Seafood is to Miami Beach what sunshine is to Florida—an obvious cliche, but also what half the beachgoers are craving right now. If you’re going to eat from the ocean, you might as well find a spot that’s worth your time. And you’re in a city that’s full of them. We can’t promise all these are light, but we can promise they won’t disappoint. Here are the best seafood restaurants in Miami Beach that are worth the splurge.
Carbone Miami
$$$$ | (212) 254-3000 | WEBSITE
Carbone Miami is a high-end Italian restaurant in Miami Beach that takes the classic fine-dining experience and elevates it with theatrical flair. Revolutionary? Not exactly. Memorable? Absolutely. The play here is to order one of their signature pasta dishes: a plate of al dente rigatoni tossed in a creamy vodka sauce with a spicy kick, plus their Caesar Alla ZZ salad with crisp romaine, garlicky croutons, and a rich dressing.
If splurging on pasta feels too predictable, try their standout ribeye Diana, cooked to perfection and served with a savory pan sauce. The luxurious setting—think velvet chairs and sparkling chandeliers—paired with attentive service in chic burgundy bow ties makes for a vibrant, romantic evening.
Bungalow By The Sea
$$$ | (305) 538-3373 | WEBSITE
Before you roll your eyes at another beachside seafood spot, let us explain. Yes, lobster rolls can be overpriced and underwhelming, but this is the exception. The Maine lobster roll is the sole reason we’ll brave the Miami Beach crowds: a $28 buttery brioche bun overflowing with sweet, tender lobster meat that’s somehow never rubbery—even when served at a bustling outdoor table. In fact, it inexplicably tastes even better when eaten with sand between your toes and salt in the air.
We love the fresh tuna tartare and ceviche that come before it, too.
The Beach Food and Drinks
$$ | (305) 672-2472 | WEBSITE
A vibrant, festive little spot. This is the kind of place you’d “pop into” for brunch after strolling Ocean Drive and grimacing at the midday heat. Each frozen drink is perfectly blended, as if the bar made them one by one. The lively atmosphere syncs perfectly with the bold seafood paella, which has a briny-savory punch. And much like the South Beach nightlife’s signature energy, the blanket of music over the whole scene adds a subtle rhythm that ties the whole experience together.
Corallo Miami
$$$ | (305) 534-0079 | WEBSITE
Yes, this is a $38 pasta dish, but you’re also enjoying it in an elegantly designed Italian restaurant with the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner. These things go hand-in-hand. Most importantly though, the pasta itself is worth the price point. Prepared tableside by the friendly staff, it’s a classic rendition of homemade Pappardelle Bolognese, only here it’s elevated with rich beef ragu, fresh herbs, and a generous dusting of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
It’s also wonderfully comforting, thanks to the slow-cooked sauce that’s been simmering for hours. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying pasta that’s ideal for a special night out.
Via Emilia 9
$$$ | (786) 216-7150 | WEBSITE
Via Emilia 9 doesn’t try to reinvent Italian cuisine, but it does perfect it. Everything about this authentic version is rich, satisfying, and kind of impossible not to savor at a leisurely pace, from the hand-made pasta to the generous drizzle of parmesan cream that coats every tortellini. It’s also not weighed down by heavy sauces—instead, fresh seafood, top-quality prosciutto, and a reasonable amount of hand-spun pistachio ice cream are featured throughout.
If you’re looking for more of a bolognese feel, opt for the cotoletta alla bolognese, which swaps in tender veal and is made with the same perfect flavors.
Sushi Bichi
$$$ | (305) 397-8749 | WEBSITE
When you’ve had one too many generic sushi rolls and the thought of another bland California roll makes you want to toss your chopsticks in frustration, make your way to Sushi Bichi. This fusion spot is best known for its consistently amazing sushi, but they also have a Bichi Salad on their diverse menu which proves why Miami’s obsession with fresh seafood salads exists in the first place.
This one is particularly delicious with a bright, citrusy dressing and generous portions of octopus and ceviche that make it taste like a coastal celebration. The thoughtfully crafted cocktails, especially the signature Bichi drink, are also a highlight and half the reason why you should immediately enjoy them at one of Sushi Bichi’s tables with those unbelievable views.
Bentley Beach Club
$$$ | (305) 938-4600 | WEBSITE
The name of this beach club in Miami Beach is an accurate description. It could also, in fact, be called a first-class beach location because it easily serves both relaxation and celebration––or perhaps just one purpose if you’re keen on enjoying a truly exceptional hospitality experience. The service tastes straight-from-the-heart genuine, delivered by a seasonal cast of staff like Esteban who pack an attentive presence.
The remaining team, including Orlando the doorman and Front Office Director Michael, appear consistently helpful, all working in a welcoming, serene atmosphere. It’s pretty straightforward, but for an uncomplicated and refreshing beach escape, this is the pinnacle.
Fifi’s on the Beach Seafood Restaurant
$$$ | (305) 865-5665 | WEBSITE
If a restaurant sits right on the beach, we’re ordering some fresh seafood (which is never a bad call at Fifi’s on the Beach). But when our appetite nudges us toward something lighter, the ceviche will satisfy any seafood lover—no surprise, given how much we love the seafood dishes at this spot. The ceviche bursts with freshness, with bright citrus notes that wake up the palate. The stone crab claws add a sweet, delicate flavor, and the seafood pasta brings richness and texture.
It’s a well-rounded, flavorful meal that makes us forget about the lobster bisque we could’ve been eating, but there’s also an option to add langistinos if you can’t help yourself.
Osteria Positano | Italian restaurant in Miami Beach
$$$ | (786) 278-3401 | WEBSITE
The lobster linguine at this Italian gem is straightforward: fresh pasta, succulent lobster, garlic, and white wine sauce. But we swear there’s a secret ingredient from the Amalfi Coast in there, because there’s no other way to explain how they make this so incredible. You’re definitely going to need something to balance out all the pasta and dessert you devour at Osteria Positano, and it should be this dish.
Nettuno Oysters & Seafood
$$$ | (305) 397-8293 | WEBSITE
Inspired by the Italian coast’s classic flavors, the mixed seafood risotto at Nettuno Oysters & Seafood is the kind of dish that could define an entire evening, and somehow manages to elevate what seafood risotto even is. Sure, there’s rice, but there’s also (thankfully) a generous mix of shrimp and mushrooms to elevate it. It’s a complete meal in risotto form, and might just surpass its traditional inspiration.
Forte dei Marmi
$$$$ | (786) 276-3095 | WEBSITE
Forte dei Marmi is a restaurant best known for its romantic special-occasion atmosphere, but it’s also home to what is possibly the beach’s most famous pasta: a delicate plate of homemade gluten-free noodles. If there ever was a pasta that was closer to a cloud, it would be this one. And despite how delicate that might sound, we mean it as a compliment.
Also, the real trick here is to think of the pasta itself as only a base for the many, many things you’ll pair—Branzino, pistachio gelato, and attentive service from staff like Juan, Jose V., and Alex are a good place to start.
Di Mauro`s Italian Restaurant & Bar
$$ | (305) 673-5774 | WEBSITE
The Bucatini Amatriciana at Di Mauro’s Italian Restaurant & Bar is the textbook definition of a “soul-warming pasta”—it involves the same rich, smoky guanciale and pecorino Romano you’d expect from a classic Roman trattoria but comes tossed in a bright, tangy tomato sauce that clings perfectly to the thick, hollow noodles. There’s also a generous sprinkle of chili flakes for a subtle kick and a shower of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top.
This dish also holds up beautifully as leftovers, which is a key detail because, ultimately, it’s a lot of perfectly al dente bucatini and savory sauce to get through in one sitting.
That’s Amore 🇮🇹🍕Italian Restaurant Miami Beach
$$ | (786) 278-5533 | WEBSITE
This cozy South Beach gem is one of the most underrated Italian spots in Miami. And while pretty much everything on the menu is delicious, you shouldn’t leave without trying the salmon ravioli. They’ve been making it here for years (long before you became obsessed with the one at that fancy place downtown), and for good reason—this fresh, perfectly cooked classic is worth the visit every time.
The Lobster Shack
$$ | (305) 397-8032 | WEBSITE
The Lobster Shack is one of our favorite places to eat seafood in Miami Beach. Or anywhere, for that matter. But if you come to this cozy spot on Lincoln Road and only concentrate on lobster, you’re missing out on one of the better dishes on the entire menu: the crab dip. We could point to the creamy texture of the dip itself, or the generous chunks of crab meat, or the subtle spices that elevate each bite. But what makes this dish great aren’t the individual elements.
It’s the balance of everything together, taking this appetizer from being just another crab dip to one you intentionally seek out.
Local House
$$ | (305) 538-5529 | WEBSITE
We know this Eggs Benedict with truffle hollandaise from beachside favorite Local House sounds like a decadent brunch splurge you’d only order on vacation, but hear us out, especially if you appreciate rich hollandaise as much as perfectly poached eggs. English muffins are topped with thick-cut Canadian bacon and eggs that, combined with the earthy truffle infusion and the velvety sauce, taste like a luxurious breakfast sandwich.
The goat cheese croquettes add a creamy contrast, and you can enjoy them on the rooftop terrace if you’re trying to hit your relaxation goal for the day.
Españolita Miami 🌹💃
$$$ | (786) 813-7415 | WEBSITE
Finding a table at Españolita Miami can be challenging given its popularity, but the vibrant Spanish restaurant makes the effort completely worthwhile with its authentic menu. Beyond their game-changing paella, this Miami Beach spot also excels at fresh seafood dishes, including a Cesar salad with perfectly grilled shrimp. The salad gets its character from the generous shrimp topping, but it’s really just the beginning.
There’s also a satisfying balance of crisp romaine, savory mushroom pasta on the side, and lighter touches like a bright lemon dressing and lively music in the background.
Stubborn Seed – Miami Beach
$$$$ | (786) 322-5211 | WEBSITE
Stubborn Seed wins the award for having the seafood you can depend on during another special night out crisis. Yes, Stubborn Seed is a fine dining spot, but we do not care. There’s something about eating this beautiful food with creative dishes, thoughtful wine pairings, and delicious cocktails that feels like you’re being treated to an exquisite experience by Ricardo on a memorable evening.
5 Esquinas
$$ | (305) 456-6695 | WEBSITE
The ceviche, arroz con mariscos, and tallarines verdes get most of the attention at 5 Esquinas, but their octopus dish also deserves some appreciation. You’ve no doubt seen some version of this at a random Peruvian spot or in a Miami food hall, but 5 Esquinas nails their version. Each bite from the tender, charred tentacles delivers a satisfying chew and is coated in the right amount of smoky paprika and olive oil.
What makes it most memorable, though, are the creamy Peruvian potatoes served alongside, giving it a comforting depth you wouldn’t expect from a seafood plate.
CJ’s Crab Shack
$$ | (305) 604-5951 | WEBSITE
Whenever we’ve had one too many heavy meals, the Snow Crab and Shrimp with parmesan corn from CJ’s Crab Shack is our salvation. Each component in this gathering of seafood is so fresh and flavorful, that by the end of the meal, a satisfied glow of indulgence is floating above your head. The crab and shrimp have noticeable seasoning and come prepared to the optimal bite-size, then get paired with creamy parmesan corn, a buttery sauce, and a hint of citrus.
The option to add fried fish and chips or a crab and shrimp combo is also available—we usually go with the consistently delicious combo, since it takes on the atmosphere of the vibrant beach setting. A little-known detail is that this is essentially identical to the “Seafood Platter” you’ll find at top spots along Ocean Drive. The attentive waiters here add a warm touch, and though a gratuity of 18% is added, many feel it’s worth it for the quality and lively atmosphere.
Watr At The 1 Rooftop
$$$ | (305) 604-1000 | WEBSITE
Watr At The 1 Rooftop is arguably the best place to get seafood in Miami Beach, and the best dish here is the sushi. Not only is it expertly crafted, but all those flavors layered together (fresh fish, perfect rice, delicate sauces) are also as vibrant and delicious as they come. If you’re a visitor looking for a not-boring meal during your vacation, this is your easy solution.