As the sweltering summer heat gives way to cooler autumn breezes, Miami’s vibrant dining scene is embracing the great outdoors. From beachfront Mediterranean feasts to boho-chic patios and vibrant Asian fusion spots, there’s a myriad of options to enjoy alfresco dining in the Magic City. Here are the top outdoor dining spots in Miami to savor this fall:
Nestled in bohemian Upper Buena Vista, Branja offers an elevated outdoor dining experience where Chef Tom Aviv blends regional and global flavors to create a uniquely craveable Mediterranean menu. The covered outdoor courtyard, contained under a stunning stained glass roof, is filled with hand-crafted terrazzo tables and retro art vignettes that transport guests to 1970s Tel Aviv.
A fan-favorite in Long Island and now open in Aventura, Toku offers modern Asian fare inspired by traditional Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese flavors. The expansive menu provides guests with a unique dining experience made for everyone, and offers a wide variety of unique craft cocktails and sakes. Diners can enjoy Toku’s offerings in the ambiance of the 190-seat covered outdoor patio, complete with comfortable plush seating and spacious tables.
Perched atop the twelfth floor pool deck of YOTEL Miami, Vela Sky offers sweeping city views alongside their globally inspired menu. Catch up with friends in the al fresco ambiance of the rooftop restaurant and bar, or head downstairs to Vela, with a menu inspired by the port cities YOTEL calls home. Dine on a variety of fresh favorites designed for sharing and sip on one of Vela’s craft cocktails, or choose from an array of unique wine, beer or liquor offerings.
Tucked away under Coconut Grove’s natural tree canopy, KoKo offers diners an authentic Mexican dining experience. With over 400 mezcals and tequilas, plus an open-view kitchen that showcases a traditional tortilla making process called Nixtamal, the 170-seat indoor-outdoor restaurant transports diners to pre-Hispanic Mexico. Savor fresh Mexican dishes on KoKo’s terrace or at the outdoor bar beside KoKo’s immersive cactus garden.
La Terrasse at Okeydokey
Opening soon at Okeydokey Miami in Brickell, La Terrasse is a new outdoor patio designed for relaxation, good company, and live music. With a capacity for 250 guests and 60 seats, this outdoor oasis features boho-chic furnishings, hanging greenery, and a surround sound system that ensures an upbeat atmosphere. Live music sets the tone every Thursday, making it a must-visit spot for date nights and gatherings with friends and family.
Santorini by Georgio’s
In Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, Santorini By Georgios is a beachfront and poolside restaurant offering a taste of Mediterranean cuisine and Greek culture. The restaurant’s blue and white charm perfectly complements its authentic Greek dishes and handcrafted cocktails. From gyros and kebabs to fresh seafood, Santorini caters to every palate, making it a versatile venue for everything from date nights to beachfront lounging.
BÂOLI
BÂOLI Miami, an Asian fusion hotspot on South Beach, marries South Beach’s vibrancy with French sophistication. Offering a menu with Indonesian, Thai, Indian, Balinese, and Nepalese flavors, BÂOLI provides a dining experience like no other. The venue boasts lush tropical foliage, artistic murals, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular choice among celebrities and jet setters.
Mayami
Located in Wynwood, Mayami combines elevated cuisine with unique cocktails. This indoor and outdoor restaurant and lounge provides the perfect setting for enjoying bold flavors under the stars. As the night progresses, be prepared for aerialists and fire dancers to elevate your dining experience.
Tala Beach
Formerly known as 1 Beach Club, Tala is set to open its doors in October 2023 after a transformation. With a focus on Mediterranean-inspired shared plates, handcrafted cocktails, and curated entertainment, Tala will transport guests to paradise beneath swaying palms and ample umbrella shading. This beachfront oasis promises live beats and exciting entertainment, embracing the ethos of mindfulness and wellness.
Hutong
In the heart of Brickell, Hutong offers a fresh take on Chinese cuisine. The chic outdoor terrace invites guests to savor Northern Chinese dishes amid a lively atmosphere, all set against the backdrop of Miami’s vibrant art scene.
Joia Beach
Near downtown Miami on Watson Island, Joia Beach Restaurant & Beach Club provides a unique experience. As Miami’s only private beachfront dining location, it allows guests to dine with their toes in the sand while enjoying European-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
American Social
Upgrading its waterfront patio, American Social offers an elevated outdoor seating area featuring marble and bronze accents. This is the ideal spot to unwind, enjoy cocktails, and indulge in delicious food while overlooking the Miami River.
Rusty Pelican
For over 51 years, Rusty Pelican Miami has been serving contemporary American cuisine with locally sourced seafood. Its outdoor patios provide unrivaled views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline, creating a coastal dining experience like no other.
Bakan Wynwood
Located in Wynwood, Bakan is a Mexican-inspired restaurant offering indoor and outdoor dining. The cacti-lined outdoor area, illuminated hanging basket fixtures, and modern décor create a vibrant, Mexican-inspired atmosphere.
Blue Ribbon Sushi
In the Plymouth Hotel Miami, Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill offers a blend of sushi and grill dishes. Dine poolside amid palm trees at the Plymouth Hotel, enjoying a unique culinary experience.
Limonada
For classic cocktails and an all-day menu, Limonada is the ultimate South Beach destination. Its beautiful outdoor dining space, complete with lush greenery and a pool, makes it a delightful spot for gatherings with friends.
Orange Blossom
Nestled in the heart of Miami Beach at the Boulan Hotel, Orange Blossom is an inviting restaurant known for its inviting atmosphere, top-notch customer service, and farm-to-table fresh ingredients. Guests can dine in their jungle-themed exterior garden stringed with lights and lush greenery, creating a magical dining experience.
As fall arrives in Miami, take advantage of the city’s inviting outdoor dining spots, offering diverse cuisines and unforgettable experiences under the sun and stars. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a lively night out with friends, or a tranquil beachfront experience, Miami has something to suit every taste. Bon appétit!
