Thanks to a huge influx of residents from the Caribbean over the years, it is no surprise that Miami is home to lots of wonderful Cajun and Creole restaurants. With its strong flavors and slightly spicy appeal, Creole and Cajun cuisine is finding a home in the Magic City and diners are digging in. – Julie Levin

Joumou Cafe

4424 N.E. 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 542-0646
www.joumou-cafe.com

Tucked away in Miami’s Design District is a spicy taste of home for anyone yearning for Creole food, served up Haitian style. Joumou Cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere and a big dose of hospitality, while serving up Haitian favorites such as Cabrit – tender chunks of goat meat with sweet bell peppers in a tomato sauce – and their signature Joumou soup – beef, noodles and carrots in a savory pumpkin broth. You can wash it all down with a Prestige Beer, straight from Haiti. Hours: Sunday through Monday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 8a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to midnight.

(credit: http://www.taptaprestaurant.com)

Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant

819 Fifth Street
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 672-2898
www.taptaprestaurant.com

Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant on South Beach doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it is a whole different world once you step inside. Colorful Haitian art and decor and live music help set the scene for a fun meal at Tap Tap. The real treat is the food though, made up of traditional Haitian delicacies, like shrimp in Creole or coconut sauce. A warm and helpful staff helps makes it a relaxed dining experience. Hours: Sunday through Thursday, noon to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to midnight.

(credit: http://www.chezlebebe.com)

Chez Le Bebe

114 N.E. 54th Street
Miami, FL 33137
(305) 751-7639
www.chezlebebe.com

Open for the past 25 years in Miami, Chez Le Bebe in Miami’s Little Haiti district brings an authentic taste of the islands if you are on the prowl for Cajun and Creole food. Chez Le Bebe boasts a homey and relaxed atmosphere, while serving up favorites like stewed oxtail, seafood, vegetable dishes and more, in an exciting combination of spices and sauces. There is an eat-in restaurant and take-out window too for late night appetites. Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday; 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.