Deciding on a Valentine’s Day plan is… stressful. Especially if you live in Miami where so many new restaurants are popping up, it’s nearly impossible to keep track.
This year, instead of fussing about scoring dinner reservations, how about you turn your full attention to the one you love. That’s right, put down your Resy app and let me guide you to date night perfection. You’re welcome.
Anyways! I’ve curated a list of the most swoon-worthy Miami spots deserving of your time on the most romantic day of the year. But truthfully, the best advice I can impart is to postpone your Valentine’s celebration by a day or two in order to avoid those mediocre pre-fixe menus.
Need more inspiration? Check out my 9 Best Date Ideas in Miami post for more Miami date options.
Chateau ZZ’s
Chateau ZZ’s is Miami’s buzziest new restaurant and private members club by Major Food Group, the huge restaurant group behind Carbone.
Chateau ZZ’ is located in a grand chateau smack-dab in the middle of Brickell. By no means is a chateau very Miami— in fact, it’s not Miami at all. That’s exactly what sets it apart. A little slice of Europe living in South Florida.
Their menu is Mexican-inspired. Loosely inspired. It most definitely strays from authenticity and uses traditional Mexican flavors as a base for the delivered dishes.
If you’re looking for romance and experience above everything else, I’d book far in advance in order to score a coveted table.
Bouchon Bistro
Bouchon Bistro is a newly opened, award-winning French bistro in the heart of Coral Gables. It’s a classic, white tablecloth establishment that will pull at your heartstrings if you’re often dreaming of Paris.
Before this year, Miami was lacking an excellent, traditional French bistro. Bouchon Bistro exceeds those expectations and is the perfect addition to Coral Gables— a neighborhood already known for its buzzy restaurant scene and beloved Miami-favorite eats.
Enjoy all your French favorites (Croque Madame, anyone?) and briefly transport to the City of Love.
Doya
Doya is one of the best dining experiences in Wynwood. The food is as beautiful and inspiring as the artsy neighborhood itself. Their menu is made of contemporary Aegean dishes that are true showstoppers when they arrive at the table. The menu is completely made of Meze, which is easily shareable and perfect for your party of two. Doya has the best of both worlds: delicious food with a romantic ambiance to stay and finish your bottle of natural wine.
Luca
Luca is one of those restaurants that delivers excellence every. single. time. Located in the middle of Giralda Plaza, one of Coral Gables’ most charming streets, Luca is the perfect combination of excellent ambiance and cuisine (Giralda is pedestrian traffic only and it serves top-notch people-watching).
The Patate Fritte is a must-order. These little potato balls topped with a parmigiano fonduta and creamy egg yolk transcend normalcy and are one of the most delicious starter dishes I’ve ever had. The Pasta al Limone is another star off the menu. If you don’t have reservations and can’t bother to wait, Luca’s sister restaurant, Eating House, is just a few doors down, and it’s equally as delicious.
Margot Natural Wine Bar
Wine lovers, look no further than Margot Natural Wine Bar for your new favorite date night spot. Margot Natural Wine Bar looks like it belongs in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Its interior is trendy, pink (!) and reminiscent of a 70s-style basement (of course, there’s a disco ball). The menu at Margot Natural Wine Bar is limited yet effective. Simply put, it’s a very chic and intimate spot in Downtown Miami for your next date.
Get lost in the music coming from the vintage sound system and ask your very well-versed server for their bottle recommendation— you won’t be disappointed.
Pastis
Pastis is sure to bring a certain “je ne sais quoi” to your Valentine’s Day. This iconic French restaurant is yet another New York native that has migrated down to Miami.
Upon entrance, you’re met with palm trees and frilly umbrellas, which couldn’t be more different than the New York location. But, what remains the same between both Pastis locations is its fabulosity and decadence. This is the kind of place that makes you want to put on your best dress and sashay around with a stiff martini and a long, extended cigarette (if you get the vibe, you get the vibe— you’re in a French bistro after all).
Pastis isn’t just about the scene. The food is incredible, not fussy, and memorable. Their menu is filled with all your French favorites that you’d expect.
Resort Pass
Resort Pass is the perfect way to enjoy a luxurious Miami beach stay…without the room rate that’s worth your monthly rent rate. With Resort Pass, you pay a one-time fee to use a resort’s amenities, pool, or beach service. The fee depends on the hotel you choose and Resort Pass could still be a splurge— food, drink, and spa services are not included in the fee. However, if you prefer experience over a meal this Valentine’s Day, Resort Pass is a fun idea for you and your partner to cheat the idea of a staycation.
El Salón
A night at El Salón is like stepping into an old Hollywood film. It’s sultry, dim, feminine, and serves one of Miami’s best martinis. Located inside the Esmé Hotel on one of South Beach’s busiest streets, El Salón is a complete switch from its surrounding environment. It’s anything but the typical South Beach flashiness, with its “if you know, you know” energy and French boudoir decor.
If you’re trying to impress your date by taking them to a mysterious yet unpretentious cocktail lounge with drinks that don’t play around— this is the place to take them.
Rao’s
Rao’s is the hottest table in town, no doubt about it. If your main mission on Valentine’s Day is to impress your date with the city’s most anticipated reservation, then open up your Resy app now. Located inside the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Rao’s is best known for their comfort Italian dishes. Decadent pasta, meats, and everything else you’d want for a classic Italian meal.
