Every July, the charming city of Coral Gables, Florida, transforms into a food lover’s paradise with Taste the Gables, a month-long culinary event that showcases the best of its vibrant dining scene. Organized by the City of Coral Gables’ Economic Development Department, this annual festival, running from July 1 to July 31, invites residents and visitors to explore over 70 participating restaurants offering exclusive prix-fixe menus, happy hour specials, and unique dining experiences. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what makes Taste the Gables a must-experience event, highlight its key features, and share why it’s the perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of “The City Beautiful.”
What is Taste the Gables?
Taste the Gables is more than just a food festival—it’s a celebration of Coral Gables’ rich culinary diversity and community spirit. Launched to boost local businesses during the slower summer season, the event brings together a wide range of eateries, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy neighborhood gems. As Belkys Perez, the city’s Economic Development Director, puts it, “This program is all about spotlighting the exceptional culinary talent we have right here in Coral Gables.”
From July 1 to July 31, participating restaurants offer three-course prix-fixe menus starting at $30 for lunch and $45 for dinner, alongside exclusive promotions like happy hour deals and cocktail pairings. With cuisines ranging from Japanese omakase to Latin American cafes, Italian trattorias, and upscale steakhouses, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The event’s dedicated website, TasteTheGables.com, makes it easy to explore participating restaurants, browse menus, and plan your culinary adventure by cuisine, price point, or location.
A Showcase of Culinary Excellence
Coral Gables is renowned for its Mediterranean architecture and historic charm, but its dining scene is equally impressive, blending global influences with local flair. Taste the Gables highlights this diversity with an impressive lineup of restaurants, including:
- Shingo: The only Michelin-starred restaurant in Coral Gables, Shingo offers an intimate 14-seat omakase experience led by award-winning chef Shingo Akikuni. Expect meticulously crafted Japanese dishes that elevate fine dining to an art form.
- Zitz Sum and Bachour: Both honored with Michelin Bib Gourmand awards, Zitz Sum brings inventive Asian-inspired dishes like pork and shrimp dumplings, while Bachour delights with its world-class pastries, such as guava cheesecake and delicate macarons.
- Beauty and the Butcher and Kojin 2.0: These Michelin-recommended spots offer bold flavors, from contemporary American dishes to innovative Japanese cuisine.
- 450Gradi: Known for its dramatic tableside presentations, this Italian eatery served up flaming pappardelle rib ragu during Taste the Gables, creating a dining spectacle that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
- Bodega Taqueria y Tequila: This casual spot joined the fun with BBQ Smokeout Combo Specials, blending Latin flavors with summer vibes in partnership with Mamitas.
Whether you’re craving refined French bistro classics, authentic Peruvian ceviche, or creative tapas, Taste the Gables has it all. The event also features hidden gems like cozy Japanese eateries, vibrant Cuban-American bakeries, and chic coffee shops offering deals like a $10 coffee and toast combo.
Why Taste the Gables Stands Out
Taste the Gables is designed to be accessible and inclusive, with no cost for restaurants to participate, encouraging a wide range of establishments to join. This creates a unique opportunity for diners to explore both high-end venues and fast-casual spots, all while enjoying wallet-friendly prices. Here are a few reasons why this event is a highlight of the Coral Gables calendar:
- Affordable Dining: Prix-fixe menus starting at $30 for lunch and $45 for dinner make it easy to experience fine dining without breaking the bank. Some restaurants even offer cocktail pairings or dessert upgrades for added value.
- High Visibility: Restaurants gain exposure through extensive digital and print marketing, including social media campaigns, website placements, and email promotions, ensuring diners discover new favorites.
- Community Focus: Taste the Gables aligns with Coral Gables’ commitment to supporting local businesses. By dining at participating restaurants, you’re contributing to the city’s vibrant economy and cultural identity.
- Diverse Experiences: Beyond the food, many restaurants offer unique experiences, from tableside presentations to live music at chic speakeasy-inspired lounges.
The event’s timing in July also makes it a perfect way to beat the summer heat by indulging in air-conditioned dining rooms or breezy outdoor patios along Miracle Mile and beyond.
Tips for Enjoying Taste the Gables
To make the most of this month-long culinary adventure, here are a few tips:
- Plan Ahead: Visit TasteTheGables.com to browse the interactive restaurant directory, check menus, and map out your dining itinerary.
- Try Something New: With over 70 restaurants participating, use this opportunity to explore cuisines or venues you haven’t tried before, like a minimalist omakase at Shingo or a Peruvian pisco cocktail.
- Take Advantage of Deals: Look for happy hour specials, such as $15 pasta and wine combos or $10 dessert trios, to maximize your experience.
- Support Local: Share your Taste the Gables experience on social media using hashtags like #TasteTheGables to spread the word and support the city’s restaurants.
A Celebration of Coral Gables’ Character
Taste the Gables is more than a food festival—it’s a reflection of Coral Gables’ unique blend of elegance, diversity, and ambition. With its lush canopies, historic boulevards, and a daytime population nearly doubling due to the presence of the University of Miami and multinational corporations, the city is a hub of activity and culture. The culinary scene has become a defining feature, offering a mix of authenticity and innovation that draws diners from across South Florida.
As the Coral Gables Gazette notes, “Taste the Gables is about more than meals—it’s about community character.” Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor eager to explore its flavors, this event offers a chance to connect with the heart of Coral Gables through its food.
Join the Culinary Adventure
Taste the Gables runs through July 31 each year, so there’s still time to join the fun in 2026! Check out TasteTheGables.com for a full list of participating restaurants, menus, and special promotions. Whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred omakase, indulging in handcrafted desserts, or enjoying a casual taco combo, Taste the Gables promises a month of unforgettable dining experiences.
Have you experienced Taste the Gables? Share your favorite dishes or restaurants in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the flavors of Coral Gables together! Let’s Save America!
For more information, visit TasteTheGables.com or contact the City of Coral Gables Economic Development Department at business@coralgables.com.