Looking for a great lunch spot to grab lunch in Downtown Miami? Whether you’re a busy worker or just passing through, check out The Infatuation Miami’s 12 picks for a tasty and satisfying meal.
El Sitio: A casual spot that serves up authentic and delicious Venezuelan dishes. The portions are generous, making it a great spot for anyone looking for big flavors and hearty portions. Favorites include the arepas, pepitos, and the Venezuelan dream breakfast platter which features separated portions of reina pepiada, carne mechada, perico, cheese, and two arepas.
Tacos El Porky: A casual little taco spot that specializes in tacos al pastor. The carved meat is cooked on a spit and the flavors are out of this world. The menu is small but focused, making it easy to order quickly and enjoy your meal in peace.
All Day: A peaceful and inviting cafe that offers fantastic breakfast dishes that are also perfect for lunch. The coffee here is excellent, so it’s worth stopping by for a caffeine fix alone. The small weekday lunch menu features a BLT and an excellent chicken katsu sando, along with a range of smoothies and adventurous coffee drinks.
Motek: An Israeli restaurant that’s hidden inside a large building full of diamond shops, this spot is a hidden gem that’s worth seeking out. The sandwiches here are particularly tasty, with highlights including the crispy chicken schnitzel sandwich and the arayes burger. Motek is also BYOB with no corkage fee.
Verde: Located in the back of the Pérez Art Museum, Verde offers some of the best views in Miami. The straightforward menu includes salads, pizza, and sandwiches, all of which are well-executed and satisfying. The uninterrupted view of Biscayne Bay is the real highlight, though, making Verde a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a scenic lunch.
Bali Café: A cash-only Indonesian spot that serves generous portions of signature dishes you won’t find done this well anywhere else in the area. The menu is large and offers everything from dumplings to sushi rolls, but make sure to try the nasi goreng special, which features separated portions of fried rice, coconut chicken curry, and tender rendang. The colorful statues and masks decorating the restaurant make for a fun and interesting dining experience.
La Cañita: Located inside the Bayside Marketplace, La Cañita is the best option for Cuban/Caribbean dishes. The menu is filled with delicious and flavorful options, including jerk chicken wings, ceviche, whole grilled snapper, and more soups, sandwiches, and seafood. The sandwiches in particular are a highlight, and the outdoor deck overlooking the marina is a lovely spot to enjoy lunch.
Manila Kantina: A casual and cozy restaurant that offers a buffet-style experience of delicious Filipino dishes. Some of the top picks are the chicken adobo, dinuguan (pork blood stew), chop suey, and lechon kawali. The restaurant is also known for its refreshing halo-halo, topped with mango ice cream.
Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market: The perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while taking in scenic river views, Garcia’s has been a Miami River staple for over five decades. Start with some fried shellfish and don’t forget to check out the daily specials. During stone crab season, it’s a must-visit spot.
Manna: A plant-based and vegan restaurant that serves up healthy and wholesome eats. The menu features smoothies, soups, bowls, and “arepas” that are packed with tasty and nutritious ingredients. The cozy and relaxed ambience is perfect for a quiet sit-down meal or takeout.
Vice City Bean: A hidden gem tucked in a residential building that serves up excellent coffee and simple yet satisfying sandwiches and empanadas. The cafe has a friendly and welcoming vibe, making it a great spot to grab a quick bite or work on your laptop.
Poke OG: A casual spot that offers high-quality sushi boxes, poke bowls, and sushi rolls. The dishes are packed with fresh and flavorful ingredients, and the friendly staff even includes a little paintbrush so you can distribute your soy sauce with the precision of Bob Ross.