A Foodie's Guide to Miami

Restaurants

• Uchi: Easily one of my top favorite restaurants in Miami. The type of meal where every single bite is exceptional and leaves you craving more every time. Must order: Gyutoro nigiri (72-hour short rib-- do not skip this, it literally melts in your mouth), hama chili, chicken karaage, subarashi cocktail

• Osaka: Nikkei-style Peruvian/Japanese fusion. You cannot go wrong with anything on the menu here. Must-order: Crispy rice, Carpassion, Hotate truffle nigiri

• Carbone: This might be an unpopular opinion, but I think Carbone is absolutely worth the hype. The service and vibes are immaculate, and the food is consistently great. Must order: Spicy rigatoni, Caesar salad, prepared tableside (the croutons will change your life.. Just trust me), Veal Parmesan

• Chateau ZZ's: An upscale Mexican restaurant from Major Food Group, Chateau ZZ's is located in a beautiful historic manor on Brickell Ave. Must-Order: Guacamole (off-menu), ceviche, tostadas, churros (save room for these. You don't want to miss them)

• Mila: Mila is truly a feast for the senses, serving excellent Mediterranean/Asian fusion cuisine. The restaurant itself is stunning and there is even a fire dancer show to entertain you while you eat. Head downstairs after dinner to check out the lounge.

• Kissaki: A newly opened Miami outpost of the beloved NYC sushi restaurant. The quality of the fish speaks for itself here, and every bite is even better than the last. Must-order: Wagyu fried rice, salmon and chutori nigiri, baked crab hand roll

• River Oyster Bar: Fresh and local seafood in an upscale atmosphere. Must-order: Gnocchi & jumbo lump crab, oysters (duh)

• Mandolin: Authentic and fresh Greek cuisine in a romantic candlelit outdoor setting.

• Call Me Gaby: Italian al-fresco dining in a lush garden setting.

• Phuc Yea: Modern Vietnamese with a fun, cool vibe. Great for a dinner with friends before a night out.

• Matador Room: Located in the Miami Beach EDITION hotel, this is a chic Latin American spot that will be sure to impress a date.

• Casadonna: Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, Casadonna is another gorgeous option for Italian dining. The outdoor bar on the waterfront is a great place to sip a martini after dinner.

• KYU: Another excellent choice for Asian-inspired wood-fired BBQ. The beef short rib is a must-share at the table.

Pizza

• Miami Slice: You will have to wait in line, and it will be worth it. Must order: Pepperoni pizza with hot honey, and don't forget to add the stracciatella

• Lucali: David Beckham's favorite pizza, and for good reason.

• Mister 01: Multiple locations throughout Miami, but the quality is consistent across the board.

Quick Takeout/Fast Casual

• Pura Vida: I eat breakfast or lunch here more days of the week than I'd like to admit. You can't go wrong with any of their menu items, but my personal favorites are the Greek yogurt fruit bowl and either the chicken or salmon bowl.

• El Bagel: Best bagels in Miami, hands down. Must-order: BEC & King Guava

Dessert

• Fireman Derek's: This is the place to go if you have a sweet tooth. Cakes & pies by the slice, ice cream, cookies & milkshakes. You can't go wrong. Must-Order: Carrot Cake & Cookie Monster pie

• Salt & Straw: Perfect spot for an after-dinner treat, Salt & Straw serves up some of the most unique and delicious ice cream flavors I've seen. Must-order: Salted Malted Chocolate Chip Cookie dough and Peanut butter brittle caramel fudge (in a homemade waffle cone, of course).