The best restaurants in Coconut Grove
Covering the best BBQ spot, real corn tortillas, and finally the neighborhood bar we needed
Feb
04
2026
Coconut Grove has evolved in the last few years, yet its charm is still intact. To this day, it remains one of our favorite neighborhoods in Miami. We don’t even mind the tourists who have made their way to the Grove. There’s enough variety in restaurants and ambientes.
Sure, parking gives us a little bit of anxiety, but if we are strategic and get there with time, we usually find a spot. Our list includes the best BBQ spot, a go-to for veal Milanese, real corn tortillas in Miami, and finally, the neighborhood bar we needed.
Check out our local guide covering the best restaurants in Coconut Grove.
CHUGGIE’S
Address: 3444 Main Hwy #15
Cuisine: American, burgers
Chuggie’s brings Chef Michael Beltran’s nostalgic take on the classic burger joint to Coconut Grove, inspired by the food he grew up eating in Miami. The menu keeps it simple and affordable with $8 burgers (unheard of), fritas, chicken sandwiches, fries, “happiest of meals” for the kiddos under 12 (yes, it comes with a prize), and swirled soft-serve cones, plus beers and cocktails on draft. It’s a grab-and-go spot. Or you can grab a seat outside at their picnic tables. Chuggie’s is designed to work for families, locals, basically anyone looking for a casual burger. Our favorite so far is The O.G. with Chug’s sauce, New School American cheese, dill pickles, shredded lettuce, and crispy onions.
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MAE’S ROOM
Address: 3444 Main Hwy, Suite 17
Cuisine: Cocktail bar
Mae’s Room is the newest bar to open in Coconut Grove from the team behind Ariete Hospitality and Mae’s Group, who have joined forces to launch three neighboring concepts in the Grove.
Mae’s Room is the timeless neighborhood bar we didn’t even know we needed until 2026. It is a cozy 750-square-foot cocktail den with a banging playlist that will have all Millennials feeling nostalgic. Mae’s focus is on classic and contemporary cocktails. The man behind the coldest martini that ever was and the bar program is Tom Lasher Walker, serving delicious martinis, old fashioneds, and daiquiris.
This is the sort of spot where you want to be a regular. You will mostly want to sit at the bar, which is designed so you can see pretty much everyone seated. It is U-shaped, great for people watching and the occasional wink (lol, do people even wink anymore?). You will feel instantly comfortable the minute you walk in, even if it is your first time there. They also have a couple of booths for groups of four to six.
One of our favorite things about Mae’s Room is that you can have a very cool low-high experience: craft cocktails and Chuggie’s for dinner. It’s easy. All you have to do is order on your phone, walk two doors down, pick up your food, and then enjoy an ice-cold martini with your chicken nuggets and fries, right at the bar. The juxtaposition is a dream and already a total hit.
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DRINKING PIG BBQ
Address: 3444 Main Hwy #16
Cuisine: American, Caribbean, BBQ
Drinking Pig BBQ now has a permanent home in Coconut Grove, giving Chef Raheem Sealey’s cult-favorite smokehouse a brick-and-mortar to match its reputation. Known for bold, soulful flavors, the menu is built for platters stacked with smoked beef rib, brisket, pulled pork, mac n’ cheese, and cornbread. What started as a pop-up favorite is now a full sit-down spot where Caribbean influence meets classic American barbecue.
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AVA MEDITERRAGEAN
Address: 2889 McFarlane Rd
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
If you like Mila, Casa Neos, and Claudie, you’ll want to know about AVA MediterrAegean. Coming from the same team, it might be one of the prettiest restaurants we’ve seen lately. We’d absolutely come back for dinner, pero si te provoca un brunch en un setting bonito, you’ll be very happy with your choice.
The brunch prix fixe is surprisingly generous: three courses plus dessert for $45, with enough options that it doesn’t feel restrictive at all. Expect dishes like the Spanakopita, Tomato Ricotta Rigatoni, and the Ava Gourmet Burger. Ordering outside the brunch menu? Go for the Mediterranean Seabass Carpaccio or the Grilled Halloumi Saganaki. Good food, un lugar lindo, and a deal that actually makes sense — a solid pick for brunch. We’d check it out for date night or group plans.
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OPHELIA
Address: 2140 S Dixie Hwy
Cuisine: Bakery
There’s a new bakery in town… and it’s inside an RV. Ophelia Miami opened in Coconut Grove, and it’s from Ana De Sa Martins, the former pastry chef at Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed.
Now baking straight from a mobile kitchen parked at 2140 S Dixie Highway, Ophelia is open Thursday to Saturday, 8 AM to 1 PM. The menu rotates weekly, but here’s what you should look out for: the banana bread (we’re still thinking about it), chocolate chip, banana bread, and sesame guava cookies, the Calabrian cheese roll, and a very solid iced latte. You’ll also find coffee cinnamon rolls, gouda jalapeño scones, and savory breakfast sandwiches on house-made English muffins.
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THE ORIGINAL DAILY BREAD MARKETPLACE
Address: 2400 SW 27th St
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Greek
The Daily Bread has been a Miami staple for quick, easy, and delicious Lebanese meals. Part Mediterranean marketplace and part counter-service restaurant, you order at the counter, pay, and then choose to take your food to go or sit and enjoy it in their casual market-style dining area. Bring a light sweater if you plan to eat there because it can get chilly inside.
We love their platters. Go for the Beef Shawarma, but you can also try the Grilled Chicken, Falafel, Kibbie, Lamb Kafta, or Gyro. Each platter comes with your choice of three sides: Hummus, Babaganoush, House Salad, Pickled Cabbage, Tabouli, or Rice Pilaf. For an upcharge, you can swap in Brown Rice, Mujaddara, Fatoush Salad, or Greek Salad. And for rice lovers, the Rice Pilaf is one of our favorites. For dessert, grab a Lady Finger.
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SI PAPA AT 3190
Address: 3190 Commodore Plaza
Cuisine: Italian, lasagna
The first time we read the name Si Papa at 3190, we said it with a Latin accent. But nope—say it like an Italian, because this cozy lasagna bar is all about the pasta. It’s the latest concept from the team behind San Lorenzo and Cotoletta, two new-ish Miami restaurants that opened earlier this year. The name comes from Executive Chef Giulio Rossi’s daughter, who always replied “Si Papa,” when asked if she wanted more lasagna.
Located next to Lokal in Coconut Grove, Si Papa has 3190 seats, just 24 guests, and serves one dish: a traditional Bolognese inspired by the chef’s memories of cooking with his daughter. There’s also a vegetarian version with pesto, peas, and green beans.
No menu. Just lasagna and exceptional wine. $15ish per lasagna. $9 tiramisu. $12 glass of Lambrusco. In this economy? Si, Papa.
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STRADA IN THE GROVE
Address: 3197 Commodore Plaza
Cuisine: Italian, pizza, pasta
Since opening in 2013 in a small space on Commodore Plaza, Strada has remained a longtime favorite in Coconut Grove. After a decade, the restaurant moved just across the street, expanding its offerings with a wood-burning oven and a full bar.
At Strada, the menu focuses on classic Italian dishes and regional specialties. The pizzas are a must, especially the Salsiccia, topped with pomodoro sauce, mozzarella, Berkshire sausage, and mixed mushrooms, and the Diavola, a balanced mix of sweet and spicy with mozzarella, sweet soppressata, spicy honey, and pomodoro sauce. With its cozy vibe, charming outdoor seating, and laid-back atmosphere, Strada is the spot for a relaxed meal with friends. It’s also a great pick for bigger groups.
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MAGIE WINE BAR
Address: 3540 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Mediterranean, wine bar
Magie in the Grove is the second location of Caroline Strauss’ elevated yet playful wine bar concept and exactly what Coconut Grove has been missing. Cozy and casual, this counter-service spot is inspired by the Mediterranean “tin-to-table” lifestyle.
It’s great for great for a first date or large groups and separate checks, with a menu by Chef Ivan Barros featuring fun snacks like Miss Peaches (Stracciatella, basil, peaches, and a sumac vinaigrette), Caviar Dino Nuggets, and Spanish Toastie (manchego, chorizo, and tomato jam). The wine list leans into biodynamic, organic bottles from Spain and Portugal, highlighting lesser-known grapes. There’s also craft beer and solid non-alcoholic options.
More than a wine bar and a casual spot for drinks, Magie doubles as a community hub, hosting live music, showcasing local artists, and putting on weekly events that spotlight local chefs and small businesses.
CARBONE VINO
Address: 2911 Grand Ave Suite 194
Cuisine: Italian, pasta
Carbone Vino in Coconut Grove recently opened and is a great choice for a date night if you’re looking for somewhere trendy and sexy, especially on a rainy evening.
The dim lighting, turquoise velvet couches, and candlelit bar set the mood, with classic tunes by Frank Sinatra and The Supremes creating a romantic feel. Pair a glass of wine with their famed Spicy Rigatoni Vodka with buttery sous vide onions or the Tortellini Tartufo Nero. And don’t miss the Guava Cheesecake, a Miami and New York creation.
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COTOLETTA
Address: 3206 Grand Ave
Cuisine: Italian
Cotoletta is the newest Italian bistro to open in Coconut Grove. The plot twist? They only serve one dish: the Cotoletta alla Milanese. A ballsy move that landed them a spot on this list.
This signature dish, inspired by co-founder Andrea Fraquelli’s family legacy, is prepared true to tradition and designed to be shared. For $80, two guests will get fresh antipasti. Ours was an individual bruschetta served with tomato, mozzarella, and basil, and a truffle arancini. The signature veal Cotoletta will arrive with two classic sides like penne pomodoro, crisp arugula salad, and/or fresh fries. This is a great deal, and they really do know how to cook a veal milanesa. Desserts are not included in the $80, but we loved the chocolate cake with pistachio ice cream.
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AMAL
Address: 3480 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Modern Lebanese
Stop by Amal when you’re in the mood to dress up. Created by the team behind Byblos, the Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, Amal’s menu features modern Lebanese dishes crafted by Chef Wissman Baki. It’s an ideal spot for dips, cold and hot mezze, skewers, and more. Stop by Amal, with your young at heart suegros who are in the mood to dress up, but don’t want to go to the Beach.
The space is stunning—honestly, we’d love our home to look like this. With sandy interiors in earth tones like rose and terracotta, complemented by small palm trees throughout, giving it a touch of Miami. We could easily live here—not just cause it’s so pretty, but because the food is fresh and delicious.
Our favorite dishes include Garlic Labneh with dry mint; Muhammara with house spices and walnuts; beef Kibbeh on a bed of cucumber yogurt; Truffle Rakakat with honey, grapes, mint and pistachios (think sweet tequeños); Chicken Tawok skewers served with biwaz, pita, grilled tomatoes. serrano peppers, grilled onions, hummus, and rice.
For brunch we loved the Hummus; Truffle Rakakat aka the cheese cigars, finished off with honey, grapes, mint, and pistachios; Kibbeh served with a cucumber yogurt sauce, and the Shakshouka, poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce (just make sure to ask for a side of bread).
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EMISSARY CAFE
Address: 3308 Mary St
Cuisine: Café
From Washington DC to Miami, Emissary has quickly become a favorite in Coconut Grove for breakfast, lunch, and quick coffee runs. It’s our go-to spot for weekday meetings, solo outings, and early breakfasts after the gym. We love the simplicity of the long bar and the lighting of the space, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.
And can we take a moment to say that although this spot gets busy, everyone here is so nice, cool, and collected? If you’re looking for a beverage, we’d go with the iced cappuccino or the Motorcycle Matcha latte,e both with pistachio milk. Pair it with a croissant from Flour and Weirdoughs, a local favorite known for the best croissants in Miami. If you’re dining in, don’t miss the Bfast Charcuterie aka Protein Plate, featuring Domaselo protein bread, smoked salmon, pasture-raised eggs, and a variety of tasty fixings.
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OMAKAI
Address: 3304 Mary St
Cuisine: Japanese, sushi
Omakai is your easy, cool neighborhood sushi spot with locations in both Coconut Grove and Wynwood. You’re going to Omakai with a group of friends, on a date, or even by yourself (yes, we’re very into solo dates lately) for some quality sushi at a reasonable price.
The menu at Omakai showcases a mix of traditional and modern Japanese dishes. They offer five omakase options and an à la carte menu. This is how we’d go about it: order their OMA Deluxe, which comes with an appetizer, a sashimi special, a generous assortment of seasonal nigiris, and 2 hand rolls, the Negi-Toro and the Blue Crab. If you’re still a little hungry, go ahead and order a few extra nigiris! Our favorites? Ikura, O-Toro, Uni, and Caviar (a must), and Unagi Foie Gras. If you’re not a dessert person then this last one is the great way to end your meal, it’s sweet, warm, and delicious.
If you’re into late lunches (or even an afternoon sushi pick-me-up), Omakai has a great Happy Hour, Monday through Sunday from 3 PM to 6:30 PM. Yes, they have $3 beer, $5 wine, and $7 sake buuuuut, what you’re going for is the $6 nigiris (2 pieces per order) and hand rolls.
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MIDORIE
Address: 3444 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Japanese, sushi
Midorie, a Japanese restaurant in Coconut Grove from the creators of Hiyakawa and Ogawa is open from Tuesday – Saturday for lunch and dinner from 12 PM – 9 PM. The all-day menu includes fast-casual donburi (Japanese bowls), omakase platters, and sushi a la carte. Think seasonal seafood that is flown in from Tokyo’s famed Toyosu fish market four times a week. Sushi will include golden Japanese sea bream, fluke, otoro, and hard-to-find offerings. Make sure to ask if there are any fish specials of the day. Our favorite nigiri when we stopped by was the Kin-Medai.
Come with one other person that you want to catch up with or by yourself for a solo dine. If you want to make it a group outing then we recommend a table for 4 in their small outdoor seating area. It’s also a great spot for takeout.
We would stop by for a quick lunch and get a Miso Soup, which is slow-cooked for 12 hours, and a Midorie Donburi Bowl that comes with salmon, tuna, blue crab, tobiko, and shiitake mushrooms. As for a base, we’d go with the cha soba noodles flavored with green tea and made with buckwheat flour. Make sure to pour the spicy miso and sesame ginger sauces into your donuburi.
If it’s dinner you’re looking for, get their omakase platter that comes with 12 pieces and one maki roll. This isn’t an omakase experience where each piece is served at once. This is an informal dinner with amazing quality sushi where all nigiris are presented at once. No reservations are accepted but you can call 30 minutes before you want to come in and ask how the wait is looking.
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EL BAGEL
Address: 3015 Grand Ave #122
Cuisine: Bakery, cafe
Miami’s favorite bagel shop opened a second location in Coconut Grove’s CocoWalk and we’re so excited we could scream. The menu features a range of hand-rolled bagels, signature sandwiches, rotating drinks, vegan options, and some new dishes.
You’re either taking the bagels home or if the weather permits, eating them outside (they have tables available to the public in the CocoWalk courtyard next to Mister01).
If you want to keep it simple, go for their salt bagel with scallion cream cheese (vegan option available). Other amazing sandwich orders include the Lox Supreme with locally-smoked lox, English cucumber, dill, pickled onion, tomato, capers, and cream cheese; and the Classic Pastrami with 18hr-smoked Pastrami, housemade coleslaw, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Please note that El Bagel is currently not accepting pre-orders in their Coconut Grove store. They are open daily from 8 AM to 2 PM, except for Tuesday.
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SUSHI BY SCRATCH RESTAURANTS: MIAMI
Address: 3540 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Japanese, omakase
If you love Omakase experiences, add this one to the top of your list. This is a special and highly creative restaurant concept. And also, where else can you get sushi with sourdough starter or poblano kosho?!
From LA to Miami, Chefs Margarita Kallas-Lee and Phillip Frankland Lee have opened the fourth Sushi by Scratch Restaurant in Coconut Grove. This non-traditional omakase den serves 17 courses for 10 guests at a time in a counter setting. So yeah, you’ll probably make friends with your neighbors.
Make sure to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled seating time to enjoy your complimentary welcome cocktail before the full-on nigiri night. Flavor profiles won’t be traditional however everything is made from scratch, including the soy sauce and vinegars. The menu changes often however their signature roasted bone marrow nigiri will probably make an appearance.
The tasting menu is priced at $185 per person plus tax and service with the option of three different seatings (5 PM, 7:15 PM, and 9:30 PM). Beverage pairing options are available for an additional cost.
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KRÜS KITCHEN
Address: 3413 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Globally-inspired, seasonal kitchen
If you haven’t been to Krüs Kitchen in Coconut Grove for dinner, NOW is the time. Chef Sebas Vargas and his incredible team have crafted a menu straight from the heart, and it’s one of the best in Miami. Everything has been carefully thought out and made from scratch—even the bread and butter. Their dedication to sustainability has earned them a Michelin Green Star in gastronomy.
This is the food of fine dining, except it’s in a chill, market setting located on a second floor. Enter through sister restaurant Los Félix, and head upstairs to Krüs Kitchen. The space is vibrant, with so much natural light and a cornered open kitchen. It is decorated with biodynamic wines and other products on display, which is always nice to look at while waiting for your dishes to arrive.
And speaking of, this evolving menu will change with the seasons, but for now, after trying the entire menu, our favorites include the Heirloom Tomatoes, Oyster Mushrooms, Smoked Coconut Rice, and the Tagliatelle with grass-fed oxtail with Meyer lemon.
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LOS FÉLIX
Address: 3413 Main Hwy
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
If you love freshly made corn tortillas or arepas, the Michelin-starred and Green Star-awarded Los Félix is a must-visit. Founders Pili Restrepo, Josh Hackler, and Chef Sebastián Vargas have crafted a Mexican menu that honors the nearly extinct Milpa farming tradition of heirloom corn. Here, familiar and comforting Latin flavors are elevated with refined techniques in a laid-back setting that prioritizes thoughtful ingredient sourcing.
Their menu is constantly changing, make sure to stop by for brunch and dinner. We love the Sweet Corn Arepa, Pork Cheek Carnitas, and their day’s catch Crudo, Masa Pancake, and Chilaquiles. Your meal should be paired with a bottle of their thorough selection of natural wine or one of the best Micheladas we’ve had in town while listening to some vinyl records.
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SAPORE DI MARE
Address: 3111 Grand Ave
Cuisine: Italian
The cutest, most picturesque Italian spot in Coconut Grove is, of course, the beloved Sapore di Mare. Locals have been coming here since 2014 but honestly, it feels like it’s been longer. It’s a great spot for a cute rom-com dinner scene or a lunch spot con los suegros o para hechar el chisme. If you don’t have a reservation and are trying to go for dinner, you’ll wait a while. Luckily for you, Cudas (Barracudas) is just a street over, ready for you with a nice cold beer pitcher.
Anyways, if you’re coming here because of the cacio e pepe post you saw on Instagram, that’s the move because it’s actually as good as it looks. However, we’d also like to note that they offer daily specials that are worthy. Ask for the specials! During our most recent visit, we had this rich gnocchi with cherry tomatoes and tiger prawns, and we’d get it again.
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BOMBAY DARBAR
Address: 2901 Florida Ave
Cuisine: Indian
Bombay Darbar is one of our favorite Coconut Grove staples. It’s pure Indian comfort in every bite with the warmest hospitality. Don’t miss the paneer pakoras, chicken tikka masala, and samosa chaat. Oh and order a side of Raita, a traditional yogurt sauce. Come with the fam or a group of friends so that you can all share. It’s also a great option for those rainy days, pickup, or takeout.
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ARIETE
Address: 3540 Main Hwy
Cuisine: American
Ariete is Chef Michael Beltran’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, known for merging French technique with Cuban flavors. The signature dish is the Canard à la Presse—Rohan Duck for two, dry-aged for 20 days, glazed with guarapo and honey, and presented tableside. Served with sides like Calabaza Tamal, Foie Gravy, and Duck Fricasé Pastelitos. We recommend booking an early reservation—quantities are limited each night. If the duck is sold out, go for the six-course tasting menu.
You can order a full meal at the bar, either by booking a reservation or walking in—though bar seats are limited, so reserving is best.
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ATCHANA’S HOMEGROWN THAI
Address: 3194 Commodore Plaza
Cuisine: Thai
It’s not easy to get good Thai food in Miami. However, neighborhood spot, Atchana’s hits the spot. It’s informal and a great spot for a weekday dinner. We recommend the Basil Pork Ribs, the Pla Lad Prig (crispy, deep-fried local whole red snapper), and the Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles with green peppercorns, chili, and basil).
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CHUG’S DINER
Address: 3444 Main Hwy Suite 21
Cuisine: Cuban American
Chug’s is a true Miami diner—with a ventanita, brunch, full bar. If you’re dining with just one other person, grab a seat at the bar. For a group of four, a booth is the way to go, and if you’re with a larger party or have kids, the outdoor terrace is your best bet.
Whether you’re swinging by in the morning for a quick cafecito and ham croqueta or settling in for a full meal, every dish pays tribute to Miami’s Cuban-American roots.
Try the Short Rib Boliche, served with white rice and sunny-side-up eggs—both comforting, caserito
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