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Earlier this month, amongst a seemingly constant stream of international or chain restaurants opening their locations in Miami, Food & Drink Editor Nicole Lopez-Alvar found herself wondering what happened to the places that raised Miami locals. So she put in the time, energy, and research and compiled a list of 40.
Once the story hit Instagram, our readers had a lot to say.
“Great read and definitely a great message, Nicole: to go out and support our small local business that’s been giving us the great heart and service throughout our lives here in Miami! I love all the places you named! @davidarbetter, hope you saw this post!”
– Max Santiago, pastry chef
“Peter and I discussed Flanigan’s on our first date. I’m pretty sure that’s how we ended up on a second.”
– Mr. and Mrs. Eats, Miami food influencers
“YOU NAILED IT!! I loved this article so much. And some of our OG favorites we’ve lost along the way. Can I get a moment of silence for Beverly Hills Cafe? Or Swensens? What else am I missing!?”
– Lynley, reader
“You do know that Miami extends beyond South Dade, right? At least show Steve’s Pizza in North Miami a little respect.”
– Eli, reader
“Thank you for saying this! Much needed.”
– Joel, reader
“You know you are born and raised when you still go to every local place mentioned in the article. I love all the new places, but it feels like Miami is slowly losing its soul. I miss pre-2019 Miami, but it won’t stop me from trying all the imports. It is an ongoing conflict in my 🧠 and 🩷. The LoKal news broke me. I am 💔.”
– Liane
“Great article, as a true Miamian, I greatly appreciate it. Born and raised in the 305! Missing the old Miami, though. We’ve lost too many mom-and-pop shops, so I agree we need to support the ones we have left. Everything doesn’t have to be club dining or $300 tasting menus and Omakase. Sometimes a lasagna from the Big Cheese, a carne asada and gallo pinto from a fritanga, a croqueta from Islas, Pan con bistec from Mary’s coin laundry, or a rib roll from Flannys will hit the spot. Miami has some true treasures, and the list is long, but in danger if we don’t support them.”
– Edgar, reader
“Respectfully, you missed Shibui.”
— @josedelanuez, reader
“Aww, the best times and places. So iconic. The pizza at Casola’s and the soft serve from Whip and Dip!! #heaven“
@tropikalisima, reader
“YESSS! Thank you for including the many spots that make Miami, Miami. We’re all about making spaces for the community that always shows up for us. Our favorite phrase to hear is ‘I bring my kids here because my parents brought me here.’ And that’s what it’s all about.”
“This is the Miami I grew up with. Frankie’s and Arbetter’s are right by Casa Soléa, and they’re always the first spots we recommend to guests who want a real taste of the 305.”
— @getwitharlyn, reader
“Don’t forget about The Palm! It has been a staple for 40 years in Miami!”
— Michael, reader
“This made me feel a nostalgia for my hometown that I haven’t felt in years.”
— @gatormac27, reader
Have something to add? Send your thoughts or story ideas to editorial@miaminewtimes.com.
