By: Sophia Lalaounis By: Sophia Lalaounis | March 26, 2025 | Food & Drink, Eat, Drink, Guide,
Whether you're craving a light, zesty bite or a hearty, ingredient-driven dish, these standout salads showcase Miami’s finest flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Photo Credits: Daniel Neuhaus
MIMI Chinese, the Michelin-recognized Toronto concept now in Miami, offers an extraordinary exploration of regional Chinese flavors. The smacked cucumber salad is a testament to the restaurant's creative take on traditional dishes, offering a refreshing burst of texture and flavor. Crisp cucumbers are paired with earthy wood ear mushrooms, all enveloped in a tangy Shanxi vinegar sauce, and garnished with fragrant cilantro and chrysanthemum leaves. This vibrant, herbaceous dish delivers a harmonious balance of freshness and umami, making it the perfect start to any meal. 1575 Alton Rd Unit 2, Miami Beach, @mimichinesemiami
At Elastika, a visually captivating restaurant within The Moore in Miami's Design District, even classic dishes like the Caesar salad are reimagined with thoughtful intention. This standout version features crisp kale, perfectly coated in a rich, house-made dressing, and topped with Parmigiano Reggiano and sunflower seed breadcrumbs for a delightful, nutty crunch. Beyond its irresistible flavor, this salad reflects Elastika's commitment to sustainability, with carefully sourced, high-quality ingredients that elevate every bite. 191 NE 40th St., Miami, @elastikamiami
Nestled within the newly opened Harbour Club in Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour, a’Riva offers an inviting Italian Mediterranean experience where relaxed hospitality meets refined flavors. Chef Michele Esposito’s menu is a tribute to the seasonality and simplicity of the Italian Riviera, and the arugula salad perfectly embodies this ethos. A vibrant combination of fresh arugula, creamy feta, sweet dates, tart pomegranate seeds, and crunchy walnuts, this salad offers an exquisite balance of textures and flavors. Gluten-free and packed with contrasting notes, it’s a refreshing and memorable addition to a menu that highlights both elegance and comfort. 1766 Bay Rd., Miami Beach, @arivarestaurant
Tucked away on the charming Española Way, The Joyce infuses creative flair into traditional dishes, using only the finest ingredients. The chopped iceberg salad is a shining example, where a rich, house-made Ranch dressing takes the spotlight. A blend of sour cream, garlic, dried herbs, and a touch of Point Reyes Bay bleu cheese delivers a velvety balance of tangy and savory, perfectly complementing the crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and indulgent honeyed bacon. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of fresh and rich flavors, reflecting The Joyce's dedication to quality. 448 Española Wy, Miami Beach, @thejoycerestaurant
Photo Courtesy of Felice
At Felice, an Italian gem with a vibrant atmosphere, the tuna panzanella offers a refreshing twist on a classic dish, showcasing the restaurant's dedication to bold, authentic flavors. This Italian creation features tender steamed tuna, complemented by ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and zesty red onions. Tossed in red wine vinegar and served atop roasted bread, it’s finished with fragrant basil for a herbaceous touch. This unique salad beautifully marries fresh ingredients and timeless Italian sensibilities, delivering a light yet satisfying start to any meal. 1450 Brickell Ave Ste. 110, Miami, @felice.restaurants
At MAASS, the burrata salad is an indulgent yet refreshing dish that highlights farm-fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Creamy burrata takes center stage, paired with smoky roasted tomatoes, tart raspberries, and the satisfying crunch of pistachios, all nestled on a bed of crisp farm lettuces. This vibrant combination offers a delightful balance of textures, making it a memorable and elevated dish. 525 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, @maass_ftl
MILA Restaurant’s Spinach Salad reimagines the leafy classic with a bold twist. Tender spinach is dressed in a rich sesame dressing that adds umami depth, while a sprinkle of furikake lends a savory crunch. This vibrant salad is perfectly reflects MILA’s blend of Mediterranean and Asian influences, where simplicity meets sophistication in every bite. 1636 Meridian Ave Rooftop, Miami Beach, @milagroup_miami
At Dirty French Steakhouse in Brickell, the DF wedge offers a bold, decadent take on the classic. Crisp iceberg lettuce is layered with Sunshine Provisions applewood-smoked lardons, demi tomatoes, red onions, and crumbles of Maytag blue cheese, finished with chives and a berbere green tomato mignonette. A dusting of berbere spice blend adds depth, while a creamy Maytag blue cheese dressing is served tableside for the perfect finishing touch. Indulgent yet elegantly composed, this standout salad reflects Dirty French Steakhouse’s signature blend of rich flavors and French-inspired sophistication. 1200 Brickell Ave., Miami
Photo Courtesy of CASA NEOS
At CASA NEOS, the horiatiki Greek salad is a fresh, flavorful tribute to Mediterranean simplicity. A harmonious mix of PDO-aged feta, juicy kumato tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and briny Kalamata olives is finished with a sprinkle of Greek mountain oregano, creating a balanced, satisfying dish. This salad offers a true taste of Greece, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean in each bite. 40 SW North River Dr., Miami, @casa_neos
Fiola Miami’s basil Caesar salad offers a refined take on the beloved classic, combining bold flavors with delicate textures. Crisp greens are elevated by fragrant basil, tangy lemon, and savory anchovy, creating a perfectly balanced bite. Shards of pane carasau add a satisfying crunch, while Piave Vecchio lends a rich, nutty depth. Light yet indulgent, this Caesar is a sophisticated start to any meal, with the option to add a protein for a heartier touch. 1500 San Ignacio Ave., Coral Gables, @fiolamiami
At Boia De, Luci’s chopped salad is a masterful blend of bold flavors and textures. Crisp little gem and treviso lettuces provide the perfect base for demi-sec tomatoes, marinated cannellini beans, and fragrant Sicilian oregano. Midnight Moon cheese adds a rich, nutty depth, while a roasted garlic vinaigrette ties it all together with a savory finish. Bright, herbaceous, and perfectly balanced, this salad is a refined take on a timeless classic. 5205 NE 2nd Ave., Miami, @boiaderestaurant
At Toku Miami, where modern Asian cuisine meets an energetic yet refined ambiance, the peking duck salad is a bold and flavorful standout. Delicate frisée is paired with crispy shallots, crunchy peanuts, and sweet candied oranges, creating a dynamic mix of textures. A luscious honey citrus vinaigrette ties it all together, balancing savory, sweet, and tangy notes in every bite. Both refreshing and indulgent, this dish embodies Toku’s signature fusion of elegance and bold flavor. 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, @tokurestaurants
Photo Courtesy of Walrus Rodeo
Walrus Rodeo’s Grilled Romaine reimagines the classic Caesar with an irresistible smoky depth. Lightly charred romaine is paired with a velvety Caesar dressing, briny white anchovies, and a spicy crumb for a satisfying crunch. Bold yet elegantly composed, this salad delivers layers of flavor in every bite, making it a standout on the menu. 5143 NE 2nd Ave., Miami, @walrusrodeo
Nestled in the heart of Wynwood, Bakan brings the essence of Mexico to Miami with its vibrant, artful space and authentic flavors. The nopal con queso asadero is a unique and flavorful take on a cactus-based salad, featuring tender nopal topped with rich Oaxaca cheese, creamy avocado, and a bold spinach red wine vinaigrette. Earthy, fresh, and deeply satisfying, this dish perfectly reflects Bakan’s dedication to traditional ingredients with a modern twist. 2801 NW 2nd Ave., Miami, @bakanwynwood
At Giselle Miami, the green goddess salad offers a fresh, vibrant take on Mediterranean-inspired flavors. This light yet indulgent dish features a harmonious blend of edamame, hearts of palm, and puffed quinoa gremolata, all topped with a rich and herbaceous green goddess dressing. Crisp, refreshing, and full of flavor, it’s a sophisticated choice for those looking to indulge in something both fresh and satisfying. Perfectly complementing the bold, savory menu at Giselle, this salad delivers a luxurious bite with every forkful. 15 NE 11th St., Miami, @giselle.miami
At PASTA in Wynwood, simplicity meets bold flavor in a thoughtfully crafted romaine salad. Crisp romaine is elevated with a touch of pepperoncino sott’olio for a subtle heat, while parmigiano reggiano adds rich, savory depth. A sprinkle of pangrattato provides the perfect crunch, creating a refined yet effortless dish that embodies PASTA’s philosophy—highlighting the finest ingredients with impeccable technique. A refreshing complement to the restaurant’s housemade pastas, this salad is a testament to the beauty of Italian simplicity. 124 NW 28th St., Miami, @pasta.wynwood
Photo Courtesy of W Miami
Perched atop W Miami, TULUM Rooftop Bar & Restaurant blends breathtaking views with a globally inspired, modern American menu. The Florida citrus salad is a vibrant expression of fresh, high-quality ingredients, featuring local baby greens, bright citrus segments, and crisp radish. Blueberry caramelized walnuts add a subtle sweetness, while brûléed goat cheese lends a creamy, indulgent touch. Finished with a delicate sherry vinaigrette, this refreshing salad perfectly embodies TULUM’s balance of elegance, flavor, and natural beauty. 485 Brickell Ave., Miami, @tulumwmiami
At Torno Subito, the Michelin-recognized restaurant by acclaimed chef Massimo Bottura, even a salad becomes a culinary masterpiece. The modern salad is a vibrant, artful creation featuring a buttery bed of purple lettuce nestled within crispy parmesan shards. What truly sets it apart is the array of 14 distinct dressings, each thoughtfully placed to offer a dynamic flavor experience in every bite. Set against the backdrop of Torno Subito’s chic, playful ambiance and sweeping rooftop views, this salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious—a true testament to the restaurant’s innovative approach to Italian cuisine. 200 E Flagler St., Miami, @tornosubitomia
At Carrot Express, clean eating meets bold flavor with the oriental crunch salad, a vibrant dish packed with texture and freshness. A mix of crisp romaine and greens is layered with creamy avocado, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, roasted cashews, and toasted sesame seeds. Crispy tortilla strips add the perfect crunch, while a honey-lime peanut vinaigrette ties everything together with a sweet, tangy, and nutty finish. A longtime fan favorite, this salad embodies Carrot Express’ commitment to wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste. Multiple locations, @carrotexpress
Photo Courtesy of Ostrow Brasserie
At Ostrow Brasserie, the classic Caesar salad is reimagined with rich, smoky depth. Delicately smoked trout adds a luxurious twist to crisp romaine, while a house-made dressing, aged Parmesan, and perfectly golden croutons bring balance and texture. Elegant yet deeply satisfying, this refined take on a timeless favorite embodies Ostrow Brasserie’s dedication to quality ingredients and bold flavors. 4850 NW 2nd Ave., Miami, @ostrowbrasserie
Photography by: Photo Credits: Getty Images; Daniel Neuhaus; Felice; CASA NEOS; Walrus Rodeo; W Miami; Ostrow Brasserie; courtesy of brands