Miami is home to a diverse cast of characters. This melting pot quality is what makes the city tick, and some of Miami’s top restaurants provide a front-row view to our interesting inhabitants (for better or worse). If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a nice meal with a show, look no further than these six people-watching spots.
A Fish Called Avalon
For over three decades, guests have dined at A Fish Called Avalon for some of the city’s best seafood and views. Situated on Miami’s lively Ocean Drive, A Fish Called Avalon and its spacious front porch area offer a closeup look at the street’s animated foot traffic.
There’s never a dull moment here – especially when treating yourself to delicious dishes like sesame seared ahi tuna, macadamia-crusted snapper and orzo shrimp paella. Just make sure to save room for the award-winning key lime pie; it’s a beauty.
A Fish Called Avalon is located at 700 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
CJ’s Crab Shack
CJ’s Crab Shack is another Ocean Drive gem that’s ideal for enjoying the sights. CJ’s casual feel-good vibes make for a memorable experience, day or night. As you watch locals, tourists and vendors make their rounds on the strip, you can dig into hearty crab dishes like crab dip (a personal fave), crab cakes, Alaskan king crab and snow crab.
Don’t let the name fool you: There’s a lot more to this place than just the tasty crustacean; you can also enjoy selections like fried shrimp, seafood pasta, grouper fingers, steamed clams and lobster tail. Wash everything down with a mango daiquiri or rum punch; a good time is guaranteed.
CJ’s Crab Shack is located at 600 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Lilikoi Organic Living
For a more health-conscious meal, head on over to the outdoor patio at Lilikoi. The South of Fifth neighborhood gem is always busy and rightfully so; the expansive menu is full of delectable delights morning, afternoon and evening. Think house-made banana bread, chicken and brie sandwiches, chicken chipotle burritos, and shrimp coconut curry bowls – to name a few.
Not only is the place a prime spot for people watching, but it’s also great for dog watching; locals and their furry friends are always strolling past. The area isn’t as “spirited” as Ocean Drive; if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, this is it.
Lilikoi is located at 500 South Pointe Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Little Hen
For a taste of Europe without the costly plane ticket, Little Hen in Midtown Miami has you covered. The English-inspired café is a popular brunch and breakfast spot because of its adorable décor and varied offerings. As tempting as it is to sit inside – it’s so darn cute — consider sitting on the patio on a nice day.
There’s something to be said about enjoying the afternoon tea special on the sidewalk while people (and dog) watching. Other notable offerings include steak and eggs, chilaquiles, bananas foster French toast, and chicken and waffles. Once you’re here, you’ll never want to leave.
Little Hen is located at 3451 NE 1st Avenue, Suite 100/102, Miami, FL 33137. For more information, visit their official website.
Osteria Del Teatro
Collins Avenue is another part of Miami Beach that’s known for its sights. And at Osteria Del Teatro, you’re right in the middle of the action. For years, the Italian restaurant has been dazzling locals and visitors alike with its incredible pastas and other mouthwatering fare.
Items like the rigatoni amatriciana, linguine alla vongole, chicken parm and breaded veal scallopini are all standouts, and Osteria Del Teatro’s daily dessert selections are not to be missed. There’s also a secret “verbal” menu that’s full of delicious specials; you won’t find it printed on your menu, but you find some of the specials on the website. No matter what you order, make sure to sit outside for the full SoBe experience.
Osteria Del Teatro is located at 1200 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, 33139. For more information, visit their official website.
Toscana Divino
Mary Brickell Village’s hallmark restaurant is Toscana Divino. Located right in the middle of the iconic shopping center, the Italian restaurant is the ultimate destination for people-watching in the financial district.
Toscana’s menu takes the guest on a culinary journey with its numerous specialties like crab salad, octopus puttanesca, spinach and ricotta tortelli, and pici senesi with duck ragu. It’s a journey that you’ll never forget, and the stunning Brickell backdrop is icing on the cake.
Toscana Divino is located at 900 South Miami Avenue #185, Miami, FL 33130. For more information, visit their official website.
