Live like a local: A food lover’s guide to Miami

With the opening of Miami Pool House around the corner, it’s a perfect moment to explore the multi-faceted character of the city. Soho Beach House first opened its doors in 2010, and over the past decade and beyond, we’ve truly immersed ourselves into the sounds, visions, heritage and creative spirit of the city thanks to our members. 

Now, Miami Pool House, located at the intersection of Wynwood and Edgewater, will give you the opportunity to explore Miami beyond the beach. Inspired by Old Florida and the diverse communities that shaped the culture of the area, the House has a playful, relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for getting to know not only the art and music native to the city, but also its bustling food scene. Keen to familiarise ourselves further with the flavours of Miami, we asked Mariana Michelsen and Kim Nolan of Soho Foodie Club to share their local culinary secrets, sharing the best places, dishes and drinks to try in the city. 

Both Soho House members, Michelsen and Nolan established Soho Foodie Club in 2022 after eight years of working together in hospitality. It brings together all of their favourite things: talented local chefs, great food and drink, and people gathered around long communal tables sharing a conversation. 

Soho Foodie Club gives members experiences that aren’t available to anyone else at an unbeatable price point: from collaborations with established chefs and guided beverage pairings to one-night-only menus and immersive neighbourhood tours through food and drink. Their previous events have included dinner with James Beard-nominated and Michelin Bib Gourmand Zitz Sum (complete with a saké pairing from Joto Sake), a Brooklyn-style family feast with the acclaimed chef Jose Mendin, and a memorable dinner at Klaw, Eater Miami’s Best Restaurant of 2022, so who better to guide us? 

Explore Miami’s well-kept food secrets and local spots from Michelsen and Nolan below. 

B-Side at 1-800-Lucky
Nestled in the centre of the 1-800-Lucky food hall in Wynwood, B-Side sushi from James Beard-nominated chef Valerie Chang has an abundance of great seafood options, from sushi rolls to one of our favourite fish dips around. B-Side is the same team as the Design District’s Itimae, which should also be on your restaurant hit list. 

What to order: Lost in Translation roll and Tuna Tiradito. 

Walrus Rodeo
When we heard that the Boia De team was opening another restaurant, we couldn't make a reservation fast enough. The menu is centered around the restaurant’s wood-fired oven, but don’t expect just pizzas. With everything from Baked Oysters to Cabbage Carbonara and Carrot Tartare, you’ll find unique dishes in a relaxed setting that’s great for a dinner with friends or date night. 

What to order: Corn on the Za and Potato Gnocchi.

Sabor a Peru
In a city that’s filled with small plates, Sabor a Peru goes against the grain with larger, affordable plates in a no-frills setting. This low-key neighbourhood gem in Edgewater has been a staple for some of the best Peruvian food in town for years. 

What to order: Lomo Saltado and Ceviche Mixto.

Uchi
This Texas transplant was welcomed with open arms in Miami. With a location in the heart of Wynwood, Uchi serves some of the highest quality sushi in the area. It’s a go-to spot for happy hour with an incredible selection of food and drinks on the menu. An unexpected delight and must-order is the Kinoko King Trumpet Mushroom Nigiri.
What to order: Kinoko Sushi.

Beaker & Gray 
A true Wynwood staple, this is a place that’s always consistent and has a great vibe. While the neighbourhood continues to grow around them, Beaker & Gray maintains its status as one of the Wynwood OGs. The cocktail menu here is as strong as its food offerings, and it makes a great spot for date night, dinner with friends, or brunch. 

What to order: Pumpkin Gnocchi and a Lavagave cocktail.

 Cerveceria La Tropical
Just down the street from Miami Pool House, Cerveceria La Tropical brings with it decades of history as the first brewery in Cuba. With Miami favourite Cindy Hutson helming the kitchen, the Latin-inspired menu here is as impressive as the on-site brewery operation. It’s a go-to for every occasion, offering a wide selection of beers, a full bar, and an extensive menu in Wynwood’s most beautiful brewery.

What to order: Plantain Chips, Cuban Sandwich Empanadas and La Original Ambar Lager.
 

Omakai
Miami has seen a huge boom of omakase spots opening around town, most of which come with a hefty price tag. Omakai delivers the omakase experience at different, more affordable price points, without sacrificing quality. It’s a must when friends are visiting from out of town.

What to order: OMA Deluxe.

Love Life Cafe
This beloved local spot serves some of the most delicious and indulgent vegan food that even meat eaters enjoy. It’s the ideal place for a healthy lunch, with options such as plant-based pizzas, bowls, salads, tacos, and so much more.

What to order: The Love Life Burger.

La Sandwicherie
This is everyone’s favourite late-night sandwich eatery, though it doesn’t have to be 2am for you to appreciate the food here. The Wynwood location is just blocks away from Miami Pool House, and the best place for a casual, piled-high sandwich served on freshly made baguettes and croissants. 

What to order: The SOBE Club.

Klaw
After receiving the award for Eater’s Best New Restaurant of the Year in 2022, Klaw has quickly become a go-to in Edgewater. Its impressive king crab and beef dishes are unmatched in Miami, providing the ultimate surf and turf experience. Plan your next special occasion dinner or check out the new weekend brunch. If happy hour is your thing, enjoy a Martini in the lounge overlooking Biscayne Bay.

What to order: Norwegian King Crab Legs & Claw.


Miami Pool House is opening soon; apply for membership here. 

Book a bedroom at Soho Beach House Miami here.