The Best Waterfront Restaurants In Miami

The only problem with eating at a restaurant with a magnificent view of Biscayne Bay, the Miami River, or the Rickenbacker Causeway is that the food has a lot to live up to. Luckily for you, this list of waterfront restaurants doesn’t sacrifice location for quality. Read our guide to Miami’s best waterfront eateries to be best informed for your next dinner outing in the 305. This handful of eateries are all eloquently perched on winding canals, bustling bays and blue oceans, offering a complete package of views, tastes and the ambiance of the Miami lifestyle.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Black Point Ocean Grill

Located in the Black Point Marina in Homestead, Florida, this waterfront restaurant has won awards for its outstanding service and mouthwatering dishes. Here, only the freshest ingredients and quality seasonal dishes are served and everything is reasonably priced, all the way from steak to seafood. We recommend that you eat on the outside patio where you can experience an al fresco setting as you sip on a glass of wine and enjoy a pleasant South Florida evening.

Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish

Eating seafood just feels more authentic while enjoying it with a view of the ocean where it comes from. Garcia’s is the perfect place to do just this; grab a seat and soak up views of the Miami River while watching fishing boats drop off their latest catches. Originally from Cuba, the Garcia brothers made their dream of opening a seafood restaurant/market in Miami a reality in 1966. 48 years later, their legacy lives on, and the business is still owned and operated by the family.

Lido Restaurant & Bayside Grill

Housed inside the always hip Standard Hotel, this popular spot is filled with people soaking in the pristine bay views under the restaurant’s large and colorful umbrellas. The Lido Bayside Grill at The Standard Spa, Miami Beach takes inspiration from the traditional Mediterranean diet and lifestyle. Executive Chef Mark Zeitouni specializes in organic meats and fish, and the portions served are not small by any standard. We highly recommend this place for a romantic date night on the water.

Rusty Pelican

Known as the hottest destination for locals, celebrities and tourists alike, the Rusty Pelican offers eclectic and impressive contemporary American cuisine and the freshest local seafood you can find. Located on the famous Rickenbacker Causeway, this waterfront restaurant has elegant interior that features wood floors, tables and chairs. Make sure to check out its Saturday-Sunday Brunch.

Smith & Wollensky

One of the best places in Miami to catch the sunset, you’ll find locals and tourists alike crowded around its popular bar nightly to take in the views and the ocean breezes. Smith & Wollensky is a chophouse chain with exclusive locations in the trendiest parts of the country, such as Las Vegas, New York, Chicago, and Boston’s famous Atlantic Wharf. The food and drinks here are excellent and the atmosphere is surprisingly lively and fast-paced considering the high-class nature of the establishment.