There’s a reason Coral Gables is called The City Beautiful. It truly is one of the most gorgeous and boujee places in the 305. But there are more than just beautiful houses, parks, and sites. Coral Gables also has some of the best restaurants in Miami. Below is a list of some of my favorites.
Fratellino
Fratellino is an authentic Italian restaurant on Miracle Mile. The owner Beto is amazing and very hospitable. They offer what has to be the best kid’s meal ever: a milanesa with bolognese pasta that is so delicious that have to keep myself from eating it. Fratellino is a great place for a pasta and wine night. And don’t forget to order the tiramisu for dessert and to make reservations before you go!
Caffe Vialetto
Cafe Vialetto is a staple in the Gables. The restaurant has been on the corner of Le Jeune and Bird Road for a long time. We like to go here for special occasions and it’s always great. Definitely make reservations as they are always packed–even if it’s a weekday. Their pasta is amazing, especially the pear ravioli. Some of their dishes are more Latin-inspired such as the tuna tostones. They have different daily specials and offer great meat and fish. I don’t think there’s a kids’ menu but we always order the meatballs from the appetizer menu for our 4-year-old because he loves them.
Hillstone
The best sushi I’ve ever eaten! The Thai Tuna and the Coconut Shrimp roll are out of this world. I also highly recommend the Thai Steak salad–a noodle salad that comes with mango, avocado, peanuts, and delicious steak. If you’re a vegetarian, they also have the best veggie burger I’ve ever eaten! If you’re into people-watching, Hillstone is the place for you. However, I would reserve it for a date night especially if you have a bigger family as they don’t allow parties over 4 and don’t offer high chairs.
Mariposa
Tucked away on the 3rd floor of Neiman Marcus. It’s a more upscale spot for lunch and dinner which features a terrace overlooking the Shops at Merrick Village. The new American cuisine and their service are amazing. I love coming here during Miami Spice as you get a lot more bang for your buck. They always serve a complimentary broth and their signature bread up front. The bread is delicious like a huge fluffy croissant and the broth is very comforting and opens your appetite.
TUR Kitchen
TUR Kitchen is amazing if you like Mediterranean/Middle Eastern food which IMO is the best cuisine. The restaurant is very modern and clean. Service is great and they bring out a yummy complimentary flatbread upfront. The seared eggplant appetizer is so heavenly that we usually order two portions. The presentation of the food in general is very pleasant and appetizing. They vary their menu so you get to try different things. But no matter what or how much you eat, you cannot leave without ordering the Kanufa for dessert. It is a filo dough with melted cheese inside and honey and chopped pistachios drizzled all over it. It comes with a side of rosewater blueberries. This dessert might sound a bit special but trust me, order it and you’ll thank me later.
Fiola/La Terraza
Fiola is a very upscale Italian spot close to Sunset Place. They recently added a rooftop section with its own menu called La Terraza. There you can enjoy Saturday and Sunday brunches with live jazz music.
A few more honorable mentions are Zucca, an Italian restaurant in the iconic St. Michel Hotel, Aromas Del Peru for great Peruvian food and ceviche, and Perry’s, an upscale steakhouse known for its amazing lobster bisque.