Expensive Restaurants in Miami That Are Worth the High Price Tag

The colorful and vibrant city of Miami is home to a diverse array of fun and exciting restaurants. Some are great for a cheap lunch, while others will make a pretty deep dent in your pockets. These restaurants are best saved for special occasions. But when the right time does come, you have an appetizing selection to choose from. Need help deciding? Here are our top 7 picks for a fancy dinner out in Miami.

The holiday season has finally arrived! If you haven’t purchased gifts for your loved ones yet, it’s time to get on that ASAP. If your friends enjoy dining out and trying new restaurants, they’ll love receiving a virtual GiftYa card! GiftYa cards can be applied to a number of restaurants around Miami, including the ones featured below. Check them out now! 

1. Bourbon Steak

Plush and extravagant restaurant located in the Turnberry Isle Hotel

19999 W Country Club Dr. | Aventura | bourbonsteakmia.com 

Located in Aventura, Bourbon Steak is an elegant and upscale destination perfect for enjoying special meals with friends and family members. Inside this ritzy restaurant, you’ll find a sophisticated interior featuring smoke mirrored glass and gilded finishes. 

Hundreds of diners flock to Bourbon Steak for its signature butter-poached steaks and duck fat fries. But in addition to its signature dishes, Bourbon Steak is also known for its craft cocktails and fresh appetizers. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or you just want to treat yourself, Bourbon Steak is the perfect spot for a special night out. 

“Welcoming and happy to engage, the staff worked without skipping a beat. Honestly, once we placed our orders, everything felt mostly "back to normal." I was able to relax and enjoy myself without studying every person who passed by as if they were a silent COVID-carrying assassin. I'm sure the wine helped.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Bourbon Steak. 

2. NAOE

Popular Japanese restaurant that serves traditional cuisine inside a calm and intimate space

661 Brickell Key Dr. | Brickell | naoemiami.com

NAOE is a top destination for fresh sushi and inventive Japanese dishes. Along with top-notch, professional service, you can expect delicious cuisine and a stunning view of the city at NAOE. Speaking of the cuisine, some of NAOE’s most popular dishes include the Bento Box, Scottish Salmon Sushi, and Chawanmushi. Sake, beer, and wine are also available to enjoy alongside your dish. 

“Amazing experience and even better food! Because of the COVID the restaurant is limited to private reservations which makes an already small setting all the more intimate. The hostess, and guide of the food and drink for the night was extremely pleasant, and informative in describing all dishes. The chef was truly an artist and it was very cool watching him while he performed his art.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for NAOE. 

3. Cipriani Downtown Miami

Upscale Italian restaurant perfect for anything from a business lunch to a dinner date

465 Brickell Ave | Financial District | cipriani.com

Located in the northern Financial District, Cipriani is a popular upscale Italian restaurant perfect for special dinners and celebrations. Not only is the interior dining room stunning and stylish, but it also offers scenic views of Biscayne Bay. 

As for the food, you’ll find savory dishes like the Baked Green Tagliolini and Potato Gnocchi that are sure to fill you up. Wine, champagne, and cocktails are also served. Dessert is also offered for people who still have some room left in their stomachs. Classic and sweet dishes such as sorbet, cake, and ice cream are all offered on the dessert menu. 

“Class all the way! Phenomenal drinks. Exceptional service. Exquisite cuisine. What more can you expect? Bilingual staff - YES! Only thing I must add is THIS Cipriani changes their menu weekly so the lobster or the pizza you might want (like at other Cipriani's) won't be on the menu.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Cipriani Downtown Miami. 

4. Il Mulino

Classy and stylish Italian restaurant known for its warm decor and savory dishes

17875 Collins Ave. | Sunny Isles Beach | ilmulino.com

Want a more oceanside view? Visit Il Mulino. Located in Sunny Isles Beach, Il Mulino offers breathtaking views of the nearby ocean. Il Mulino is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner most days. On Sundays, it is also open for brunch. 

While you take in the views of the beach, you can sip on a cocktail or glass of wine. For your meal, you have a wide selection of classic and authentic Italian cuisine to choose from. Everything from the Risotto ai Porcini to the Scampi Oreganata will leave you filled and satisfied. 

“I had the chicken Parm and it was amazing. The waiter was incredibly nice as was all the staff I interacted with. They are just in the reopening process due to Covid and you can tell they are all very excited to entertain patrons again. I highly recommend the restaurant. Thank you for taking such good care of me!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Il Mulino. 

5. Nusr-Et Steakhouse 

Swanky restaurant that enjoys serving up its dishes with a flamboyant and fun twist

999 Brickell Ave. | Brickell | nusr-et.com.tr 

If you’re interested in a restaurant that offers more of a contemporary setting, visit Nusr-Et Steakhouse. This modern, upscale restaurant offers top-quality steaks and impeccable service. Since 2010, Nusr-Et Steakhouse has served as the go-to destination for meat lovers and anyone who just wants to treat themselves to an upscale dinner. While the restaurant is pricey, its dishes are worth every penny. Our favorites include the New York Steak and Beef Tenderloin. Nusr-Et does order salads for those who aren’t big fans of meat and steak, but the options are limited. 

“My boyfriend and I had a wonderful meal! We had the Nusr-Et special and was enough for both of us (along with a side of mashed potatoes) that gets cooked in front of you for perfection, and for drinks just water with whiskey and coke. Pretty quick service, we had reservations at 8:30 and were out by 10!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Nusret Steakhouse. 

6. The Bazaar

Hotel lounge that serves an eclectic range of tapas and drinks

1701 Collins Ave. | Miami Beach | thebazaar.com 

Whether you’re an out-of-town visitor or a seasoned resident, you need to visit The Bazaar at some point during your time in Miami. This popular hotel restaurant is known for its delicious tapas, Latin American-infused entrees, and vibrant decor. 

Most guests start their evening at the hotel’s outdoor bar, which overlooks the pool. When they are ready for dinner, they will head inside to order a dish from The Bazaar’s unique and innovative menu. Guests can order a la carte or enjoy a 5-course meal from the Menu de Clasicos. 

“What can I say? This is the best dining experience I have ever had in all my years. The creativity was so beautiful and the food tasted like something I have never tasted. I was so impressed with everything that I couldn't stop looking around. The signature cocktails were very good. I have never tasted anything like that. Champagne was wonderful just how I liked it very dry  and a delicious wine to follow.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Bazaar. 

7. El Cielo

Modern Latin American restaurant that offers stunning river views

31 SE 5th St. | Brickell | elcielorestaurant.com

Known for its contemporary interior design and riverfront views, El Cielo offers an unforgettable dining experience for visitors. Inspired by Latin American cuisine and made using molecular gastronomy techniques, many of the dishes on El Cielo’s menu are sure to surprise and delight your taste buds. Speaking of the food, El Cielo offers a wide selection of appetizers and entrees. Yucca Gnocchis, Scallops, and more await you at this unique restaurant. 

“If you want to have one of the most memorable dining experiences with Colombian inspired food, eat here! After getting married in the morning, we researched all throughout yelp to find a place to celebrate our nuptials and we couldn't have asked for a better place.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for El Cielo. 

Miami is home to an exciting and vibrant restaurant scene. Where do you plan on heading next? Let us know in the comment section below!

8. Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge

Stunning waterfront restaurant that is known for its globally-influenced dishes

412 NW North River Dr | Lummus Park | seaspice.com

Whenever you visit Miami, you’ll want to dine by the water at least once. Located along the Miami River, Seaspice Brasserie & Lounge combines stylish dining with upscale global cuisine to provide a one-of-a-kind dining experience for guests. 

On the menu, you’ll find rich and flavorful dishes like the Chilean Sea Bass, Grilled Florida Lobster, and Wild Caught Dover Sole. A wide selection of wine and cocktails is also available. Check out their menu online now!

“The food at Seaspice is totally 5 Yelp Stars all the way, I'd even give it 6, if I could. I started off with their Hudson Valley Pan-Seared Foie Gras done with a steamed brioche, onion marmalade, and caramelized apple. $35.00, but heavenly in taste and flavor; worth every penny.” - Yelp Review

Pao by Paul Qui

Chic hotel restaurant that specializes in globally-influenced Asian fare

3201 Collins Ave | Miami | faena.com

Pao by Paul Qui is a modern Asian-fusion restaurant located inside the Faena Hotel. Many of its inspiration comes from Filipino, Spanish, Japanese, and French cuisine. 

Some of their most popular dishes include the Wagyu Tenderloin, Pancit Negro, and Mushroom ‘Bistek.’ For dessert, you can treat yourself to sweet dishes like the Coconut Pandan Ice Cream and Corn Ice Cream Sando. Reserve a table now!

“We ordered variety of main unique dishes such as noodles with squid ink (Pancit Negro), Smoked short-rib asado, short rib rice, sea urchin (Unicorn) and duck Kare Kare. Great experience as we enjoyed every flavor that was served to us.” - Yelp Review

10. Nobu Miami

Internationally-renowned Asian fusion restaurantrestuarant

Nobu serves some of the best sushi in Miami. Image courtesy of Yelp.

4525 Collins Ave | Miami Beach | noburestaurants.com

If you’re looking for fresh, top-of-the-line sushi and Asian fusion dishes, you’ll love Nobu Miami. This chic restaurant is known for its upscale dining space and creative plates. You might even find a celebrity or two during your visit!

Nobu offers a wide selection of seafood dishes like the Creamy Spicy Crab, Maine Lobster Black Truffle Crust, and Black Cod with Miso. Craft cocktails and wine are also available to complement your meal. Learn more info on their website now!

“My absolute favorite is the famous miso marinated black cod. In Hawaii this is sometimes referred to as butterfish because the texture is so rich and similar to butter. You will not be disappointed. Another popular dish here is the spicy tuna on crispy rice. Not only beautiful to look at, but delicious as well.” - Yelp Review

11. Zuma

Upscale Japanese restaurant located in Downtown Miami

Start your meal off with their famous wings! Image courtesy of Yelp.

270 Biscayne Blvd Way | Miami | zumarestaurant.com

At Zuma Miami, you’ll find some of the best Japanese cuisine in the city. Whether you come for dinner or brunch, you can expect to find a wide variety of inventive and fresh dishes. 

Their sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigirinagiri are perfect for starting off your meal. Once you’re finished, you can enjoy a savory entree like the Gyuhire Sumibiyaki Karami Zuke or Rib Eye No Tamanegi Ponzu Fuumi. Check out their full menu now!

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“Upscale Japanese Miami staple for good sushi and fine dining: sophisticated crowd, the place is overlooking the water and has picture worthy decorations. Home to a very popular brunch in Miami...This isn't just a restaurant it's a culinary experience.” - Yelp Review

12. Il Gabbiano

Waterfront restaurant that is known for its upscale Italian dishes

335 S Biscayne Blvd | Miami | ilgabbianomia.com

Last, but certainly not least, on the list is Il Gabbiano. This Italian restaurant is known for its contemporary decor, high-end service, and creative plates.

Some of their most popular dishes include the Gnocchi al Gorgonzola, Vitello alla Zingara, and Pollo Farcito. For dessert, you can share something sweet like the Creme Brulee or the Cheesecake Italiana! Enjoy!

“It is by far the best upscale Italian restaurant in Miami. From the view, to the service and of course the food it is 5 star all the way. Some of my favorites are the Lobster Ravioli, Chicken Marsala, Shrimp Francese and the Crab Stuffed Avocado.” - Yelp Review

Miami is home to an exciting and vibrant restaurant scene. Where do you plan on heading next? Let us know in the comment section below!