
Swaying palm trees, breathtaking skyline views, diverse neighborhoods and stunning Art Deco structures — it’s no wonder Miami has been chosen as the perfect destination for the big screen. You might have even noticed that some of the spots you frequent have made a cameo in some of the most iconic films. Whether you’re a TV buff or a local looking for spots to explore, here are 9 places where star-studded movies and episodes were filmed so that you can feel like you’re a part of the cast!
1. Ball & Chain, Little Havana
Miami is the true star of HBO Max’s recently released “Father of the Bride,” and one particular scene in the film highlights the city’s world-famous nightclub and restaurant. Ball & Chain makes an appearance during a wedding between the father and mother, played by Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan, in the very beginning of the film. Famously located on Calle Ocho, you can go there for some Cuban bites, salsa dancing and a lively night out.
Where: 1513 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
2. The Birdcage Cafe, Miami Beach
If you’re a fan of 1996’s “The Birdcage,” you’ll especially love this classic restaurant at the Carlyle Hotel directly across from the beach. It looks a teeny bit different these days, but the Art Deco-style hotel is the main setting for the titular drag nightclub owned by Robin Williams in the film. The restaurant could also be seen in the opening credits of “Miami Vice” (where two women in bikinis walk down Ocean Drive) and the hotel makes an appearance in “Scarface.”
Where: 1250 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
3. Versailles, Little Havana
In 2014’s “Chef,” when Jon Favreau’s character has a meltdown and decides to fly to his hometown of Miami, it’s thanks to this iconic Cuban eatery that the chef rediscovers his love for Cuban food. Like the film, you too can indulge in Versailles’ world-famous Cuban coffee, Cuban sandwich and pastelitos.
Where: 3555 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
4. Monty’s Raw Bar, Coconut Grove
This dockside tiki hut restaurant not only serves coastal cocktails and fresh seafood; it also has several TV series and movies under its belt including Miami Vice, Burn Notice, and Marley & Me. With an ocean breeze and dreamy waterfront scenery like this one, it’s easy to see why this was a go-to destination for production.
Where: 2550 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133
5. Jimmy’s East Side Diner, Little River
A pivotal scene in Barry Jenkins’ Oscar-winning “Moonlight” was shot at this staple eatery located on Biscayne Boulevard that’s known for its all-day breakfast. A grown-up Chiron (Trevante Rhodes) reunites with Kevin (André Holland) after years of not talking when he steps in the diner. Kevin, working as a line cook at the diner, prepares Chiron a dish.
Where: 7201 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33138
6. Big Pink, Miami Beach
Much of “There’s Something About Mary” (1998) is shot in South Florida, and at the famous all-pink diner, Pat Healy (Matt Dillon) is picked up by Sully (Jeffrey Tambor). Inside the Big Pink, you’ll find over 200 all-American favorites on their (also big and pink) menu, including burgers, sandwiches, pastas, pizzas, salads, wraps, and more.
Where: 157 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
7. Gianni’s At The Former Versace Mansion, Miami Beach
Ryan Murphy’s “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story” (2018) was mainly filmed in the mansion itself, considering the fact that it explores the 1997 murder of fashion designer Gianni Versace. The designer’s former home exists today as both a luxury hotel and an upscale Mediterranean restaurant decked out mosaics and a gold-lined pool.
Where: 1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
8. The Rusty Pelican, Key Biscayne
The yacht club scene in 1980 comedy Caddyshack was shot at the Rusty Pelican restaurant, famous for its seafood cuisine and striking views. A couple of boats were docked at the waterfront restaurant to make appear like a true yacht club.
Where: 3201 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
9. El Pub Restaurant, Little Havana
This authentic Cuban kitchen in Calle Ocho not only offers the best coffee and empanadas in Miami, but HBO’s “Ballers” (featuring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson) and “War Dogs” (with Jonah Hill and Miles Teller) had scenes shot here.
Where: 1548 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135