Florida is a culinary melting pot, where diverse cultures and flavors come together to create a vibrant and eclectic dining scene. From fresh seafood shacks to upscale fine dining establishments, the Sunshine State offers a plethora of culinary delights to tantalize the taste buds of visitors and locals alike. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey across Florida, exploring some of the must-try restaurants that showcase the best of the state’s cuisine.
1. Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach
No culinary tour of Florida would be complete without a visit to Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach. Since its opening in 1913, Joe’s has been a beloved institution, renowned for its fresh stone crab claws harvested from the nearby waters. In addition to its signature dish, Joe’s also offers a variety of seafood specialties, including lobster, shrimp, and fish, all served in a classic and elegant atmosphere.
2. Columbia Restaurant – Tampa
Founded in 1905, the Columbia Restaurant in Tampa’s historic Ybor City is Florida’s oldest restaurant and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Steeped in history and tradition, the Columbia is famous for its authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine, including classics like paella, ropa vieja, and Cuban sandwiches. Guests can dine in the restaurant’s ornate dining rooms or enjoy live music and flamenco dancing in the adjacent Columbia Cafe.
3. The Breakers – Palm Beach
Situated in the luxurious surroundings of The Breakers resort in Palm Beach, The Breakers offers an unparalleled dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can choose from a variety of dining options, including the elegant Flagler Steakhouse, the Mediterranean-inspired Echo, and the beachfront Seafood Bar, where they can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Bern’s Steak House – Tampa
For steak lovers, Bern’s Steak House in Tampa is a culinary mecca not to be missed. Founded in 1956, Bern’s is famous for its aged steaks, extensive wine list, and unparalleled attention to detail. Guests can dine in one of the restaurant’s intimate dining rooms, each adorned with rich wood paneling and plush leather booths, and enjoy a meal that is as memorable as it is delicious.
5. Versailles Restaurant – Miami
Located in the heart of Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, Versailles Restaurant is a culinary landmark that has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1971. Known as the “World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant,” Versailles is famous for its hearty Cuban sandwiches, flavorful ropa vieja, and refreshing mojitos. Guests can dine in the restaurant’s bustling dining room or enjoy al fresco dining on the outdoor patio.
6. Fisherman’s Wharf – Sanibel Island
Perched on the waterfront of Sanibel Island, Fisherman’s Wharf offers diners a taste of Old Florida charm combined with fresh seafood and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can dine on a variety of seafood specialties, including grouper, snapper, and shrimp, all caught fresh from the surrounding waters. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
7. Victoria & Albert’s – Orlando
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, look no further than Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Orlando. This award-winning restaurant offers guests a culinary journey like no other, with a seasonal menu featuring exquisite dishes crafted from the finest ingredients. Guests can choose from a variety of dining experiences, including the Chef’s Table, where they can enjoy a multi-course tasting menu prepared by the restaurant’s talented chefs.
8. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples – Naples
Nestled on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples offers guests a variety of dining options to suit every palate. From the elegant Dining Room, where guests can enjoy classic cuisine with a modern twist, to the laid-back Gumbo Limbo, which offers casual fare and stunning ocean views, there’s something for everyone at this luxurious resort.
From historic institutions to trendy eateries, Florida’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic Cuban cuisine, or a perfectly aged steak, the Sunshine State has something to satisfy every palate. So pack your appetite and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure across Florida, where every meal is a delicious celebration of the state’s rich culinary heritage.