Since this move to Inter Miami, It’s safe to say that Lionel Messi has been in the city long enough to know a thing or two about the most delightful places to eat. In fact, he’s been spotted dining at several notable spots, from an Argentine pizza mecca to a flashy Michelin-starred steakhouse. Here are the many restaurants where Messi has been seen, so that you also get a taste!
1. Cafe Prima Pasta, Miami Beach
When it comes to Miami restaurants, this Italian bistro appears to be a long-time favorite for Messi. Even before his Inter Miami days, he’s been visiting Cafe Prima Pasta with his family for the last 12 years, as revealed by owner Gerardo Cea in an interview with The New York Times. The Argentine-owned establishment features a menu of Italian classics that will please any pasta aficionado, from Crab Raviolotti to Black Linguini Seafood!
đź“Ť 414 71st St, Miami Beach, FL 33141
2. The Amalfi Llama, Aventura
The soccer superstar is known to frequent this elevated eatery, which happens to be his family restaurant! The Amalfi Llama combines the wood-fired cooking of Patagonia with fresh Italian flavors. On the menu, you’ll find the MilaMessi, which takes on his mother’s personal recipe, and other highlights including the fan-favorite Branzino and pizzas like the “Alla Positano.” Messi has been spotted out for dinner here with his teammate Luis Suárez and both their families.
đź“Ť Esplanade at Aventura, 19505 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 4150, Aventura, FL 33180
3. COTE, Miami Design District
This luxe Korean steakhouse, both Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-nominated, needs no introduction. Perfect for memorable celebrations, Messi actually took to the restaurant last year to honor Inter Miami’s historic Leagues Cup trophy win, bringing along his teammates, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, as well as club owner Jorge Mas.
đź“Ť 3900 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137
4. Banchero, Miami Beach
After the Inter Miami star posted a picture of his pizza to his millions of followers on Instagram, this North Beach staple unexpectedly got a boost in business. Messi knows his pies and Banchero lives up to the hype! They specialize in Fugazza, an Argentine take on pizza that resembles focaccia. Rightfully so, they’ve also changed their Instagram bio to read “Leo Messi’s favorite pizza.”
đź“Ť 6995 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141
5. Papi Steak, Miami Beach
Who could forget the time SofĂa Vergara linked up with Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, and fellow players Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba for a star-studded group pic? The crew was actually partying it up at Papi Steak, the famed South of Fifth spot with red velvet couches and floral wallpaper. Not to mention, their viral $1K briefcase Tomahawk.
đź“Ť 736 1st St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
6. Sexy Fish, Brickell
It’s no surprise the Inter Miami star was spotted at this celebrity favorite, which serves up sushi and other Japanese-inspired seafood and meat dishes. Sexy Fish is also known for its impeccable selection of wines and cocktails in an opulent setting. In a photo posted to the restaurant’s Instagram, the caption reads, “We were delighted to host football legends Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets last night for an unforgettable dinner. Thanks for joining us and partying Sexy Fish style.”
đź“Ť 1001 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33130
7. Café Ragazzi, Surfside
This intimate trattoria, owned by Argentine-Venezuelan singer Ricardo Montaner, is another favorite of the soccer legend — long before his move to Miami. They offer a variety of traditional Italian plates like Osso Buco, Linguine Carbonara, wood-fired pizzas and more to fill your hearty appetite!
đź“Ť 9500 Harding Ave, Surfside, FL 33154
8. GekkĹŤ, Brickell
Bad Bunny and David Grutman are far from being the only famous faces you’ll find at their trendy Japanese steakhouse. Messi has also been seen dining here with his high profile friends like David and Victoria Beckham and Sergio Busquets. Gekkō’s menu consists of prime cuts of Wagyu beef alongside elevated sushi offerings and luxe twists on chophouse staples.
đź“Ť 8 SE 8th St, Miami, FL 33131
While you explore Messi’s favorite Miami spots, The Messi Experience is also calling your name! This immersive adventure chronicles the incredible life of the global soccer legend through nine themed rooms, filled with jaw-dropping digital projections, 3D visuals and captivating storytelling. But you better hurry, because it’s leaving the city soon!