Caribbean National Weekly

Florida’s culinary gems: Three shine on New York Times’ list of America’s best restaurants for 2023

By Ben McLeod··2 min read
Florida’s culinary gems: Three shine on New York Times’ list of America’s best restaurants for 2023

Florida’s vibrant culinary scene has received prominent recognition this year, with three restaurants earning spots on the New York Times’ list of America’s best restaurants for 2023.

Scouring America’s eateries

Tasked with the mission to identify the best, dozens of New York Times’ reporters and critics spread out across the nation to condense their flavorful findings into a list of just 50. 

Notably, half of the chosen eateries have only sprung to life since the Times’ 2022 list, highlighting the dynamic evolution of the country’s gastronomic landscape.

Sunlit flavors at Maty’s

Maty’s, a Peruvian delight that threw open its doors in March 2023, has quickly carved a niche for itself. 

Nestled at 3255 NE 1st Avenue in Miami, the eatery welcomes guests from Wednesday to Sunday. Daylight showers the dining area, providing a serene backdrop that transitions to a lively ambiance with resonant music as night descends.

More on Florida restaurants

Miami’s smoked specialties: Smoke & Dough

Adding another feather to Miami’s culinary cap is Smoke & Dough.

Having opened its doors in January 2022, it presents a vision of what Miami barbecue epitomizes: tantalizing ribs adorned with guava-ancho barbecue sauce, brisket infused with the essence of Cuban coffee, uniquely crafted pastrami tequeños, and black beans paired with pineapple. 

For dessert enthusiasts, their signature smoked flan is a must-try. Find this BBQ marvel at 4013 SW 152nd Avenue, open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Tampa’s Salt Shack on the Bay

Not to be left behind, Tampa's Salt Shack on the Bay stands tall among the top 50. The restaurant offers an extensive menu with a discernible Caribbean touch. 

Whether it is jackfruit tacos complemented by jicama slaw or jerk burgers paired with fries, they have got it. However, their pièce de résistance remains their Gulf seafood offerings.

The culinary landscape: Coast to coast

While most cities garnered mentions for one to three of their gastronomic treasures, New York City outshined them all, boasting four restaurants that caught the Times’ attention.

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