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The cognoscenti will descend upon Miami in the name of art this week. But if you need another reason to head down to Miami apart from Art Basel, talented artists, fashion parties, museum exhibitions and gallery openings, that motive must be food. We’ve rounded up the best places to eat in Miami this December, and now it’s up to you to decide what to experience first. 

Miami Beach

Dishes from Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen

Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen

A local favorite that serves Israeli and Mediterranean fare in a quaint cottage setting. 

Chotto Matte

Chotto Matte

Captivating décor welcomes you into this Nikkei restaurant that takes Japanese-Peruvian cuisine to another level. 

Call me Gaby

Expect casual Italian bites on its patio during our best weather month, and don’t sleep on its pizzas. 

Wynwood/Design District

Sushi from Uchi

Uchi

This hotspot needs to be on your must-eat list. You’ll want to order all of its sushi and sashimi, and that’s ok. 

Maty’s

Chef-owner Valerie Chang won this year’s prestigious James Beard Award for the best chef in the South for her take on Peruvian cuisine. She honors her heritage beautifully with bright, bold flavors in a lively, contemporary space. 

Michael’s Genuine

Pumpkin cake from Michael’s Genuine

Boia De

You wouldn’t expect a Michelin-starred restaurant to be in a laundromat strip mall, but that’s what makes this contemporary Italian concept so unexpected and special. 

This pioneer in Miami’s dining scene is still a favorite after almost two decades, and that says something about its innovative menu. 

Downtown/Brickell

Torno Subito

Torno Subito

Step into famed chef Massimo Bottura’s world while dining at this colorful Italian concept. If you need something to look forward to on Sunday after all the art events, check out its Basel Burnout Brunch from noon to 3 p.m.

LPM

This is the place to be if you want to step away from the crowds and enjoy an elegant French meal surrounded by art.

ViceVersa

Prosciutto pizza from ViceVersa, photo credit: Cleveland Jennings

This aperitivo bar serves up wonderfully crafted cocktails and small bites, including delectable pizza. 

Klaw

For a meal paired with sprawling ocean views, head to Klaw, located inside the historic Women’s Club. A local’s tip: head to its rooftop bar first for cocktails or just stay there for a casual dinner. 

Hungry for more food news? Visit our food page, and subscribe to the magazine for the most delicious coverage of Boca and beyond.

Christie Galeano-DeMott

Author Christie Galeano-DeMott

Christie is a food lover and travel fanatic who believes there's always room for dessert. When she’s not writing about the plates and people who capture South Florida's soul, Christie is irresistibly happy in the company of her husband, their two dogs and a glass of red wine.

More posts by Christie Galeano-DeMott