When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
Lil Greenhouse Grill
Why Lil Greenhouse Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lil Greenhouse Grill in Miami's historic Overtown neighborhood is a vibrant, family-centered soul food restaurant that has quickly become an ideal meeting spot for friends and loved ones. Founded by Nicole Gates and Chef Karim Bryant, this eatery specializes in Neo-soul cuisine — a creative blend of African American, African, and Caribbean flavors crafted with passion and thoughtful ingredients. The restaurant’s warm and uplifting atmosphere makes every guest feel like part of the family, whether they come for lunch, dinner, or just to enjoy craft beer and fine wines. Highlights include their famously tender smoked BBQ ribs, flavorful barbecue chicken, juicy sandwiches and burgers, as well as standout dishes such as wings, seafood cakes, and shrimp & grits. Their rotating cake menu offers indulgent desserts like red velvet and lemon cream, complementing the main courses perfectly. Located at 1300 NW 3rd Avenue, Lil Greenhouse Grill offers casual yet creatively curated dining where generous portions and homestyle cooking meet innovative flavors, making it a special place to gather, share, and celebrate food and community.
Here's what people think of Lil Greenhouse Grill
As of recent, Lil Greenhouse Grill holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1092 reviews.
The general consensus from reviewers is highly positive, reflected in the restaurant’s impressive 4.7-star rating based on over a thousand reviews. Many customers praise the quality and flavor of the food, especially highlighting the ribs, barbecue chicken, and the soulful desserts such as banana pudding and rotating cakes. Reviewers appreciate the generous portions, the homestyle preparation, and the welcoming, family-like service that makes them feel at home. The ambiance has been noted as relaxed and uplifting, ideal for casual dinners or lunch meetups. On the positive side, patrons often mention the thoughtful ingredient selection and the innovative twist on traditional soul food, as well as the inviting atmosphere created by the owners’ passion and care. Negative feedback, while limited, tends to focus on practical aspects such as packaging issues during delivery — some customers experienced spilled items or soggy cornbread when ordering takeout, suggesting room for improvement in this area. Despite these minor concerns, the reputation remains strong, with many patrons eager to return and recommend the spot. Overall, the reviews paint Lil Greenhouse Grill as a dependable and delightful dining destination in Miami’s culinary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Deborah Gonzalez
So happy I had the chance to stop by! The waitress was incredibly kind and attentive, and the food was fresh, flavorful, and high quality. Honestly, this is the best meal I’ve had since moving to Miami. I’ll definitely be back, consider this your sign to try them out!
doublenickelzeta
I was a part of a party of 10, and although there was only one server for us and the rest of the other tables, the young woman serving us all was very polite, quick, and accommodating. The restaurant is small, but nicely appointed within its limited space. I did notice lighted outdoor seating, but since it was midday in June in Miami, eating outside was not an option for us. 😀 The food was delicious and well-presented. I ordered two appetizers: the conch fritters and the rib tips. Each was cooked to perfection and flavorful. The cook was not stingy with the conch, and the rib tips were tender and generously sauced. If you're in the downtown/Overtown area, you must visit this hidden gem.
Dorothea Cullers
I dined here in several occasions. The service has always been great. I dined here with my family from New York. They loved it. This time I ordered the Spring Rolls and Dreamfire Shrimp Dinner. To drink I had a flop. For dessert I had the peach cobbler. The Spring rolls had the best crunch to them. The flop was good, it was a different style then I was use to.
Snowlake Operations
When I say I'm looking for southern black food THIS IS WHAT THE STANDARD IS! This black owned business exceeded my expectations. The service was top tier even with one server! She was not only knowledgeable about the specials but also very attentive. This spot is a hidden gem that we are happy we stumbled upon here in Miami! Lastly to top it off the ambiance was warm and the vibes gave in my grandma's kitchen. Will be back before I leave because just YES YES YES. Protect this black business by any means.
ALA Mail
The good: The service.. the waiter was definitely attentive. The bad: Personally, I don't like how the salmon dish wasn't plated with the sides. The review: The food was savory, and I liked the atmosphere. I would definitely go back.
How to reach Lil Greenhouse Grill
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Website: None
Why Lil Greenhouse Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lil Greenhouse Grill with your friends?
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends and enjoy a memorable outing, Lil Greenhouse Grill offers an unbeatable combination of atmosphere, flavor, and community spirit that makes it a standout choice. Located in the historic Overtown neighborhood of Miami, this Black-owned restaurant has quickly earned a stellar reputation, boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 1,000 reviews. This high acclaim comes from not only the quality of the food but the warmth and dedication of the staff, offering a hospitality experience that feels personal and inviting. The vibe at Lil Greenhouse Grill is casual yet vibrant, encouraging groups to relax and savor their time together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just catching up over a weekend meal, this venue’s unique neo-soul cuisine and thoughtful farm-to-table ingredients ensure that everyone leaves satisfied. The setting promotes connection—whether at one of their tables or their friendly food truck setup—and the menu is crafted to share, giving groups ample opportunities to try diverse dishes. Rallying here means immersing yourself in local flavor, enjoying superb service, and creating moments that turn any gathering into a celebration of friendship and great food.
What activities can you enjoy at Lil Greenhouse Grill for a group meetup?
When you bring your friends to Lil Greenhouse Grill, you’re not just coming for a meal—you’re entering an experience tailored to foster connection through food and ambiance. The primary draw is, of course, the food, which serves as a catalyst for conversation and shared enjoyment. Their menu features a thoughtfully curated selection of American comfort food with neo-soul inspirations, making it both familiar and exciting. Groups can order the Greenhouse Trio, a popular platter designed specifically to share, which includes choice wings, shrimp, seafood cakes, cornbread, and savory sides, perfectly sized for communal dining. Beyond eating, the casual dining environment encourages lingering—whether it's chatting over drinks or competing for the last bite of a crowd-pleaser. Lil Greenhouse Grill offers table service and takes reservations, perfect for organized gatherings where everyone’s comfort matters. The venue’s accessibility also ensures that all friends, regardless of mobility, can join in the fun. Moreover, the restaurant serves alcohol, so you can toast to friendship with a selection of drinks alongside your meal. This combination of great food, easygoing service, and a welcoming vibe makes it ideal for celebrations, casual hangouts, or an informal foodie adventure with friends.
Why is Lil Greenhouse Grill perfect for hosting family meetups?
Lil Greenhouse Grill is equally inviting for family gatherings looking for that blend of comfort, quality, and care. The restaurant prides itself on its farm-to-table approach, meaning you can tap into fresh, wholesome ingredients—something that families often prioritize. The menu includes vegetarian-friendly options, showing inclusivity toward various dietary needs, which is crucial for family events where tastes and restrictions vary. Since the setting is casual dining, it allows all ages to feel at ease, from kids to grandparents, without the stuffiness or pressure of upscale restaurants. Families can come over for lunch or dinner during the convenient hours from Tuesday to Saturday and enjoy a pace that suits them. The portions and variety invite families to share and sample multiple dishes, making the meal an interactive experience. And given the excellent customer ratings, families can count on attentive and amiable service that handles group dynamics smoothly. Moreover, Lil Greenhouse Grill’s community-oriented backdrop in Overtown enriches the experience with local culture and history, making family meetups also a way to connect with Miami’s vibrant heritage.
What makes Lil Greenhouse Grill’s culinary offerings a crowd-pleaser?
The culinary strength of Lil Greenhouse Grill lies in its ability to bring soulful, comforting dishes reinvented with fresh, high-quality ingredients that appeal to a broad audience. Their focus on American cuisine with a neo-soul twist means the menu balances traditional favorites with inventive touches. This is perfect for groups because it caters to both lovers of classic comfort food and those eager to explore new taste profiles. Dishes like their custom-crafted seafood cakes and flavorful wings showcase culinary creativity while remaining deeply satisfying. The incorporation of fresh produce and farm-to-table ingredients highlights their commitment to healthfulness without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, the restaurant’s selection of savory sides and cornbread complements the main dishes, rounding out meals in a way that encourages sharing and communal enjoyment. Catering to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options, further bolsters its appeal for groups with diverse tastes. The menu’s range, coupled with generous portions and fair pricing, makes it easy for groups to order freely and explore flavors together.
How do the venue and service enhance the group dining experience?
Lil Greenhouse Grill’s physical and service qualities contribute significantly to why groups enjoy dining here. The restaurant’s atmosphere is vibrant without being overwhelming, allowing friends and family to connect in a relaxed environment. The staff are renowned for their warm and attentive customer care, ensuring that group needs are anticipated and met promptly, so the focus remains on enjoyment, not logistics. Table service helps groups avoid the hassle of managing orders independently, which can be cumbersome with larger parties. The restaurant also accommodates takeout and caters to dietary restrictions, which adds to the flexibility for groups who may want to extend their social time elsewhere. Its location in Overtown provides easy access and a charming cultural backdrop that enriches the overall experience. Accessibility for wheelchair users is also a thoughtful feature, making it an inclusive choice. The availability of alcohol and happy hour specials adds another layer of social enjoyment, making the venue suitable for both casual daytime meetups and lively evening gatherings.
What makes Lil Greenhouse Grill uniquely situated in Miami’s culinary scene?
Situated in the historic Overtown district, Lil Greenhouse Grill holds a distinctive place in Miami’s dynamic food scene. As a Black-owned establishment, it offers not only delicious food but also cultural significance and a sense of community pride. This makes every visit feel meaningful beyond just the meal itself. The neighborhood setting ties the dining experience to local heritage, giving groups a sense of place and connection to Miami’s diverse communities. The restaurant’s emphasis on neo-soul cuisine reflects a creative fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, enriching Miami’s vast array of culinary options. With highly rated acclaim and a welcoming vibe, it stands as a beacon for diners seeking authentic, good-value food in a friendly atmosphere. This distinctive positioning attracts both locals and visitors eager to experience Miami beyond its more tourist-centric eateries, making it an ideal choice for groups wanting a genuine local flavor and a memorable outing.
How accessible and convenient is Lil Greenhouse Grill for group outings?
For those planning group meetups, convenience and access are key, and Lil Greenhouse Grill excels on both fronts. It’s located at 1300 Northwest 3rd Avenue in Miami—a central spot that’s easy to reach from many parts of the city. The restaurant’s operating hours from Tuesday through Saturday, mainly during lunch and dinner times, provide ample opportunity to schedule gatherings. Whether it’s a midday catch-up or an early evening meal, Lil Greenhouse Grill fits well into diverse schedules. It also offers various payment options, including cash, credit cards, and mobile payments, simplifying transactions for groups. The availability of reservations means you can secure a table and avoid wait times, crucial for large parties who want a smooth experience. The casual setting combined with attentive service ensures that group needs are managed efficiently, making it easier to focus on socializing. Plus, with takeout and possibly catering options, groups have flexibility if they want to extend their gathering elsewhere or bring the flavors of Lil Greenhouse Grill to a different venue.
What kind of social and community atmosphere does Lil Greenhouse Grill foster?
Beyond great food, Lil Greenhouse Grill is known for fostering a welcoming, community-centric atmosphere that adds immense value to group outings. This is a place where locals and visitors alike gather to share not only meals but stories, laughter, and connection in a setting that honors Miami’s rich cultural tapestry. The restaurant’s Black-owned status and location in Overtown underscores its role as a community hub, supporting local economy and cultural pride. The vibe is casual yet energized, with customers often describing the service and ambiance as warm, friendly, and unpretentious. For groups, this means an atmosphere conducive to relaxed conversations and meaningful time spent together. Events like happy hours encourage socializing, while the menu’s shared platters and tasty offerings enhance the communal spirit. Gathering here feels like joining a larger family that values good food and even better company, making the experience especially rewarding for group meetups.