Miami’s Red-Hot Restaurant Scene: 5 Must-Try New Dining Destinations

Miami has always been a playground for the elite, a city where vibrant culture meets stunning ocean views. But in 2025, it’s more than just a place to see and be seen—it’s a culinary powerhouse. The Magic City’s restaurant scene is thriving, bringing innovative concepts, world-class chefs, and jaw-dropping designs that elevate dining into an art form. From French-Mediterranean elegance to high-energy fusion and Michelin-starred brilliance, these five new restaurants are redefining Miami’s gastronomic landscape.

CLAUDIE: A Taste of the Côte d’Azur in Brickell

Brickell is about to be graced with a culinary masterpiece as CLAUDIE opens its doors. Brought to life by Riviera Dining Group—the masterminds behind MILA and CASA NEOS—this French-Mediterranean gem captures the effortless sophistication of the South of France. Executive Chef Michaël Michaelidis, who has worked with Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon, brings his Michelin-star expertise to CLAUDIE’s refined menu, showcasing indulgent classics like Escargots, Truffle Toupie Macaroni, and the show-stopping Crustacés seafood tower. The restaurant’s breathtaking design, curated by OV & Co. and Lazaro Rosa-Violán, transports guests to a chic Mediterranean retreat with lush greenery, handcrafted furnishings, and an opulent outdoor fountain. CLAUDIE isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a rendezvous with European glamour in the heart of Miami.

Salty Flame: Where the Grill Meets Asia

Brickell’s dining scene is on fire—literally—with the arrival of Salty Flame, an electrifying fusion of prime cuts and Asian-inspired flavors. Steak lovers and Asian cuisine enthusiasts alike will revel in a menu that seamlessly blends rich, coal-fired meats with the delicate artistry of dumplings and aromatic spices. But Salty Flame isn’t just about bold flavors—it’s about unforgettable experiences. Partnering with Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the restaurant joins the exclusive ‘Blue List,’ offering an ultra-premium whisky pairing to celebrate Lunar New Year. The signature “Chinatown Walker” cocktail, paired with Siu Mai dumplings, is a nod to both tradition and innovation. With an ambiance that marries sleek modernity with warm hospitality, Salty Flame is a must-visit for those who crave excitement on their plate.

GAO: Vietnamese and Thai Food Realized in South of Fifth

In the high-profile South of Fifth neighborhood, home to culinary giants like Carbone and Joe’s Stone Crab, GAO is carving out its own legacy. The brainchild of Cathy Arrighi—a seasoned restaurateur with deep roots in Saigon and the Côte d’Azur—GAO is an immersive journey through pan-Asian cuisine. Inspired by Arrighi’s multicultural upbringing, GAO masterfully blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai flavors with a modern edge. Whether dining in the lush outdoor garden or the sleek indoor space, guests are treated to a dynamic menu of in-house Dim Sum creations and meticulously crafted dishes. With its seamless fusion of cultures and flavors, GAO is destined to be the next South of Fifth sensation.

Monalisa: Where Fine Dining Meets the Nightlife Scene

Art Deco meets culinary innovation at Monalisa, a vibrant new hotspot in Miami Beach that transitions seamlessly from a high-end dining experience into a sultry nightclub. Helmed by Chef Benjamin Goldman, a former James Beard nominee, the menu is a luxurious affair featuring the highest-grade A5 Wagyu, Crispy Lobster, and the signature Caviar Bomba, a decadent tableside ritual pairing caviar with tequila. But Monalisa isn’t just about indulgent bites—it’s about creating an experience. Guests can sip on some of the rarest Clase Azul tequilas in the world, adding an ultra-exclusive touch to the night. This one-of-a-kind venue blurs the line between dinner and party, making it the ultimate destination for those looking to wine, dine, and dance the night away.

MOMENTO by Ikaro: Michelin-Starred Magic Arrives in Miami

When Carolina Sanchez and Iñaki Murua, the Michelin-starred duo behind Spain’s Ikaro, decided to open their first U.S. outpost, Miami was the obvious choice. Enter MOMENTO by Ikaro, a Downtown haven where Spanish and Ecuadorian flavors collide with Miami’s cosmopolitan energy. The chefs have masterfully created a menu that showcases their Basque and Amazonian roots, featuring dishes like Amazonian Tiradito, Basque-style Turbot, and their famed Espuma de Abatonca, a delicate tonka bean foam dessert. The open-air setting, inspired by a Latin courtyard, sets the stage for an intimate yet vibrant dining experience, while the hand-crafted interiors reflect both the warmth of Ecuador and the rustic elegance of Spain. MOMENTO isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a love letter to heritage, passion, and culinary artistry.

Miami’s restaurant scene is evolving at an electrifying pace, positioning the city as one of the most dynamic culinary capitals in the world. With a wave of high-profile openings led by Michelin-starred chefs, globally inspired concepts, and breathtaking designs, Miami is no longer just a beachside playground—it’s a dining destination. The city’s melting pot of cultures, luxury-loving clientele, and innovative restaurateurs are pushing boundaries, creating a food scene that is as diverse as it is glamorous. Whether you’re indulging in French Riviera elegance, Asian-Mediterranean fusion, or Michelin-starred excellence, one thing is clear—Miami’s dining scene is hotter than ever, and it’s only getting better.