Best Miami Restaurants with a View

At street level, it's easy to forget how beautiful Miami can be. But a handful of Miami restaurants offer great vistas of the city's modern skyline and waterfront while serving up cuisine representative of the Miami's Cuban, Latin, and American traditions. After all, it's undeniable that restaurants with a view are surefire winners when it comes to date night. Check out our list of the seven best spots in the city for dining with a view.

Area 31

270 Biscayne Boulevard Way | Downtown

Where to sit: Ask for a seat out on the terrace on the 16th floor for the most sweeping views of the skyline.
What to order: The swordfish is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its reputation for being absolutely perfectly cooked.
Ambiance: Plan for a romantic, date-night type vibe thanks to elegant plating and glittering chandeliers.

Il Gabbiano

335 Biscayne Boulevard | Downtown

Where to sit: Grab a spot out on the terrace for killer views of the bay.
What to order: The lobster ravioli is mouth-watering, served in a rich creamy sauce and topped with fresh cheese and basil.
Ambiance: It's definitely an upscale affair here, so you may want to consider dressing up.

Smith & Wollensky

1 Washington Avenue | South Beach

Where to sit: To get great views of the water and avoid some of the crowds, head upstairs to the bar on the second floor.
What to order: Getting steak is a given, but for dessert make sure to ask for a slice of their famous coconut cake, which has won over even coconut haters.
Ambiance: It's another upscale joint, but you'll find a more relaxed atmosphere on the second floor with its comfy cushioned wicker couches and wide umbrellas.

Lido Bayside Grill

40 Island Avenue | Venetian Islands

Where to sit: Anywhere! There are water views from every table making it easy to choose a seat.
What to order Try stopping by for cocktails as dinner can be hit or miss, however it's definitely worth staking out a spot for a drink during sunset.
Ambiance: This spot is casual and relaxed, perfect for a night out with friends.

La Mar by Gaston Acurio

500 Brickell Key Drive | Brickell Key

Where to sit: Grab a seat at the ceviche bar; you can still see the water from the large floor-to-ceiling windows across the open dining area, but you'll also see chefs prepping the restaurant's specialty.
What to order: The grilled octopus is a favorite of both staff and diners, but make sure you get the ceviche as well.
Ambiance: La Mar is perfect for anniversaries and special occasions.

Juvia

1111 Lincoln Road | City Center

Where to sit: Anywhere on the open-air rooftop, which features a leafy wall of plants for a verdant and urban vibe.
What to order: Meat lovers will want to try the Korean marinated short ribs, which get a smoky flavor from the binchotan charcoal grill they're cooked on.
Ambiance: Decked out in a purple and white theme, the atmosphere is both hip and relaxed.

Red Fish Grill

9610 Old Cutler Road | Old Cutler

Where to sit: Ask for a seat out on the patio at dusk beneath one of the palm trees wrapped in fairy lights for a magical experience.
What to order: For a perfect Miami meal, get the chilean sea bass with a slice of key lime pie for dessert.
Ambiance: Red Fish Grill is very romantic, and its secluded spot on Round Beach makes it a popular choice for weddings.