growing crowd, so having a reservation was a lifesaver.
Cost: Around \$18–\$22 per ceviche plate.
Extra tip: The pisco sour at CVI.CHE 105 is a perfect pairing—refreshing and slightly sweet, complementing the tanginess of the ceviche.
4. Lobster Tail at Monty’s Sunset
Address: 3000 NE 32nd St, Miami, FL 33140
What to expect: Located in the Upper Eastside near the marina, Monty’s Sunset is famous for its outdoor tiki bar and sunset views over Biscayne Bay. I remember sitting at a waterside table, feeling the breeze and listening to live jazz, while the sun dipped below the horizon.
Must-try dish: Grilled lobster tail with garlic butter. The lobster was tender, juicy, and slightly smoky from the grill. The garlic butter enhanced its natural sweetness perfectly.
Reservation tips: For sunset seating, reserve in advance through OpenTable. I booked a table facing the water to catch the full sunset.
Cost: \$38–\$45 per lobster tail.
Extra tip: Come early to enjoy happy hour specials on drinks and small plates while waiting for the main course.
5. Grouper Sandwich at The Rusty Pelican
Address: 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
What to expect: The Rusty Pelican offers stunning panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. Walking in, I immediately noticed the chic interior and large windows framing the water. The energy is relaxed yet upscale.
Must-try dish: Blackened grouper sandwich. The fish is flavorful, seasoned with a blend of spices, and cooked to perfection. Each bite revealed a moist, flaky texture. I paired it with sweet potato fries and a cold local craft beer—it was a perfect midday escape.
Reservation tips: Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch. I used Yelp Reservations and selected a window table to enjoy the waterfront view.
Cost: \$22–\$28 for the sandwich plate.
Extra tip: Timing your visit around sunset allows you to enjoy both lunch and the changing hues of the sky—it’s an unforgettable combination of food and scenery.
6. Blackened Mahi Mahi at Seaspice
Address: 422 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL 33128
What to expect: Seaspice is a waterfront gem located along the Miami River. The chic, nautical-inspired interior immediately catches the eye, but the real magic happens outside on the patio. I arrived just as the evening lights began to twinkle across the water, and the ambiance alone was enough to get my appetite soaring.
Must-try dish: Blackened Mahi Mahi with a citrus beurre blanc sauce. The fish was perfectly seasoned, slightly charred on the outside, and tender inside. I paired it with roasted vegetables and a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc—the combination elevated the subtle ocean flavors into something extraordinary.
Reservation tips: Seaspice is popular among locals and tourists alike. I booked through OpenTable, selecting a waterside table for the full experience. Arriving early can also help secure a quieter spot if you prefer a more intimate setting.
Cost: Around \$35–\$45 per plate.
Extra tip: Don’t skip their dessert menu. The Key lime pie is tangy, creamy, and an ideal finale to a seafood feast.
7. Oysters at Dirty Rabbit
Address: 1001 SW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33130
What to expect: Dirty Rabbit combines a playful vibe with upscale seafood. I was immediately drawn to the raw bar, where fresh oysters were displayed on ice, glistening under the soft lighting. The music, a mix of jazz and soft Latin beats, made the entire experience feel lively yet relaxed.
Must-try dish: Blue Point oysters served with a spicy mignonette. Each oyster was briny and fresh, delivering a punch of ocean flavor with every bite. I paired them with a crisp glass of Chablis, which complemented the natural saltiness of the shellfish beautifully.
Reservation tips: Walk-ins are welcome, but for prime seating or weekends, I used Resy to ensure a table without waiting.
Cost: Oysters range from \$3–\$4 each.
Extra tip: Ordering a half dozen allows you to taste multiple preparations without feeling overwhelmed.
8. Snapper Veracruz at Larios on the Beach
Address: 819 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
What to expect: Larios on the Beach, part of the famous Versailles-inspired chain, delivers Cuban flair right on Ocean Drive. Sitting at an outdoor table, I could watch the waves and the vibrant street life while savoring my meal.
Must-try dish: Snapper Veracruz, cooked in a tomato, caper, and olive sauce with fresh herbs. The blend of spices and the delicate snapper made each bite memorable. I ordered a side of coconut rice, which balanced the tanginess of the sauce perfectly.
Reservation tips: During peak tourist seasons, I booked through Yelp Reservations. The beachfront tables are highly sought after, so securing a slot in advance is essential.
Cost: Around \$32–\$38 per plate.
Extra tip: Lunch hours are less crowded than dinner, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience with the same excellent food quality.
9. Crab Cakes at Truluck’s
Address: 831 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, FL 33131
What to expect: Truluck’s in Brickell is an upscale seafood restaurant with panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. I was immediately taken with the elegant interior, soft lighting, and attentive staff. The restaurant is perfect for a long, leisurely meal where each course feels like a special experience.
Must-try dish: Signature crab cakes with a hint of Old Bay seasoning and a side of remoulade sauce. The crab meat was sweet, rich, and flaky. I remember savoring every bite, feeling the combination of textures and the delicate seasoning dance across my palate.
Reservation tips: OpenTable is my go-to for Truluck’s. Request a window table overlooking the bay to make the experience extra special.
Cost: Around \$36–\$42 per plate.
Extra tip: Try pairing the crab cakes with a glass of Pinot Grigio to accentuate the subtle sweetness of the crab.
10. Tuna Tartare at Zuma
Address: 270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131
What to expect: Zuma offers a sleek, modern dining experience with an open-plan layout and stunning views of the Miami skyline. Entering the restaurant felt like stepping into a contemporary art gallery, with carefully curated décor and a vibrant energy that buzzed through the room.
Must-try dish: Tuna tartare with avocado, sesame, and a drizzle of yuzu soy sauce. The tuna was fresh, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and paired exquisitely with the creamy avocado. I remember taking my first bite and closing my eyes, letting the layers of flavor unfold before me.
Reservation tips: Zuma is always in demand, so booking via OpenTable or directly on their website is crucial, especially for evening seating.
Cost: \$28–\$35 per appetizer portion.
Extra tip: Arrive a bit early to enjoy cocktails at the bar and watch the sunset over Biscayne Bay—the ambiance is just as captivating as the food.
Tips for Maximizing Your Miami Seafood Experience
Throughout my Miami seafood adventures, I found several strategies that made a noticeable difference in both cost and experience:
- Use Booking Platforms Wisely: I frequently used OpenTable, Yelp Reservations, and TripAdvisor to secure prime-time tables and read reviews from fellow travelers.
- Look for Happy Hour Specials: Many restaurants, like Monty’s Sunset and Seaspice, offer seafood-centric happy hours with discounted appetizers and drinks. Arriving between 4–6 PM often led to better deals.
- Combine Dining with Sightseeing: Waterfront locations not only serve delicious seafood but also provide stunning views. Planning meals around sunset or riverfront walks added a visual feast to complement the culinary one.
- Check Hotel Concierge Recommendations: When staying in Miami Beach or Brickell, I often consulted hotel concierges, who suggested hidden gems and sometimes secured reservations I couldn’t get on my own. Expedia and Trip.com also offered curated dining options linked to hotel stays.
- Be Adventurous: Miami’s seafood scene is diverse. I made a point of trying everything from raw oysters to hearty crab cakes, discovering new favorites along the way.
Exploring Miami’s seafood scene gave me more than just full stomachs—it immersed me in the city’s culture, waterfront charm, and culinary artistry. Each meal, from the bustling energy of Joe’s Stone Crab to the elegant sophistication of Zuma, told a story of place, tradition, and innovation. For anyone visiting Miami, allowing yourself to fully experience these seafood delights transforms a trip from ordinary to unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning to book flights through Expedia or Google Flights, accommodations via Hotels.com, or restaurant reservations with OpenTable or Yelp Reservations, these platforms made my travel seamless and ensured I never missed out on the city’s top culinary experiences. With careful planning, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for the ocean’s bounty, Miami becomes a playground for seafood enthusiasts, offering memories—and flavors—that linger long after the trip ends.
