As the warm, coastal breeze sweeps through Miami and the vibrant hues of fall settle in, locals and visitors alike know that one of Florida’s most celebrated delicacies is back in season: stone crab. While the luxurious crustacean is harvested from October 15th through May 1st, finding the best spot to indulge in this South Florida staple is no easy feat. Here are five must-visit restaurants in Miami to savor the freshest stone crab claws, each delivering a distinct twist on this seafood gem.

1. Estiatorio Milos
730 1st St, Miami Beach, FL 33139

For a taste of stone crab with a Mediterranean flair, look no further than Estiatorio Milos, an internationally renowned Greek seafood restaurant. Known for its dedication to the freshest ingredients, Milos sources colossal stone crab claws from the pristine waters of the Bahamas. These claws are celebrated for their larger size and clean, blemish-free shells, thanks to the Bahamian coastline. Served with a house-made mustard sauce that perfectly complements the crab’s natural sweetness, this is stone crab at its finest. You’ll experience the luxury of dining on one of the season’s best offerings, all while savoring Milos' commitment to quality seafood. Available at market price, these claws are a must for seafood aficionados. Learn more here or make a reservation here.

2. Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
130 NE 40th St, Miami, FL 33137

Nestled in Miami’s vibrant Design District, Michael’s Genuine offers a farm-to-table approach to the stone crab experience. Sourced directly from local fisherman Captain J. Bruns, the stone crabs here are boiled on the dock and served fresh within hours. Chef Michael Schwartz ensures each batch is impeccably fresh and free of freezing, a practice that sets Michael’s Genuine apart from others in the area. The stone crabs are served chilled, accompanied by a tangy mustard sauce and a spicy green sambal for those looking to add a kick to this delicate delicacy. Michael’s Genuine will feature stone crab from mid-October until May, making it a top spot to indulge all season long. Learn more or book a reservation here.

3. Joe’s Stone Crab
11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

You simply can’t mention stone crabs in Miami without paying homage to the institution that put this dish on the map: Joe’s Stone Crab. Founded in 1913, Joe’s is the go-to destination for stone crab lovers and has earned its reputation as a Miami Beach icon. Joe’s sources the highest quality Florida stone crab claws, which are served chilled and accompanied by their signature mustard sauce, coleslaw, and hash browns—classic pairings that complete the meal. Whether you’re a first-timer or a stone crab enthusiast, a visit to Joe’s is practically a Miami rite of passage. Learn more here. 

4. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab
777 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131

For those seeking an upscale dining experience with an emphasis on sustainability, Truluck’s is the ideal choice. This chic Brickell hotspot focuses on sustainably caught seafood, and their stone crabs are no exception. Truluck’s prides itself on sourcing their stone crabs from their own fisheries in Florida, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, high-quality claws. Here, the crabs are served with a trio of sauces, offering diners the chance to customize their experience. The plush ambiance and top-notch service make Truluck’s a stellar spot to enjoy Miami’s stone crab season. Learn more here. 

5. Captain Jim’s Miami Fresh Catch
12950 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami, FL 33161

For a more down-to-earth, local experience, head to Captain Jim’s Miami Fresh Catch in North Miami. What started as a seafood market has evolved into one of the city’s best-kept secrets for fresh, locally sourced seafood, including stone crab claws. Captain Jim’s reels in their seafood daily, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it gets. Their stone crab is served in a casual, no-frills setting, allowing the quality of the food to speak for itself. Pair your stone crab with one of their inventive seafood dishes, like conch chowder or whole fried fish, and enjoy a true taste of Miami’s local flavor. Learn more here. 

Miami’s stone crab season is more than just a culinary highlight—it’s a celebration of Florida’s coastal bounty. Whether you’re savoring colossal Bahamian claws at Estiatorio Milos or paying homage to tradition at Joe’s Stone Crab, this city offers a stone crab experience that is sure to satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings.