13 Must-Try Outdoor Restaurants In Miami, Florida
Miami taught me that the best meals are eaten with the sky as your ceiling and the sand as your backdrop.
The first time I dined at a waterfront restaurant here, I realized Miami’s magic lives in its ability to blend nature, culture, and flavor into one unforgettable bite.
There’s something about watching dolphins glide across the bay while you dig into a spicy Key West shrimp taco or savoring a glass of rosé as the sun dips into the Atlantic.
These outdoor restaurants are curated sanctuaries for foodies who crave connection-to the city, to the sea, and to one another.
I’ve danced barefoot to reggaeton in Little Havana, and even shared a romantic dinner under stars in Coconut Grove.
Each spot tells a story, and through my plate (and a few well-timed photos), I’ve collected them all.
Ready to taste the rhythm of Miami?
Here are 13 al fresco havens where every meal feels like a love letter to the tropics.
1. Rusty Pelican
Perched right on the edge of Biscayne Bay in Key Biscayne, Rusty Pelican delivers one of the most breathtaking views in all of South Florida.
You can watch the sun dip behind the glittering downtown skyline while enjoying fresh seafood and perfectly grilled steaks.
The outdoor patio wraps around the waterfront, giving almost every table a front-row seat to the sparkling bay.
Boats glide by in the distance, pelicans swoop overhead, and the breeze keeps everything comfortable even on warm evenings.
Families love this spot for special occasions, and couples find it incredibly romantic.
The menu focuses on coastal classics with a modern twist, so you get flavors that feel both familiar and exciting.
Whether you stop by for brunch or dinner, the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.
Pro tip: arrive early to snag a waterfront table before the sunset rush begins.
2. Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market
Tucked along the Miami River, Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market serves up no-nonsense seafood in the most laid-back setting imaginable.
This place started as a fish market and still operates one, so you know everything on your plate came straight from the water.
Outdoor tables sit right by the river, where you can watch boats cruise past while you crack into stone crab claws or devour a grouper sandwich.
The vibe is super casual, almost like eating at a friend’s backyard cookout, except the seafood is restaurant-quality fresh.
Locals have been coming here for decades, and tourists quickly catch on once they discover it.
There are no fancy decorations or white tablecloths, just honest food, cold drinks, and a genuine Miami experience.
Kids can feed the fish swimming near the dock, which keeps them entertained between bites.
If you want authentic waterfront dining without any pretense, Garcia’s hits the spot perfectly.
3. Monty’s Raw Bar
Monty’s Raw Bar in Coconut Grove feels like a permanent beach party, complete with tiki huts, swaying palms, and live music drifting across the water.
This waterfront classic has been serving up seafood and good vibes for years, and it never gets old.
The outdoor patio stretches right along the marina, so you can watch sailboats glide by while munching on fresh oysters or fish tacos.
On weekends, local bands play on the patio, turning dinner into a full-blown celebration.
Families, friends, and even solo diners all feel welcome here because the atmosphere is so relaxed and friendly.
I once saw a group of kids dancing barefoot on the deck while their parents laughed and sang along.
The menu keeps things simple but satisfying, with plenty of grilled fish, shrimp, and conch fritters.
If you want to feel like you are on island time without leaving Miami, Monty’s delivers that tropical escape.
4. Smith & Wollensky
Smith & Wollensky sits at the southern tip of Miami Beach, where the Atlantic Ocean meets Government Cut, creating a dining backdrop that is hard to beat.
The famous Overlook Deck puts you right above the water, with massive cruise ships and yachts passing just feet away.
While the restaurant is known for its top-tier steaks, the outdoor seating is what really steals the show.
You can feel the ocean breeze, hear the waves, and watch the maritime traffic parade by as you enjoy perfectly cooked prime beef.
Sunset here turns the sky into a canvas of oranges and pinks, making every meal feel like a special event.
The deck is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of shade and fans to keep things cool.
Locals bring out-of-town guests here to impress them, and it works every time.
If you crave a classic steakhouse experience with a waterfront twist, this spot nails it flawlessly.
5. Amara At Paraiso
Amara at Paraiso brings James Beard-level sophistication to the Edgewater neighborhood, with a breezy waterfront patio that overlooks Biscayne Bay.
Chef Michael Schwartz created a menu that celebrates Latin and Mediterranean flavors, and every dish feels thoughtfully crafted.
The outdoor seating area is modern and stylish, with comfortable chairs, soft lighting, and unobstructed views of the water.
You can watch the sun set over the bay while savoring wood-fired dishes and seasonal ingredients that taste incredibly fresh.
The vibe is upscale but not stuffy, so you feel welcomed whether you are dressed up or keeping it casual.
Service here is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff clearly knows the menu inside and out.
Couples love this spot for date nights, and foodies appreciate the creativity behind every plate.
If you want a meal that feels special but still relaxed, Amara delivers on every level beautifully.
6. Seaspice
Seaspice sits along the Miami River like a stylish oasis, with multiple outdoor terraces that make you feel like you have stepped into a European brasserie.
The waterside seating is absolutely gorgeous, with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and a yacht-filled backdrop that screams Miami luxury.
This place is perfect for lingering over a long meal, sipping on something cold, and soaking in the scene.
The menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and creative small plates that are meant for sharing.
On weekends, the energy ramps up as locals and visitors fill the terraces, creating a buzzy, social atmosphere.
You might spot influencers snapping photos or groups celebrating birthdays, but everyone seems to be having a genuinely good time.
The outdoor space is so well-designed that even on busy nights, it never feels too cramped or loud.
If you are looking for a chic, lively waterfront experience, Seaspice should be at the top of your list.
7. Verde At Pérez Art Museum Miami
Verde sits on the terrace of the Pérez Art Museum Miami, offering open-air dining with stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the downtown skyline.
The setting is as artistic as the museum itself, with sleek modern design and plenty of natural light flooding the space.
You do not need a museum ticket to eat here, which makes it a hidden gem for anyone craving waterfront dining without the crowds.
The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with a Mediterranean influence, and everything tastes as good as it looks.
Sitting outside, you can watch sailboats drift by and enjoy the breeze while surrounded by contemporary architecture.
It is the kind of place where brunch feels like an event and lunch becomes a mini-vacation.
Families appreciate the relaxed vibe, and art lovers enjoy the creative atmosphere that spills over from the galleries.
If you want culture and cuisine in one beautiful package, Verde delivers both effortlessly and deliciously.
8. Area 31
Area 31 sits high above Brickell at the Kimpton EPIC Hotel, offering rooftop dining with sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and the glittering city skyline.
The outdoor tables feel like a private retreat in the sky, where the breeze is always perfect and the scenery never disappoints.
This restaurant specializes in sustainable seafood, so you can enjoy your meal knowing it was sourced responsibly.
From grilled fish to creative sushi rolls, the menu highlights the best of what the ocean has to offer.
Sunset here is magical, with the sky turning shades of pink and gold as the city lights start to twinkle below.
I remember dining here once and watching a dolphin leap out of the water in the distance, which felt like a bonus show with dinner.
The vibe is sophisticated but comfortable, making it ideal for both business dinners and romantic evenings.
If you love panoramic views and fresh seafood, Area 31 checks every box beautifully.
9. Glass & Vine
Glass & Vine hides under a canopy of mature oak trees in Coconut Grove, creating one of the most romantic outdoor dining spots in all of Miami.
The shaded patio feels like a secret garden, with dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves and a cool breeze that makes you forget the city is just steps away.
This place is perfect for sunset dinners, when the golden light turns everything soft and dreamy.
The menu features American comfort food with a creative twist, so you get familiar flavors presented in exciting new ways.
Locals love bringing first dates here because the atmosphere does half the work for them.
The outdoor space is intimate without feeling cramped, and the natural surroundings make every meal feel special.
Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or just treating yourself to a nice evening out, the vibe here is always warm and welcoming.
If you want a dining experience that feels like a peaceful escape, Glass & Vine delivers that magic effortlessly.
10. Klaw Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
Klaw Restaurant & Rooftop Bar sits in the Omni area, offering a compact but breezy rooftop setting with fantastic views of Biscayne Bay.
The outdoor space feels modern and casual, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood without any fuss or formality.
Lobster rolls, crab legs, and oysters are the stars here, and everything tastes like it just came off the boat.
The rooftop vibe is laid-back and fun, with colorful decor and a menu that does not take itself too seriously.
You can watch boats cruise by and enjoy the waterfront breeze while cracking into a pile of shellfish.
This spot is great for groups because the portions are generous and the atmosphere encourages sharing and laughing.
Service is friendly and efficient, so you never feel rushed but also do not wait forever for your food.
If you want a seafood feast with a view but do not want to break the bank, Klaw is your answer.
11. The Deck At Island Gardens
The Deck at Island Gardens sits right on Watson Island, where superyachts line the marina and the Miami skyline sparkles across the water.
This high-energy waterfront spot feels like a scene from a movie, with sleek design, stunning views, and a vibe that is equal parts glamorous and fun.
The outdoor seating area puts you front and center for yacht-watching, and trust me, some of these boats are absolutely massive.
The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with plenty of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and colorful salads.
Weekends here turn into a full-blown party, with music, laughter, and a crowd that clearly knows how to have a good time.
Even on quieter evenings, the atmosphere feels special because the location is just so uniquely Miami.
You can sip on something cold, nibble on shareable plates, and soak in the luxury yacht lifestyle without owning one yourself.
If you want waterfront dining with serious wow factor, The Deck delivers that experience flawlessly.
12. Serena Rooftop At Moxy South Beach
Serena Rooftop sits atop the Moxy South Beach, offering an all-outdoor space that feels like a stylish party under the stars.
Twinkling lights hang overhead, colorful furniture dots the deck, and the skyline views stretch out in every direction.
This place is all about energy and fun, with a menu that keeps things casual but flavorful.
Think shareable plates, fresh salads, and dishes that are perfect for grazing while you hang out with friends.
The vibe is young and lively, with music that keeps the energy up without drowning out conversation.
On warm Miami nights, this rooftop becomes one of the most happening spots in South Beach.
You can watch the city light up below while enjoying the ocean breeze and the buzz of happy diners around you.
If you are looking for a rooftop experience that is more party than fine dining, Serena nails that balance perfectly and memorably.
13. Zuma
Zuma brings upscale Japanese dining to the Miami River, with a polished outdoor terrace that feels both sophisticated and inviting.
The riverside setting is stunning, with sleek modern design and views of boats gliding by under the city lights.
The menu features contemporary Japanese cuisine, including sushi, robata grill dishes, and beautifully plated small bites.
Every dish is crafted with precision, and the flavors are bold yet balanced in a way that keeps you coming back for more.
The outdoor terrace is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of shade during the day and ambient lighting at night.
This spot attracts a well-dressed crowd, but the vibe never feels snobbish or unwelcoming.
Whether you are celebrating something special or just treating yourself to a fantastic meal, Zuma makes every visit feel like an occasion.
If you love Japanese food and waterfront dining, this combination is absolutely unbeatable and unforgettable in every way.