Every year, food lovers across South Florida look forward to Miami Spice, one of the most flavorful events on the calendar. This annual culinary celebration runs throughout August and September, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy specially priced three-course meals at some of the city’s top dining destinations. For a memorable evening out, the Miami Spice dinner menus are the true stars of the show.
What is Miami Spice?
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau organizes Miami Spice, a two-month-long restaurant promotion inviting diners to explore the city’s vibrant food scene. Participating restaurants offer prix fixe menus for lunch and dinner at affordable prices, often featuring signature dishes and specials from the chefs. Miami Spice encourages culinary discovery and supports the local hospitality industry during the slower summer season.
The magic of a Miami Spice dinner experience
Although lunch menus offer great value, it’s the dinner selections that make Miami Spice truly special. Dinner menus often feature a restaurant’s most sophisticated techniques, imaginative presentations, and premium ingredients. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, gathering with friends, or simply want to explore new flavors, Miami Spice dinners offer a gourmet experience at an affordable price.
A standard Miami Spice dinner includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Many menus offer multiple options within each course, allowing diners to customize their meal. From seafood and steaks to handmade pastas and decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone.
What to expect on a Miami Spice dinner menu
Diversity and innovation are hallmarks of a Miami Spice dinner. Chefs carefully curate menus to reflect their restaurant’s essence, featuring local ingredients, international flavors, and seasonal accents. You may find seafood-forward dishes, hearty Italian classics, or bold Latin-inspired plates sharing space on the same menu.
These dinners provide a complete dining experience, starting with a balanced appetizer, followed by a satisfying entrée, and ending with a carefully crafted dessert. Some restaurants offer optional wine pairings or cocktail enhancements for an additional fee, which can further elevate the experience.
Miami Spice at Mercato di Mare
Mercato Di Mare, a coastal Italian eatery that captures the spirit of the Mediterranean with every dish, is among the standout dinner restaurants participating in Miami Spice 2025. Mercato Di Mare is known for its commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. During Miami Spice, the restaurant presents a dinner menu that exemplifies Italian hospitality and culinary craftsmanship.
To start, guests can choose from a selection of three appetizers. The crispy calamari features golden-fried rings served with charred lemon and a zesty Calabrian chili aioli—perfect for those who enjoy a touch of heat. The salmon tartar, available for an additional fee, is an elegant preparation of fresh salmon paired with crispy prosciutto, green apples, and squid ink aioli, offering a balance of textures and a hint of briny sophistication. Alternatively, the bruschetta offers a refreshing bite with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and fragrant basil on toasted bread.
Mercato Di Mare continues to impress with its entrée course. The spaghetti meatballs are a timeless classic done right: house-made pork and beef meatballs are slow-braised in roasted tomato sauce and nestled in al dente spaghetti, then finished with grated cheese. The parmigiana di pollo features tender free-range chicken breast layered with fresh mozzarella and served with homemade fettuccine in a roasted tomato sauce. It captures the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Seafood lovers will appreciate the salmon arrosto, where coal-roasted salmon is paired with sweet corn purée, fresh corn kernels, and colorful baby heirloom tomatoes—a vibrant and flavorful dish.
No dinner is complete without dessert, and Mercato Di Mare offers two indulgent choices. The New York-style cheesecake is topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, providing a creamy, tangy ending to the meal. For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Layer Cake Fondant is a treat for the senses. It features two layers of moist cake enveloped in rich ganache.
Tips for enjoying the best of Miami Spice dinners
Follow these simple tips to make the most of Miami Spice. First, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings and peak hours. Many restaurants are in high demand during the promotion, so securing a table early ensures you won’t miss out.
Review the menu beforehand, and don’t hesitate to ask your server about supplemental charges, ingredients, or recommended pairings. For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday and allow time to savor each course without rushing.
Lastly, don’t skip dessert. Since dessert is included in the fixed price, it’s a sweet way to end your evening.
Why Miami Spice is a culinary tradition worth exploring
Beyond the delicious food, Miami Spice serves a larger purpose. It showcases the incredible culinary talent found throughout Miami and encourages both locals and tourists to try new restaurants. The event fosters an appreciation for diverse cuisines and provides an affordable introduction to fine dining.
Restaurants use this opportunity to showcase new dishes, connect with guests, and introduce their brand to a wider audience. For diners, it’s an opportunity to discover new favorites, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy an exceptional meal at a reasonable price.
Savor the season
As Miami Spice 2025 begins, take advantage of the opportunity to experience the best that the city’s restaurants have to offer. Whether you’re drawn by seafood, pasta, or the promise of an unforgettable dessert, dinner during this culinary celebration is an event in itself.
If you’re looking for a great place to start, Mercato Di Mare is serving a Miami Spice dinner menu full of flavor, charm, and Italian soul.