If there’s one thing you should know about Miami, it’s that there’s plenty of incredible places to eat. You just have to know where to look.

Each neighborhood has a very distinct personality when it comes to food – and because there’s so many options, especially if you’re looking for the Michelin Guide. This past week, I’ve been eating my way through Downtown Miami, and what I’ve noticed is that this is the place you go if you want smaller, more intimate hidden gems.

They’ve got smaller dining rooms, less tables, and that “new discovery” feeling every time you walk in the door.

Here’s all of the places I’ve tried so far.

 

Tâm Tâm

A Michelin Bib Gourmand-winning Vietnamese drinking food and wine bar very close to Brickell, Tâm Tâm is a cozy corner-spot well known for, and I quote, their “erotic” pork ribs, wings that are to die for and lamb skewers that make you salivate just thinking about them. And while I didn’t get the chance to try the pork ribs – I did get a chance to try a few of their other smaller plates and the lamb.

Picking a favorite, the lamb takes the cake for me – but the wings were a VERY close second. Granted, I am a meat lover – so take that as you will. Paired with a chilled Barbera blend, it was the perfect way to explore Vietnamese food with a new lens. Definitely will be going back.

 

Niu Kitchen

Tucked away in the heart of Downtown Miami, Niu Kitchen has spent the last three years on the Michelin Guide but still feels like a local neighborhood best-kept secret. They’re known for Old World Spanish foods and flavors, natural and biodynamic wines and of course, their Oyster plates.

Now, I’m not much of a seafood gal, so while that didn’t tempt me – the special that’s been on the menu for the last ten years certainly did. Truffle and potato foam, poached eggs, crispy Iberico ham and truffle oil on the top, all paired with a glass of Cava brut. I love that Niu Kitchen still has that “fresh discovery” feel about it, even though it’s gotten a lot of accolades and attention. The wine list is thoughtful and well-curated, AND I even tried my first-ever orange wine there. Which, yes, as a wine photographer – I do need to step up my game in that department.

 

Macondo Coffee

I didn’t do a ton of eating here – but they definitely make a really good coffee. It’s been a solid repeat for me when I’m hunting down a caffeine fix, but also does the trick for my sometimes existent sweet tooth. The coconut cake, by the way – total winner. AND their Philly cheesesteak sandwich is to die for.

 

The Tipsy Flamingo

The Tipsy Flamingo was an accidental stop-in. But a really happy one.

Imagine this, you walk outside, gorgeous sunny evening. Less than five minutes later, total downpour. So naturally, as one does, I stopped into the first place I found that was open for happy hour – and that just so happened to be this place.

I stayed for a glass of wine and a few little snacky bits, but I’m fully intending to head back to check out their cocktail menu. Apparently they specialize in tequila and gin – and they’ve got a whiskey list that certainly piques my attention.

 

 

Rosaluna

This is my little favorite find from when I was in Miami last January. It’s Italian comforts with a twist, think Nonna’s classic recipes in the heart of Miami. It’s not always busy for lunch, due to the location, but it’s one that you can’t miss out on if you’re looking for a small intimate spot with flavors that’ll leave you dreaming about them long after you leave.

I can’t get enough of their fried zucchini flowers, it’s a favorite of mine from when I used to live in Italy. Ricotta, lemon and tomato on the inside – it’s perfection, if you ask me. Seasonally rotating pasta, a pistachio cheesecake, and a wine line list that would make anyone swoon – it’s a spot I consistently come back to and am always glad when I do.