When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio
Why La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio is an acclaimed Peruvian restaurant located in Miami's Brickell area, renowned for delivering an authentic and premium culinary journey focused on traditional Peruvian gastronomy with a contemporary twist. Founded by the internationally celebrated Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio, this dining destination has become a vibrant meeting place for friends and food enthusiasts seeking a refined yet inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is set against a beautiful backdrop offering panoramic views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay, enhancing the overall dining experience. Executive Chef Diego Oka, who began with the original La Mar in Lima, leads the kitchen, ensuring a menu that highlights Peru’s unique and biodiverse ingredients alongside Florida's fresh local bounty. Signature offerings include a variety of fresh ceviches, anticucho skewers, empanadas, and larger seafood entrees like Arroz con Mariscos, featuring native Peruvian chili and local seafood. Sunday's exclusive brunch adds a special touch with delightful signature dishes, providing a perfect weekend gathering spot. La Mar's elegantly modern décor and warm service make it an ideal spot not only for culinary exploration but also for socializing, special occasions, and casual meetings among friends in a sophisticated Miami setting. The restaurant’s impending move to a new Brickell location in late 2025 signals ongoing evolution and commitment to excellence in the city.
Here's what people think of La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio
As of recent, La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2753 reviews.
Reviews of La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio consistently praise the restaurant for its authentic Peruvian flavors, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance. Many diners highlight the freshness and creativity of the ceviches and the diversity of the menu, appreciating how traditional dishes are brought to life with modern techniques and local ingredients. Positive reviews often cite the knowledgeable and attentive staff, the scenic views complemented by the restaurant’s refined interior, and the unique culinary experience that makes dining here memorable. It is a favored spot for both casual meetups and celebratory dinners, earning recognition from prestigious guides like the Michelin Guide and accolades such as the Travelers' Choice award. On the other hand, negative reviews occasionally mention the premium pricing, some variability in dish portion sizes, and sporadic comments on wait times during peak hours. A few guests have expressed that the atmosphere can be slightly formal, which may not suit all preferences. Overall, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for La Mar’s dedication to quality and authenticity, recognizing it as a leader in Miami’s vibrant dining scene. The upcoming relocation has sparked anticipation among regular patrons, who expect the restaurant to continue elevating its offering in its new Brickell venue. Collectively, the reviews confirm La Mar as a worthy destination for guests seeking an excellent taste of Peruvian cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tanille
Best dining experience I have had in a while. The energy of the restaurant was great. The waiter was attentive. The meals came out quickly and best of all the food was flavourful. Seafood texture was perfect, it melted in my mouth. I would definitely return to dine. Thankfully we did not have to wait to be seated, however, I suggest you make a reservation. Hostess was quite polite
Myladee V.
The Michelin star fine dining! It was a great experience for me and my brother while I’m vacationing in Miami. A little pricey but amazingly delicious food and excellent service! Highly recommended!
T Kiedrowski
What an amazing, beautiful and relaxing experience my partner and I had at La Mar. Beautiful location and views, the food was incredible and the service from Yassa was impeccable. His knowledge of the menu (due to his 11 years there) and each dish was amazing, such a professional, his advice helped us to have such a beautiful gastronomical experience! Five stars to him and the chef!
Eric Salgado
Absolutely incredible experience! My husband and I chose to celebrate our second wedding anniversary here by experiencing the 8-course tasting experience, “Amano,” and the entire team made it such a special occasion. From beginning to end, we were treated with some of the best customer service I’ve experienced in a long time. Itcha, our wonderful server, and Ana, one of the managers, took us on a culinary adventure through Peru. They were both so kind and attentive to our needs. They had great cocktail recommendations that added to the experience. My husband is Peruvian and I lived in Lima for two years. The food was authentic, the quality absolutely exceptional, and the stories captivating. Each plate (as in the literal plate from which we ate) was designed by Executive Chef Diego Oka who made an appearance to present one of his dishes and congratulate my husband and I on our anniversary. We loved that each dish felt very much like comfort food, stunningly presented, but that was not pretentious. We were also impressed by the desserts which featured some bizarre flavor combinations (leche de Tigre and chirimoya sorbet). Though the ingredient list gives you initial pause, the flavors were outstanding. We could not recommend the Amano experience enough. It blew our minds and was the best way to spend our anniversary.
Andrea Jorge
One of the best Peruvian restaurants I've ever been to! Beautiful views of the skyline, and amazing food!! Can't recommend enough the ceviche clasico, tiradito de atún and lomo saltado. And don't forget to ask for the special dessert (not on the menu) chocolate cake with dulce de leche. For drinks, the pisco sour (original) is the best I've ever had.
How to reach La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio
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Why La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant and unforgettable dining experience that effortlessly blends exquisite Peruvian flavors with Miami’s stunning waterfront ambiance. Gathering your friends here means embracing a culinary adventure set against the breathtaking backdrop of Biscayne Bay at the Mandarin Oriental, an upscale and idyllic venue. The restaurant’s design, featuring an expansive outdoor patio lush with tropical plants, invites lively conversations and shared moments in a relaxed yet elegant environment. The menu, curated by celebrated Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio and executed by executive chef Diego Oka, showcases some of the best seafood and Peruvian dishes available in the city, making it a gastronomic journey that's perfect for groups who appreciate bold, fresh, and diverse tastes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up over brunch, or unwinding after a day of exploration, La Mar Miami offers not just a meal but a communal experience rooted in tradition, innovation, and the joy of good company.
What activities and experiences make La Mar Miami perfect for group meetups? First, the restaurant’s setting itself creates a natural venue for socializing—a spacious indoor/outdoor space with panoramic water views that invite long, relaxed gatherings from day into night. Dining options include an array of ceviches and tiraditos, showcasing Peru’s famed flash-marinated raw fish dishes—ideal for sharing and trying a variety of flavors together. The food encourages a communal, tactile dining style that sparks conversation and exploration among friends, whether you're savoring the sampler plates or ordering multiple rounds of the famous pisco sours, which come in both classic and exotic fruit-infused varieties. For those who enjoy outdoor dining, the lakeside patio is an exceptional place to gather, offering fresh sea breezes paired with Miami’s iconic skyline. The professional but warm service adds to the experience, ensuring that your group's unique needs are well-attended to, including recommendations for pairings and accommodating special requests. The seamless blend of sophisticated ambiance, thoughtfully curated menu, and exceptional hospitality creates an atmosphere tailor-made for making memories with friends and family.
Why choose La Mar Miami for a group that loves adventure and variety in cuisine? La Mar is not just a restaurant but a celebration of Peruvian culinary diversity, incorporating influences from various regions and immigrant cultures, particularly the Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) tradition. This means that your group can enjoy a wide variety of dishes ranging from classic Peruvian ceviches to inventive Nikkei fusion dishes, all crafted with top-quality ingredients sourced both locally from Florida and from Peru’s rich natural biodiversity. The menu offers grilled anticuchos (traditional skewers), vibrant salads, fresh seafood entrees, and even creative takes on classics like the chupe de camarones (spicy shrimp chowder) reimagined in pasta form, allowing the group to explore the broad spectrum of Peruvian flavors in a stylish yet approachable setting. This wide-ranging menu supports sharing and interaction, as guests can sample multiple small plates and unique dishes in one sitting, making meals at La Mar dynamic and exciting. Additionally, the seasonal and locally inspired cocktails, particularly the pisco sours with tropical fruit accents, provide a delicious complement to the food and an excellent way to toast together.
What makes La Mar Miami’s location and atmosphere especially suited to your group’s needs? Situated right on Brickell Key within the Mandarin Oriental hotel’s luxurious setting, La Mar offers more than just great food—the location provides an unmatched scenic context for meetups. Miami’s sparkling bay views combined with the contemporary tropical design enhance every gathering, whether for brunch in sunlight or dinner as city lights shimmer on the water. The spacious outdoor patio allows groups to spread out comfortably while maintaining a sense of intimacy, making it easy to enjoy good company without feeling rushed or crowded. The restaurant is designed to accommodate different group sizes, from small get-togethers to larger private functions in dedicated rooms, supporting flexibility for various social occasions. Valet parking and wheelchair accessibility enhance convenience for all guests, adding to the smooth and enjoyable experience. Moreover, the business casual dress code encourages a relaxed yet polished vibe, perfect for social occasions where you want to feel special but comfortable.
How does La Mar ensure the best experience through service and culinary expertise for groups? The restaurant boasts attentive and knowledgeable staff who provide personalized recommendations tailored to your group’s taste preferences and dietary needs, helping you navigate the extensive menu and find the perfect dishes and drinks to share. The executive chef Diego Oka, having deep roots in the Peruvian culinary world and a long history with La Mar’s flagship Lima location, ensures that each dish honors traditional recipes while embracing contemporary techniques and innovations. This expertise means your group will taste authentic Peruvian flavors prepared with the highest standards, guaranteeing a memorable meal every time. The restaurant's reputation for excellence is validated by prestigious recognitions, including mentions in the Florida MICHELIN Guide and accolades from top food critics and Peruvian media, underscoring its stature as a go-to destination for gourmet Peruvian dining. The option to reserve private rooms and plan customized group menus also speaks to La Mar’s commitment to exceptional group experiences, making it a reliable choice for everything from casual reunions to milestone celebrations.
What kind of events and special moments does La Mar Miami support for groups? La Mar goes beyond everyday dining to provide a stunning setting for celebrations, whether birthday dinners, anniversary gatherings, or corporate meetups designed with a cultural twist. The restaurant is equipped with private dining rooms that can be reserved for exclusive use, offering groups privacy and tailored service while still immersing guests in La Mar’s distinct ambiance. Special Sunday brunches and themed dinner nights add variety and occasion to visits, allowing groups to experience different aspects of Peruvian cuisine and culture in a festive manner. Many visitors highlight the romantic yet lively atmosphere created by the breathtaking sunset views and elegant décor, making it a favorite location for special toasts and photo-worthy moments. The fusion of outstanding food, drink, service, and setting fosters a sense of occasion that enhances any group gathering, making La Mar Miami a venue where memories are naturally made and cherished.
In summary, La Mar Miami by Gastón Acurio stands out not just for its impressive 4.4-star rating from over 2,700 reviews but for its genuine ability to host memorable group experiences. Its combination of a breathtaking waterfront location, innovative and authentic Peruvian cuisine, expert service, and flexible group-friendly amenities make it an ideal venue for gatherings of all kinds. Whether your group values adventurous dining, scenic relaxation, or elegant celebration, La Mar invites you to rally with friends and family in an atmosphere that celebrates culture, flavor, and togetherness at every turn.