The Best South Beach Brunches

South Beach packs a punch when it comes to things to do, see and experience, especially when it comes to brunch. From a lively drag show and a cozy spot inside one of the loveliest hotels in Greater Miami & Miami Beach to a see-and-be-seen restaurant, here are the best brunches this world-renowned destination has to offer.

Drag Brunch at Palace Bar & Restaurant

If you’re looking for a chill, quiet brunch, this isn’t it. But if you want laughs, wild outfits and a larger-than-life show, the drag brunch at Palace Bar & Restaurant on Ocean Drive is the place to go. The fixed-price brunch draws a diverse crowd to feast on food and fun, with unlimited mimosas and a selection from the regular menu of Latin, Caribbean and European-influenced items, including egg dishes, salads, wraps, grilled meats, seafood and burgers.

This high-energy brunch is not for the timid. The show is over the top and so full of personality that it literally spills out onto the street. We’ve seen these queens do full splits on top of passing cars. It’s food and a floor show, rain or shine, with two seatings Friday through Sunday and one seating on Monday.

Dine on the Porch at Front Porch Cafe

As casual and relaxed as it comes, brunch at Front Porch Cafe is literally served on the front porch. With an all-day breakfast menu, this aptly named restaurant has been a go-to for locals and visitors since 1990 thanks to its reasonable prices, generous portions, deliciously prepared food and friendly staff. It’s perfect for large families looking for a leisurely brunch. You’ll find it on the Ocean Drive side of Z Ocean Hotel.

The extensive menu includes a large selection of omelets, egg scrambles, sandwiches, Benedicts, French toast, pancakes, lox and bagels, craft cocktails and fresh-made smoothies. Just like visiting family, when it comes to food, more is always better, and Front Porch Cafe delivers that comforting abundance. It’s no surprise that first-time guests quickly become regulars.

Southern Delights at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

Internationally renowned brunch haven Yardbird Southern Table & Bar has received rewards from Forbes, the James Beard Foundation, Southern Living and Bon Appétit. With its milky-white walls, farmhouse-style accents, like mason-jar lights, rustic wooden flooring and chic leather banquettes, you’ll really feel like you’re in the South. 

If a boozy bourbon brunch is what you’re after, you’re in the right place. Crowd favorites include crispy chicken and waffles drizzled with bourbon-infused maple syrup and served alongside spiced watermelon. Craving something sweet? The Yardbird cinnamon roll comes generously smothered in bourbon-salted caramel.

For something lighter, go with the smoked salmon avocado toast, topped with radishes and heirloom tomatoes. Sip on a Yardbird Bloody Mary made with Jim Beam bourbon, or cool off with a refreshing watermelon mojito featuring Bacardi rum and fresh watermelon juice. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Champagne Brunch at Jaya at the Setai

Located in the center courtyard at The Setai Miami Beach hotel, Jaya is situated around a large pond-like water feature that’s a home base for performers, including a jazz band during its Caviar & Champagne Weekend Brunch. This is the kind of spot that’s perfect for those who want to dress up a bit and make the weekend special. You’ll find couples holding hands and plenty of bachelorette parties. It’s a chic, sophisticated restaurant that features a bold mix of Asian, Indian and Indonesian flavors, like Peking duck, dumplings and an array of noodle dishes. 

The $110 brunch buffet, served Saturday and Sunday, includes dozens of food options at various stations plus unlimited Louis Roederer Champagne, sparkling wine, and cocktails from the mojito and espresso martini bar.

Feast With Family & Friends at The Local House

An underrated gem in the South of Fifth district, The Local House is one of the best brunch spots you’ll ever find. Located in a boutique hotel of the same name, the restaurant is ideal for small groups of friends and family who want to get together over a hearty, delicious brunch steps away from the beach. 

With dishes like steak & eggs, lobster rolls, a superfoods bowl, Benedicts, French toast and avocado toast, there’s something for every taste. The quaint space is decorated in beiges and blues, giving off a nautical, beach house vibe, making it feel extra inviting and welcoming. Brunch is served daily.

Eastern Mediterranean Favorites at Motek

An eastern Mediterranean restaurant that’s taken Miami by storm over the last few years, Motek seems to be in almost every area of the destination, including South Beach. With its large menu and casual-but upscale-vibe, Motek is as perfect for celebrations and large groups as it is for couples or a more-intimate experience. 

The all-day brunch menu, served daily, includes shakshuka (organic eggs with lemon tahini, spicy tomato sauce and challah bread), pancakes, Jerusalem grilled cheese, and an Israeli breakfast with three eggs, Israeli salad, cream cheese, avocado tahini and a Jerusalem bagel.

A Lavish Brunch Buffet at Catch

Tucked inside a condominium building near South Pointe Park, Catch serves one of the best Sunday brunches in Miami Beach. You’ll enjoy endless sushi rolls and nigiri, a raw bar, carving stations, classic breakfast dishes, salads, desserts, bottomless fresh juices and a Bloody Mary bar, all for $79 per person. 

Beverage package upgrades are also available. Sit outside in the lush garden area and luxuriate in the ocean breeze while hanging with your favorite brunch crew.

Can’t get enough? Indulge in one of the many bottomless brunches in Miami.