To dine at one of these legendary spots — from the legendary seafood restaurant Captain's Tavern to the buzzing counters of Steve's Pizza — is to taste the evolution of Miami itself. They've witnessed the city transform into an international metropolis, all while serving up the same beloved dishes that earned them a loyal following. Whether it's a box of square-cut slices from Frankie's Pizza, the smoky ribs at Shorty's Bar-B-Q, or a sizzling plate of vaca frita from Versailles, these places connect us to the flavors, hospitality, and history of Miami's past that are the foundation of the food culture we're so lucky to have today.
Miami's dining scene wouldn't be what it is today without these enduring restaurants. They taught the city how to eat: boldly, passionately, and always with flavor. So, as new culinary trends come and go, we pay tribute to the 22 oldest restaurants still thriving today — the cornerstones of Miami dining that have defined and continue to inspire our ever-changing food culture.
94th Aero Squadron Restaurant has beeen a legendary Miami restaurant since 1977
Miami Springs Historical Society and Museum photos
94th Aero Squadron Restaurant - Opened in July 1977
1395 NW 57th Ave., Miami305-261-4220
94miami.comSince 1977, 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant has offered diners a unique wartime-themed experience, set in a replica WWI French farmhouse overlooking the runways of Miami International Airport. Guests can watch planes take off and land, listen to live air traffic control through table-side headphones, and enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere filled with military memorabilia. The menu features standout dishes like the signature beer cheese soup and aviation salmon, with a popular Sunday brunch buffet making it a favorite for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Arbetter’s Hot Dogs - Opened in 1959
8747 SW 40th St., Miami, FL 33165305-207-0555
arbetterhotdogs.comArbetter's Hot Dogs has been a Miami staple since 1959, when it first opened on West Flagler Street. Now located on Bird Road, the beloved hot dog stand still serves up the same no-frills charm and classic eats that made it a local favorite decades ago. With deep roots in the city's comfort food history, Arbetter's remains a timeless go-to for generations of Miamians.
The late Bill Archer, founder of the Big Cheese in South Miami who was beloved by many.
Photo by Patrick Sicher
The Big Cheese - Opened in 1984
8080 SW 67th Ave, Miami305-662-6855
bigcheesemiami.comThe Big Cheese has been a beloved Miami institution since 1984, renowned for its hearty Italian-American fare, great pizza, and welcoming atmosphere. Cofounded by the late Bill Archer, the restaurant became a community staple, celebrated for its generous portions and family-friendly environment. Following Archer's passing at age 65, the Big Cheese continues to honor his legacy by serving the comfort food that has made it a local favorite for over four decades.
Caffe Abbracci in Coral Gables celebrates its 35th anniversary after its founder, the revered restaurateur Nino Pernetti, died.
Photo by Rocco Riggio
Cafe Abbracci - Opened in 1989
318 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134305-441-0700
caffeabbracci.comCaffe Abbracci has been a cornerstone of Coral Gables dining since 1989, known as much for its warm, familial atmosphere as for its refined Italian cuisine. Founded by the late Nino Pernetti, a beloved figure in Miami's restaurant scene, the iconic spot continues to honor his legacy with heartfelt service and timeless dishes like vitello tonnato and agnolotti Katerina. More than a restaurant, Abbracci remains a gathering place where generations of locals come to feel at home.
Captain's Tavern - Opened in April 1971
9625 S. Dixie Hwy., Miami305-666-5979
captainstavernmiami.comCaptain's Tavern has been a beloved Miami institution and a Pinecrest favorite since 1971, known for its old-school charm, housemade seafood classics, extensive wine list, and enduring family legacy. Still run by founder Bill Bowers' wife and son, the restaurant keeps his spirit alive through timeless dishes like cracked conch, oysters Rockefeller, and the famed Tuesday two-for-one Maine lobster special. With a full raw bar, sushi menu, and decades of consistent quality, it remains one of the best and most authentic seafood spots in the city.
Casola's - Opened in 1982
2437 SW 17th Ave., Miami305-858-0090
casolas.comOpen since 1982 next to a gas station, Casola's is one of Miami's best old-school restaurants, serving massive, gooey slices of New York-style pizza that are legendary among locals. The no-frills spot hands out free samples at the counter and keeps crowds coming back with oversized pies, subs, and wings worth the drive from as far as West Palm. Whether you're craving a classic pepperoni or the adventurous Portuguesa topped with egg and olives, Casola's delivers pure, cash-only comfort food with zero pretense.
Christy's - Opened in 1978
3101 Ponce de Leon, Miami305-446-1400
christysrestaurant.comFounded in 1978, Christy's is a Coral Gables landmark and one of Miami's most enduring fine-dining institutions, known for its classic steakhouse ambiance and impeccable service. With a menu centered on prime, dry-aged Midwestern beef and a Caesar salad that sparks debate for its bold flavor, the restaurant delivers a nostalgic, clubby charm that has drawn power diners for decades. From baked Alaska to porterhouse steaks, Christy's serves timeless luxury in an atmosphere where tradition and quality never go out of style.
Iconic Miami sports bar Duffy’s Tavern has sold for $4.5 million in a site deal after serving beer, sandwiches, soups, and chili since 1955.
Duffy's Tavern photo
Duffy's Tavern - Opened in 1955
2108 SW 57th Ave., Miami, FL 33155305-264-6580
duffystavernmiami.comLocated just beyond the western edge of Coral Gables, this quirky, cash-only Irish sports bar has served beer, loaded sandwiches, soups and chili, fish dip, and burgers to a sports-loving crowd for 70 years. Since 1955, it's been the place to go to when you want to cheer a local team on, especially the Hurricanes or the Dolphins, because every inch of wall space is lined with a sports banner or picture. It's welcomed generations of families for Friday night dinners, sports games, and high school reunions for decades. (P.S. - There's an ATM inside.)
El Rey De Las Fritas - Opened in 1982
1821 SW Eighth St., Miami, FL 33135305-644-6054
elreydelasfritas.comAt El Rey de las Fritas on Calle Ocho, the Cuban hamburger is king. Known as the frita cubana, the burger pairs a spicy beef patty with shoestring potatoes, onions, and ketchup, stuffed inside a Cuban-style bun. El Rey, a locally owned restaurant chain that has expanded with several locations across Miami since its debut in 1982, serves fritas with a kick — and makes the very best in town. According to Burger Beast, the original location was actually off Coral Way, not on Calle Ocho. That would change a few years later. In 1982, when the former Fritas Domino spot at 1177 SW Eighth St. became available, Benito jumped at the chance.
Flanigan's in Coconut Grove is a community staple lovingly called "Loggerhead."
Photo by Nicole Lopez-Alvar
Flanigan's Seafood Bar & Grill - Opened in 1985
Locations Across Floridaflanigans.netSince 1985, Flanigan's has been one of Miami's best old-school restaurants, a beloved local chain where nautical vibes, sports on TV, pitchers of ice-cold beer, and giant portions create the ultimate comfort-food experience (here's your guide on what to order). From the legendary award-winning baby back ribs and "Firecracker Shrimp" to the overflowing nachos and "Joe's Rockin' Rib Rolls," the menu delivers bold, crowd-pleasing flavors every time. With its iconic forest green cups and loyal following, Flanigan's is more than a restaurant; it's a rite of passage for anyone who calls Florida home.
The iconic blinking neon sign outside of Frankie's Pizza is the last of its kind on Bird Road.
Photo by Burger Beast
Frankie's Pizza - Opened on Valentine's Day 1955
9118 Bird Rd., Miami305-221-0221
frankiespizzamenu.comFounded on Valentine's Day in 1955, Frankie’s Pizza is a true Miami landmark, as it's the city's first pizzeria and a timeless (square) slice of local history. From its iconic blinking neon sign on Bird Road to its signature square pies made in the original Steubenville bakery pans, Frankie's has stayed true to its roots for 70 years. Still run by the Pasquarella family, the pizzeria remains a living time capsule, where tradition, quality, and community are baked into every slice.
Opened in 1977, Islas Canarias is one of the most legendary restaurants in Miami
Islas Canarias photo
Islas Canarias - Opened in 1977
13695 SW 26th St., Miami305) 559-6666
islascanariasrestaurant.comIslas Canarias is a true Miami institution thanks to its decades-long legacy of serving up authentic Cuban comfort food. Since 1977, the Garcia family has kept locals coming back with perfectly crisp croquetas, strong cafecitos, and classics like pan con bistec and medianoches. Whether you're hungover, homesick, or just hungry, this West Miami staple delivers the soul of the city in every bite. (P.S. - they're known for their delicious croquetas.)
An original photograph of Joe and Jennie Weiss outside of Joe's Stone Crab in South Beach in the early 1900s after opening in 1913.
Joe's Stone Crab photo
Joe's Stone Crab - Opened in 1913
11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach305-673-0365
joesstonecrab.comJoe's Stone Crab is Miami's oldest and most legendary restaurant, serving locals and visitors since 1913. What began as a modest lunch counter has become a fine-dining institution known for sweet stone crab claws, crispy fried chicken, and unforgettable key lime pie. With timeless service, classic ambiance, and a place in countless family traditions, Joe's remains the soul of Miami Beach dining.
La Camaronera Seafood Joint & Fish Market - Opened in 1976
1952 W. Flagler St.305-642-3322
lacamaronera.comLa Camaronera has been a beloved Miami institution since 1976, born from the Garcia family's roots as Cuban fishermen. Known for its no-frills charm and knockout seafood, the Little Havana favorite draws crowds for its iconic camarones fritos, conch fritters, and fresh fish sandwiches. With over four decades of history and national TV shout-outs, it remains a must-visit for anyone craving authentic, old-school Miami flavor.
La Carreta - Opened in 1976
Locations Across Miamilacarreta.comLa Carreta, founded in 1976, is a classic Cuban restaurant in Miami known for serving up traditional fare in a casual, no-frills setting. While it may not offer the most gourmet Cuban cuisine in town, its multiple locations (especially the iconic Little Havana spot marked by a bright rooster statue) make it a convenient go-to for staples like ropa vieja and picadillo. With affordable daily specials, late-night hours, and strong cafecito on tap, La Carreta remains a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike.
Monty's Raw Bar - Opened in 1969
2550 S. Bayshore Dr., Miami305-856-3992
montysrawbar.comMonty's has been a Coconut Grove landmark since 1969, with its laid-back, tiki-inspired vibes, waterfront views, and live music for decades. It's a rite of passage for University of Miami and college students alike, who flock there for sunset views, fresh seafood, and potent drinks. From its signature "Pain Removers" to its salty breezes and sailboat scenery, Monty's is the kind of place that turns happy hour into a local tradition. (P.S. - Go during happy hour for delicious conch fritters, coconut shrimp, mahi mahi, and when in season, stone crabs.)
Puerto Sagua - Opened in 1962
700 Collins Ave., Miami Beach305-673-1115
puerto-sagua-restaurant.clubSince 1962, Puerto Sagua has held its ground in South Beach along Seventh Street and Collins Avenue, dishing out no-frills, authentic Cuban comfort food. From 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week, locals and tourists alike line up for masitas de puerco with arroz moros y yuca, ropa vieja with maduros, and other classics that taste just like abuela's best. In a neighborhood where most old-school joints have been remodeled into trendy hotspots, its classic Cuban recipes and homestyle vibe make it a true Miami Beach institution.
Rio Cristal - Opened in 1974
9872 SW 40th St., Miami305-223-2357
riocristalmiami.comFounded in 1974, Rio Cristal is a beloved Miami institution and the undisputed godfather of Cuban cuisine on Bird Road, with roots tracing back to Cuba and New York. Known for its generous portions, like the towering palomilla steak smothered in fries, and a nostalgic atmosphere where every dish gets its own plate, this no-frills spot delivers classic Cuban comfort with unmatched consistency. From super-sized burgers to Sunday-only specials like codfish, Rio Cristal has been winning hearts for decades with its hearty food, old-school charm, and warm service.
Shorty's Bar-B-Q - Opened in 1951
9200 S. Dixie Hwy., Miami, FL 33156305-670-7732
shortys.com Founded in 1951 by E.L. "Shorty" Allen, Shorty's Bar-B-Q is a Miami landmark known for its log-cabin charm, communal picnic tables, and timeless Southern hospitality. Despite fires and hurricanes over the decades, Shorty's has stayed true to its roots, serving up hickory-smoked ribs, chicken, creamy coleslaw, and housemade sides just as it did over 70 years ago. More than just a restaurant, it's a living slice of South Florida history where generations have gathered for delicious barbecue and a taste of old Miami. There are locations in West Miami and Davie, as well, but the South Dixie location is the original.
Steve's Pizza - Opened in 1974
12101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami305-891-0202
stevespizza.net and instagram.com/stevespizzaFounded in 1974, Steve's Pizza is a North Miami institution that's been serving up authentic, New York-style slices in the same historic building for 50 years. Known for its crisp crust, housemade sauce, late-night hours, and warm family atmosphere, it's a place where generations have gathered for comfort food and community. Through hurricanes, power outages, and decades of change, Steve's has remained a steadfast slice of Miami's culinary history and one of the city's most beloved pizzerias.
Tropical Chinese - Opened in 1984
7991 Bird Rd., Miami305-262-7576
tropicalchinesemiami.comAfter 40 years in business, Tropical Chinese is still going strong as Miami's favorite spot for Chinese cuisine. When Mei and Gregory Yu's parents opened Tropical Chinese in 1984, they didn't foresee it becoming one of the city's best and most authentic Chinese restaurants. Today, the Magic City is fortunate that the spot continues to offer some of the best Cantonese fare around. Go for the xiao long bao steamed buns, Peking duck, and scallion pancakes with beef. Moreover, this unassuming spot remains a go-to for the best dim sum in the county.
Versailles - Opened in 1971
3555 SW Eighth St., Miami305-444-0240
versaillesrestaurant.comSince opening in 1971, Versailles has become an institution for anyone longing for a taste of Havana, offering authentic Cuban sandwiches and traditional Cuban staples like ropa vieja and picadillo that smacks of abuela's cooking. Most folks merely hit up the ventanita for cortaditos and café con leche, but dining among the hexagon-tiled floors and glass chandeliers inside is a kitschy experience that continues to top so many must-do Miami lists for a reason.
