What is in season in Miami. and what to order when the market changes.
Spring
- Stone crab claws (final weeks): Stone crab season closes May 1; the last six weeks at Joe's Stone Crab carry the lowest prices and the largest claws.
- Mamey sapote: South Florida mamey ripens late spring; Calle Ocho ventanitas pour mamey milkshakes through April and May.
Summer
- Mango: South Florida mango season runs June to August; Robert Is Here in Homestead and Fairchild Garden's July Mango Festival are the highlights.
- Lychee: Lychee comes in mid-June to mid-July; Asian markets in Miami carry rambutan and longan alongside through July.
- Avocado (Florida): Florida avocados are larger, lighter and lower-fat than Hass; in season July through November, sliced thick on Cuban breakfast plates.
Autumn
- Stone crab claws (season opens): Florida stone crab season opens October 15; Joe's Stone Crab pours the first round on the opening night each year.
- Florida spiny lobster (commercial): Spiny lobster commercial season runs August to March; Miami River fish houses carry it through October and November.
- Caja china roast pork season: Thanksgiving and the Cuban Nochebuena (December 24) drive caja china roast-pork sales at panaderias and Sedano's locations citywide.
Winter
- Stone crab claws (peak): Peak stone crab arrives in January and February; Joe's Stone Crab dining room runs at capacity, and the take-away counter prices flatten.
- Citrus (Florida): Florida citrus, especially sour orange for mojo marinade and key lime for pie, peaks January through March across Homestead orchards.
Seasonal in Miami, FAQ
When is the best time to eat in Miami?
Peak food season in Miami is year-round.
What time do people eat in Miami?
Local dining hours: lunch around 12:30, dinner from 19:30.
How does tipping work in Miami?
service is typically included; small extra is welcome but not expected.
What is the one dish to try in Miami?
Ask the next local you meet what they would order. Miami rewards trust.