Miami's Top Culinary Influencers: The Ringmasters of Miami's Restaurant Circus
By Maria Rodriguez | Jan. 24, 2025
I've been known to chase down a food truck or two in my day, but I also enjoy getting my culinary kicks from the comfort of my couch, scrolling through the Instagram feeds of food influencers. What you’ll learn from living vicariously through them is that Miami's food scene is as colorful and diverse as the characters you'll find on South Beach on a Saturday night. And these social media mavens? They're the ringmasters of this culinary circus, serving up a daily dose of gastronomic eye candy that keeps us all coming back for more. So, let me introduce you to the crème de la crème of Miami's food influencers, the ones who've turned my Instagram feed into a veritable buffet of deliciousness.
Kevin Escalera
@snackeatingsnackss
Kevin's feed is like a highlight reel of Miami's best eats. His knack for capturing the perfect cheese pull or sauce drip is so on point, it should be illegal. I've lost count of the times I've found myself licking my phone screen, only to realize I'm not actually tasting anything. From food truck finds to upscale dining experiences, Kevin's got you covered, no matter what your wallet (or waistline) can handle.
Giovanny Gutierrez
@chatchowtv
If Anthony Bourdain and a Miami native had a love child, it would be Giovanny. His witty commentary on the local food scene is sharper than a well-honed chef's knife. Whether he's spotlighting a new craft cocktail or dissecting the latest food trend, Giovanny's posts are always served with a heaping side of humor that'll have you snorting into your cafecito.
Giselle Chusan
@explorewithgg
Giselle's feed is like a choose-your-own-adventure book for foodies with an artistic bent. One minute you're drooling over a perfectly plated ceviche, the next you're planning a mural-hopping tour of Wynwood. Her restaurant recommendations often come with tips on nearby art spots, making her the perfect guide for those days when you want to feed both your stomach and your soul.
Nico Norena
@succulentbite
Watching Nico's journey from launching "The Succulent Bite" in 2015 to landing on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2023 has been like witnessing a caterpillar transform into a particularly delicious butterfly. His recipes and restaurant features are a testament to his passion for food, and let's be honest, they make my sad attempts at home cooking look like abstract art.
Ivie
@iviethefoodie
Ivie's detailed yet concise video reviews are a godsend when I'm in a rush but still want the scoop on Miami's latest eateries. She has a knack for answering questions you didn't even know you had about a restaurant, like "Will the bathroom line be longer than the wait for a table?" or "Is the lighting good enough for my inevitable food photoshoot?"
Josiah Eats
@josiaheats
Josiah's feed is like a United Nations assembly of food. His posts often highlight lesser-known ethnic eateries, introducing followers to flavors from around the world without leaving the city limits. Thanks to Josiah, I've discovered that my taste buds are far more adventurous than I am.
Dana Rozansky
@miamifoodporn
Dana's Instagram handle says it all – her feed is pure, unadulterated food porn. Her close-up shots of gooey cheese pulls and perfectly plated dishes are so vivid, you can almost taste them through the screen. Fair warning: following Dana may result in spontaneous restaurant visits and an ever-expanding list of must-try dishes.
Melissa Marrero
@alwayshungrymel
Melissa's passion for food is more infectious than the flu during tourist season. Her detailed reviews and behind-the-scenes peeks into Miami's kitchens offer a unique perspective on the local food scene. Her willingness to try anything once has inspired me to be more adventurous in my eating habits, though I draw the line at anything still moving on the plate.
George Arango
@mr.eats305
George's dual talents as a food influencer and DJ infuse his content with an energetic vibe that's quintessentially Miami. His recommendations span from quick bites to elaborate dining experiences, always with an eye towards the city's vibrant events scene. Following George is like having a cool friend who always knows where the party (and the best late-night eats) is at.
Dianne and Geoff
@miamifoodpug
This dynamic duo serves up Miami restaurant news with “a side of pug.” One of the few mostly photo-based influencers on this list, their comprehensive reviews cover all the hottest spots in town, plus the ones that are new to the rest of us. Although, I'm still waiting for their review of the local fire hydrants.
Maria Dominguez
@miamiyums
Maria's feed is a kaleidoscope of Miami's most Instagram-worthy dishes. Her knack for finding photogenic food is unparalleled, and her posts often feature creative presentations that are as much art as they are sustenance. Following Maria has significantly upped my food photography game, though my dinner companions might argue it's significantly lowered their patience levels.
Nick Pena
@thefoode
Nick's approach to food content is refreshingly down-to-earth, like that friend who's always up for grabbing a bite, whether it's at a hole-in-the-wall taco joint or a Michelin-starred restaurant. His honest reviews and unpretentious recommendations make fine dining feel accessible to everyone, proving that you don't need to know what amuse-bouche means to enjoy a good meal.
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