Amara at Paraiso: Miami’s Waterfront Gem for Latin-Inspired Dining

Set against the tranquil backdrop of Biscayne Bay, Amara at Paraiso is one of Miami’s most celebrated dining destinations. Known for its breathtaking views, vibrant Latin American flavors, and effortlessly chic ambiance, Amara has carved out a unique space in the city’s dynamic culinary scene. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking for a place that captures Miami’s coastal elegance, Amara delivers a multisensory experience—where bold flavors meet breezy sophistication.

Helmed by acclaimed chef and restaurateur Michael Schwartz, Amara is a celebration of Miami’s identity: culturally diverse, globally influenced, and always connected to the water.

Where Miami’s Energy Meets Waterfront Serenity

Located within the Paraiso Bay development in Edgewater, Amara sits at the crossroads of modern luxury and natural beauty. Just minutes from Wynwood, Downtown Miami, and the Design District, the restaurant feels both tucked away and perfectly positioned.

Its bayside location is a major draw. Floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces, and an open-air deck immerse diners in scenic views of the water, especially stunning at sunset. Whether you're sipping a cocktail under the palm trees or enjoying a long lunch in the airy dining room, the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale and relaxed.

Culinary Concept: Latin American Spirit with Miami Soul

The menu at Amara at Paraiso is a reflection of South Florida’s multicultural DNA. Chef Schwartz and his team draw from the coastal cuisines of Latin America—Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia—and infuse them with fresh, local ingredients and wood-fired cooking techniques.

Every dish feels curated yet approachable, rooted in tradition but designed for a modern, Miami-forward audience.

Signature Starters

• Yuca Cheese Puffs: Crispy outside, cheesy and pillowy inside—served with a vibrant green herb sauce.

• Snapper Ceviche: Fresh local fish in a citrus marinade with avocado, sweet potato, and aji amarillo.

• Wood-Grilled Octopus: A standout favorite, charred and tender, paired with olive relish and smoked paprika oil.

Mains That Make Waves

• Paraiso Burger: A house favorite featuring a blend of chuck and brisket, griddled onions, and a spicy aioli on a sesame bun.

• Grilled Swordfish: Perfectly cooked and served with a fresh herb salad and sweet pepper vinaigrette.

• Argentinian Skirt Steak: Smoky, juicy, and paired with house-made chimichurri and yucca fries.

Seafood is central to the menu, but meat lovers, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners will all find something to enjoy.

The Power of the Parrilla: Wood-Fired Flavor

One of the cornerstones of Amara’s kitchen is its open-fire grill, known as the parrilla. Inspired by South American cooking traditions, the parrilla allows chefs to impart a deep, smoky flavor that elevates even the simplest ingredients.

From roasted vegetables and plantains to whole fish and ribeye steaks, this method of cooking brings bold texture and depth to every dish.

Cocktail Culture: Bright, Bold, and Refreshing

The bar program at Amara at Paraiso is as vibrant as its menu. Reflecting Miami’s tropical spirit, the cocktails are citrus-forward, herbaceous, and designed to cool you down on even the hottest days.

Top cocktail choices include:

• La Flora – Gin, elderflower, cucumber, and lemon: light, floral, and refreshing.

• Paloma Rosa – Tequila, grapefruit, hibiscus, and lime: a Miami twist on a Mexican classic.

• Chili Mango Margarita – A spicy-sweet blend with house-made mango purée and chili salt rim.

Wine lovers will appreciate a globally curated list with a strong focus on South American producers, as well as crisp whites and rosés perfect for bayside sipping.

Brunch, Happy Hour, and Private Events

Amara shines at every hour of the day, but its weekend brunch is a crowd favorite. Locals and visitors flock to the patio for dishes like:

• Coconut Pancakes with passionfruit syrup

• Chorizo and Egg Arepas

• Avocado Toast with poached eggs and salsa verde

The Happy Hour, offered at the bar and on the deck, features discounted cocktails, wine, and snacks like empanadas, ceviche, and oysters. It’s a popular choice for after-work meetups and casual date nights.

Planning a celebration? Amara is also a top choice for private dining and events. With flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, custom menus, and stunning views, the venue accommodates weddings, corporate dinners, birthdays, and more. The events team works closely with guests to create an experience that reflects their unique vision.

Design and Atmosphere: Tropical Modernism at Its Best

Designed by Meyer Davis Studio, the interiors at Amara blend organic materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and natural textiles with sleek modern finishes. The open floor plan encourages movement between indoor and outdoor spaces, making it easy to transition from a cocktail at the bar to a table on the waterfront terrace.

Details like hanging planters, woven lighting fixtures, and floor-to-ceiling windows reflect both Miami’s tropical climate and Amara’s contemporary elegance.

This is a place where guests feel comfortable arriving in sandals and linen or dressed for a celebratory night out. The atmosphere invites you to stay awhile—and many do.

Sustainability and Community

Beyond its design and menu, Amara at Paraiso stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant partners with local purveyors and fishing operations that practice responsible sourcing. Seasonal produce, Florida seafood, and ethically raised meats are central to the menu, minimizing environmental impact and supporting the regional economy.

Chef Schwartz and his team are also active in the community, contributing to charitable initiatives and supporting culinary education throughout South Florida.

What Guests Are Saying

Guests consistently praise Amara for its exceptional service, imaginative flavors, and picture-perfect setting. It's a go-to for special occasions, romantic dinners, and out-of-town guests looking to experience the best of Miami in one place.

Common reviews highlight:

• “The best waterfront brunch in Miami.”

• “Gorgeous ambiance, and the food lives up to the view.”

• “Our favorite spot for date night.”

• “Every dish felt thoughtful and layered with flavor.”

Whether seated indoors or on the bayfront terrace, diners enjoy a sense of escape and indulgence that keeps them coming back.

Final Thoughts

Amara at Paraiso isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a love letter to Miami. It captures everything that makes the city irresistible: rich culture, culinary excellence, natural beauty, and a laid-back luxury that invites you to savor every bite.

Whether you're in town for a weekend or a local seeking your next favorite spot, Amara offers an experience that’s both rooted in place and bound to linger in memory. From the wood-fired parrilla to the sparkling water views, it’s a true celebration of everything that makes coastal dining extraordinary.