Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Florida (Currently Open)
Florida isn’t just about sunshine, beaches, and theme parks—it’s a culinary playground bursting with iconic flavors and unforgettable dining experiences. From oceanfront seafood havens to historic steakhouses and glamorous celebrity favorites, the Sunshine State offers something for every taste and traveler. Whether you’re visiting Miami’s glamorous dining scene, exploring Key West’s tropical charm, or soaking in the Gulf Coast’s laid-back vibes, these top 10 most famous restaurants in Florida promise a delicious experience you’ll never forget.
The Legendary Joe’s Stone Crab – Miami Beach
You can’t talk about Florida’s dining scene without starting at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami Beach. Established in 1913, Joe’s is a Florida institution known for its fresh stone crab claws, buttery key lime pie, and impeccable service. This iconic restaurant has hosted presidents, celebrities, and locals alike for over a century.
The menu centers around Florida’s freshest seafood, but what truly makes Joe’s special is its sense of tradition. The crisp white tablecloths, vintage décor, and bustling dining room capture Miami’s old-school glamour. Even with its fame, Joe’s manages to keep its friendly, family-style charm intact.
The Columbia Restaurant – Ybor City, Tampa
Step into history at The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, the oldest restaurant in Florida and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Founded in 1905, this family-owned gem blends Cuban and Spanish flavors with a century of storytelling.
Signature dishes like the “1905 Salad,” Paella a la Valenciana, and Cuban Sandwich are must-tries. The restaurant’s ornate tilework, flamenco performances, and old-world elegance make dining here feel like a cultural journey through Spain and Havana rolled into one.
If you can’t make it to Ybor City, there are other Columbia locations across Florida—including St. Augustine, Sarasota, and Celebration—but the original remains the crown jewel.
Bern’s Steak House – Tampa
When it comes to legendary steakhouses, Bern’s Steak House in Tampa stands in a league of its own. Since opening in 1956, Bern’s has built a reputation for its exceptional aged steaks, massive wine cellar (over 600,000 bottles!), and formal yet inviting atmosphere.
Each meal at Bern’s is an experience. After dinner, guests can tour the wine cellar or visit the Harry Waugh Dessert Room, an intimate upstairs lounge serving homemade desserts paired with fine wines and live piano music. It’s one of those rare places where food, service, and ambiance combine into pure perfection.
Versailles Restaurant – Miami
No restaurant represents Miami’s Cuban heart like Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana. Since 1971, Versailles has been a gathering spot for politicians, families, and visitors craving authentic Cuban cuisine.
You’ll find classics like ropa vieja, lechón asado, tostones, and strong Cuban coffee served at the walk-up ventanita window. It’s both a dining experience and a cultural landmark. The mirrored walls and golden chandeliers reflect decades of lively conversation and community pride—proof that Versailles is more than just a restaurant; it’s a Miami icon.
The Breakers’ Flagler Steakhouse – Palm Beach
For a touch of luxury, Flagler Steakhouse at The Breakers Palm Beach delivers sophistication with every bite. Perched above the resort’s golf course, this elegant venue is renowned for its prime cuts of beef, refined seafood dishes, and classic cocktails.
The Breakers itself, built by Henry Flagler in 1896, embodies Gilded Age glamour. Dining here feels like stepping into Florida’s golden past—complete with impeccable service and breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging, this Palm Beach treasure sets the standard for fine dining.
The Floridian – St. Augustine
In the heart of the nation’s oldest city, The Floridian celebrates Southern comfort food with a modern Florida twist. This beloved St. Augustine restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients, blending traditional recipes with fresh coastal flair.
Dishes like shrimp and grits, datil pepper cornbread, and blackened fish tacos showcase the best of North Florida’s regional flavors. The cozy setting, complete with rustic wood and vintage charm, makes it ideal for both romantic dinners and casual outings after exploring St. George Street.
Latitudes – Key West
If dining with your toes in the sand sounds like paradise, Latitudes on Sunset Key is your dream come true. Accessible only by a short ferry ride from Key West, this upscale, oceanfront restaurant is the definition of island elegance.
Guests enjoy fresh seafood, locally inspired dishes, and breathtaking Gulf sunsets that steal the show. Try the Lobster Benedict for brunch or grilled snapper for dinner, paired with a tropical cocktail. The relaxed, upscale ambiance captures the laid-back yet luxurious spirit of the Keys perfectly.
The Rusty Pelican – Miami
For panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and Miami’s shimmering skyline, The Rusty Pelican on Key Biscayne is unbeatable. It’s where locals go to impress guests and visitors come to experience Miami’s coastal glamor.
Known for its seafood towers, filet mignon with truffle butter, and creative cocktails, The Rusty Pelican balances elegance and fun effortlessly. The outdoor terrace offers some of the best sunset views in South Florida, making it a favorite for date nights, celebrations, and Sunday brunches.
Victoria & Albert’s – Orlando
At Victoria & Albert’s, located inside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, dining reaches new heights of refinement. This AAA Five Diamond restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu crafted from the world’s finest ingredients.
Each plate is a masterpiece, blending modern culinary techniques with artistic presentation. The setting is intimate and romantic, with harp music and personalized service that make every guest feel special. Whether or not you’re a Disney fan, this experience ranks among the most luxurious restaurants in Florida.
Bonus Pick: Blue Heaven – Key West
For a taste of Key West’s quirky, carefree charm, Blue Heaven is an absolute must. Roosters roam the courtyard while guests enjoy Caribbean-inspired dishes, live music, and a casual, colorful setting.
Their lobster Benedict and mile-high key lime pie have achieved near-legendary status. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours relaxing under the palms, soaking in the island’s creative spirit and bohemian vibe.
Florida’s Culinary Soul: From Coast to Coast
Florida’s dining scene is as diverse as its geography. In the Panhandle, you’ll find comfort food and fresh Gulf seafood. Along the Atlantic Coast, upscale waterfront dining meets international fusion. The Central Florida area blends luxury resort experiences with innovative farm-to-table concepts, while South Florida dazzles with Latin flavors and glamorous ambiance.
From historic icons like The Columbia to modern marvels like Latitudes, each restaurant tells a story about Florida’s people, culture, and love of good food.
Tips for Dining at Florida’s Famous Restaurants
Reserve early, especially during tourist season or holidays.
Dress codes vary—fine dining establishments like Bern’s or Victoria & Albert’s require elegant attire.
Seafood lovers should visit during stone crab season (October–May).
Try local specialties, like Key lime pie, conch fritters, or grouper sandwiches.
Don’t skip dessert—Florida’s tropical fruit creations and key lime treats are legendary.
Conclusion: Savor the Flavor of the Sunshine State
From the timeless charm of Joe’s Stone Crab to the refined luxury of Victoria & Albert’s, Florida’s most famous restaurants capture the essence of the state—diverse, vibrant, and full of life. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the Sunshine State’s culture and culinary creativity.
Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure, a local rediscovering your state’s treasures, or a foodie chasing your next unforgettable meal, these ten iconic restaurants in Florida are ready to welcome you with open doors and full plates.
So go ahead—book a table, savor every bite, and experience the flavors that make Florida truly unforgettable.