The best new restaurants in Miami to try right now

What is it? A cozy lobby bar inside the hip new Generator Miami winning over diners with its novel tableside cocktail program as much as with its American comfort food.

Why go? Ex Matador Room chef Daniel Roy is the reason you’re making dinner reservations at a bar—he's elevating snacks and paring down entrees to complement the eclectic drink offerings. Don’t miss the spicy roasted carrots, meaty oysters dressed in a honey, cucumber and mint mignonette, and the crispy octopus over a rich romesco sauce.

What is it? Modern and airy, the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club’s latest Italian spot fits right in with its beachfront location. Its whitewashed decor and oversize booths offer a low-key option for sophisticated pasta dishes and crispy, made-to-order pizzas.

Why go? Donna Mare makes it easy to stick to your low carb ways with a protein-heavy menu that’s just as appetizing as the bread-y stuff. You can’t go wrong with the beef carpaccio finished off with shaved truffles, the roasted branzino or the filet mignon.

What is it? This modern, globally inspired restaurant sits on the 15th floor of W Miami, where floor-to-ceiling windows are pretty much the norm.

Why go? Date nights just make sense here. Request a table by the window for a mood-setting view and trust that the international menu has something both you and your S.O. can get behind. You can tuck into a perfectly cooked bone-in steak while your vegetarian sweetie goes to town on roasted cauliflower and spiced carrots.

What is it? This sprawling Brickell pizza joint honors its Vesuvian legacy with lava stones, rocks and ancient pie recipes.

Why go? The Vesuvius pizza, named for the mountain whose eruption buried the ancient city of Pompei, is as delicious to eat as it is fun to Instagram. Order it and get your digits ready to capture the calzone-style pie be set aflame tableside.

What is it? Upper Buena Vista’s first and only restaurant is a tropical, boho dream serving up rustic Italian cuisine and seasonally inspired eats.
Why go? Vista instantly makes you feel like you’re elsewhere in the world. Wood-washed and verdant (the canopy of a massive, 150-year-old banyan shades the outdoor dining area), the family-owned restaurant is the perfect date night spot or a quick getaway for wanderlust foodies. 

What is it? This sprawling Mexican restaurant along Lincoln Road specializes in all things seafood and tequila.

Why go? Pescatarians, rejoice. If you’re avoiding carnitas, you’ll find a fish or shellfish version of nearly every Mexican dish imaginable. Plus, there are hundreds of tequilas and mescal varieties to choose from, making La Cerveceria an easy sell for happy hour.

What is it? Miami Heat stars Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem partner with chef Anthony Carron to bring this west-coast-based Italian spot to South Florida.

Why go? The chances for great pizza are as high as the probability of a celebrity sighting—so it’s a win, win. 800 Degrees’ wood-firing oven guarantees all pies are served crispy and with just the right amount of char. The vegetarian tartufo with truffle pecorino cheese and mushrooms is a solid choice.

What is it? Get your all-natural bacon and assortment of handmade sausages at this meat counter/sandwich shop in Pinecrest.
Why go? From the farmers’ market stand to a brick-and-mortar in Pinecrest, Babe’s popularity only continues to grow. Jump on the bandwagon early and brag to all your friends how you were the first to try the espresso-rubbed bacon and duck fat croquettes.

What is it? This delightful hidden gem in Little Haiti serves heavenly roast chicken and French-style fare.
Why go? Put aside your assumptions about the developing neighborhood for a minute and focus on the matter at hand: the best organic chicken you’ve ever tasted. Seasoned, brined and then cooked in a rotisserie spit for two hours, the juicy bird is sold solo, with yummy sides like hand-cut fries and in salads or sandwiches. Sixty10 is BYOB for now, so hurry up and visit.  

What is it? The first U.S. restaurant from famed Venezuelan chef Carlos Garcia is already a local sensation, luring diners from Brickell and beyond with its laid-back neighborhood vibes and sophisticated Latin American menu.   
Why go? The brilliant, open-kitchen concept gives every diner seated at the expansive bar a chef’s table experience. Watch as the talented toques keep their cool working the fancy Josper oven and whipping up tasty arepitas, tender octopus, uni toast and much more.

Tick off every on the Time Out EAT List, our handpicked ‘best of’ Miami’s food scene