Miami’s Haitian restaurants offer a variety of bold dishes, from griot (fried pork) to djon djon rice (black mushroom rice). Whether you’re in Little Haiti or North Miami, these eateries bring authentic flavors and welcoming vibes. Here’s a quick list of eight standout places:
- Chef Creole Seasoned Restaurant: Famous for seafood dishes like lobster and shrimp in Creole sauce.
- Naomi's Garden Restaurant & Lounge: Known for jerk chicken and a lush garden setting.
- L'auberge Restaurant: Offers dishes like goat head soup and stewed chicken with cashews.
- Tap Tap Restaurant: A now-closed but legendary spot for oxtail and goat stew.
- Ivan's Cookhouse: Closed in May 2025 but remembered for griot and grilled seafood.
- Cecibon Restaurant: Traditional recipes served across multiple Miami locations.
- The Z Spot Kitchen: A cozy spot for Haitian classics in North Miami.
- Piman Bouk: A no-frills spot in Little Haiti for fried goat and refreshing soursop juice.
Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Location(s) | Known For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chef Creole | 200 NW 54th St, etc. | Seafood dishes, outdoor seating | 4.4/5 (Google) |
| Naomi's Garden | Little Haiti | Jerk chicken, garden setting | 8.1 (The Infatuation) |
| L'auberge | North Miami | Goat head soup, djon djon rice | 4.6/5 (Uber Eats) |
| Tap Tap | Miami Beach (closed) | Oxtail, goat stew, mojitos | N/A |
| Ivan's Cookhouse | North Miami Beach | Griot, grilled seafood | N/A (Closed) |
| Cecibon | Multiple locations | Traditional Haitian dishes | N/A |
| The Z Spot Kitchen | North Miami | Haitian classics | N/A |
| Piman Bouk | Little Haiti | Fried goat, soursop juice | 7.5/10 |
Ready to explore Miami’s Haitian food scene? Dive into these spots to enjoy bold flavors and rich culinary traditions.
Miami's Favorite Haitian Restaurant Started Accidentally from ...
1. Chef Creole Seasoned Restaurant
Chef Creole, founded by Wilkinson Sejour, is a cornerstone of Miami's Haitian dining scene, combining Haitian and Bahamian flavors. The flagship location at 200 NW 54th St offers a menu that celebrates this unique fusion.
"Chef Creole is Haitian inspired but I wanted to go a little further and attract more people to our culture, so if you see shrimp, lobster and you see conch and conch salad. That's more traditional for the Bahamas, so we infused that in our Creole concept." – Wilkinson Sejour
The restaurant is known for its bold Caribbean-inspired dishes. Popular items include Seafood Butter and Creole Sauce served with shrimp and lobster over white rice. Other highlights are griot (crispy pork chunks) and queue boeuf (braised oxtail), both seasoned with authentic Haitian spices.
The atmosphere blends laid-back comfort with a tropical touch. Guests can enjoy their meals in an outdoor seating area that captures the island vibe. With a 4.4/5 rating from over 3,800 Google reviews, it’s clear this spot is a local favorite.
| Location | Hours | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 200 NW 54th St, Miami | Mon-Wed: 11 AM–9 PM Thu-Sat: 11 AM–10 PM Sun: Closed |
• Drive-thru service • Outdoor seating • Takeout available |
"Experience exotic flavors that transport your palate to the tropics." – Wilkinson Sejour
Chef Creole has expanded its reach with locations at Miami International Airport and Hard Rock Stadium, showcasing its ability to bring Haitian cuisine to a broader audience while staying true to its roots.
2. Naomi's Garden Restaurant & Lounge
Nestled in Little Haiti, Naomi's Garden Restaurant & Lounge brings Haitian cuisine to life in a lively garden setting. It’s earned an 8.1 rating from The Infatuation for its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere.
Naomi's Garden is rooted in family tradition. As Yaron Yemini shares:
"My mother Naomi, she cooked for 4 and fed 40. Now her name feeds thousands and her generosity continues."
The menu is packed with Haitian favorites, including their standout jerk chicken. The Infatuation describes it as "juicy" with a "poignant kick" - especially delicious when paired with spicy pikliz. This mix of traditional recipes and modern flair makes the menu approachable and exciting.
| Popular Dishes | Description | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Jerk Chicken | Juicy, bold, and perfectly spiced | Spicy pikliz |
| Oxtail | Slow-cooked and tender | |
| Fried Snapper | Crispy on the outside, fresh inside | |
| Curry Chicken | Richly flavored and aromatic |
Additional options include baked chicken, king fish, pumpkin soup, and spinach with beef, all prepared with classic Haitian seasonings.
"Come to Naomi's for the jerk chicken, stay for the lovely garden." – The Infatuation
The lush garden setting adds a special touch to the dining experience, making it a great spot for casual meals or memorable celebrations.
3. L'auberge Restaurant
L'auberge Restaurant, a family-owned spot at 13315 W Dixie Hwy in North Miami, has earned high praise on food delivery platforms, boasting a 4.6/5 rating on Uber Eats (600+ reviews) and a 4.3/5 rating on DoorDash (1,000+ reviews) for its Haitian dishes.
The menu offers a variety of traditional Haitian meals, most served with rice, fried plantains, and fried potatoes.
| Signature Dishes | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Poulet en sauce noix | $16.90 | Stewed chicken in a tomato sauce with cashews, paired with djon-djon rice |
| Boullion Tet Cabrit | $20.80 | Goat head soup, often considered one of Miami’s best |
| Legume With Riz | $22.10 | A hearty vegetable stew served with rice, fried plantains, and fried potatoes |
| Griot Plate | $22.10 | Fried pork served with rice, fried plantains, and fried potatoes |
L'auberge also adds creative elements to its menu. Their standout 'atomic juice' combines beet, carrot, and orange juices for a bold, refreshing drink. Another favorite is their Haitian patties (Pâté Kode), available with fillings like chicken ($3.90) or in the traditional style ($5.20).
For a special Sunday treat, try their soup joumou, served with Haitian bread and banana. Whether you're craving bold Haitian flavors or comforting classics, L'auberge offers a welcoming space to enjoy a delicious meal.
4. Tap Tap Restaurant
Located at 819 5th St in Miami Beach, Tap Tap Restaurant was a beloved spot for Haitian cuisine, serving the community for nearly 30 years. Its name, inspired by Haiti's brightly decorated "tap tap" shared taxis, perfectly captured the restaurant's lively and colorful atmosphere. The walls were adorned with murals painted by Haitian artists who had fled the country during the 1990s, adding a personal and artistic touch to the space.
The menu celebrated traditional Haitian dishes, including stewed oxtail (Ke Bef Nan Sos Kreyol) served with white rice and fried plantains, a richly spiced goat stew, and vegetarian options like spinach in coconut sauce and okra stew.
| Signature Dish | Price (2003) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Stewed Oxtail | $12.95 | Tender meat in Creole sauce with rice and plantains |
| Goat Stew | $11.95 | Traditional spiced preparation |
| Malanga Fritters | $3.95 | Root vegetable fritters with watercress sauce |
| Whole Fish | $13.95 | Fresh catch in lime sauce |
The restaurant's drink menu was equally celebrated. Its mojitos were named "best in South Beach" for three years in a row, and the passion fruit rum cocktail became a favorite, pairing beautifully with the bold, flavorful dishes. The vibrant dining experience was as much about the ambiance as the food.
"The restaurant offers consistently excellent rendering of simple and classic food comparable to home cooking in Port-au-Prince", raved South Beach Magazine.
Tap Tap's intimate 50-seat dining space came alive with live Kompa and Reggae music. Each themed dining room was decorated with hand-painted scenes of Haitian markets, beaches, and village life, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The outdoor patio - with its mural of a full-size tap-tap bus - was a favorite spot for diners to relax or snap photos.
In 2009, Chef Gary Sanon-Jules brought even more attention to Tap Tap when he appeared on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Though the restaurant has since closed, it left a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in introducing the rich flavors of Haitian cuisine to a wider audience.
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5. Ivan's Cookhouse
Ivan's Cookhouse, situated at 14815 Biscayne Blvd in North Miami Beach, gained popularity under the leadership of Chef Ivan Dorvil, a "Chopped" winner who combined his Haitian roots with international culinary techniques.
One standout dish was Ivan's griot. Chef Dorvil prepared this by marinating pork shoulder in sour orange juice, herbs, spices, and Scotch bonnet peppers. The pork was then seared, boiled, and fried to perfection, served alongside plantains, black mushroom rice, and pikliz.
| Signature Dishes | Description |
|---|---|
| Griot | Marinated pork shoulder with plantains and black mushroom rice |
| Grilled Whole Snapper | Fresh snapper seasoned with Caribbean spices |
| Grilled Octopus | Expertly prepared seafood |
| Tasso | Crispy fried beef |
The menu, praised for its execution, earned Ivan's Cookhouse the title of "Best Haitian Restaurant" from Miami New Times in 2016.
"But the Haitian-born chef is at his best inside his eponymous North Dade restaurant, where he plays cook and host for a loyal crowd that returns time and again for a bill of fare that starts in the Caribbean and stretches out across the globe." - Miami New Times
The restaurant featured an open kitchen, allowing diners to watch Chef Dorvil in action, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere. Although Ivan's Cookhouse closed its doors permanently in May 2025, its influence remains a cherished part of Miami's Haitian food scene.
6. Cecibon Restaurant
Cecibon Restaurant is a staple in Miami's Haitian food scene, offering traditional Haitian dishes across multiple locations. The main location is at 168 NE 167th St, Miami, FL 33162, with additional spots at 18138 NW 2nd Ave and 1 Northwest 54th Street in Miami. There's also a Fort Lauderdale branch at 1395 W Sunrise Blvd. These locations make it easy to enjoy their signature dishes wherever you are in the area.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and bold Caribbean flavors, Cecibon preserves classic recipes that bring a taste of Haiti to your table. Whether you're planning an intimate meal or a larger gathering, the restaurant provides a family-friendly setting that suits any occasion.
| Location | Address |
|---|---|
| North Miami | 168 NE 167th St, Miami, FL 33162 |
| Miami Gardens | 18138 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL |
| Little Haiti | 1 Northwest 54th Street, Miami, FL 33127 |
| Fort Lauderdale | 1395 W Sunrise Blvd, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311 |
Each location stays true to traditional cooking methods, ensuring every meal delivers the rich, authentic flavors Cecibon is known for.
7. The Z Spot Kitchen
The Z Spot Kitchen, found at 1070 NE 152nd Ter in North Miami, serves up traditional Haitian dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. This spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the rich flavors of Haitian cuisine.
| Restaurant Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | 1070 NE 152nd Ter |
| City | North Miami |
| State | Florida |
| ZIP Code | 33162 |
| Owner | Karl Voltaire |
With its welcoming vibe and focus on traditional dishes, The Z Spot Kitchen offers a memorable dining experience for those exploring Miami's Haitian food scene.
8. Piman Bouk
Located in the heart of Little Haiti at 5932 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137, Piman Bouk serves up Haitian cuisine in a cozy, no-frills setting. With wooden tables and low ceilings, the space creates an intimate vibe that lets the food take center stage.
| Restaurant Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | 5932 NE 2nd Ave |
| City | Miami |
| State | Florida |
| ZIP Code | 33137 |
| Rating | 7.5/10 (The Infatuation) |
The menu is packed with Haitian classics like fried goat, oxtail, and stewed pork. Pair these rich dishes with their refreshing soursop juice for a complete experience.
"Piman Bouk is an essential stop for anyone looking to get into Haitian food." - Ryan Pfeffer, Senior Editor, Miami, The Infatuation
Piman Bouk’s dedication to traditional Haitian recipes has made it a go-to spot for anyone craving authentic Caribbean flavors in South Florida.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our journey through Miami's Haitian culinary scene, let's take a moment to reflect.
Miami's Haitian restaurants offer a taste of one of the city's most influential food traditions. With around 12,000 Haitian immigrants living in Miami, these eateries act as cultural bridges, connecting people through bold flavors and rich experiences.
Each spot brings its own flair to traditional Haitian dishes.
Haitian cuisine in Miami is a mix of African, French, Spanish, and Taino influences. Whether you're exploring Little Haiti or North Miami, you'll find restaurants that honor these roots while adding their personal spin.
"Haitian food is foundational to this city - and absolutely delicious. The dishes you'll find on this guide are crispy, juicy, and seasoned generously with fiery scotch bonnets and about 75% of a well-stocked spice cabinet." - The Infatuation
For a true taste of Haitian cooking, try iconic dishes like griot, soup joumou, and legim at various restaurants. Many places also feature daily specials and unique weekend offerings, ensuring every visit brings something new to the table.
These restaurants celebrate Haiti's culinary traditions and invite you to savor its rich legacy.
FAQs
What are the must-try dishes at Chef Creole Seasoned Restaurant, and what makes them special?
Chef Creole Seasoned Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Haitian flavors, especially their seafood specialties. Signature dishes like griot (fried marinated pork) and queue de boeuf (oxtail stew) are bursting with bold, traditional spices that showcase the heart of Haitian cuisine.
For seafood lovers, their conch salad and conch fritters are standout favorites, offering fresh, zesty flavors with a tropical twist. Each dish is prepared with a unique blend of Haitian seasonings, making every bite unforgettable. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Chef Creole delivers a true taste of Haiti in every meal.
Have any iconic Haitian restaurants in Miami closed but left a lasting impact on the local food scene?
Unfortunately, there isn’t much detailed information available about closed Haitian restaurants in Miami that have significantly influenced the local food culture. Most resources focus on current establishments and their offerings. However, if you're interested in exploring the vibrant Haitian culinary scene in Miami, there are still many popular spots worth visiting to experience authentic flavors.
How do the locations and atmospheres of Haitian restaurants in Miami create a unique dining experience?
The locations and atmospheres of Haitian restaurants in Miami offer a vibrant and immersive dining experience by blending authentic cuisine with cultural charm. Many of these restaurants are situated in Little Haiti, the heart of Miami's Haitian community, where the lively surroundings add to the authenticity of the meal.
For example, Naomi's Garden Restaurant & Lounge features a serene outdoor garden setting that evokes the relaxed, tropical feel of the Caribbean. Tap Tap, located in South Beach, stands out with its colorful murals and live music, offering a lively and artistic representation of Haitian culture. Meanwhile, Kasa Champet delivers a rustic, countryside vibe with family-style meals and live entertainment, making it perfect for a warm, communal experience.
These thoughtfully designed spaces, paired with traditional Haitian flavors, transport diners straight to Haiti, turning every meal into a memorable cultural journey.
