17 Must-Visit Florida Restaurants Every Foodie Should Try
Florida isn’t just about sunny beaches and theme parks, these days, it’s quietly (okay, loudly) becoming one of the most exciting food destinations in America.
From Cuban classics sizzling in Miami to fresh-off-the-boat seafood along the Gulf Coast, the Sunshine State serves up flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance the cha-cha and maybe even attempt a salsa spin.
Whether you’re craving a fancy steak dinner that feels like a celebration or laid-back coastal eats best enjoyed in flip-flops, these seventeen restaurants represent the absolute best Florida has to offer hungry, curious foodies like you.
Get ready because your next unforgettable meal is somewhere on this list.
1. Bern’s Steak House – Tampa
Meat lovers, prepare to meet your maker—and by maker, we mean the temple of beef perfection that is Bern’s Steak House.
Since 1956, this Tampa icon has been aging steaks in their own special rooms and growing vegetables in their backyard garden. Though they once grew some of their vegetables on-site, they now source most of their produce from local suppliers.
The menu features cuts you’ve probably never heard of, all prepared exactly how you want them. Every steak comes with your choice of organic vegetables and one of eight different potato preparations.
The upstairs dessert room is legendary, offering over fifty sweet creations in a romantic, cave-like setting. You’ll need to make reservations weeks ahead because everyone knows this place is worth the wait.
Location: 1208 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
2. Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach
Stone crabs are to Miami Beach what pizza is to New York—absolutely essential eating.
Joe’s has been cracking claws since 1913, making it older than your great-grandparents’ love story. The restaurant only serves stone crabs during their natural season, from October through May, because they care about sustainability.
Here’s something wild: fishermen harvest just one claw from each crab, then return them to the ocean where they grow a new one. Nature is amazing, right?
The famous mustard sauce is so good people literally buy jars to take home. Lines stretch around the block, but takeout moves faster if you’re in a hurry.
Location: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
3. Café La Trova – Miami
Step inside Café La Trova and you’ll swear you just time-traveled to 1950s Havana.
This stunning spot celebrates Cuban culture through incredible food, live music, and an atmosphere that practically hums with energy. The restaurant pays tribute to legendary Cuban songwriter Arsenio Rodríguez, whose music fills the space. However, Café La Trova actually celebrates traditional Cuban trova music in general, not just Rodriguez’s work.
Chef Michelle Bernstein’s menu features elevated Cuban classics that honor tradition while adding modern flair. Try the ropa vieja that falls apart like butter or the perfectly crispy croquetas.
The open kitchen lets you watch chefs work their magic while musicians perform on a small stage. Every detail, from the vintage photographs to the hand-painted tiles, tells a story about Cuban heritage.
Location: 971 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130
4. Versailles Restaurant – Miami
Locals call this place “the world’s most famous Cuban restaurant,” and honestly, they’re not exaggerating one bit.
Versailles has been the heartbeat of Little Havana since 1971, serving authentic Cuban comfort food to everyone from construction workers to celebrities. The mirrored walls make the space feel twice as big and give it a distinctive sparkle.
Order the vaca frita—crispy shredded beef that’s so addictive you’ll dream about it for weeks. The café con leche is strong enough to power you through three math tests.
Portions are enormous, so bring your appetite or plan to share. The attached bakery window serves quick bites if you’re grabbing lunch on the go.
Location: 3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
5. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – Miami
Fancy French food might sound intimidating, but this restaurant makes fine dining feel approachable and exciting.
The late Joël Robuchon was basically the rockstar of the chef world, earning more Michelin stars than any other chef in history. His Miami outpost continues his legacy of perfection.
Sit at the counter surrounding the open kitchen and watch culinary artists create edible masterpieces right before your eyes. The tasting menu changes with the seasons, featuring ingredients at their absolute peak.
Everything arrives beautifully plated like tiny works of art you almost feel guilty eating. The service is impeccable without being stuffy, and the staff genuinely loves explaining each dish.
Location: 151 NE 41st St Suite 235, Miami, FL 33137
6. Los Félix – Miami
Hidden in Coconut Grove’s lush streets, Los Félix feels like discovering a secret Mexican garden party.
The restaurant takes a creative approach to Mexican cuisine, moving beyond typical tacos to showcase regional dishes you won’t find everywhere. Los Félix is run by Chef Sebastián Vargas, and features a creative menu focused on heirloom corn and handmade masa.
The outdoor patio, draped with twinkling lights and surrounded by greenery, creates the perfect tropical evening vibe. Inside, colorful tiles and wooden accents give off serious hacienda vibes.
Don’t skip the handmade tortillas—they’re so fresh they’re still warm when they reach your table. The mole sauce requires dozens of ingredients and tastes like pure magic.
Location: 3413 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133
7. Kaya – Orlando
Caribbean flavors explode like fireworks at Kaya, where island cooking gets the gourmet treatment it deserves.
Kaya is a Filipino-inspired restaurant led by Chef Lordfer Lalicon, not Kevin Fonzo, and it was awarded a MICHELIN Green Star in 2024. He brought those authentic flavors back to Orlando and elevated them with fine-dining presentation.
The jerk chicken arrives perfectly charred with layers of spicy-sweet flavor that build with each bite. Plantains come in multiple preparations, each one more delicious than the last.
The restaurant’s intimate size means you’ll want reservations, especially on weekends when locals pack the place. Bright artwork and warm lighting create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting a friend’s stylish island home.
Location: 618 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
8. Foreigner Restaurant – Orlando
Asian fusion gets a Florida twist at this innovative spot that’s redefining Orlando’s food scene.
Chef Bruno Fonseca is the executive chef at Foreigner, and it is a multi-course tasting menu-only experience with a rotating selection of dishes. The result? Dishes you’ve never tasted anywhere else.
The constantly changing menu keeps things exciting—you might find miso-glazed grouper one week and Korean-style fried chicken the next. Small plates encourage sharing and trying multiple flavors.
Industrial-chic decor with exposed brick and metal accents creates an urban, contemporary vibe. The open kitchen buzzes with energy as chefs plate stunning creations.
Vegetarians rejoice—the plant-based options here are just as creative and satisfying as the seafood and meat dishes.
Location: 2816 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
9. The Ravenous Pig – Winter Park
Gastropubs combine casual pub vibes with seriously impressive food, and The Ravenous Pig nails this balance perfectly.
Husband-and-wife chef team James and Julie Petrakis pioneered the farm-to-table movement in Central Florida. They work directly with local farmers to source the freshest seasonal ingredients.
The menu changes frequently based on what’s available, but expect creative takes on American comfort food. Their burger has achieved legendary status among Orlando foodies.
The charcuterie board showcases house-made cured meats that rival anything you’d find in fancy European restaurants. Cozy booths and friendly service make you feel right at home.
Brunch on weekends draws huge crowds, so arrive early or prepare to wait—it’s absolutely worth it.
Location: 565 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
10. Rocca – Tampa
When you’re craving authentic Italian flavors, Rocca delivers pasta perfection that would make a nonna proud.
The executive chef of Rocca is Bryce Bonsack, who trained in Italy and brings authentic Italian techniques to the kitchen. Fresh pasta gets made daily in-house using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The ricotta gnocchi practically melts on your tongue like savory little clouds. Seasonal ingredients shine in simple preparations that let quality speak for itself.
Rustic wood tables and warm lighting create an intimate atmosphere perfect for date nights or family celebrations. The open kitchen lets you watch pasta being rolled and shaped by hand.
Save room for dessert—the tiramisu is light, boozy, and absolutely divine.
Location: 323 W Palm Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
11. Ulele – Tampa
Named after a legendary Native American princess, Ulele celebrates Florida’s indigenous food traditions with modern flair.
The restaurant sits right on the Hillsborough River, offering stunning water views from both indoor and outdoor seating. A massive outdoor barbecue pit smokes meats over native wood, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas.
The menu features ingredients native to Florida, including alligator, wild boar, and fresh Gulf seafood. Everything gets cooked using traditional methods like grilling over an open flame.
The historic building once served as a water pumping station and retains its industrial charm with exposed brick and high ceilings. Try the chargrilled oysters—they’re addictively good.
Location: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
12. Columbia Restaurant – Tampa (Ybor City)
Florida’s oldest restaurant has been serving Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1905—that’s over a century of deliciousness!
The Columbia started as a small café serving Cuban immigrants working in Ybor City’s cigar factories. Today it spans an entire city block with fifteen dining rooms, each more beautiful than the last.
Hand-painted tiles from Spain cover the walls, creating a visual feast before you even order food. The famous “1905 Salad” gets prepared tableside with a theatrical flourish.
Flamenco dancers perform dinner shows on select nights, adding entertainment to your meal. The Cuban sandwich here set the standard that all others try to match.
Four generations of the same family have run this restaurant—talk about dedication!
Location: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
13. Blue Heaven – Key West
Roosters strut between tables like they own the place at this quirky Key West institution—and honestly, they kind of do.
The property has a wild history: it once hosted cockfights, served as an ice cream parlor, and even had Hemingway referee boxing matches here. Today it’s pure Key West magic.
Breakfast is the main event, with people lining up early for the famous lobster Benedict and Key lime pancakes. The outdoor setting under shade trees feels like eating in someone’s tropical backyard.
Live music fills the air most days, adding to the laid-back island atmosphere. The Key lime pie is legendary—tangy, sweet, and absolutely essential.
Everything moves on island time here, so relax and embrace the slow pace.
Location: 729 Thomas St, Key West, FL 33040
14. Restaurant Orsay – Jacksonville
Parisian bistro vibes meet Southern hospitality at this Jacksonville gem that’s been winning hearts since 2009.
The menu reads like a love letter to French classics: steak frites, duck confit, and bouillabaisse all make appearances. Chef-owner Jonathan Insetta trained in France and brings authentic techniques to Florida.
Dark wood, white subway tiles, and vintage mirrors create an atmosphere that transports you straight to Paris. The outdoor patio, draped with greenery, provides a romantic setting for evening dining.
Brunch draws huge crowds for good reason—the croque madame is pure breakfast perfection. Fresh-baked croissants arrive warm and flaky, just like they should.
The thoughtful service makes every guest feel special, whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just treating yourself.
Location: 3630 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
15. Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar – Santa Rosa Beach
Raw bars don’t get more authentic than this hidden gem tucked along Florida’s Emerald Coast.
The name comes from a historic waterway where locals once harvested oysters, and that tradition continues today. Fresh Gulf oysters arrive daily, shucked to order and served ice-cold.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere lets the seafood be the star—think picnic tables and paper plates. Steamed shrimp comes piled high, perfectly seasoned and ready to peel.
Locals consider this place their secret, so you’ll dine alongside folks who’ve been coming here for decades. The grouper sandwich is simple but spectacular, with fresh fish that tastes like the ocean.
Location: 1875 S Co Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
16. Owen’s Fish Camp – Sarasota
Old Florida charm oozes from every corner of this fish camp that feels like stepping back fifty years.
Taxidermy fish mounted on wood-paneled walls tell stories of big catches, while vintage fishing gear dangles from the ceiling. The atmosphere celebrates Florida’s fishing heritage with genuine affection.
Southern-style seafood preparations dominate the menu: fried catfish, blackened grouper, and she-crab soup all shine. The hushpuppies arrive hot and crispy, perfect for soaking up sauces.
Despite the rustic setting, the food quality rivals upscale restaurants at half the price. Locals pack this place nightly, creating a lively buzz that makes solo diners feel welcome.
The Key lime pie here ranks among Florida’s finest—creamy, tart, and totally addictive.
Location: 516 Burns Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
17. Sails Restaurant – Naples
Fine dining reaches new heights at Sails, where the refined European-inspired cuisine competes with the elegant atmosphere for your attention.
Located in downtown Naples on 5th Avenue South, the restaurant offers both indoor elegance and a chic outdoor terrace perfect for people-watching in one of the city’s most vibrant districts.
The seafood-focused menu changes seasonally but always features the freshest local catches. Stone crab, when in season, gets prepared simply to let the sweet meat shine.
Presentation is Instagram-worthy without being overly fussy, just beautiful food that tastes as good as it looks. The service strikes the perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive.
Reservations are essential, especially during Naples’ busy winter season when snowbirds flock south.
Location: 301 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102