18 Best Miami Restaurants With Outdoor Dining

People from all over the country flock to Miami throughout the year to enjoy its sun-kissed shores and warm atmosphere — literally and figuratively. But what's the point of going all the way there if you're just going to spend most of your time trapped indoors, sitting under an overactive air conditioning unit? 

Sure, you may be soaking up the sun on the beach or strolling down Ocean Drive, but you don't have to move indoors for mealtime. There are plenty of great restaurants in Miami that offer outdoor dining that blends culinary excellence with an al fresco dining experience.

In this tropical haven, outdoor dining is more than just a meal — it's an immersive journey into the heart of Miami's pulsating energy. From the bustling streets of South Beach to the tranquil waterfronts of Coconut Grove, Miami's diverse neighborhoods offer a kaleidoscope of dining settings to suit every taste and occasion. Picture yourself seated beneath swaying palms, the gentle ocean breeze mingling with the tantalizing aromas of Cuban, Peruvian, and Caribbean flavors. As the sun dips below the horizon, Miami's skyline transforms into a mesmerizing tableau of twinkling lights, casting a magical glow over diners nestled in chic rooftop terraces or quaint sidewalk cafés. Every meal becomes an event that captures the essence of Miami's laid-back glamour. So let's take a look at where best to enjoy al fresco dining in Miami, based on our personal experience and professional reviews. 

Italian cuisine satisfies the craving for pasta dishes or tasty pizzas — both of which fall firmly in the realm of lunch or dinner. But breakfast is not usually a meal you associate with Italian food. All that should change when you head to Cecconi's in Miami Beach. Not only does the restaurant offer the usual excellent lunch and dinner options, but you can also enjoy a fabulous assortment of breakfast options while sitting in a serene outdoor setting populated with lush plants and comfy chairs.

Although the breakfast menu is not traditionally Italian — last we checked, pancakes and a classic English breakfast have nothing to do with Italy — it doesn't detract from the restaurant's quality. For something more classic, try the meatballs or mac and cheese next time you stop here for lunch or dinner.

cecconismiamibeach.com

(786) 507-7902

4385 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140

If you choose a restaurant for its view, you also have a 50/50 chance of getting good food. The Rusty Pelican delivers on both of these, boasting a beautiful view of Miami across the water, excellent cocktails, and even better lobster risotto. In fact, with such a prime location on the Virginia Key, it would be a sin not to have a well-developed outdoor seating area.

The menu only further complements the view. Stop by for a satisfying brunch, lunch, or dinner, where you will find a well-stocked raw bar, sushi, light and tasty salads, and seafood entrées that are anything but boring, like the seared day boat scallops or arroz meloso with shrimp and mahi mahi. 

therustypelican.com

(305) 361-3818

3201 Rickenbacker Cswy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

The best place to order raw fish is undoubtedly right by the water. You can do that at Seaspice, which sits right on the Miami River. In particular, the kanpachi ceviche, with coconut water leche de tigre, and hamachi tataki, with candied kumquat and pickled serrano pepper, are not to be missed. Not all the fish on this menu will have come from the surrounding waters, though, as you might glean from dishes like the Maine lobster bisque — but it's the thought that counts.

Meanwhile, enjoy your seafood platter as you take in gorgeous views of Miami and try to spot manatees bobbing up to the river's surface. The activity becomes even more fun while sipping some of Seaspice's signature craft cocktails, including Say Hello To My Little Friend, made with Brugal 1888, pineapple basil cordial, and Amaro Montenegro. 

seaspice.com

(305) 440-4200

412 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128

The name of this restaurant instantly conjures up images of water, both in the "lido" (Italian for waterfront or beach club) and the "bayside." This may be why this place remains so popular among locals and tourists alike. But while many come for the view, they tend to stay for the drinks, food, and atmosphere — whether they're there for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or the generous raw bar.

The craft cocktails at Lido Bayside pay homage to Caribbean flavors by using copious amounts of lime, coconut, and rum. The dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients, err on the healthy side without sacrificing flavor. Take, for example, the roasted beet salad with dill yogurt, creamy goat cheese, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Meanwhile, the scene is vibrant and dynamic; it's just the kind of warm and upbeat Miami vibe you're looking for.

lidobayside.com

(786) 245-0880

40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

The interior at Carbone is beautifully decorated, but their outdoor dining area is just as appealing, especially if you like to soak in those balmy yet electrifying Miami evenings. Outdoor seating is out front but hidden from view by lush vegetation, behind which you can enjoy your delicious meal undisturbed.

And a delicious meal it is. Expect crispy garlic bread, rigatoni alla vodka, and spaghetti puttanesca on the menu. The wine list also leans Italian, with options from Piedmont, Tuscany, and Alto Adige taking up much of it. Just be sure to brush up on your Italian before you go. In the true spirit of Italian authenticity, much of the menu uses Italian names, like "contorni" for sides and "pesce" for fish.

carbonemiami.com

(212) 254-3000

49 Collins Ave, Miami, FL 33139

Walking into the outdoor seating area at Abbale Telavivian Kitchen is like stepping into a Mediterranean garden. The whole space is covered in luscious vegetation and bright, colorful flowers, which instantly sets the mood for the menu, which is similarly decked out with herbaceous flavors and plenty of vegetables.

Start with one of the fresh and fruity (but not cloyingly sweet) cocktails like the signature mimosa with pomegranate and rosemary — which is perfect for a hot day. Continue with Mediterranean staples made especially well, like the lunchtime salatim, which is a combination of three small plates of your choice, such as za'atar labneh, fire-roasted carrots, and Persian cucumbers with sea salt and sumac. If you're here for dinner, dive right into the heavy stuff with a Persian braised bone-in beef short rib with pomegranate-red wine jus.

abbaletlv.com

(305) 587-4242

864 Commerce St, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Smith & Wollensky has plenty of seating indoors, which is odd, because there's hardly ever anybody there. Rather, the crowds that flock to this canal-side restaurant tend to gather at the outdoor tables or relax at the outdoor bar, where they can see the big cruise ships setting sail for parts unknown. 

But this location of Smith & Wollensky is not just a pretty face. The bartenders know what they're doing in the cocktail department, and the food is consistently good. It's a spot known for its steaks, so you have your pick of USDA prime cuts with beautiful enhancements like brandy peppercorn sauce or a Cajun rub. The appetizers are just as worthy, with items like seared scallops with a potato and chorizo hash or American Wagyu carpaccio with black truffle aioli.

smithandwollensky.com/locations/miami-beach

(305) 673-2800

1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

In a city where Cuban sandwiches are a dime a dozen, it's nice to have access to a place that does things a little differently. As amazing as Cuban sandwiches are, it's best not to have too much of a good thing. So, for those days when you're in the mood for French food but not the typical bill that comes with that territory, head to La Sandwicherie, where you can enjoy a French-inspired sandwich sitting at the outdoor counter.

The South Beach staple has been serving sandwiches on crusty, fresh baguettes and buttery croissants since it opened in 1988. The fillings are equally impressive, especially for the Frenchie, made with French salami and Brie cheese, and the Tropical, made with avocado, mozzarella, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, papaya, mango, and pineapple. The cornichons and French vinaigrette, known here as the "magic sauce," are essential additions to any sandwich.

lasandwicherie.com

Multiple locations

In a city where the Spanish language is the norm and Latin cuisine prevails, it can be easy to miss an actual Old-World Spanish restaurant. It would be more of a shame to miss out on Leku, a Spanish place in Allappatah that serves up Basque cuisine. The outdoor dining area here is in the industrial chic garden of the Rubell Museum, which houses the restaurant.

The Basque region is in Spain but has its own separate language, cooking style, culture, and, at times, desire for political independence. As a result, it should come as no surprise that the dishes are a little different from mainstream Spanish cuisine. Examples include the pumpkin fondant with foie gras, Iberian pork tartare, or the grilled red snapper with txakoli sauce. The dessert menu also features an undisputed classic, the Basque cheesecake, which is served with an oozy center and crisp crust. 

lekumiami.com

(786) 464-0615

1100 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127

If you didn't know any better, you'd think this Greek and Turkish spot in the Design District was actually in the Mediterranean. The setting just screams Santorini — from the bright white stucco, deep azure colors, and outdoor seating under the trees. So does the menu — in the best possible way.

Get your fill of traditional Greek dishes with the Greek Sampler, which comes with tzatziki, taramasalata, and tirokafteri, the fried calamari, or the roasted beets with tahini yogurt. Then chow down on something heartier with your pick of flatbreads and sandwiches, served with house-cut fries. The Greek village salad is an absolute must, while the stuffed tomato and pepper with ground beef, rice, and feta is another classic done well. 

mandolinrestaurant.com

(305) 749-9140

4312 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137, United States

When you walk up the little alley to this Cuban restaurant in Little Havana, it's easy to think you'll end up in a small, hole-in-the-wall dining room. That is not the case at Doce Provisions, where discerning eyes will see a door at the back that leads to a lovely little courtyard where you can enjoy your meal in peace.

The outdoor dining isn't the only reason why people come to this spot; the food is also pretty darn good, too. The menu is crafted by chef-owners Justin Sherrer and Lisetty Llampalla using locally sourced ingredients. Start with the chorizo croquetas and the lechon asado buns with pineapple confit. For something more substantial, opt for the Little Bird fried chicken with plantains, guava, and sriracha honey. If you're here for lunch and don't want to leave town without trying a Cuban sandwich, you can get an excellent one here at Doce Provisions.

doceprovisions.com/doce-provisions-little-havana

(786) 452-0161

541 SW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33130

This Coconut Grove eatery's atmosphere can be chic or relaxed, depending on what experience you're looking for. If you're more up for the relaxed vibe, slip on some flip-flops and grab a table on the shaded outdoor patio. The food on the patio is just as impressive as in the more upscale interior dining room. The menu also juxtaposes haute French-influenced dishes with American-style fare. Hence, the caramelized champagne on the scallops and other thoughtful touches. 

Save yourself the torture of not being able to choose everything on the à la carte menu and opt for a tasting menu instead, where the decision on what to eat is made for you. The Versos Clásico and the Versos Moderno each feature several high-end numbers like foie gras with sour orange temptation caramel or caviar with parmesan chips and scallion oil. 

arietecoconutgrove.com

(305) 640-5862

3540 Main Hwy, Coconut Grove, FL 33133

Thomas Keller is known nationwide for his iconic restaurants, such as Per Se in New York and The French Laundry in Napa Valley. The Surf Club Restaurant is another Keller restaurant worthy of a visit. It regales diners with a distinct '50s and '60s party atmosphere while also serving the type of food that best suits modern palates.

Examples include the classic Caesar salad prepared tableside, a fettuccine Alfredo beautifully enhanced with black truffle shavings, and a New York strip steak made with American Wagyu. The extensive wine list ensures you'll find the perfect wine to pair with each dish you choose. The cocktails, too, are prepared expertly and add to the decadent atmosphere that reigns supreme both inside at the bar and outside under the banyan trees.

surfclubrestaurant.com

(305) 768-9440

9011 Collins Ave, Surfside, FL 33154

The Red Rooster in Harlem is an institution, and the Red Rooster in Overtown, which chef Marcus Samuelsson opened in late 2020, is well on its way to doing the same. Just as it did in Harlem, the Red Rooster Overtown set down roots in a historically black neighborhood and has made a name for itself through its signature mixture of soul food and Latin flavors. But unlike its Harlem counterpart, this restaurant also boasts a large outdoor patio with plenty of seating.

To sample such flavors at their fullest, we recommend trying the cornbread with jalapeño honey butter and blackberry bourbon jam, the Guyanese oxtail pepper pot with piquillo peppers, and the fried catfish sandwich with green goddess dressing. The food and the outdoor dining experience are brimming with warmth and vibrancy, whether you're here for lunch, dinner, or any other time of day.

redroosterovertown.com

(305) 640-9880

920 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33136

Miami currently has only one restaurant with two Michelin stars, and that restaurant happens to be L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, located in the Miami Design District. It comes with all the trappings you'd expect from such a decorated eatery: an open kitchen, leather chairs, tasting menus, and extensive wine lists. It also boasts a lovely outdoor patio ideal for enjoying the day's last rays of sun.

Order a tasting menu to ensure you have the best experience. Not only will you enjoy each dish on the list, but you'll also appreciate the excellent service. If you are inclined to choose from the à la carte menu, which is available from Sundays through Thursdays, don't skip the yellowfin tuna sashimi with minted coconut yogurt and jalapeño ponzu. It's a masterful blend of Japanese, French, and Miami-inspired ingredients. 

latelier-miami.com

(305) 402-9070

151 NE 41st St, Miami, FL 33137

If the stone crab is in season when you're in Miami next (or even if it's not), head to this restaurant for a tried-and-true seafood menu. Indeed, one of Joe's Stone Crab's claims to fame is that its original owner practically discovered how to cook stone crabs, which are plentiful in the waters around Miami Beach. Joe Weiss, the restaurant's original owner and namesake, is said to have grabbed a bunch of the crustaceans, tossed them in boiling water, and went from there.

Today, you can order stone crabs served with mustard. But these crustaceans aren't the only great thing on the menu at this seafood spot. For example, the cod with an Asiago crumb topping or the salmon with ginger teriyaki glaze and caramelized shallots give the crabs a run for their money. Enjoy your order indoors or outside in the lovely courtyard.

joesstonecrab.com

(305) 673-0365

11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Considering all the high-end and flashy restaurants in Miami and the price tag attached to them, it's nice to come across a good, relatively inexpensive seafood shack every once in a while. One of these is Garcia's Seafood Grille and Fish Market on the Miami River, which offers a nice outdoor seating area right on the water.

This family-owned restaurant focuses on bringing diners super-fresh fish from the surrounding waters (and some from further afield), including the yellow tail snapper, stone crab, and Florida lobster. You can order these at the restaurant with sides, drinks, and whatever else your heart desires, or you can buy them fresh at the market and prepare them yourself at home.

garciasmiami.com

(305) 375-0765

398 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128

Makoto, a Japanese restaurant in Bal Harbour, has been around for a long time, but it hasn't always been so beautiful. A recent upgrade created a light and airy space inside and a relaxed outdoor space where guests are met with 1930s-style lawn chairs as they sip their drinks and enjoy their meals under the palm trees.

If you liked this place before the revamp, you shouldn't be disappointed, as the menu remains largely unchanged. You can still enjoy mainstays like the tuna crispy rice with serrano chile, rock shrimp tempura with kochujang, and premium steaks. Stop here to replenish your energy after a long and fruitful shopping trip at the Bal Harbour Shops, and don't worry about timing; the restaurant is open all day from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

makoto-restaurant.com

(305) 864-8600

9700 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154

We compiled a list of many different restaurants for this review based on personal experience and professional reviews. We included restaurants that offered outdoor seating, as well as those that offered high-quality food and positive reviews.