There’s no shortage of places to dine out in Miami. But while everyone’s fawning over the latest, buzziest new hot spot, don’t forget there are plenty of unassuming local hangs that know their way around a low-key amazing meal. Here, five places you need to check out, stat.
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5 Under-the-Radar Restaurants You Need to Know (and Try) Right Now
Café Roval
Consider this the neighborhood spot you’ve always wanted, complete with a gorgeous garden patio, a friendly staff and some seriously tasty Moroccan spiced chicken. Grab a few of your best friends for a night out or a low-key brunch (keep an eye out for the lemon and blueberry pancakes).
5808 NE 4th Ct., Miami; 786-953-7850 or caferoval.com
Glam Vegan
You don’t have to be vegan to understand why this casual bistro is a local favorite. With a menu of globally inspired meat- and dairy-free dishes, this place will leave you feeling great. Buffalo cauliflower bowl? Coming right up. Jackfruit tacos? You betcha. Farro risotto in cashew cream? OK, we’re on our way.
3301 NE First Ave., Miami; 786-864-0590 or glam-vegan.com
Sansara
Chef-owners Andres Vega and Sachi Statz are responsible for one of the most charming modern Cuban meals in all of Miami. It’s open only on the weekends, but it’s worth waiting for pancakes with orange creamsicle icing, along with a croqueta cake Benedict and key lime pie zeppoles.
1315 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Miami; 305-432-4661 or sansaramiami.com
Wabi Sabi By Shuji
Helmed by chef Shuji Hiyakawa, this low-key spot down 79th Street serves up just the kind of creative, healthy dishes we could nibble on all day, like tuna and avocado bowls, fruity Japanese-inspired cold-pressed juices and matcha mochi.
851 NE 79th St., Miami; 305-890-7228 or wabisabibyshuji.com
Lettuce And Tomato
Even though word of mouth has made this restaurant one of the most popular in North Miami, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve made the trek up here. We’re here to tell you that it’s an absolute must. Hidden on a quiet side street off 170th street, the restaurant offers a killer lunch and dinner service, and also just launched a to-die-for breakfast filled with items like shakshuka, a mango and maple parfait, house-made croissants and so much more.
17070 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami Beach; 305-760-2260 or lettuce-tomato.com