Coral Gables, known as “The City Beautiful,” is home to some of Miami’s most iconic and celebrated dining destinations. From historic steakhouses to modern chef-driven concepts, here are 10 of the most popular restaurants in Coral Gables, featuring their unique history, menu highlights, and customer favorites.
1. Caffe Abbracci
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Cuisine: Northern Italian
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Why it’s Unique: A Coral Gables institution since 1989, this spot was founded by the late Nino Pernetti. It is famously known as a “power lunch” destination where politicians, celebrities, and locals have gathered for decades. The atmosphere is undeniably “old-school” and warm.
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Popular Items: Veal Parmigiana, Tortellini “Tatiana” (with pink sauce), Branzino “Nino,” and their classic Tiramisu.
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What People Say: “Old world ambience,” “solid service,” and a place that “keeps the vibe of the late 1970s going without sacrificing quality.”
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Location: 318 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: caffeabbracci.com
2. Graziano’s Restaurant
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Cuisine: Argentine Steakhouse
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Why it’s Unique: Family-owned since 1962, Graziano’s offers a deep dive into Argentine culture. The Coral Gables location is flagship-quality, featuring a massive fire pit where you can watch whole sides of beef and lamb slow-roasting as you walk in.
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Popular Items: Certified Angus Beef Churrasco, Hand-cut Empanadas, Short Ribs, and the Dulce de Leche Crepe.
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What People Say: “Top notch five stars across the board,” and widely cited as having the “best empanadas in town.”
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Location: 394 Giralda Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: grazianosgroup.com | Instagram: @grazianosgroup
3. Hillstone
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Cuisine: American
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Why it’s Unique: Located on the “Miracle Mile,” Hillstone is famous for its rigorous consistency and high-energy atmosphere. It is the place to see and be seen in the Gables. Despite being part of a group, its execution is often rated higher than many independent fine-dining spots.
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Popular Items: The “Hawaiian” Ribeye (marinated in soy and ginger), Spinach & Artichoke Dip, House-Made Sushi (Coconut Shrimp Roll), and Burgers.
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What People Say: “Great date night spot,” with “flawless service” and a “chill vibe.”
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Location: 201 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: hillstonerestaurant.com
4. Bachour
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Cuisine: Modern American / Bakery & Brasserie
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Why it’s Unique: Helmed by world-renowned Pastry Chef Antonio Bachour, this spot is half elegant restaurant, half jewelry-store-style bakery. It is arguably the best place in Miami for pastries and plated desserts.
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Popular Items: Croissants (Gianduja, Almond), Guava and Cheese Pancake, Egg Sandwich on Brioche, and the signature Petit Gateaux.
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What People Say: “Pastry heaven,” and simply “the best desserts in Coral Gables.”
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Location: 2020 Salzedo St, Miami, FL 33134
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Website: antoniobachour.com | Instagram: @bachourmiami
5. Eating House
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Cuisine: Modern American / “Miami” Cuisine
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Why it’s Unique: Started as a pop-up by “Chopped” champion Giorgio Rapicavoli, Eating House became a permanent fixture due to its cult following. It is famous for inventive dishes that play on childhood nostalgia and local Miami flavors.
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Popular Items: Cap’n Crunch Pancakes (Brunch legend), Carbonara (often with a truffle twist), and the Tasting Menu.
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What People Say: “Eclectic and exciting menu,” and an experience “you just can’t replicate anywhere else.”
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Location: 128 Giralda Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: eatinghousemiami.com | Instagram: @eatinghousemiami
6. Zucca
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Cuisine: Regional Italian
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Why it’s Unique: Housed in the historic Hotel St. Michel, Zucca brings a level of elegance and romance that is hard to beat. The kitchen focuses on authentic recipes from specific Italian regions rather than generic “Italian-American” fare.
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Popular Items: Fried Zucchini Flowers (stuffed with ricotta), Linguine with Clams, and Wagyu Beef Carpaccio.
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What People Say: “Top notch” ambiance and service, with “romantic outdoor dining.”
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Location: 162 Alcazar Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: zuccamiami.com | Instagram: @zuccamiami
7. Bulla Gastrobar
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Cuisine: Spanish Tapas
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Why it’s Unique: Bulla (pronounced “boo-ya”) is energetic, loud, and fun. It set the standard for the modern Spanish gastrobar scene in Miami. It’s perfect for groups because the entire menu is designed to be shared.
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Popular Items: “Huevos Bulla” (eggs, homemade potato chips, Serrano ham, potato foam, truffle oil), Croquetas de Jamón, and Paella.
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What People Say: “Amazing experience” with “huge portions” and a very lively happy hour.
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Website: bullagastrobar.com | Instagram: @bullagastrobar
8. Luca Osteria
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Cuisine: Italian (Contemporary)
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Why it’s Unique: Another hit by Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli, Luca Osteria is located on the pedestrian-friendly Giralda Plaza. It takes classic Italian ideas and adds a surprising, modern twist.
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Popular Items: Pasta al Limone (with 24-month Parmigiano), Short Rib Bolognese, and Fried Olives.
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What People Say: “Unreal food,” and frequently cited by locals as their “favorite Italian restaurant” for a date night.
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Location: 116 Giralda Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: lucamiami.com | Instagram: @lucaosteria
9. Zitz Sum
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Cuisine: Asian Fusion / Dim Sum
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Why it’s Unique: Tucked away in an alley-like entrance, this spot has a “speakeasy” vibe and earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand. Chef Pablo Zitzmann blends Asian techniques with Italian and Latin influences (e.g., dumplings with unexpected fillings).
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Popular Items: Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings), Wonton in Broth, Bing Bread with Honey Butter, and the Tasting Menu.
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What People Say: A “hidden gem” where the “richness and diversity of the dishes is out of this world.”
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Location: 396 Alhambra Cir Suite 155, Coral Gables, FL 33134
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Website: zitzsum.com | Instagram: @zitzsum
10. Christy’s Restaurant
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Cuisine: Classic Steakhouse
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Why it’s Unique: Serving Coral Gables since 1978, Christy’s is the definition of “Old Miami.” With its dark wood walls and red leather booths, it feels like a private club. It is famous for maintaining traditions like the tableside Caesar salad.
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Popular Items: Prime Rib of Beef, Famous Caesar Salad, and Baked Alaska (flambéed tableside).
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What People Say: “Old school vibe” and arguably the “best Caesar salad in Miami.”
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Location: 3101 Ponce de Leon, Miami, FL 33134
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Website: christysrestaurant.com














