The best Wynwood restaurants that’ll blow your mind

What is it? Norman Van Aken’s necessary reminder to this city of what, exactly, a fine dining experience is supposed to feel like. There’s also a chic cocktail lounge on the roof for pre- or post-meal drinks. 
Why go? Three delivers flawlessly on every metric of the dining experience, from the moment you walk in the door to the first bite of grilled and glazed pork belly vigorón. The menu is a love letter to the many tastes of the Sunshine State. 

What is it? Quite possibly the best meal you’ll have in all of Miami. Indulgent yet thoughtful, KYU’s grilled fare will have you fiercely guarding your plate against sneaky dining companions while simultaneously booking another reservation on your phone.
Why go? Because if you can convince the table to order the soft shell crab buns, duck breast burnt ends, roasted cauliflower and pork and shitake gyoza your tongue will fly out of your mouth and ascend straight up to heaven. (That’s a good thing.)

What is it? A cozy, industrial spot led by the James Beard-nominated chef Brad Kilgore. Alter is one of Miami’s most hyped restaurants, beloved by critics and astute foodies.
Why go? Alter is the culinary equivalent of a fireworks display, with dazzling plates that boom loudly both on the plate and in your mouth. The tasting menu ($75 to $95) is a journey worth taking. And please do not leave without dipping a spoon into Kilgore’s luxurious soft egg.

What is it? Your new favorite hamburger. Sitting on the edge of Wynwood, Kush does the burger and beer combo better than anyone we can think of not only in Miami, but in the gosh darn world.
Why go? Every burger variation is worth drooling over. Plus, in the sometimes likely event that you’ll have to wait for a table at this tiny spot, there’s a quirky botanica-inspired waiting room a couple doors down where you can enjoy a beer.

What is it? A trendy place to get some amazing cocktails with some equally impressive food. Beaker & Gray works great for date night, happy hour bites or a late dinner.
Why go? In a culinary scene where concepts either go super barebones or way too overboard in aesthetic choices, Beaker & Gray has found the perfect balanced atmosphere. Its menu of shareable plates also straddles a smart line between flair and functionality.

What is it? A buzzy taco shop that does some of the best Mexican around. It also has a speakeasy club in the back, where weekend crowds snake out the door.
Why go? The merciful Coyo Taco is open till 3am, which makes it an ideal spot for a booze-soaking fourth meal. But at any hour, Scott Linquist’s tacos and burritos (the crispy duck is a must for fowl fans) are worth waiting in line for.

What is it? A top-secret omakase counter tucked into the back of the unassuming Taco Stand. Only a handful of diners can sit at the counter so reservations are a must. Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a code that’ll get you in the door.
Why go? Though you’ll pay $130 to $150 per person, Hiden offers an undeniably cool dining experience. And it’s not a gimmick. These dudes are pros, serving fresh, unique sushi and other authentic Japanese plates.

What is it? A funky Asian food market with seven different vendors dishing out cuisines such as bánh mì sandwiches, dim sum, matcha ice cream, poke and more.
Why go? Because your friends are picky. And here, everyone will find something they can enjoy—even your one friend who just wants to skip dinner and go straight to drinks.

What is it? A snug eatery specializing in rotisserie chicken. You can also order your chicken fried or skip chicken altogether and go for tasty ribs or a juicy burger.
Why go? Because comfort food and cocktails are a heck of a combo, and here you’ll find both done properly in an atmosphere that’ll keep you awake. The rotisserie chicken does deliver huge flavor but we also wholeheartedly endorse the Royale with Cheese, a double cheeseburger that never fails to blow us away.

What is it? A young Jewish deli that bakes loaves of the best bread you’ll find in Miami. The minimalist shop has a delightfully odd following of old-school Jewish deli aficionados and young Wynwood hipsters.
Why go? The challah sells out in hours, but you can always find a selection of incredibly tasty and fresh sandwiches, toasts, soups and more Jewish classics with creative twists.

What is it? an outdoor/indoor restaurant made from repurposed shipping containers. Charcoal is part of the Wynwood Yard, which is essentially a one-stop shop for food, culture and drinks.
Why go? Keeping true to the Wynwood Yard mission statement, Charcoal is fresh, local and perfectly lovely to look at. The menu rotates seasonally but should have something from the land, sea and garden (which is just a few yards away from your table).

What is it? Joey’s was one of the first restaurants to come to Wynwood and they’ve been a mainstay ever since. The Italian spot serves pizza, sandwiches, pasta and more.
Why go? Joey’s is a charming little spot smack in the center of everything. It has survived for so long because it’s darn good. Split one of the popular pizzas and then improvise from there. 

What is it? A charming Chinese spot sporting a Miami flair. The dim sum is beautifully plated and an accompanying bottle of wine or sake is never a bad call.
Why go? If this pink and green corner spot was any cuter we’d want to marry it. Thank god this place tastes good too, so we have an excuse to keep coming back.

What is it? Wynwood’s take on a diner. This place has the diner staples: burgers, eggs and milkshakes. And there are also the Wynwood staples: industrial chicness, craft beer and cocktails.
Why go? Because you want a casual atmosphere and respectable portions. Wynwood Diner is a great place for a relaxing start or end to the night.

What is it? A German-inspired beer garden serving cold pints and fluffy pierogis. For an afternoon of Oktoberfest via Miami, this is your spot.
Why go? Butcher Shop is a reliable choice for a bite and a beer—esepcially if it's a gorgeous day out. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4pm to 7pm and you can grab $20 bottomless brunch drinks every Saturday and Sunday.