Miami is a melting pot of cultures, with vibrant Cuban, Caribbean, and Latin American influences all blending together to create a one-of-a-kind food scene. As a major tourist destination and port city, Miami also attracts flavors and dishes from around the world that you can sample side-by-side.
I live in Miami part-time so today I’m going to guide you through some of my favorite iconic Miami foods that you must try on any visit here. From sweet and savory Cuban sandwiches stuffed with roasted pork, ham, and cheese to the freshest ceviche piled high with seafood caught that very morning, your tastebuds will embark on a dazzling world food tour even without leaving South Beach.
With its diverse population and location at the crossroads between North and Latin America, Miami offers an array of culinary adventures you can’t experience anywhere else. Get ready to discover the magic of Miami cuisine!
Miami is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and its food scene reflects this rich diversity. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Miami:
- Cuban Sandwich: Miami is known for its delicious Cuban cuisine, and the Cuban sandwich is a staple. Made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami, all pressed between Cuban bread, it’s a flavorful delight.
- Empanadas: These savory pastries filled with various ingredients like beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables are popular street food items and can be found in many eateries across the city.
- Cuban Coffee (Cafecito): Enjoy a strong shot of Cuban espresso, often sweetened with sugar, also known as cafecito. Don’t miss trying the colada, a larger serving meant for sharing.
- Stone Crab: Miami is famous for its stone crabs, especially during the season (October to May). Served chilled with mustard sauce, these claws are a local delicacy.
- Ceviche: Given its coastal location, Miami offers fantastic seafood. Try some refreshing ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices and mixed with onions, peppers, and herbs.
- Arepa: A Venezuelan and Colombian staple, arepas are cornmeal patties stuffed with a variety of fillings like cheese, meats, or beans. You’ll find numerous spots serving delicious arepas in Miami.
- Tostones: These twice-fried green plantains are a common side dish or snack. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are usually served with dipping sauces.
- Seafood Paella: A Spanish-inspired dish made with rice, saffron, various seafood, and meats, this flavorful one-pan meal is popular in Miami due to its diverse culinary influences.
- Churrasco: Enjoy some delicious grilled meats, often served with chimichurri sauce, at one of Miami’s many Latin American steakhouses.
- Key Lime Pie: While Key Lime Pie originates from the Florida Keys, it’s widely available and beloved in Miami. The tartness of the key lime combined with a sweet crust makes for a delightful dessert.
Miami’s food scene is vast and varied, so exploring different neighborhoods like Little Havana, Wynwood, or South Beach will offer delicious food experiences influenced by Caribbean, Latin American, and international cuisines.
