Have you ever been to Bayside? Located on the east side of Downtown Miami, it’s located in a vibrant area known for waterfront views, bustling shops, live entertainment and its wide array of food options.
But while the location is stunning, the prices at many of the more visible restaurants in and around the complex on Biscayne Boulevard can be steep, especially for students or locals looking for a quick bite without spending a fortune.
Beyond the flashy signs and tourist-packed spots are underrated restaurants that often go unnoticed. These are the places that offer great taste, atmosphere and value, without the high price tag.
Whether you’re craving ramen, pizza, empanadas or something in between, there’s something special waiting to be discovered.
200 E. Flagler St.
Miami, FL 33131
(754) 200-8941
Shimuja is one of many restaurants located inside Julia & Henry’s, a food hall on Flagler Street, which is walking distance from Bayside. Your biggest regret involving this place will be that you didn’t find it sooner.
They have a great lunch special that allows you to purchase the area’s best ramen for super-cheap. The Kyoto Shouyu ramen lunch special goes for $9.50. They follow Japanese ramen traditions, which involve using seasoned ramen eggs, grilling pork belly on a wood grill and preparing stock.
Urban Pizza Cafe
236 NE Third St.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 549-8510
Urban Pizza Cafe is a great hidden gem with delicious pizzas. We highly recommend trying the San Daniel barchetta for $13.95 because it has a great combination of fresh ingredients including cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, arugula and sliced parmesan. “Barchetta” in Italian means little boat, and this dish likely got its name because the dough has this sort of shape rather than round. Once you try this pizza, you won’t go back to your previous favorite.
The Empanadas
230 NE Fourth St.
Miami, FL 33132
(305) 699-0663 (ext 2)
This is the closest choice on this list to the downtown campus of Miami Dade College. It’s a popular local spot for students because of the great food, vast variety and cheap prices. This gem offers myriad options of empanadas, pastries and typical cafe fare. A local favorite is the spicy beef empanada for $4.20. If you choose to try this dish, you may end up ordering the iced chai latte. And rightfully so.
El Sitio Caffe Bar
19 NE Second Ave.
Miami, FL 33132
(786) 482-8450
This cool location has an underground section where you can eat and chill. The pabellón empanada goes for $3.99 and is like a little meal itself. It has shredded beef, sweet plantain and black beans. If you decide to patronize the kind folk at El Sitio Caffe Bar, make sure to try their garlic sauce.
B&D Trap
200 E Flagler St.
Miami FL, 33131
(561) 382-7944
Another entry from Julia & Henry’s, B&D Trap specializes in pork items and has great sides to match them, like their crispy french fries, mashed potatoes and coleslaw. Our favorite from here is the pulled pork sandwich combo, which goes for $19. It includes super crispy fries and the juicy pork along with the sweet bun.
