Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in South Beach | Upscale & Paleo

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Paleo Restaurants in South Beach | Upscale & Paleo

• Finnegan's Way — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant corner retreat captures the spirited energy of a classic Irish pub, where the hum of lively conversation mingles with the salt-tinged breeze of the nearby coast. Guests settle into the sun-drenched patio to enjoy hearty comfort fare and perfectly poured pints of ale while watching the world go by in a blur of tropical color. It is a welcoming sanctuary where the warmth of traditional hospitality meets a laid-back rhythm, creating an effortless atmosphere for both midday escapes and late-night revelry.
• Taste Bakery Cafe — American: Sun-drenched and inviting, this neighborhood gem greets guests with the intoxicating aroma of golden-crusted loaves and rich, artisanal coffee. Glass cases overflow with flaky, butter-laden pastries and vibrant seasonal salads, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a leisurely brunch or a quiet corner to savor a handcrafted latte. Whether tucked into a cozy nook with a warm tartine or sharing a communal table, diners find a soulful retreat where simple ingredients are elevated into a celebration of daily indulgence.
• Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar South Beach — American: Bathed in the golden light of South Beach, this chic espresso bar serves as a sophisticated urban oasis where the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine provides the soundtrack to a leisurely morning. The menu celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors, offering everything from velvety lattes and flaky croissants to colorful power bowls and pressed juices that taste like sunshine in a glass. It is a stylish neighborhood haunt where the casual elegance of coastal living meets the refined artistry of a modern European cafe.
• Mega Pizza — Italian: This high-energy pizzeria hums with the vibrant spirit of a classic neighborhood hangout, where the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted crust spills out onto the sidewalk. Towering, golden-brown pies arrive at communal tables laden with an abundance of fresh toppings, inviting friends and families to tear into oversized slices that stretch with molten cheese. Between the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough and the cheerful clatter of a busy kitchen, every visit feels like a celebration of bold flavors and shared joy.
• Blue Lavender Cafe — American: Sunlight dances across a serene space washed in soft periwinkle hues, where the calming scent of dried lavender and freshly ground espresso creates an instant sanctuary for the soul. This charming retreat invites guests to linger over artfully plated brunch classics and botanical-infused pastries that celebrate the delicate harmony of floral notes and vibrant, seasonal flavors.
• Pizza Rústica — Italian: Sunlight dances across exposed brick and weathered wood as the intoxicating scent of wood-smoke and bubbling mozzarella pulls you into this warm, soulful retreat. Hand-stretched dough is transformed into blistered, artisanal masterpieces topped with vibrant seasonal harvests, offering a sensory journey to the heart of the Italian countryside. Every slice captures the essence of a rustic feast, inviting guests to linger over crisp wine and the simple, timeless joy of a perfectly fired pizza.
• 11th Street Diner — American: Housed in a gleaming retro railcar, this neighborhood staple glows with neon light and the polished sheen of chrome, inviting guests into a nostalgic world of checkered floors and cozy vinyl booths. The air carries the comforting aroma of sizzling griddle favorites and freshly brewed coffee, creating a bustling sanctuary where hearty comfort food and hand-spun shakes celebrate the timeless charm of the classic American diner.
• Spris — Italian: Bustling with the vibrant energy of Lincoln Road, this sun-drenched pizzeria invites diners to linger over thin-crust masterpieces kissed by the charred heat of a wood-burning oven. The air carries the savory perfume of bubbling mozzarella and fresh basil, creating an effortless alfresco experience where the charm of a traditional Italian piazza meets the breezy, cosmopolitan spirit of Miami Beach.
• Cafe Fleur - Café & Beignet — French: Stepping into Cafe Fleur feels like entering a sun-drenched Parisian garden, where the delicate scent of fresh blooms mingles with the rich, nutty aroma of artisanal coffee. Pillowy beignets arrive dusted in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, offering a warm, airy crunch that melts away alongside sips of velvety café au lait. It is a charming sanctuary of effortless elegance, inviting guests to slow down and savor a sweet, lingering escape from the bustle of the day.
• Zesto Pizza — Italian: Golden, blistered crusts emerge from the oven with a satisfying crunch, topped with a signature zesty sauce and a molten layer of cheese that stretches with every pull. This vibrant neighborhood hub pulses with energy, offering a welcoming space where the simple joy of a well-crafted pizza is elevated by fresh, bold ingredients and a passion for the perfect slice.
• CJ's Crab Shack — Seafood: The rhythmic crack of wooden mallets and the intoxicating aroma of Old Bay define this spirited coastal haunt, where the salt-tinged air invites guests to leave their worries at the door. Diners roll up their sleeves at paper-lined tables to feast on steaming mounds of spice-dusted shellfish and buttery corn, creating a communal celebration of messy hands and frost-rimmed pitchers of beer. This unpretentious escape captures the pure, sun-drenched joy of a seaside boil where every bite tastes of the ocean.
• Caffe Milano — Italian: Caffe Milano transports guests to the stylish streets of Italy’s fashion capital, where sun-drenched tables and the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine create a vibrant, cosmopolitan hum. The air carries the irresistible scent of buttery pastries and slow-simmered ragu, inviting diners to linger over artfully plated classics that celebrate the simple elegance of Mediterranean flavors. Every visit feels like a sophisticated escape into a world of timeless European charm, whether stopping for a quick morning macchiato or a leisurely afternoon lunch.
• Gianni's At The Villa — Italian: This legendary Mediterranean estate invites guests into a world of unparalleled opulence, where tables are set amidst the shimmering gold-leafed mosaics and turquoise waters of the iconic Million Mosaic Pool. The kitchen delivers a sophisticated blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors, transforming every meal into a glamorous affair of hand-crafted pastas and fresh seafood served under the starlit canopy of the historic courtyard.
• Grillfish — Seafood: The rhythmic sizzle of an open flame and the bright aroma of charred citrus define this lively urban escape, where a sun-drenched dining room invites guests to unwind amidst a backdrop of spirited energy. Here, the day’s freshest catch is transformed into smoky, succulent masterpieces over glowing coals, creating a sensory celebration of the sea that pairs perfectly with crisp cocktails and lingering conversation.
• Havana 1957 — Cuban: Step back into the golden age of Cuba, where the air vibrates with live music and the nostalgic charm of 1950s Havana comes alive through vintage memorabilia and sun-drenched, tropical decor. The kitchen breathes life into time-honored family recipes, serving up succulent slow-roasted pork and fragrant black beans that pair perfectly with the crisp, minty zing of a hand-muddled mojito. This vibrant celebration of heritage invites guests to linger in the spirited atmosphere, fully immersed in a bygone era of Caribbean elegance.
• Moshi Moshi — Japanese: Moshi Moshi pulses with a playful, urban energy, inviting guests into a sleek space where neon glows against minimalist wood and the air hums with lively conversation. The kitchen transforms fresh, seasonal ingredients into a kaleidoscope of Japanese flavors, from buttery slices of sashimi to crisp, golden tempura, creating a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
• Meat Market — Steakhouse: Bathed in a sultry, modern glow, this high-energy destination reimagines the classic steakhouse as a vibrant social hub where sleek design and culinary theater collide. The kitchen transforms premium cuts into charred masterpieces over an open flame, filling the air with a rich, smoky aroma that complements the rhythmic clink of artisanal cocktails and the sophisticated hum of a glamorous crowd.
• Juvia — Japanese: Perched atop a designer rooftop in Miami Beach, this ultra-chic penthouse sanctuary blends sleek modernism with a lush vertical garden and sweeping panoramic views of the Atlantic. The kitchen orchestrates a vibrant fusion of French technique and Japanese-Peruvian flavors, serving delicate crudos and bold, wood-fired dishes against a glittering backdrop of neon city lights. It is a high-energy destination where the glamour of the South Beach skyline meets sophisticated culinary artistry, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for sunset cocktails that transition into starlit, celebratory dinners.
• Maya Tapas & Grill — Spanish: Maya Tapas & Grill pulses with a vibrant energy, where the smoky aroma of the open flame and the rhythmic clinking of glasses invite guests into a warm, communal sanctuary. A colorful parade of zesty small plates finds its match in succulent, char-kissed meats, creating a sensory journey that celebrates bold flavors and the lively spirit of shared dining.
• Spitfire Duner Kebab — American: The air at Spitfire hums with the rhythmic crackle of an open hearth, where dancing flames cast a warm, amber glow over a space that feels both industrial and intimate. Succulent cuts and seasonal harvests are transformed by the intense heat of the rotisserie, emerging with a perfect char and a deep, smoky complexity that anchors every plate. It is a place where the primal art of fire-cooking meets modern culinary finesse, inviting guests to linger over bold flavors and the comforting scent of woodsmoke.
• The Front Porch Café — American: Sun-drenched and soulful, this neighborhood gem invites guests to slow down amidst hanging ferns and the gentle hum of a breezy, shaded veranda. The kitchen turns out golden, flaky biscuits and vibrant seasonal plates that taste like a refined version of home, paired perfectly with the aroma of small-batch coffee and the refreshing clink of iced tea. It is a sanctuary of effortless hospitality where time seems to pause, making every meal feel like a leisurely afternoon spent in the company of old friends.
• Chotto Matte — Japanese: Vibrant urban murals and high-energy music set the stage in this sleek sanctuary where the electric spirit of Tokyo meets the soulful heat of Lima. The air hums with the sizzle of the robata grill as chefs artfully craft Nikkei masterpieces, blending the delicate precision of Japanese sushi with the bold, citrus-drenched intensity of Peruvian spices. From the theatrical flair of the open kitchen to the sophisticated pulse of the lounge, every moment is a multisensory celebration of cross-cultural fusion.
• Al Basha Grill Kebab — Middle Eastern: The air at Al Basha Grill Kebab is thick with the tantalizing aroma of charred meats and toasted spices, drawing diners into a space where the rhythmic sizzle of the open flame takes center stage. Succulent skewers are grilled to smoky perfection over glowing coals and served alongside vibrant, herb-flecked salads and warm, pillowy breads that capture the soulful essence of traditional hearth-cooked cuisine. It is a lively destination where the warmth of genuine hospitality meets the bold, savory depths of the grill, offering a feast that celebrates the timeless artistry of the kebab.
• Pizza Days — Italian: Pizza Days captures the effortless joy of a perfect slice, welcoming guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the aroma of toasted flour and savory herbs lingers in the air. Each hand-tossed pie emerges from the heat with a blistered, golden crust and molten layers of premium cheese, offering a comforting yet elevated escape for those seeking the ultimate neighborhood pizza ritual.
• Havana 1957 — Spanish: Step back into the glamorous spirit of 1950s Cuba, where the rhythmic pulse of live music and the aroma of garlic-rubbed roast pork drift through a space filled with vintage memorabilia and tropical charm. Guests linger over hand-shaken mojitos and soul-warming plates of traditional ropa vieja, all set against a vibrant backdrop that captures the nostalgic elegance and sun-drenched energy of Old Havana.
• Mercato della Pescheria Miami Beach — Italian: Stepping into this vibrant Italian marketplace on historic Española Way feels like being transported to a bustling coastal village, where the air is thick with the scent of sea salt and simmering garlic. Skilled chefs transform the day's freshest catch and hand-stretched pastas into soulful Mediterranean plates, served amidst a rustic backdrop of hanging copper pots and overflowing crates of seasonal produce. Whether dining under the glow of string lights on the cobblestone street or near the energy of the open kitchen, every meal captures the spirited essence of a traditional Italian fish market.
• Oh! Mexico — Mexican: Vibrant murals and the rhythmic clinking of margarita glasses create a high-energy atmosphere that pulses with the soulful spirit of a traditional cantina. The air carries the irresistible aroma of slow-simmered carnitas and charred peppers, inviting guests to linger over hand-pressed tortillas and zesty house-made salsas in a space that feels like a perpetual celebration.
• La Sandwicherie — French: Neon lights glow over this bustling open-air counter where the scent of freshly baked baguettes and sharp cornichons fills the salt-tinged air. Guests gather for oversized sandwiches layered with crisp greens and savory French meats, all brought to life by a legendary, zesty vinaigrette that captures the vibrant, sun-drenched spirit of the coast.
• La Cantina — Cuban: La Cañita brings vibrant Latin and Caribbean flavors to Miami Beach with a lively atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes. Its creative cocktail program and energetic vibe make it a perfect spot for a fun, flavorful escape.
• La Cantina — Cuban: La Cañita brings vibrant Latin and Caribbean flavors to Miami Beach with a lively atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes. Its creative cocktail program and energetic vibe make it a perfect spot for a fun, flavorful escape.