Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s culinary scene offers a melting pot of flavors, cultures, and innovation. The James Beard Foundation, which recognizes exceptional talent in the culinary world each year, has honored many Miami restaurants and chefs for offering high-quality fine-dining experiences. The 2024 James Beard Awards shone a spotlight on the area’s vibrant food scene, celebrating the chefs and restaurants that make this a best-in-class food destination.

James Beard Award Winner: Valerie Chang of Maty’s

Valerie Chang of Maty’s won the prestigious Best Chef: South (which includes Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and Puerto Rico). Chang’s innovative approach to traditional Peruvian cuisine has delighted locals and caught the attention of the national culinary community. Located in Midtown, Maty’s is named for Chang’s grandmother and features contemporary takes on everything from lomo saltado to donuts. The chef’s thoughtful approach is apparent in the well-curated menu and the warm hospitality guests experience from the moment they walk in the door.

James Beard Award Finalist

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker: Jesus Brazon and Manuel Brazon, Caracas Bakery

Caracas Bakery, the neighborhood spot that got its start in a Doral strip mall (it now has a second location in Miami’s Upper East Side) was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for the second straight year. Owners Manuel and Jesus Brazon lovingly bake croissants, breads and pastelitos and serve an array of creative sandwiches. The bakery is popular with visitors and locals, with many driving long distances to sample its creations.

James Beard Award Semifinalists

Outstanding Bakery: Zak the Baker

Zak the Baker, the Wynwood-based source of some of the destination’s freshest and most beloved bread, was again nominated for the Outstanding Bakery award. Owner Zak Stern has been serving up bread and pastries since 2014, expanding from local farmers markets to his colorful store on Northwest 26th Street. Stop by for his signature loaves, or sample seasonal dishes featuring local produce.

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program: Macchialina

A semifinalist for the second year in a row, Macchialina was recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its exquisitely curated wine program. Located in South Beach, the Italian taverna focuses on estate and boutique wines from Italy and prides itself on highlighting lesser-known varietals, with many sustainable, natural, organic and biodynamic offerings. It features daily specials on wines by the glass, and you can take home any wine on the menu for 50% off the full-bottle price.

Best Chef: South: Tristen Epps of Ocean Social

Tristen Epps’ Trinidadian background is apparent in his cooking, with a playful approach that allows ingredients to shine. His Ocean Social restaurant at the Eden Roc Miami Beach hotel in Mid Beach features a soulful, seafood-forward menu with nods to coastal dining and Caribbean flavors. Guests can sit with a view of the ocean and enjoy innovative dishes such as chicharron octopus and kimchi fried rice.

Making The Most of Miami’s Award-Winning Culinary Scene

The James Beard Foundation isn’t the only organization to bestow honors on Miami’s excellent restaurants. Miami has 14 MICHELIN-starred restaurants, and 18 Miami restaurants received MICHELIN’S Bib Gourmand recognition. Miami’s wealth of award-winning restaurants can be experienced all year, and while even the most expensive are always worth the splurge, they can be enjoyed at considerable savings if you visit during Miami Spice Restaurant Months. During August and September, many restaurants recognized by the James Beard Foundation and MICHELIN offer prix-fixe, three-course meals that make Miami’s best dining experiences accessible to everyone.

Explore the many restaurants that have made Miami a culinary destination.

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