Florida isn’t just about palm trees and white-sand beaches—it’s also a haven for foodies.
From traditional Cuban sandwiches and Caribbean-inspired street food to fresh Gulf seafood and Michelin-starred tasting menus, these are the top Florida cities every food lover should have on their radar.
Let’s dive in!
Miami: A Melting Pot of Culinary Excellence
In 2025, Miami was officially crowned America’s top foodie city, beating out heavyweights like New York and Los Angeles.
This recognition stems from Miami’s unmatched combination of culinary diversity, high-quality dining experiences, and relative affordability compared to other food capitals.
What makes Miami so special is its vibrant mix of Latin American and Caribbean influences.
From the Cuban flavors of Little Havana to the Peruvian ceviches and Haitian stews served in neighborhoods like Little Haiti, the city is a non-stop cultural feast.
One of Miami’s most iconic food institutions is Joe’s Stone Crab, established in 1913, which still draws crowds for its famous stone crab claws and key lime pie.
The above photo is from one of my favorite spots in Miami, A Fish Called Avalon, which is known for its seafood and has been around for more than 30 years.
With a food scene in areas like Wynwood and Brickell, Miami is the ultimate playground for adventurous food lovers.
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
Tampa: The Birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich
Tampa’s food scene has exploded in recent years.
The city’s rich history, particularly in Ybor City, has made it a hotspot for foodies.
Tampa is considered the birthplace of the Cuban sandwich, and while the debate between Tampa and Miami over who has the best Cuban sandwich continues, one thing is clear: Tampa’s version is a must-try.
Dining options in the city range from upscale experiences like Koya, a small Japanese tasting menu spot, to local institutions like Columbia Restaurant.
Founded in 1905, Columbia is the oldest restaurant in Florida and serves classic Spanish and Cuban dishes in a historic, tile-adorned setting.
Tampa’s food culture isn’t just about history, though.
With new breweries, food halls, and chef-driven restaurants opening regularly, Tampa is now one of Florida’s most exciting foodie cities.
Orlando: From Theme Park Foods to Other Great Plates
Often overshadowed by its theme parks, Orlando has quietly become a major player in the Florida food scene.
The city is home to a vast array of gourmet food stores, coffee roasters, craft breweries, and food trucks.
As of 2025, over 50 Orlando restaurants are recognized in the Michelin Guide.
Restaurants like Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort offer fine dining with a theatrical touch.
Kadence, a tiny sushi spot in the Audubon Park neighborhood, delivers a seafood-driven tasting menu that has drawn a lot of praise.
Orlando is also a standout city for budget-friendly eats. Whether you’re tracking down the best food truck tacos or sampling ice cream flavors, you’ll find that great food in Orlando doesn’t have to break the bank.
Here, I’m enjoying a Lobster Reuben sandwich in Key Largo
Florida Keys: A Seafood Lover’s Dream
If you love seafood, there’s no better place than the Florida Keys. Located at the southernmost tip of the state, these island towns thrive on their connection to the water.
The seafood here is as fresh as it gets, with local catches like grouper, yellowtail snapper, stone crab, pink shrimp, and lobster regularly featured on menus.
The food of the Keys reflects its laid-back island vibe, but the food is anything but boring.
Dishes like conch fritters, grilled mahi-mahi sandwiches, and blackened fish tacos are everyday staples, while the town’s signature dessert—Key lime pie—is a must-try from spots like Blue Heaven or Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe.
Combine the relaxed atmosphere with delicious food, and it’s no wonder this island town keeps foodies coming back.
West Palm Beach: Florida’s Rising Star
While cities like Miami and Tampa often grab the spotlight, West Palm Beach is quickly becoming one of Florida’s most talked-about food destinations.
In 2025, it was named the number one trending destination in the South—a title earned in part thanks to its blossoming food scene.
Downtown West Palm Beach and the nearby neighborhoods of Northwood and Rosemary Square are filled with new restaurants, wine bars, brunch spots, and gourmet markets.
Food halls like Grandview Public Market are perfect for trying multiple cuisines in one stop, and waterfront restaurants along Clematis Street make for scenic dining spots.
West Palm’s foodie reputation continues to rise, and with new chefs and culinary events arriving each season, it’s a place to watch—and taste.
Other Florida Cities Worth Tasting
While these five cities lead the pack, several other Florida destinations are earning attention in 2025 for their food scenes:
St. Petersburg has a trendy downtown full of local breweries, vegan cafes, and waterfront seafood shacks (pictured above is Shells Restaurant in St Pete)
Fort Lauderdale offers great dining along Las Olas Boulevard and awesome outdoor food markets.
Gainesville is a surprise contender with a mix of Southern comfort food and student-favorite international bites.
Naples is known for its elegant waterfront dining and upscale Italian restaurants.
Florida’s food culture continues to evolve, offering something unique in every corner of the state.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s best foodie cities in 2025 offer a perfect mix of heritage, innovation, and coastal flavors.
From the streets of Miami to the historic spots of Ybor City in Tampa, each city on this list has several foodie destinations worth exploring.
Hungry yet? You’ll want to start planning your Florida foodie trip now.
Follow Our Discover Florida Facebook Page!
We’re Also On Pinterest!
Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?
If so, we have you covered. Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!
Top Tours in Florida – Viator
Top Hotels In Florida – Booking.com
Looking To Get Around In Florida?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
