The Six Best Avocado Dishes in Miami That Aren't Avocado Toast

Ever since #avocadotoast became an Instagram sensation, the hype around this fruit has been overwhelming. 

From dicing it into tuna tartare to blending into chocolate ice cream, Miami chefs have made this ingredient their own. As the appetite for avocado has grown, so has its availability on menus and, this summer, it's time to indulge. 

With avocado season in full swing, local restaurants are offering a variety of avocado-inspired items for you to enjoy. Here are six of the best South Florida dishes that taste good, make you feel good, and put "smashed avo" lovers to shame. 
6. Arepa Reina Pepiada from Doggis
Calling all Latin food lovers! This loaded arepa ($7.99) includes a mash of avocado, shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and cheese stuffed inside a thin corn pocket. The arepa reina pepiada is one of the most popular dishes on the menu, especially among Venezuelans who want an authentic taste of home.  If you are looking for a hearty and filling meal, or are simply craving something savory, order this traditional dish when you visit the arepa bar. If you're really hungry, pair it with an order of cheesy tequeños.
5. Avocado Pizza from Matador Room 
If you like avocado toast, its time to order the next big thing. The avocado pizza from the Matador Room at the Edition offers a gourmet spin to the basic, Instagrammable dish. Rather than having the avocado carelessly smashed on a slice of bread, thin avocado slices are layered on a thick pizza crust. This specialty item is offered on the brunch, lunch, and dinner menus with either regular or gluten-free crust. 
4. Banana Split at Plant Food + Wine 
For those who have joined the raw revolution, Plant Food + Wine offers a creamy, avocado-based dessert. Putting a creative spin on the traditional banana split, it serves three scoops of nondairy ice cream, separated by thin banana chips ($12). The chocolate-flavored "ice cream" is made of avocado and cacao, while the others are made using vanilla, maca, goji, strawberry, and hemp. So even though the chocolate is rich, its intense flavor is balanced by the sweet coolness of the fruit and of the vanilla.
3. Guacamole at the Lido Bayside Grill
If you feel like enjoying your avocados with a waterfront view, order the stan d'arde guacamole ($12) at the Lido Bayside Grill. Though many people start with the mezze platter, you can pair the guacamole with tortilla chips or crudités ($15) to build the perfect appetizer to your meal. Then, once you've ordered, you can sit back, relax, and watch the highlights of Miami's boat scene. 
2. Nori Roll at Coconut Grove Organic Farmer's Market 
At the Coconut Grove Organic Farmer's Market, you can build your own vegan "sushi" roll ($8.50). Made of raw vegetables, avocado, and your choice of hummus or pâté, the dish is packed with fresh ingredients to ensure you eat all the colors of the rainbow. While it may seem crazy to wait in line in Miami's heat, the employees of the farmer's market work quickly and are happy to offer serving suggestions. Though all dressings pair nicely with the nori roll, try the Pacific Asian or herb vinaigrettes for no additional cost. 
1. Tuna Tartare at Doraku 
Doraku was recently named one of the ten best sushi bars in Miami, and this dish is one of the reasons why. The sweet chili tuna tartare ($12.95) includes a blend of diced tuna, chopped avocado, and small tobiko fish eggs to create a refreshing start to any summer meal. Served with a side of crispy chips, Doraku's tuna tartare offers a variety of textures and distinct flavors to keep you and your taste buds guessing.