Looking for the perfect spot to dine by the water in Miami? Here’s your ultimate guide to five of the best oceanfront restaurants, each offering unbeatable views, amazing food, and the vibrant Miami atmosphere you’re after. Whether you’re in the mood for chic, laid-back vibes or an elegant dining experience, these spots bring you front and center with the city’s best waterfront scenes. Dive in and discover your next favorite place to eat by the ocean.
1. Rusty Pelican
Location: 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, Miami, FL
Website: Rusty Pelican Miami
Vibe: Modern and sophisticated
Top Dish: Grilled lobster with truffle risotto and asparagus
Rusty Pelican is Miami’s classic for upscale dining with a view. This place is all about the perfect balance between elegance and relaxation, featuring a sweeping panoramic look at Miami’s skyline. As the sun sets, the entire restaurant glows, making it a stunning spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The grilled lobster here is a must-try, paired perfectly with the cityscape views that capture the Miami magic.
2. Smith & Wollensky
Location: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL
Website: Smith & Wollensky Miami Beach
Vibe: Classic, upscale
Top Dish: Dry-aged ribeye steak with mashed potatoes and asparagus
Right at the tip of South Pointe Park, Smith & Wollensky is a true gem for anyone seeking an elegant oceanfront dining experience. With ocean views and a classy, timeless decor, this place feels special from the moment you step in. You can watch cruise ships gliding by while savoring their dry-aged ribeye, making for a unique Miami Beach experience. It’s luxury dining with the waves just a glance away.
3. Nikki Beach Miami
Location: 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL
Website: Nikki Beach Miami
Vibe: Boho, beachy, lively
Top Dish: Sushi Boat with fresh sashimi and sushi rolls
Nikki Beach is where Miami’s beachfront scene meets an upscale vibe. Right on the sand, this iconic spot is a blend of tropical relaxation and party energy. Think sun, sand, and sushi — their signature “Sushi Boat” is perfect for sharing, with a mix of sashimi and rolls that’s as fresh as the ocean breeze. Ideal for a laid-back afternoon or a lively evening with friends, Nikki Beach brings the essence of Miami Beach into every bite and beat.
4. Lido Bayside Grill at The Standard
Location: 40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL
Website: Lido Bayside Grill
Vibe: Chic, laid-back
Top Dish: Seafood ceviche salad with mango and jalapeño
Lido Bayside Grill at The Standard brings you bayfront views with a sophisticated yet laid-back ambiance. With chic decor and stunning water views, it’s perfect for a long lunch or sunset cocktails. Their seafood ceviche salad with a hint of mango and jalapeño is light and refreshing, perfectly matching the breezy Miami setting. It’s all about good food and good vibes here, surrounded by the beauty of Biscayne Bay.
5. Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge
Location: 422 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL
Website: Seaspice Miami
Vibe: Modern, luxe
Top Dish: Pappardelle with black truffle and lobster
Situated along the Miami River, Seaspice combines an industrial-chic vibe with the elegance of waterfront dining. The sophisticated atmosphere pairs perfectly with the stunning views of yachts and the river, creating a truly Miami dining experience. Their pappardelle with black truffle and lobster is a standout dish, making it a go-to spot for a memorable evening. If you’re looking for a luxe, vibrant place with Miami charm, Seaspice is a must.
Why You Should Dine by the Water in Miami
Miami’s dining scene is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. Eating by the water adds an element of relaxation and beauty that’s hard to beat. These top spots combine exceptional cuisine, a range of vibes from boho-chic to classic elegance, and the kind of views that make Miami unforgettable. So, next time you’re looking for a place to eat with a view, remember these five gems. Here at “Welcom to Miami,” we know these places will make your experience as vibrant and memorable as the city itself.
