Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
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Technically, this story is called “Best Things We Ate in Miami Last Month.” But let me be completely honest: This is just a detailed record of everything I, New Times‘ food editor Nicole Lopez-Alvar, personally ate over the past 30 days. Yes, I agree, I have the best job in the world.
When your job involves chasing openings, tastings, compiling a list of the Top 50 Restaurants in Miami, and supporting your favorite neighborhood restaurants, the line between research and real life disappears fast. One minute I’m covering a new restaurant, the next I’m ordering takeout in the Gables or splitting a late-night bite in the Grove, all in the name of journalism, of course.
And we have to start with the bacon, egg, and cheese at H&H Bagels in Pinecrest, because this sandwich has fully taken over my thoughts. Perfectly chewy, crispy, salty, comforting perfection. Consider this your warning: once you try it, breakfast will never be the same. Below, check out the best things we — I — ate in Miami in February 2026.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich at H&H Bagels in Pinecrest
When I tell you this is my new blueprint for a classic B.E.C. (bacon, egg, and cheese), I’m being serious. I’ve been dreaming about this sandwich for the past week. Go run and grab one yourself. Honorable mention: bring home a tub of cream cheese. You’re welcome. 11311 S. Dixie Hwy., Pinecrest; hhbagels.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Caviar Bites and Pistachio Martini at Fooq’s in Little River
I visited Fooq’s during opening week, so honestly, I need to go back to order properly. However, the starters here, paired with a creamy, perfectly sweet pistachio martini, are worth making me come back. 1035 N. Miami Ave., Miami; fooqsmiami.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Omakase Experience at Ogawa in Little River (Best Date Night)
This experience was truly unreal. Feels like stepping into a portal to Japan where the vibes are immaculate, the fish is melt-in-your-mouth divine, and the banter between chef/co-owner Masayuki Komatsu and the guests is the cherry on top. 7223 NW Second Ave., Miami; instagram.com/ogawamiami.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Fresh Pasta at Luma and Guac at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
This is Key Biscayne’s best new date night spot. Wow. Everything at Luma was spectacular, but seeing the pasta being made fresh before our eyes made each morsel even more appetizing. Oh, and if you go to the beachside bar or visit the ocean, please do yourself a favor and order the guac. Absolutely unreal! 455 Grand Bay Dr., Key Biscayne, Miami, at Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne; ritzcarlton.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
A Cubano from Sanguich in Coral Gables (Perfect Winter Day)
Sanguich has become the most coveted spot in Miami for a classic Medianoche or Cubano, and for good reason. With locations across Miami (I visited the one in Coral Gables at the Plaza), it’s fast, delicious, and wonderfully authentic. You can’t go wrong stopping here for lunch! 111 Palermo Ave., Ste. 103, Coral Gables; sanguich.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Takeout from Fratellino Ristorante in Coral Gables (A New Repeat)
I’ve been meaning to check out Fratellino Ristorante on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables for years now, and it did not disappoint. The carbonara truly hit the spot, and so did my boyfriend’s order of a chicken parm. We wish the chicken parm was served with pasta instead of house potatoes, though. 264 Miracle Mile, Miami; fratellinoristorante.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
The “Star Luca” from Mister O1 (Blame My Boyfriend For the Hole)
If you haven’t tried the “Star Luca” from Mister O1, then what are you doing still reading this story? Go do yourself a favor and add it to your dinner hit list immediately. Multiple area locations, including 3015 Grand Ave., Ste. 165, Miami; mistero1.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Truffle Grilled Cheese at Magie Wine Bar in Coconut Grove
When I tell you this truffle grilled cheese was mouthgasmic… yes, I’m coining that word. Next time you’re at their location in the Grove, make sure to order one for you and your date (or besties). 3540 Main Hwy., Miami; magiemiami.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Mahi Wrap at Carrot Express (Hi, Romeo)!
This mahi mahi wrap from Carrot Express has saved me on long workdays for the past six years. I also love adding pan-seared salmon to their salads! 10/10 recommend. Multiple area locations, including 12311 S. Dixie Hwy., Pinecrest; 305-964-5427; carrotexpress.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Parker House Rolls at Sunny’s in Little River
There’s a good chance you’ll end up at Sunny’s in 2026, and when you go, remember this: Order at least two orders of Parker House Rolls for the table (only one if you’re on a date). You’re welcome. 7357 NW Miami Ct., Miami; sunnysmia.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Chicken Platter with Sides at the Daily Bread Pinecrest (Weeknight Fav)
If you’re down in Pinecrest or Palmetto Bay, I highly recommend the chicken platter at Daily Bread Pinecrest or a gyro to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings (and go check out their market within the restaurant)! 12131 S. Dixie Hwy., Miami; dailybreadmiami.com.
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
The Joyce’s Cheeseburger at Burger Bash During SOBEWFF
I tried a whole bunch of delicious burgers and cheeseburgers at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s Burger Bash event this year, but one stood out the most. And it was this burger from The Joyce in Miami Beach. I hate to admit that I haven’t visited the restaurant yet, so I’m adding it to my hit list ASAP. P.S. – Check out our story on who won Burger Bash here.
