Dining with Pride

The vibrant restaurant scene in Greater Miami and Miami Beach is famous for its fusion of cultures, bold flavors and innovative dining experiences. This thriving culinary landscape is also home to a wide array of LGBTQ-owned restaurants. From lively drag brunches to eclectic international cuisine and casual, inexpensive spots, these Miami restaurants are more than just places to eat; they’re symbols of pride and progress for the LGBTQ community. Check out some of the best LGBTQ-owned restaurants across the destination.

Palace South Beach

A South Beach icon for over 30 years, Palace South Beach is home to the famed drag brunch, where you’ll be entertained by queens sashaying away on Ocean Drive. Owned by local gay icon Thomas Donall, the Palace is a cultural landmark that embodies Miami Beach’s vibrant LGBTQ spirit. A hot spot night and day for drag shows, dancing, drinks and dining, it’s a must-visit for any gay travel itinerary. From the rooftop pool bar to the sidewalk patio, the scene at the Palace is always high energy. The playful menu includes items like the Quesadiva, a braised chicken quesadilla with housemade pico de gallo, and a Malibu Barbie cocktail made with coconut rum, coconut water, pineapple, cranberry and orange juices and grenadine with a pink glitter sugar rim.

R House

Chef Rocco Carulli and his husband, Owen Bale, alongside drag queen Athena Dion, have created something truly special for the LGBTQ community with R House. Part-restaurant, part-art gallery in a sprawling indoor-outdoor warehouse-style space in Wynwood, R House has become a world-renowned destination for its raucous weekend drag brunch attended by celebrities. There’s never a dull moment at this gay entertainment mecca, from Friday night’s Yas Queen drag show and party to a host of special events, including drag bingo, live music and happy hour. Chef Rocco’s Latin-inspired menu includes indulgent favorites like arepas, empanadas and croquetas alongside larger plates, like braised short rib in a coffee chili reduction and sizzling shrimp al ajillo. Order a piña loca (a whole pineapple filled with piña colada plus five shots of house liquor and sparklers) for the table and you’ll be in for a wild time.

Tâm Tâm

Owned by celebrated chef Tam Pham and his husband, sommelier Harrison Ramhofer, Tâm Tâm is a vibrant Vietnamese eatery in Downtown Miami. The duo has created a welcoming, funky space that celebrates eclectic flavors. The menu consists of small and large plates, including perennial favorites, like Tâm Tâm wings coated in a caramel fish sauce with crispy garlic and the tamarind-glazed pork ribs with crushed peanuts and scallion. There’s also a plate of comforting goat curry with egg noodles, lemongrass and coconut and a sizzling pork belly “situation” with banh hoi noodles, cucumber, scallion oil, asparagus and bean curd. Ramhofer’s wine prowess is on full display in his expertly curated selections, which include global natural wines from small producers.

Finka Table & Tap

Helmed by Eileen Andrade, a proud member of the LGBTQ community, Finka Table & Tap has been a mainstay in the Kendall area dining scene for a decade. The powerhouse chef-owner presides over a kitchen where Cuban, Peruvian and Korean flavors are celebrated in creative fusion dishes. Think fried alligator jalea served with aji amarillo mayo and criolla salsa, kimchee lime mussels and Islas Carnerias croquettas alongside a variety of wok-fried rice dishes and creative pizzas, like the braised oxtail with goat cheese, mushrooms and caramelized onions topped with a ponzu arugula salad.

Jaffa

Located in the Miami Design District, the brainchild of longtime private chef and caterer Yaniv Cohen, aka “The Spice Detective,” Jaffa is a celebration of Israeli flavors. A proud member of Miami’s LGBTQ community, Cohen draws from his North African and Middle Eastern roots, as well as his in-depth knowledge of spices, to create comforting dishes with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options in a welcoming, fast-casual environment. Think classic hummus, Israeli salad with olives, pickles and sumac dressing, and turmeric cauliflower with z’atar, tahini and cilantro sauce. There’s also a wide variety of pita sandwiches, platters and rice bowls with options ranging from beef brisket to chicken shawarma, falafel and so much more.

Airport Cafe & Liquors

As the name implies, Airport Cafe & Liquors is located near Miami International Airport. Whether you’re coming or going, swing in for diner-style staples with a Latin twist, like over-the-top burgers, quesadillas and Cuban sandwiches, plus creative entrées, like the croqueta sandwich pressed between crusty Cuban bread, and plenty of weekly specials. An LGBTQ- and family-owned and operated restaurant, Airport Cafe is home to an onsite liquor store with wine and top-shelf spirits that can be purchased and enjoyed in the restaurant. It also carries an array of domestic and international cigars.

Wanderlust Cafe & Lounge

Wanderlust is a queer-owned, all-day café in Miami Beach serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, coffee, and cocktails in a relaxed, walk-in-friendly setting. This owner-operated neighborhood favorite features Latin-inspired comfort food, espresso drinks, and brunch cocktails, with highlights like avocado toast, steak and eggs with chimichurri, sandwiches, specialty lattes, and house-made espresso martinis. Open daily, guests can stop in for anything from a quick coffee to a full meal, including a 2-for-1 happy hour on select drinks.

Baker & Barista

Tucked just outside the Miami Design District, Baker and Barista is a charming, LGBTQ-owned bakery and café where craftsmanship and community come together. Founded by a passionate baker-and-barista duo, this intimate spot blends Italian baking traditions with expertly crafted coffee. Expect a rotating selection of house-made pastries, flaky croissants, and airy sourdough creations, alongside beautifully pulled espresso drinks. Baker and Barista has quickly become a neighborhood favorite for its warm, welcoming vibe and thoughtfully made offerings. A perfect stop for a relaxed breakfast, brunch, or midday coffee break.