Miami’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending Cuban, Latin American, Caribbean, and global influences. From bustling food trucks to iconic Cuban eateries, the city offers an array of affordable dishes that pack a punch without breaking the bank. Below, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-try dishes in Miami, all priced under $10, based on real customer reviews and local food guides. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these budget-friendly eats are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Cuban Sandwich from La Carreta

  • Restaurant: La Carreta

  • Description: A classic Cuban sandwich featuring ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed on crispy Cuban bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Carreta is a Miami institution, serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1971. Its Cuban sandwich is a fan favorite, praised for its perfectly balanced flavors and generous portions. A Tripadvisor reviewer raved, “We had their Cuban sandwich which was delicious and reasonably priced,” highlighting its appeal (Tripadvisor). It’s a quintessential Miami dish that’s both affordable and iconic.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 3632 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135

2. Medianoche from Sanguich

  • Restaurant: Sanguich

  • Description: A Cuban sandwich variation served on sweet, egg-based bread with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Sanguich in Little Havana is renowned for its commitment to fresh, house-made ingredients. The medianoche’s sweet bread adds a unique twist, earning high praise. Time Out notes its “depth to match all that richness” (Time Out). Yelp reviewers call it “the best sandwich I’ve ever had,” making it a must-try for sandwich lovers.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 1100 SW 1st St, Miami, FL 33130

3. Falafel from Freda’s Falafel

  • Restaurant: Freda’s Falafel

  • Description: Organic, vegetarian falafel balls served in a warm pita with fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and a side of pickles and salads.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: This kosher eatery in North Miami Beach offers healthy, flavorful options. The falafel is celebrated for its crispy exterior and soft, spiced interior. Thrillist highlights its $6.45 price and “six-plus mini bowls of picklings and salads” (Thrillist). It’s a perfect choice for vegetarians or anyone seeking a budget-friendly, satisfying meal.

  • Price: $6.45

  • Location: 1772 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, FL 33162

4. Southwest Bowl from Organic Food Kings

  • Restaurant: Organic Food Kings

  • Description: A vegan, gluten-free bowl packed with greens, quinoa, tofu, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, sunflower seeds, avocado, and a zesty red sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: This food truck is redefining healthy eating in Miami with its flavorful, plant-based dishes. The Southwest Bowl is a standout, praised for its vibrant ingredients and satisfying portions. Thrillist calls it “extremely flavorful,” noting that “you won’t even notice you’re eating something healthy” (Thrillist). Yelp reviews highlight its fresh taste, making it ideal for health-conscious diners.

  • Price: $9.50

  • Location: Various locations, check Organic Food Kings for schedule

5. Sliderz from Burger & Beer Joint

  • Restaurant: Burger & Beer Joint

  • Description: A weekday lunch special featuring two slider burgers, a side (like fries), and a drink.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Burger & Beer Joint offers a casual vibe and hearty American fare. The $10 lunch deal is a steal, providing a complete meal that’s perfect for a quick bite. Thrillist praises the deal for its value and flavor (Thrillist). Customers on Yelp love the juicy sliders and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great midday option.

  • Price: $10

  • Location: 1901 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33137

6. Chicago Dog from Dogma

  • Restaurant: Dogma

  • Description: A Chicago-style hot dog with mustard, onions, relish, pickles, tomatoes, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Dogma brings authentic Chicago flavors to Miami, offering a budget-friendly alternative to their foot-long dogs. Time Out calls it “a delicious compromise” for under $10 (Time Out). Yelp reviewers appreciate the fresh toppings and classic preparation, making it a go-to for hot dog enthusiasts.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 143 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127

7. Croqueta Preparada from El Palacio de los Jugos

  • Restaurant: El Palacio de los Jugos

  • Description: A Cuban sandwich stuffed with crispy ham croquettes, ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: El Palacio is a Miami staple, known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Cuban dishes. The Croqueta Preparada adds a crunchy twist to the traditional sandwich, earning praise for its bold flavors. Time Out describes it as adding “a crispy and gooey texture” to the classic (Time Out). Customers love its hearty portions and affordability.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 5728 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33144

8. Fish Tacos from Cali Taco

  • Restaurant: Cali Taco

  • Description: Two fish tacos with grilled or fried fish, topped with cabbage, pico de gallo, and creamy white sauce on soft tortillas.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Cali Taco brings California’s Mexicali cuisine to Miami, focusing on fresh seafood. The fish tacos, priced at $7.49 for two, are a steal, praised for their light batter and vibrant toppings. Thrillist highlights their “healthy, like California” appeal (Thrillist). Yelp reviews commend the fresh ingredients, making them a taco lover’s dream.

  • Price: $7.49 for two

  • Location: 1100 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139

9. Fresh Juices from El Palacio de los Jugos

  • Restaurant: El Palacio de los Jugos

  • Description: Freshly made juices from seasonal fruits like watermelon, mamoncillo chino, or papaya, served chilled.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Known as the “juice palace,” El Palacio offers a refreshing array of made-to-order juices. PureWow calls them “as fresh as ever, totally worth the drive” (PureWow). Customers on Yelp praise the variety and quality, making these juices a perfect way to cool off in Miami’s heat.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 5728 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33144

10. Ropa Vieja from Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop

  • Restaurant: Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop

  • Description: Slow-cooked shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce, served with white rice and black beans.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Enriqueta’s is a Wynwood gem, offering authentic Cuban dishes at unbeatable prices. The ropa vieja is a standout, with tender beef and flavorful sauce. Time Out notes that “not a thing clocks at two-digits” on their menu (Time Out). Yelp reviewers call it “a taste of home,” perfect for a hearty, budget-friendly meal.

  • Price: Under $10

  • Location: 186 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132

Miami’s food scene is a celebration of diversity, and these 10 dishes under $10 showcase the city’s culinary richness. From the iconic Cuban sandwich at La Carreta to the refreshing juices at El Palacio, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving a quick taco or a hearty plate of ropa vieja, these affordable eats promise a delicious experience. Dive into Miami’s vibrant food culture and savor these must-try dishes!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price Location
Cuban Sandwich La Carreta Under $10 3632 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
Medianoche Sanguich Under $10 1100 SW 1st St, Miami, FL 33130
Falafel Freda’s Falafel $6.45 1772 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, FL 33162
Southwest Bowl Organic Food Kings $9.50 Various locations
Sliderz Burger & Beer Joint $10 1901 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33137
Chicago Dog Dogma Under $10 143 NW 23rd St, Miami, FL 33127
Croqueta Preparada El Palacio de los Jugos Under $10 5728 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33144
Fish Tacos Cali Taco $7.49 for two 1100 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Fresh Juices El Palacio de los Jugos Under $10 5728 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33144
Ropa Vieja Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop Under $10 186 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132