This Florida City Was Just Named the No. 1 Food Destination in the U.S.—Here’s Where to Eat, According to a Local

Miami is officially the best city in the U.S. for food loversaccording to a new WalletHub report that analyzed 182 destinations based on affordability, diversity, accessibility, and restaurant quality.

The Magic City claimed the top spot, scoring especially high for its sheer number of dining establishments, the variety of cuisines available, and its favorable ratio of full-service restaurants to fast-food chains.

According to the report, “Miami is the best city for foodies, leading the country when it comes to the availability of affordable restaurants rated at least 4.5 stars out of 5. It also has an extremely high number of restaurants per capita.”

Factor in 13 Michelin-starred restaurants (like the two-starred Joël Robuchon’s workshop), plus an abundance of farmers’ markets, specialty food shops, and butcher stores, and it’s no surprise Miami edged out famously food-focused cities like Portland and San Francisco for the top honor.

But the stats only tell part of the story. As a South Florida local with deep Miami roots, I can personally confirm that the city’s culinary culture is every bit as bold and vibrant as its street art and nightlife. There are far too many standout spots to name, but here’s a small slice to start your food journey through Miami’s best.

Start your day off in Little Havana, where a Cuban Cafecito at the iconic Versailles (or the La Ventanita coffee window!) is a true Miami rite of passage. Pair it with croquettes and Cubanos from Sanguichand you’re already off to a solid start.

For seafood, check out Klawknown for its Norwegian king crab, dry-aged steaks, and rooftop views over Biscayne Bay. Or try to snag a table at Joe’s Stone Crab—yes, it’s touristy, but it’s a beloved institution for a reason, and stone crabs are a must-try Florida delicacy.

Those chasing Miami’s penchant for fine dining will need to add the acclaimed Joël Robuchon’s workshop to their itinerary or head to Aries in Coconut Grove, where chef Michael Beltran fuses high-level French techniques with his own Cuban heritage.

Another favorite that’s synonymous with Miami dining is Itamaeformerly located in the Design District, which is currently hunting for a new home. Once it reopens, don’t miss the chance to experience its unforgettable Nikkei (Peruvian–Japanese fusion) cuisine.

Of course, not every meal in Miami calls for white tablecloths. Food halls like the pan-Asian pan-Asian 1-800-Lucky in Wynwood or even the new Central Fare at the Brightline station showcase the city’s eclectic range of street food and small-biz gems, perfect for trying a little of everything.

I also have a soft spot for hidden gems like the Middle Eastern market and restaurant Daily Bread; grabbing fresh-baked cinnamon rolls from Knaus Berry Farm (now in a bigger, better location with more ovens!); or a fresh strawberry shake from Robert Is Here in Homestead—all longstanding traditions in my family that are always first on my Miami list.

Whether you’re chasing a Michelin-starred tasting menu or grabbing a guava pastelito on the go, Miami has earned yet another title worth savoring: America’s ultimate foodie destination.