Top Miami, Florida Restaurants

Miami, Florida is a world class city, and has numerous world class restaurants that feature cuisines from every continent, nation and culture.  A few are quite remarkable, such as Petit Rouge, located at 12409 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami.  This restaurant is truly a gem in the South Florida area, and focuses on French fare with a menu that includes all of the standard offerings.  Petit Rouge is small, with only seating for around 50 people at 20 tables, and so space is tight.  Still, there is a lovely space for outdoor dining.  Reservations are a good idea on the weekends.

The house specialty dishes are fabulous and really shine to highlight the culinary prowess of CIA-trained chef and owner Neal Cooper.  There is truly no bad choice on the menu, and diners should branch out beyond the usual steak frites to get a sense of the exquisite French cuisine.  While prices may seem steep, it should be noted that portions are larger than typical French dishes.

The Miami Spice menu is a great place to start for first timers.  For a starter, the Classic Escargot should not be missed, with its eight plump escargot swimming in an aromatic sauce of garlic, parsley and butter.  The Mussels are an excellent choice as an entrée.  They are firm and succulent, cooked in a Provencal sauce that is a light broth with onions, white wine and delicate spices.  The sauce is a wonderful accompaniment to use for dipping their freshly baked baguette. The Mussels are served with crisp, perfectly cooked fries.

Another unique spot for Miami dining is at Buena Vista Bistro, located at 4582 NE 2nd Avenue.  While a
little off the beaten path, it is an excellent and charming restaurant that is not to be missed.  The staff is helpful and the rotating menu always features fresh and tasty options for all cuisines and palates.  Buena Vista Bistro is a comfortable and unpretentious cafe, with sophisticated and flavorful dishes.

Local favorites include the Scallop Carpaccio, a light and fresh option for lunch.  The Crab Cakes are perfectly prepared and allow the flavor of the crab to come through wonderfully.  The Rib Eye Steak is grilled to perfection, the Sweet and Sour Tuna is fabulous, and the Seared Scallops have an exceptionally golden finish without the least bit of chewiness.  For dessert, don’t miss the Profiteroles with delectable chocolate sauce and the Creme Brulee is decadently creamy with just the right crust of caramelized sugar on top.