11 FL Restaurants Named ‘Hidden Gems’ By Travel Platform

Part of the joy of traveling is finding delicious food along the way and nearly a dozen Florida restaurants stand out, according to a travel platform’s ranking based on diner reviews.

Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards represent the “best of the best” in several categories.

Of the restaurants in the hidden gems, Tripadvisor said, “You have to get a bit off the beaten path to find these spots, but they certainly earn their winner status in both taste and local charm.”

Eleven of the 20 restaurants ranked in the hidden gems category are in Florida.

Casa Neos

Location: Miami, Florida
Rating: 4.8 (329 reviews)
Cuisine: Bar, International, Mediterranean

Tripadvisor description: Casa Neos sits in a stunning spot with views that really make the place stand out. You’ll find a lively mix of couples, families and groups, all enjoying a warm, elegant vibe.

Caffe Milano

Location: Naples, Florida
Rating: 4.4 (1,540 reviews)
Cuisine: Italian

Tripadvisor description: Caffe Milano sits in a beautiful spot with both outdoor and indoor seating, making it a good pick for lunch or dinner. The menu has a nice variety, with the description specifically mentioning the house pasta and classic risotto.

Hosteria Romana

Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Cuisine: Italian, American

Tripadvisor description: Hosteria Romana’s lively tables and generous portions set the mood for a fun night. The menu is packed with classics, with the carbonara and antipasto platter specifically highlighted.

Big Daddy J's 5 Great Things

Location: Cocoa Beach, Brevard County, Florida
Rating: 4.9 (208 reviews)
Cuisine: American, Bar, Barbecue

Tripadvisor description: Big Daddy J's 5 Great Things has a laid-back vibe with friendly staff. The profile highlights creative dishes, along with a beer list and happy hour.

Gourmet Deli House

Location: Lake Worth, Florida
Rating: 4.7 (535 reviews)
Cuisine: American, Deli

Tripadvisor description: Gourmet Deli House is described as a spot where diners may want to linger longer than planned, with a spacious dining area that feels welcoming and comfortable and a lively atmosphere.

Gulf Bistro

Location: Largo, Florida
Rating: 4.8 (375 reviews)
Cuisine: French, European

Tripadvisor description: Gulf Bistro focuses on classic French flavors served in a laid-back, intimate setting. The profile specifically recommends the duck confit and steak frites.

Rendezvous

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida
Rating: 4.6 (1,688 reviews)
Cuisine: American, Bar, Seafood

Tripadvisor description: Rendezvous Bar & Grill is described as an award-winning favorite among Fort Lauderdale locals, offering waterfront dining, fresh seafood, happy hour and live entertainment.

Seafood Seller & Cafe

Location: Crystal River, Florida
Rating: 4.7 (2,257 reviews)
Cuisine: American, Cajun & Creole, Seafood

Tripadvisor description: Seafood Seller & Cafe features a Cajun-inspired menu and friendly atmosphere. The profile specifically highlights the blackened grouper and shrimp po’ boy.

El Siboney Restaurant

Location: Key West, Florida Keys, Florida
Rating: 4.5 (5,016 reviews)
Cuisine: Caribbean, Latin, Cuban

Tripadvisor description: El Siboney Restaurant has a no-frills, family-friendly atmosphere centered on Cuban classics. The profile highlights its generous portions and reasonable prices.

Don Sombrero

Location: Miami Beach, Florida
Rating: 4.9 (603 reviews)
Cuisine: Mexican

Tripadvisor description: Don Sombrero is described as having bold flavors and a lively atmosphere. The profile specifically highlights its tacos and margaritas, along with friendly service.

Riverside Cafe

Location: Vero Beach, Florida
Rating: 4.5 (2,624 reviews)
Cuisine: American, Bar, Seafood

Tripadvisor description: Riverside Cafe offers waterfront dining with a laid-back local crowd and plenty of space for large groups and families. The profile describes a broad menu and specifically mentions fresh fish, chicken and fries.

Tripadvisor said the “best of the best” title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from Tripadvisor users over 12 months. Out of the site’s 8 million listings, fewer than 1 percent achieve this milestone.