10 Outstanding Waterfront Restaurants in Miami

 

Right up there with “Where should I eat?” is “where should I eat with great views of the water?” Fortunately, Miami is known for its fabulous beaches, and there’s a whole host of delightful restaurants serving up meals with a view. For tasty eats by the shore, these are 10 outstanding waterfront restaurants in Miami.

This waterfront Greek party spot maintains a boho-chic atmosphere with a charming view of the Miami river. Guests from all over arrive in yachts to sample tasty greek tapas and delicious craft cocktails. On Weekends (starting on Friday night) a party breaks out complete with DJ, dancing, and twirling napkins. Eat, drink, and dance, all by the water’s edge.

With modern takes on Argentinian cuisine, the cute Buenos-Aires-style bistro Tigre serves hot food and boozy cocktails, fitting right in alongside its Art Deco neighbors. What sets the restaurant apart is the unique view overlooking a manatee sanctuary. Great food meets the serenity of river life, and hungry diners always meet a good time.

The food at La Mar is as impressive as the scenery. Chef Diego Oka runs the modern Peruvian restaurant, delivering on the interesting ceviches, complex seafood dishes and specialty cocktails the eatery has become known for. Diners can enjoy them with two spectacular views: One of the Biscayne Bay and one of the glorious Miami skyline. 

Joia Beach is a buzzy beachclub reminiscent of the shores of St. Tropez, with fine dining by day and a DJ and primo bottle service by night. The restaurant and bar are actually situated on a petite man made island in Biscayne Bay. The European-inspired plates are delectable, and the restaurant is undoubtedly one of the liveliest waterfront restaurants in Miami. 

The bold Latin American flavors, coastal ingredients and idyllic bayside setting makes Amara at Paraiso one of the best waterfront restaurants in Miami, and a thorough love-letter to Miami’s vibrant culture. Don’t miss the tender octopus, empanadas, and cheesy yuca bread. Hang out at the breezy rooftop deck for happy hour snacks and drink specials on weeknights.

Guests of this iconic Miami restaurant can expect beachy coral rock interiors, incredible seafood dishes, and 360° views of the water. The outdoor patio is lovely, but the four waterfront cabanas are the best place to enjoy oysters from both coasts. It’s like dining at the edge of the world, with all the chilled wine and lobster one could want.

Refreshing Mediterranean flavors are right at home at this elegant restaurant by the water’s edge. Laid-back, bohemian, and casual-chic in all facets, Baia Beach Club is the epitome of stylish South Beach. The restaurant is open for breakfast lunch and dinner, great for taking in the sun, and the sunset.

This glamorous restaurant has more in common with the French Riviera than its home on the banks of the beautiful Miami River. Tuck into a wood-fired seafood casserole, or mounds of premium caviar. As you nibble, watch yachts navigate the beautiful waters, and even arrive at Seaspice’s ornate doors, as they welcome guests by both land and sea. 

Fine Italian cuisine by the sea- a dining experience from mother Italy herself. This Mediterranean mainstay is known for its fresh pastas and fresher ocean views. The outstanding service is available at every inch of Il Gabbiano’s spacious terrace, ensuring speedy delivery of drinks and bites so you can keep your eyes on the beautiful sunset. 

The crown jewel of Downtown Miami is the modern masterpiece Zuma. Originally from London, Zuma is a take on the increasingly popular Japanese style of “Izakaya” dining, a type of informal dining that retains elegance and refinement. The food speaks for itself, with a collection of delightful bites from sea bass sashimi with yuzu, salmon roe and truffle oil to tiger prawn tempura. Guests can enjoy all this and more while overlooking the water from an air-conditioned terrace.