Vegetarian Miami: A Plant-Based Travel Guide

Published August 4, 2021 04:09PM

Miami is packed with endless things to do and see – from white sand beaches to spectacular sunsets – boasts laid back, old world glamour, and a balmy sub-tropical climate. It’s no surprise the Magic City is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the U.S. The the city is known for its next-level cuisine, and vegetarian Miami offerings do not disappoint. Whether you’re staying right on South Beach, you’re tucked into a highrise in Brickell, or you’re planning to spend most of your time in the Wynwood Art District, we’ve rounded up some of the best veg-friendly and sustainable things to see, eat, and do all across Miami.

VT Note: We understand that, even with vaccinations and safety protocols in place, the pandemic is ongoing and many readers may not feel it is safe or appropriate to travel. Vegetarian Times travel guides are intended to inspire – but not necessarily to endorse immediate travel. If you do choose to travel, please do so responsibly and follow all relevant guidance and precautions.

Vegetarian Miami Guide: Where to Stay

1 Hotel South Beach

The luxurious 1 Hotel South Beach is right on the water, which makes it easy to indulge in sun and sand. For vegetarians, the special benefit of checking into 1 Hotel is room service courtesy of Plnthouse, an organic, plant-based restaurant helmed by Puerto Rican chef Fernando Cruz. The brand also participates in a carbon-offset program to ease concerns about your vacation’s footprint. 2341 Collins Avenue, South Beach; 1hotels.com

Vegetarian Miami Guide: Where to Eat and Drink

Cuban Sandwiches and Casual Dishes: Vegan Cuban Cuisine

It’s a moral imperative to indulge in a Cubano sandwich and other Cuban delights while playing in the Magic City. Although traditional Cuban fare is typically quite meat-heavy, there are some vegetarian spots around Miami that offer incredible plant-based alternatives. With offerings like chickpea croquetas and soy picadillo bowls, Vegan Cuban Cuisine is one of the best in town. And yes, they have a vegan Cubano on the menu, made with the restaurant’s own jackfruit ‘lechon’ asado. 9640 SW 72nd St, Sunset; https://www.vegancubancuisine.com/

Dinner and Drinks, Miami-Style: Full Bloom Vegan

Looking for something a little more indulgent? Head to Full Bloom! This strictly vegan and non-GMO bar and restaurant does pub fare extremely well, but in a way that won’t leave you feeling bloated and icky afterwards. The twice-fried cauliflower tacos and crispy yuca fries with pickled jalapeños are unbeatable and go particularly well with a spicy house-made Dragon Mule or Coco Mojito from the cocktail menu. The crowd is athleisure casual by day; at night, you’ll see some diners dressed to impress. 1670 James Ave., South Beach; https://www.fullbloomvegan.com/

Beachside Elegance: Plant Miami

Tucked into the chic Sacred Space Miami wellness centre, Plant Miami offers a modern plant-based approach to fine dining. The vegan and kosher-friendly restaurant draws inspiration from the South Florida landscape and sources all produce from its own internally operated community supported agriculture (CSA) farm. Dishes lean towards the health-conscious, but in a way that’s way more influencer than ascetic. 105 NE 24th St, Edgewater; sacredspacemiami.com

The (Veggie) Scene: Planta South Beach

Close to the ocean, this sultry spot (that recently opened an NYC outpost) is perfect for a date or night out. Cocktails are big here, with a list of house creations – several of which are made with alcohol-free Seedlip. An eclectic food menu ranges from clean and wholesome (ahi watermelon nigiri, kelp caesar salad) to indulgent (artisan pizzas, truffle-topped cauliflower tots). 850 Commerce Street, South Beach; plantarestaurants.getbento.com

Vegetarian Miami Guide: Where to Shop

Dragonfly Thrift Boutique

Thrift shopping on vacation is an experience in and of itself — and almost always guarantees incredibly unique souvenirs – but this isn’t your typical Salvation Army-type shop. Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is going to be your best bet for curated second-hand fashion, art, and eco-friendly tsotchkes — but the best part of the expansive thrift shop is that all proceeds benefit LEAP, a local non-profit that works to educate and support women transitioning from prison. 3141 SW 8th St, Flagler; dragonflythrift.org

Vegetarian Miami Guide: Things to Do

Wynwood Walls

Exploring the ever-changing artworks within the Wynwood Walls is one of those things that never gets old — even if you live in Miami. The outdoor art museum is always packed with visiting and local art enthusiasts gathering to appreciate works by some of the world’s greatest street artists. The al fresco art experience covers over 80,000 square feet of walls, so bring your walking shoes! Visitors Center located at 266 NW 26th St, Wynwood; https://thewynwoodwalls.com/overview>thewynwoodwalls.com

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is your best bet to get to know the vast biodiversity of South Florida in a respectful and sustainable manner. The designated World Heritage Site is home to a myriad of rare and endangered fauna, including the manatee, the American crocodile, and the Florida panther. Note that the park is fiercely protected due to its status as a vital habitat for many endangered animals, and as such, booking a guided tour is recommended. Park office located at 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead; https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm>nps.gov