Unearth The Voyage
South Florida’s hotel restaurants offer some of the most incredible dining experiences you’ll find anywhere, but locals would rather keep them secret. These hidden gems serve world-class food in stunning settings, from rooftop views to historic mansions. Many have earned prestigious awards and recognition, yet they often fly under the radar for tourists. Once you discover these spots, you’ll understand why Miami Beach residents hope they stay their little secret.
1. The Surf Club Restaurant at Four Seasons
Thomas Keller’s masterpiece sits within the historic Four Seasons at The Surf Club in Surfside, earning its Michelin star through impeccable service and extraordinary cuisine. Locals treasure this spot for special celebrations, knowing the refined atmosphere and seasonal menu never disappoint.
The restaurant blends old-world glamour with modern sophistication, creating an experience that feels both timeless and fresh. Every dish showcases exceptional ingredients prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
Reservations fill up weeks in advance, especially for weekend evenings. The oceanfront location adds natural beauty to an already stunning setting, making every meal feel like a once-in-a-lifetime event.
2. Hakkasan at Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Hidden within the iconic Fontainebleau, Hakkasan brings Michelin-recommended Cantonese cuisine to Miami Beach with dramatic flair. The restaurant’s signature blue lighting and intricate wooden screens create an atmosphere that’s both mysterious and inviting.
Dim sum here reaches art-form status, with delicate parcels filled with premium ingredients that showcase traditional techniques. The Peking duck remains a showstopper, prepared tableside with theatrical precision that delights every guest.
Locals appreciate the extensive cocktail menu that pairs beautifully with spicy Sichuan dishes. Weekend nights bring energy and excitement, while weekday dinners offer a more intimate experience for those seeking quieter moments.
3. Gianni’s at the Former Versace Mansion
Dining at Gianni’s means stepping into fashion history, as the restaurant occupies the legendary mansion where Gianni Versace once lived. Gold details, mosaic tiles, and the stunning courtyard pool create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in South Florida.
The Italian and Mediterranean menu honors traditional recipes while incorporating fresh, local ingredients. Pasta dishes shine with house-made perfection, and seafood preparations highlight Miami’s coastal bounty.
Many locals save this experience for milestone celebrations, knowing the ambiance alone makes any occasion unforgettable. The mansion’s history adds layers of intrigue to every bite, making dinner feel like traveling back to glamorous eras past.
4. Il Mulino New York at Acqualina Resort
Sunny Isles Beach’s Acqualina Resort houses this outpost of the renowned New York Italian restaurant, bringing Manhattan sophistication to South Florida shores. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Atlantic Ocean views that complement the restaurant’s elegant, understated design.
Generous portions reflect the original Il Mulino’s philosophy, with complimentary antipasti arriving before you even order. Veal preparations showcase classic techniques, while fresh fish specials highlight daily catches prepared with Italian sensibility.
The wine list spans Italian regions comprehensively, offering bottles you won’t find elsewhere in Miami. Locals know Sunday dinners here provide the perfect ending to beach weekends, combining relaxation with refined culinary excellence.
5. Zaytinya at The Ritz-Carlton South Beach
Chef José Andrés brings his celebrated Mediterranean concept to South Beach, transforming the Ritz-Carlton into a mezze lover’s paradise. The restaurant celebrates Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese flavors through shareable small plates designed for communal dining experiences.
Crispy Brussels sprouts with dates and whipped feta have achieved cult status among regulars. Lamb dishes showcase Andrés’ ability to balance bold spices with tender, perfectly cooked meat that practically melts away.
The bright, airy space feels equally appropriate for business lunches and romantic dinners. Locals appreciate how the mezze format encourages exploration, letting diners taste multiple dishes without committing to single entrees.
6. Lido Restaurant at Four Seasons Surf Club
Sharing the Four Seasons Surf Club property with its Michelin-starred sibling, Lido offers a more relaxed approach to exceptional dining. The restaurant’s oceanfront terrace captures gentle breezes and stunning water views that make every meal feel like vacation.
Mediterranean influences guide the menu, with fresh seafood taking center stage in preparations that let quality ingredients shine. Wood-fired pizzas emerge from the oven with perfectly charred crusts and creative topping combinations.
Breakfast here has become legendary among locals, featuring everything from fluffy pancakes to sophisticated egg dishes. The casual elegance means you can enjoy world-class food without formal dress codes or stuffy atmospheres that sometimes intimidate.
7. Watr at the 1 Rooftop – 1 Hotel South Beach
Peruvian-Japanese fusion reaches new heights—literally—at this rooftop destination perched atop the eco-conscious 1 Hotel. Sunset views across South Beach provide the backdrop for creative dishes that blend two culinary traditions seamlessly.
Ceviche preparations showcase the Peruvian side, with citrus-cured fish that tastes impossibly fresh. Japanese influences appear in pristine sashimi and creative rolls that incorporate tropical fruits and unexpected flavor combinations.
The sustainable ethos extends from the hotel throughout the restaurant, with locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. Locals love the rooftop bar’s craft cocktails, which pair beautifully with small plates during golden hour gatherings that feel magical.
8. Limonada Bar + Brunch at The Clinton Hotel
OpenTable recognized this Clinton Hotel gem as one of America’s top hotel restaurants, and one bite explains why. Latin-inspired brunch dishes bring bold flavors and creative presentations that have made Limonada a South Beach institution.
Avocado toast gets elevated with unexpected toppings, while classic eggs Benedict receives tropical makeovers that surprise and delight. The namesake limonada comes in multiple flavors, some spiked for weekend indulgence and others virgin for family-friendly enjoyment.
Weekend mornings bring festive energy, with DJs spinning upbeat tracks that transform brunch into celebration. Locals know weekday visits offer the same excellent food with shorter waits and calmer vibes for those seeking relaxation.
9. Palace Bar + Restaurant at Strand Ocean Drive
Another OpenTable top-100 honoree, Palace brings modern American fare to Ocean Drive with an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes everyone. The restaurant’s commitment to diversity shows in both its welcoming staff and menu that offers something for every dietary preference.
Burgers here achieve near-perfection, with juicy patties and creative topping combinations that go beyond typical hotel fare. Seafood dishes highlight Florida’s coastal location, prepared simply to let fresh flavors dominate each plate.
The bar program deserves special mention, mixing craft cocktails that balance innovation with classic techniques. Locals appreciate how Palace manages to feel both tourist-friendly and authentically Miami, creating space where everyone belongs and great food unites.
10. The Roof at Esmé Hotel
Tucked atop the boutique Esmé Hotel on charming Española Way, The Roof combines coastal-Mediterranean flavors with boho-chic design that feels like a secret garden. Panoramic views stretch across South Beach’s colorful Art Deco district, especially magical during sunset hours.
Small plates encourage sharing and exploration, with dishes drawing inspiration from Greece, Spain, and coastal Italy. Fresh herbs and citrus brighten every bite, while grilled seafood showcases simple preparations that highlight quality ingredients.
Craft cocktails feature house-made infusions and fresh juices that taste like liquid sunshine. The intimate size means reservations are essential, but locals consider the planning worthwhile for such a unique dining experience.
