It’s crazy to think that Valentine’s Day is around the corner, but planning ahead is key to securing a spot at the city’s hottest restaurants. These are the 12 Miami restaurants that bring the vibes for an unforgettable and romantic Valentine’s Day.
1. Sunny’s Steakhouse
Behind the beloved team of Jaguar Sun, Sunny’s Steakhouse has reopened in Little River, serving incredible steaks, seafood, and pastas. With outdoor seating under an iconic Banyan tree draped in fairy lights, indoor seating that blends seamlessly with the outdoors, and a stunning new bar, it offers a romantic, LA-like vibe. Don’t miss their famous Parker House Rolls, Agnolotti with blue crab, and their ice cream sandwich.
2. NAOE
NAOE is an intimate, high-end sushi spot located on Brickell Key, offering an exceptional omakase experience. With only five seats at the chef’s counter, the restaurant focuses on the finest, hand-selected ingredients straight from Japan. Chef Kevin’s dedication to traditional Japanese techniques along with his own personalized approach makes it one of Miami’s most elevated dining experiences.
3. Casa Tua Miami Beach
Casa Tua is an elegant Italian restaurant situated in a Mediterranean-style villa. It serves classic Italian dishes made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. With a curated wine list and cozy atmosphere, Casa Tua is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner in Miami Beach.
4. Mimi Chinese
Mimi Chinese, a Michelin-recognized restaurant from Toronto, has now opened its doors in Miami Beach. The space offers an intimate yet modern atmosphere, with soft lighting and rich red velour seating. The tea ceremony cocktail, cucumber salad, scallion scallop, and the chicken dumplings were among my favorites.
5. Chateau ZZ’s
This Mexican Major Food Group restaurant is located in a historic mansion in Brickell that was built in 1931. The lounge / bar area has rich wood-paneled walls and soft, intimate lighting. The outdoor garden seating really makes you feel like you’re in the French countryside. My personal favorite menu items were the tortilla soup, squash blossom rellenos, and the steamed striped bass. The meat and seafood main courses come with tortillas and an arrangement of taco condiments. The churros are also a must.
6. The Surf Club Four Seasons
The Four Seasons Hotel in Surfside is one of my favorite hotels in Miami. Their one star Michelin restaurant, The Surf Club by Chef Thomas Keller, serves modern European-inspired cuisine. The Art Deco inspired interiors, combined with impeccable service, makes this restaurant an ideal destination.
7. Aba
Located in Bal Harbour Shops, Aba serves an array of Mediterranean mezze plates, blending vibrant flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients. With soft lighting and lush greenery creating a warm and inviting ambiance, Aba is the perfect spot for a more relaxing date night. You must try the whipped feta and charred eggplant spreads, as well as the braised beef short rib and hot honey halloumi and ending the meal with the sticky date cake.
8. Bouchon Bistro
While I haven’t been yet, I’ve heard amazing things about Bouchon Bistro! This French restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller is located in the historic La Palma building, constructed in 1924. If a dinner here feels like a romantic escape to Paris, I’m all in.
9. Faena Theater
Dinner with a show? The Faena Hotel, one of Miami Beach’s most luxurious destinations, offers more than just stunning accommodations. What many people don’t know is that tucked inside of the hotel is the Faena Theater. This elegant and intimate theater (only 150 seats) is now showcasing a new cabaret show, Carmen, which blends fire artistry, live music, flamenco, and passion. You can enjoy food and drinks while watching the show.
10. Forte dei Marmi
Went for the desserts, stayed for the pasta. The Pistachio Gelato and tableside Tiramisu are famous for a reason. This restaurant, led by Michelin chef Antonio Mellino, focuses on high-quality ingredients to bring a piece of Italy to Miami’s South Beach.
11. KYU
KYU in Wynwood is a modern Asian eatery. The cripsy rice, kale chips, roasted cauliflower, and the rice stone pot are all dishes to try when dining here.
12. Edan Bistro
With just a few tables, this North Miami gem offers an authentic Basque culinary experience. Chef Aitor Garate Berasaluze, formerly of Leku, has masterfully modernized Spanish cuisine. My all-time favorites include the mushroom croquetas, scallop tartare (pictured), corn and blue crab, and the perfectly cooked duck magret. But trust me—you can’t leave without trying the cheesecake.
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NAOE photo by NAOE via Google
Casa Tua Miami Beach photo by @casatualife
Bouchon Bistro photo by @bouchon_bistro
Forte dei Marmi photo by @fdmmiami
KYU photo by @kyurestaurants
