24 Florida Restaurants Everyone’s Talking About Right Now
From the panhandle to the Keys, my taste buds have embarked on a sun-soaked journey through Florida’s most unforgettable restaurants.
Whether you’re after nostalgia, new flavors, or just a stunning waterfront view, this list covers everything from century-old icons to local secrets that refuse to stay under the radar.
Buckle up—my stomach and I have done the legwork (and perhaps a few extra sit-ups) so you can eat your way through the Sunshine State with confidence and a side of laughter.
1. Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab isn’t just a meal—it’s a Miami Beach rite of passage. I remember my first visit, gazing at the mountain of stone crab claws with awe and a side of intimidation.
The servers here glide through the dining room like seasoned actors on a Broadway stage. With every crack of the shell, you feel like you’re part of a Floridian tradition so delicious, it nearly justifies the waitlist.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the legendary key lime pie. Even if you “don’t do dessert,” it’ll make a convert out of you faster than you can say, “pass the mustard sauce.”
2. Columbia Restaurant
Ever had a meal where the bread is so good you contemplate stuffing your purse with it? Welcome to Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. Their hot, crusty Cuban bread and garlicky 1905 Salad have ruined me for all others.
Established in 1905, this Spanish-Cuban landmark dazzles with sangria made tableside and enough paella to feed a fútbol team. The flamenco shows make even the shyest diners shimmy in their seats.
Tip: If you spot a massive mosaic, you’re in the right place. And yes, the sangria pitcher is absolutely for sharing—unless you’re having ‘one of those days.’
3. Versailles
Some places are worth braving Miami traffic for—Versailles is one of them. The hum of conversation, the aroma of café Cubano, and the sight of mile-high Cuban sandwiches spark instant joy.
If you want to witness democracy in action, try ordering a pastelito at the take-out window during lunch hour. The debates are as spicy as the picadillo.
Locals swear by the flan. I once lined up behind a local politician and a grandmother—both agreed: Versailles is the heart and soul (and stomach) of Little Havana.
4. Bern’s Steak House
Picture this: a steakhouse so legendary, it has its own dessert room. At Bern’s, my carnivorous dreams came true one juicy bite at a time—don’t ask for ketchup.
This institution’s wine cellar could house a small European nation, and the steaks are aged to perfection. If you love drama, order tableside bananas Foster and watch the flames dance.
Fun fact: Their onion rings are stacked higher than my ambitions. Save room for the chocolate lover’s finale in those cozy, private dessert booths.
5. Blue Heaven
Where else can you eat pancakes while dodging friendly chickens? Blue Heaven in Key West turns breakfast into a tropical carnival. The vibe is flip-flops-meet-fine-dining—my kind of place.
Under a canopy of banyan trees, the live music and island breezes make even Monday mornings magical. Don’t be surprised to find yourself humming along with the band.
If you order the key lime pie, prepare for a meringue mountain that defies both gravity and willpower. No shame in licking the plate.
6. The Ravenous Pig
The Ravenous Pig is where Southern comfort puts on its trendiest outfit. I showed up for the pork belly but stayed for the house-made biscuits, which still haunt my carb-loving dreams.
Every visit feels like a culinary adventure—truffle fries here, seasonal cocktails there. Their charcuterie board could win a beauty pageant.
Don’t miss the daily specials; the chefs treat each plate like a personal challenge. If Orlando had a flavor, I’m pretty sure it’d taste like this.
7. The Floridian
St. Augustine’s The Floridian knows how to serve up Southern charm with a side of sass. Once, a mural of a gator winked at me—true story or too much sweet tea?
Their farm-to-table ethos means ingredients practically leap from garden to plate. The creative menu changes like Florida weather, but the shrimp and grits are always a showstopper.
Quirky cocktails and vintage vibes keep things lively. If you appreciate a side of whimsy with your greens, you’ll fit right in.
8. The Columbia Cafe
Water views and Spanish flavors—sign me up. The Columbia Cafe in Tampa delivers breezy afternoons with tapas and the kind of sangria that makes you want to dance.
Their Cuban sandwich is a local legend, but the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp) stole my heart. If you come during sunset, you’ll understand why nobody’s in a rush to leave.
The only thing more vibrant than the scenery? The flavors. Bring a friend or two—these plates are made for sharing (and photographing).
9. The Bubble Room
Ever dined in a Christmas wonderland—year-round? The Bubble Room on Captiva Island is a technicolor explosion of nostalgia. Toy trains whiz by as you order giant slabs of cake for breakfast (I won’t judge).
Each room bursts with kitschy memorabilia—think Santa statues and vintage movie posters. Even the servers wear Boy Scout uniforms, adding to the eccentric fun.
And the desserts? Let’s just say, if you finish a slice solo, you deserve a parade. Don’t miss the “Orange Crunch” cake; it’s legendary for a reason.
10. Red Fish Grill
There’s magic in eating fresh-caught snapper while watching the sunset over a lagoon. Red Fish Grill, tucked inside Matheson Hammock Park, delivers romance and ocean breezes in equal measure.
The setting is so dreamy, even my phone takes better pictures here. Their grilled fish plates are simple, letting the flavors do all the talking.
A glass of Sauvignon Blanc, good company, and the sound of waves—suddenly, “dining out” feels like a mini-vacation. Bring your appetite and your fanciest flip-flops.
11. The Le Tub Saloon
Ever eaten a burger so big you needed a pep talk first? The Le Tub Saloon in Hollywood is legendary for its monstrous patties and oddball decor made from—you guessed it—bathtubs.
I sat on a toilet seat (clean, I promise) while taking in the view of passing boats. It’s all part of the charm. The fries are hand-cut, and the drinks are ice-cold—hydration is key while wrestling with your burger.
This place is equal parts greasy spoon and waterside hangout. If you love a good story with your meal, you’ll fit right in.
12. Hogfish Bar & Grill
Hogfish Bar & Grill is where fishermen, locals, and in-the-know tourists unite. The hogfish sandwich is tender and flaky, best paired with the salty air and a cold one.
The vibe? Think Jimmy Buffett on vacation. Picnic tables, live music, and a menu that reads like a love letter to the sea.
I once watched a pelican try to order fries—he left empty-beaked, but I was well-fed. If you crave authenticity, this is your spot.
13. La Segunda Central Bakery
To call La Segunda’s Cuban bread legendary is an understatement. The aroma alone has the power to lure you down Tampa’s 15th Street, carbs be damned.
This bakery has been rolling and baking since 1915. Their guava pastries vanish faster than my self-control in the cookie aisle.
Locals line up early for fresh loaves warm from the oven. One bite, and you’ll be plotting your next visit like a pastry-obsessed detective.
14. Garcia’s Seafood Grille
Garcia’s Seafood Grille is the kind of place where the fish is fresher than your best pickup line. Situated right on the Miami River, the catch often comes straight from the boat to your table.
The grilled dolphin sandwich (yes, that’s mahi-mahi) is a local legend. I spent a blissful afternoon just watching the boats and savoring each bite.
Rustic, unpretentious, and family-run, Garcia’s is proof you don’t need white tablecloths for a top-tier meal. Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure.
15. Louie’s Backyard
If ‘oceanfront fine dining’ is your love language, Louie’s Backyard in Key West will serenade you. One sunset here and I understood why Hemingway never left.
The conch chowder is a poetry slam in a bowl, and the backyard deck turns every meal into a postcard moment. I once tried to Instagram my dinner, but the view stole the show.
From local snapper to coconut bread pudding, the flavors are as big as the view. Reservation recommended—everyone’s in on the secret.
16. Caffe Paradiso
When I need an Italian food fix, Caffe Paradiso delivers amore on a plate. The owner once serenaded my table with opera—top that, Olive Garden.
The pasta is as fresh as a Floridian sunrise. Gnocchi, lasagna, tiramisu—the classics are all here, with a South Florida twist.
Perfect for date night or making Tuesday feel like a holiday. Ask for the wine list—you’ll want to linger.
17. Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar brings a crispy, golden crunch to Miami’s food scene. The fried chicken here is so juicy, I considered proposing to it.
Homemade biscuits and bourbon cocktails round out the menu—comfort food that feels like a warm hug. The vibe is Southern grandma meets hip Miami hotspot.
Warning: You may experience biscuit-related daydreams for weeks. Bring extra napkins and a hearty appetite.
18. The Taco Bus
Who knew a school bus could dish out Tampa’s best tacos? The Taco Bus is a rolling fiesta, serving up authentic Mexican fare from a paint-splattered bus.
From lengua to carnitas, there’s a taco for every craving. I once had a taco so spicy it made me question my life choices—still worth it.
Open late, beloved by night owls and foodies alike, this bus is always in drive. Go ahead, order one of everything.
19. Sloppy Joe’s Bar
Sloppy Joe’s isn’t just a bar—it’s a Key West institution. Rumor has it Hemingway wrote here (or at least drank here) and the party hasn’t stopped since.
Live bands, boisterous crowds, and messy sandwiches keep things rowdy year-round. I lost my voice trying to sing along, but the fun was worth it.
Order the original Sloppy Joe for the full experience. It’s messy, legendary, and pairs best with a cold beer and questionable dance moves.
20. Ulele
Ulele celebrates Florida’s indigenous roots in delicious, creative ways. The fire-kissed oysters and alligator hush puppies are conversation starters—and trust me, you want that story.
The setting, right on the river, is equal parts rustic and modern. I brought my mom once, and she’s still raving about the charbroiled oysters.
Local ingredients shine in every dish. If you’re in Tampa and crave flavors with a sense of place, Ulele delivers.
21. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Doc Ford’s is the kind of place where flip-flops are practically the dress code. Their Yucatan shrimp, doused in tangy butter sauce, should probably have its own fan club.
Boat traffic, sea breezes, and strong rum drinks set the scene. I spent an entire afternoon there and still didn’t want to leave.
The menu leans tropical, with Caribbean-inspired flavors throughout. Don’t forget sunscreen—you’ll want to linger on the deck.
22. Se7en Bites
Se7en Bites in Orlando is a retro dream come true—think pastel colors and pie for breakfast. Their biscuit sandwiches are so good, you might write a thank you note.
I once waited an hour for a slice of salted caramel pie and would do it again without hesitation. Everything tastes like it was baked with love and a little mischief.
Save room for dessert; it’s practically mandatory. The vibe is cheerful and the portions are generous—just like your favorite aunt’s kitchen.
23. Beaker & Gray
Science meets flavor at Beaker & Gray, where experimental cocktails are the star of the show. I tried a drink that smoked at the table—mad scientist vibes all around.
Small plates encourage sharing, which is both generous and strategic (more bites for you). The menu hops continents, with everything from bao buns to ceviche.
Bring your most adventurous friend and a thirst for the unexpected. The atmosphere is as cool as the cocktails.
24. The French Pantry
Hidden in a Jacksonville warehouse, The French Pantry serves up mythical sandwiches and cakes. I once waited in line with half of Duval County—not a single regret.
The daily special is the way to go, but the bread alone is worth the trip. If you spot coconut cake, pounce.
This spot nails the magic trifecta: flavor, friendliness, and that irresistible bakery smell. Arrive early, bring patience, and leave with a full stomach (and probably some pastries to-go).