By: Ashlee Thomas
When it comes to sampling authentic world cuisine, Greater Miami is second to none. A smorgasbord of international culinary delights, Miami gives the palate something excitingly new to feast on when visiting these hidden gems. Little Havana brims over with Latin flavors, while Little Haiti brings creole and Caribbean spices to life. Overtown, Liberty and West Grove do Black American Soul Food like none other. Whether you're craving paella, enchiladas, griot, diri djon djon, cornbread, collard greens or smothered chicken, these heritage neighborhoods bring the best of the best to the dining table for lovers of ethnic cuisine.
Pressed Cuban sandwiches at Versailles
Little Havana
This heritage neighborhood is vibrant with sabor (flavor) and fun. Little Havana is the first home to many Cuban settlers who migrated to South Florida in the late 50s. Expect to find Checkers games in the square, Cuban coffee on every corner and staple dishes like arroz con pollo (rice and chicken), moros y cristianos (black beans & white rice) and tostones (fried plantain) in abundance in Little Havana. The iconic Calle Ocho (8th Street) connects commerce, tourism and exquisite dining in this heritage district. Little Havana has welcomed diverse cultures from all parts of South America to call Little Havana home: from Nicaraguans to Argentines, it's bustling with diversity. Where there are many, cultural exchange is inevitable and those visiting Little Havana are in for some delicious Latin food. Empanadas, croquetas, picadillo, ropa vieja, enchiladas, paella and manchego. Get ready for the history of Spanish and Latin flavors to dance across those taste buds.
Restaurants in Little Havana
Versailles: A staple since 1971, Versailles has a menu fit for a king and queen. There are many options to choose from. The mojo is a delicious touch to any order. Prices are great for family-sized outings. 3555 SW 8th Street
El Cristo: The menu's highlights here include the Cuban Sampler of fried yucca, tamale, pork chunks with garlic and cilantro sauce as well as ceviche and almost an infinite number of entrees to choose from. Prices are great for large groups. 1543 SW 8th Street
Mi Rinconcito Mexicano: Authentic Mexican food awaits, including fajitas, flautas and guacamole - all served in hearty portions - at great prices. Come ready for great service and larger portions. 1961 SW 8th Street
El Rincon Asturiano: Sample Spanish delicacies, pamper the senses - and when compelled, indulge in extravagant desserts. Savor Spanish wines, daily specials, tapas and all things Spain. 225 SW 17th Avenue
Get your Jamaican jerk chicken fix at Clive's Cafe
Little Haiti
Little Haiti is a hub for the most authentic Haitian cuisine and experience. Try a taste of diri djon djon – a Haitian delicacy of black rice made with a special mushroom and sauce that will make your mouth water for more. Enjoy it with griot (fried pork) and bannan (plantain). Ever had queue boeuf? This slow-cooked beef is infused with island spices and stewed with the precise amount of gravy that makes each morsel fall-off-the-bone tender. For delicious comfort food, Little Haiti is a neighborhood to peruse. Come with company to enjoy good conversation. Most restaurants make their dishes to order; expect a wait that will be well worth the taste.
Restaurants in Little Haiti
Chef Creole Seasoned Kitchen: Serving flavor for 28 years, this is one of the hippest Haitian and Caribbean joints to dine-in. Everything on the menu is delicious. It’s always packed. Expect a wait and bring the appetite for giant fulfilling portions. 200 NW 54 Street
Chez Le Bebe: A 35-year staple in Little Haiti, all food is cooked to order and the real deal when it comes to Haitian cuisine. Expect a wait at this popular cash-only establishment. 114 NE 54th Street
Bon Gout BBQ: The best fusion of Haitian and American Soul Food Cuisine, favorites here include fall-off-the-bone grilled deliciousness, tacos, collard greens, griot and cornbread. Eat up! 99 NW 54th Street
Clive’s Café: The best Jamaican cuisine in Little Haiti is found here. Curry goat, brown stew chicken, shrimp and vegetables are on the menu - along with the best Ackee and Saltfish on the strip. Dine-in or take out are available. Wine and beer are served.5890 NW 2nd Avenue
La Fourchette Restaurant: This Haitian spot offers take-out only with buffet-style serving. Try the lunch special and get loaded up with Kreyol food. 8267 N Miami Avenue
Fusion soul dishes at Lil Greenhouse Grill
Historic Overtown, West Coconut Grove & Liberty City
Historically Black Overtown, West Coconut Grove and Liberty City are full of historically significant spots, but you’ll want to stick around to sample the yummy soul food akin to a Sunday family dinner at Granny’s house. Try fried croquettes, grits, cornbread, collard greens, sweet yams, and buttermilk biscuits, all home-cooked and served piping hot in Southern Comfort Glory. With generous helpings of Caribbean delights like steamed conch, rice and peas based in coconut milk, brown stews and curried chicken, here are some restaurants to put on the itinerary.
Come with your appetite for a hearty meal at Jackson Soul Food
Restaurants in Overtown
Jackson Soul Food: Hearty Soul Food breakfast and lunch can be found at this top-rated dining experience with delicious entrees; order a few to share. Collard greens and cornbread are definitely on this menu. Open for breakfast and lunch. 950 NW 3rd Avenue
Lil Greenhouse Grill: American and Soul Food Fusion. Expect burgers and fries and shrimp and grits. This restaurant is vegetarian-friendly with great service. It is quite intimate, great for two and small parties and serves wine and beer. 1300 NW 3rd Avenue
Restaurants in Liberty City
Bahamian Pot Restaurant: Authentic Bahamian cuisine you'll find here includes stewed conch and whole fish - all of it delicious. Be sure to try the Bahamian Soda and desserts and take a selfie behind the rustic Caribbean décor.6301 NW 6th Avenue
MLK Restaurant: This is all feel-good comfort food. With smothered chicken, boiled fish, grits and more, MLK is home-grown with an extremely local vibe. Expect to see police officers, commissioners, and pastors on a visit to MLK. 5931 NW 17th Avenue
Snappers: Everything is fried in a golden batter - from fresh, fast, tasty seafood, to chicken and fries. The lemon pepper chicken wings are beyond amazing. If this seasoning is new to the palate, ask for light sauce to get the perfect blend. 6700 NW 7th Avenue
Find artisnal and ethnic treats at the Coconut Grove Farmers Market
Pop-ups in West Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove Farmers Market: Peruse this well-visited fresh market every Saturday for fresh produce, holistic items and yummy finds. This market brings local artisans together to enrich and sustain humanity rain or shine.3300 Grand Avenue