Here’s what you’ll find in Doral: sleek patios shaded by palms, Latin beats mixing with clinking glasses, and professionals unwinding after work. You’ve got your chic hotel lounges, vibrant local haunts, and hidden gems with equally impressive cocktails. Whether you’re a resident or visiting, these spots offer top-notch drinks and bites in South Florida’s bustling hub.
La Tremenda – Best Spanish Restaurant in Miami
$$ | (305) 364-5137 | WEBSITE
La Tremenda offers arguably the most authentic Spanish dining experience in Doral, and certainly the best paella in Miami. The Miami Spice menu is available for a complete tasting, along with options for wine pairings, and you’ll often hear lively music that evokes the feeling of Spain on the weekend. Many of the classic dishes can (and should) be shared family-style, and standout plates like the chicharrones and patatas bravas are even served with that perfect crispy texture.
The service isn’t an afterthought either—the attentive staff, including servers like Liz and Jeniree, ensure that every visit is memorable.
Santo Dulce Churros! @ The Doral Yard
$ | (305) 744-5038 | WEBSITE
Santo Dulce Churros at The Doral Yard has a cozy indoor counter for ordering, an outdoor seating area that’s perfect for people-watching, and a dessert menu that’s very aptly named for churro lovers, with warm, crispy treats and creamy ice cream. By day, the vibe is relaxed and family-friendly, but on weekend evenings it can get lively—especially if there’s an event or live music at The Doral Yard. We’ve heard the staff serves more than 200 churros on a busy night.
In fact, while you were reading this, they already made 20.
The Doral Yard
$$ | (786) 843-5106 | WEBSITE
The Doral Yard feels more like a backyard hangout than a typical restaurant, probably because it’s built around food trucks and open-air seating. Not to mention it’s tucked away in a casual Doral spot perfect for weekend nights. This chill venue also has UNO games instead of formal tables, and there’s live music that acts as a natural soundtrack for gatherings.
The best treats we’ve tried have been their fresh and delicious Cookies and Cream Santo Sundae and the Salty Dulce Oreo and Nutella churro from Santo Dulce.
Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar – Doral
$$ | (786) 502-8253 | WEBSITE
Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar in Doral feels like a combo between a lively sports bar and a casual gastropub—there’s exposed brick walls, industrial lighting fixtures, and upbeat pop-rock music. Book a happy hour visit when the drinks are a little cheaper and the energy is a little higher, and lean into that fun, after-work social buzz. The food and drink menus are diverse and, true to the restaurant’s reputation, focused on generous portions.
Fresh guacamole is used in their popular appetizer (get it with extra chips), and the happy hour specials until 7 PM are well-liked for their value. Their main menu is really satisfying, too, specifically the Vodka Chicken with creamy sauce, and the standout Tres Leche dessert that keeps customers coming back.
Yip Doral
$ | (786) 818-8880 | WEBSITE
Most of Miami’s food halls are in Wynwood and come with a hefty price tag or a celebrity chef’s name. That makes Yip Doral a bit of a unicorn. This vibrant spot only has one floor, so the atmosphere feels more like your favorite cousin’s backyard: communal tables, string lights, food stalls, and a welcoming vibe. But we don’t have any relatives with a menu this impressive, or who regularly serve the best chicken in Miami alongside boba teas.
Splurge on the $14 açaí bowl topped with fresh fruit, too. It’s refreshing and satisfying and tastes like breakfast and dessert all at the same time.
Chili’s Grill & Bar
$$ | (305) 471-8178 | WEBSITE
Chili’s Grill & Bar is the go-to spot in Doral for a lively after-work unwind. Head in for the super clean and chill atmosphere, well-lit dining room, and friendly customer service, stay for the triple dipper. It’s piled high with crispy chicken tenders, loaded potato skins, and nachos—it covers basically every craving in one platter. Pair it with a refreshing margarita or a frosty beer from their extensive bar selection.
107 Steak & Bar
$$ | (786) 272-7255 | WEBSITE
The lobby of The Element and Aloft hotel is home to 107 Steak & Bar, and the Short Rib croquettes are just as remarkable as they are flavorful. Inside, you’ll find sophisticated décor, relaxed seating, live music entertainment, and guests enjoying Friday night Karaoke (naturally). Regulars might recognize the manchego croquettes, a twist on the classic made with Spanish cheese that’s featured on the Miami Spice menu, proving 107 isn’t just for hotel guests.
There’s also a Treasure Box Trio dessert served with flair to pay homage to the restaurant’s commitment to great presentation.
Backyard Kitchen & Bar
$$ | (786) 747-4439 | WEBSITE
The most inviting spot in Doral is definitely Backyard Kitchen & Bar, situated in a modern setting. The well-maintained outdoor area has comfortable seating that’s perfect for gathering with friends to unwind after work. Pay close attention to the value section of the menu. They have many affordable options, but we highly recommend the attentive service that feels like a fine-dining experience came to a casual restaurant.
Baru Doral Resto-Bar
$$ | (786) 333-0223 | WEBSITE
Too many visitors (myself included) completely overlook the welcoming entrance at Baru Doral Resto-Bar and rush past the vibrant energy spilling onto the sidewalk. Take a moment to notice it because you’ll want to soak in every bit of the atmosphere that greets you inside. Groups of regulars and newcomers from nearby neighborhoods mingle together all evening, enjoying the lively Latin beats and the friendly banter from the women behind the bar.
The drinks are well-crafted and approachable, like a classic mojito, crisp and minty, or a smooth blend of rum and tropical fruit. When you need something to nibble on, the shareable appetizers (they’re perfectly seasoned) are ideal for passing around. But it’s also perfectly fine to keep these delicious bites all to yourself.
El Maní Restaurant & Salsa Bar
$$ | (305) 497-8838 | WEBSITE
The salsa at El Maní Restaurant & Salsa Bar, known as the Temple of Salsa, is one of the most vibrant in Doral. On a Saturday night, live Latin rhythms pulse through the space while friends, regulars, and newcomers all mingle under the warm glow of string lights. The drinks, like the perfectly balanced mojitos and margaritas, are delicious and often come with playful garnishes—we once had a cocktail with a lime wedge so generous it felt like a bonus.
The atmosphere, coordinated by Jorge Glem and his talented artists, is cozy and unmatched, making for a fun night out that’s truly memorable. And, yes, the place really does feel like a hidden gem.
