10 James Beard Restaurants in Florida Everyone Should Visit at Least Once

If you travel frequently — or even now and then — you know that it can be both frustrating and time-consuming to find an excellent restaurant. Most of us go for a recommendation from friends and family or tirelessly scour reviews online. While those are optimal choices for some local favorites, sometimes you want to treat yourself to an upscale and high-rated spot.

If you're traveling to Florida, we have some picks for you. We've compiled a list of James Beard award-winning and honorable-mention restaurants in the Sunshine State that we're confident you'll love. So, without further ado, here are the 10 James Beard restaurants in Florida that everyone should visit at least once.

This post was updated in June 2025 to reflect current information about restaurants in Florida.

A local favorite in Miami, Michael's Genuine is an award-winning restaurant for good reason. As a nationally recognized chef, Michael Schwartz is known for serving comfort food in a refined way.

We love seafood, and so do Florida residents and visitors. Joe's Stone Crab in Miami is a local favorite that gained popularity from its famous crab, key lime pie, and other dishes.

When Miami residents or visitors find a stellar Cuban restaurant, they often frequent it. Versailles is one such eatery serving authentic Cuban food. It's known as the "world's most famous Cuban restaurant," and you'll want to visit it repeatedly.

This popular spot was a semifinalist, and for good reason. Unlike other restaurants, Itamae offers a multi-course, unconventional Omakase at a 10-seat counter in Miami. Needless to say, if you want to dine here, you'll have to plan ahead.

If you live in Miami or have visited, you've most likely heard of Yardbird. They are known for their inventive food and Southern comfort vibe. However, if you can only have one meal here, we recommend brunch. You can't miss it!

Heading slightly north in Fort Lauderdale is The Katherine. Its unassuming name surprises diners when they experience a menu that includes flavors from all over the world. It's an intimate spot that will become your next favorite.

As one of the top French restaurants in Palm Beach and arguably the state, Cafe Boulud is renowned for its delectable offerings. Located in the historic Brazilian Court, you'll want to stop at this location if you're ever in Palm Beach.

You don't want to sleep on this upscale yet approachable eatery. Chef Clay Conley has made this popular restaurant what it is today: a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Take note: reservations at Buccan Palm Beach are highly recommended.

In Winter Park, Florida, you'll find a unique restaurant concept at Ômo by Jônt. At this restaurant, you'll experience a tasting menu filled with the contradiction of simple and lavish flavors. The experience includes an interactive environment where you get to witness what happens in the kitchen.

Last but not least, Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens has gained its reputation for good reason. Not only will the food take you on a culinary adventure with its diverse, global menu, but the ambiance will have you frequenting this always-packed eatery.