If you’re hungry for adventure, East Kendall is one Miami neighborhood that deserves a spot on your dining checklist. This vibrant suburban area—nestled just west of Pinecrest and skirting the edge of Kendall Drive (SW 88th St)—is home to a food scene that balances hype-worthy hotspots with local favorites you’d never stumble into by accident. From bustling shopping plazas along Kendall Drive to tucked-away treasures on SW 107th Avenue, East Kendall’s culinary spirit is diverse, delicious, and always welcoming. Here’s your go-to guide for eating your way through East Kendall, one unforgettable bite at a time.
Where Cuban and Latin Flavors Lead the Way
East Kendall’s foundation is steeped in Latin flavors, led by decades-old bakeries, sandwich shops, and casual Cuban restaurantes:
- Islas Canarias Restaurant & Bakery (SW 137th Ave and SW 88th St): This unassuming strip-mall spot is legendary for its croquetas—crispy, creamy, perfectly seasoned morsels that Miamians consider the city’s gold standard. The ventanita always has a line, especially in the mornings for pastelitos and strong cafecito. Don’t miss their generously stuffed Cuban sandwiches and their iconic arroz con pollo.
- Havana Harry’s To Go (Hammocks Town Center): While the main Havana Harry’s is in Coral Gables, the Kendall offshoot brings hearty Cuban meals in a casual setting—the bistec empanizado and classic vaca frita make perfect lunch plates, and there’s a rotating menu of fresh tropical juices. Prices are moderate and portions are huge.
Standout International Eats
- Pinecrest Bakery (Scattered throughout Kendall Drive): It’s a Miami essential, beloved for pastelitos, croquetas, and empanadas—but don’t overlook their breakfast sandwiches or the tres leches and flan for dessert. Many locations are open 24 hours, making it a faithful late-night fix.
- Pho Thang (SW 88th St and 117th Ave): East Kendall’s Vietnamese go-to, popular among locals for steaming bowls of pho, crisp banh mi, and bubble tea. Prices are pocket-friendly, with hearty meal bowls under $15. The service is quick, reliable, and always family-friendly.
- Taco Rico Tex-Mex Café (Kendall Pointe, SW 88th St): This vibrant spot is known for fresh margaritas, flavorful fish tacos, and build-your-own burrito bowls. Hang out on their patio with a basket of chips and guac, especially on Taco Tuesdays when deals abound.
Sweet Spots and Café Culture
East Kendall is no slouch when it comes to bakeries, coffee shops, and dessert nooks:
- Moises Bakery of Kendall (SW 88th St and 129th Ave): Venture off the main road to find this beloved Venezuelan bakery, famous for its cachitos (ham-stuffed pastries), tequeños (cheese sticks), and addictive golfeados (sweet rolls). Their coffee is rich, and the friendly atmosphere makes you want to linger.
- Misha’s Cupcakes (The Crossings, SW 120th St): For a sweet treat, locals swear by Misha’s moist, flavor-packed cupcakes and whimsical cake pops. Their cookies and brownies are just as show-stopping—perfect for a celebration or a midday indulgence.
- Café Crème (Sunset Drive): A French escape in Kendall, Café Crème offers flaky artisan croissants, rich espresso, and elegant lunch salads and quiches. The industrial-chic décor makes it a favorite laptop-and-latte hangout.
Family-Friendly, Fresh, and Fun
- Shorty’s Bar-B-Q (SW 87th Ave & Kendall Drive): A Miami barbecue institution since 1951, Shorty’s is iconic for smoky ribs, tangy pulled pork, and a nostalgic Old Florida vibe. The prices are budget-friendly, plates are generous, and the corn on the cob is legendary. Great for families and big groups.
- Chicken Kitchen (multiple spots on Kendall Drive): The health-conscious flock here for freshly grilled “Chop-Chop” bowls—the grilled chopped chicken over yellow rice, topped with their signature creamy curry mustard sauce, is both quick and satisfying.
- Doc B’s Restaurant + Bar (Dadeland Mall, SW 88th St): Perfect for date night or grown-up lunches, Doc B’s balances creative American fare with craft cocktails and a polished vibe. Try the candied bacon, oven-roasted wings, or the house-made veggie burger.
Kendall’s “Secret” Gems Worth Seeking Out
True foodies love the hunt—and East Kendall has its share of word-of-mouth wonders:
- El Rey De Las Fritas (near SW 97th Ave and Coral Way): It’s worth driving ten minutes north of East Kendall for this one—the Cuban-style burger, topped with crispy potato sticks and a spicy secret sauce, is pure Miami magic. Grab a batido (milkshake) for the full experience.
- Mr. & Mrs. Bun (SW 117th Ave): Hidden in a quiet plaza off Killian Drive, Mr. & Mrs. Bun earns its reputation for creative Peruvian sandwiches on homemade bread. The classic “chicharrón” with sweet potato and salsa criolla is a knockout, and their house hot sauce packs just the right punch.
Food Trucks, Plazas, and Local Hangouts
East Kendall’s sprawling plazas and weekend events often host a food truck or two, especially around the Kendall soccer fields and neighborhood parks. From tacos to Venezuelan arepas and artisan ice cream, check local Facebook groups for a schedule—food truck Fridays at The Palms at Town & Country (SW 117th Ave and Kendall Drive) are a local tradition!
- Los Chamos Food Truck (typically near SW 88th St & 127th Ave): Venezuelan street eats, arepas bursting with fillings, and icy coconuts on hot Miami afternoons.
- Ceviche Love Food Truck (various plazas): Fresh, tangy ceviche and Peruvian fusion dishes from this roving local favorite.
Clustered Foodie Destinations
For the best “walk, eat, repeat” experience, head to:
- SW 88th St/Kendall Drive between SW 107th Ave and SW 137th Ave: A dense stretch surrounded by shopping plazas with bakeries, Cuban diners, Asian eats, and casual cafes.
- Town & Country Mall area (SW 117th Ave and Kendall Drive): A social and culinary hub, loaded with American chill spots, healthy bites, and dessert destinations all within walking distance.
Final Tips: Eat Like a Local
Whether you’re seeking a late-night cafecito, a family-friendly feast, an affordable lunch, or a memorable sweet treat, East Kendall is packed with genuine flavor and homegrown charm. Don’t be afraid to wander into a ventanita you’ve never tried or ask a neighbor where they grab empanadas—chances are, you’ll discover your new favorite.
Happy eating, and ¡buen provecho!