If you’ve spent any time in Miami, you know the vibe in Coconut Grove is just different. It’s not the plastic neon of South Beach or the curated grit of Wynwood. It’s leafy. It’s old-school. And right at the heart of that breezy, bohemian energy sits Lulu Coconut Grove, a spot that has managed to survive the neighborhood's massive "glow-up" without losing its soul. Honestly, in a city where restaurants open and close faster than you can find a parking spot on Main Highway, Lulu’s longevity is kinda impressive.
It’s the kind of place where you see people in gym clothes sitting next to people in designer linen.
You’ve probably walked past it a dozen times. It’s that corner spot on Commodore Plaza with the funky, recycled-industrial decor and the outdoor seating that is almost always packed. People love to talk about the "new" Grove—the Michelin stars and the fancy rooftop bars—but Lulu is basically the neighborhood’s living room. It’s consistent. It’s loud. It’s exactly what you want on a Sunday morning when you’re slightly hungover and need a Bloody Mary that actually has some kick to it.
What's the Real Deal With the Food?
Lulu isn't trying to be a white-tablecloth establishment. The menu is a bit of a chameleon. They call it "global tapas," but that’s just a fancy way of saying they make whatever tastes good with a cold beer or a glass of rosé.
Take the tuna tartare. It’s served in these little crispy tacos with a bit of avocado and soy ginger. Is it groundbreaking? Maybe not in 2026. But is it fresh and perfectly seasoned every single time? Yeah, it is. That’s the thing about Lulu—they’ve nailed the "reliable" factor.
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The Lulu Burger is another heavy hitter. It’s got that caramelized onion jam and brie cheese combo that sounds a bit 2010s-era gastropub, but then you take a bite and remember why that flavor profile became a classic in the first place. They use grass-fed beef, which actually makes a difference in the texture. It’s juicy without being a greasy mess that ruins your shirt.
The Brunch Situation
If you’re planning to go for brunch, just be prepared. It’s a scene. You’re going to wait for a table if you show up at noon on a Saturday. But here’s a tip: try the Chicken and Waffles. They do a spicy maple syrup that actually has some heat, and the waffles have this weirdly perfect crunch-to-fluff ratio.
Most people go for the bottomless options, which, let’s be real, is why half the people are there. But even if you aren't trying to get day-drunk, the energy is infectious. It’s one of the few places in Miami where the service doesn't feel like they're doing you a favor by acknowledging your existence. The staff is usually pretty laid back, even when they’re slammed.
Why Lulu Coconut Grove Matters in a Changing Miami
Coconut Grove has changed a lot lately. Big developers moved in, and some of the old, quirky charm got polished away. But Lulu (and its sister restaurant, Greenstreet Cafe, right across the street) feels like the anchor.
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It was founded by Sheila and Silvio Stedhem, and you can tell it’s still run with that independent spirit. They use local ingredients where they can. They focus on sustainability—lots of reclaimed wood and industrial accents that don’t feel forced. It feels like the Grove used to feel before the high-rises started touching the clouds.
The Indoor-Outdoor Flow
One of the best things about the architecture is how it blurs the lines. The big garage-style doors stay open most of the time. You get that Miami breeze (when it’s not 100 degrees out), and the people-watching on Commodore Plaza is top-tier. You’ll see parrots flying overhead, locals walking their dogs, and the occasional classic car rumbling by.
It’s also one of the best spots for a solo lunch. Sit at the bar, order the truffle fries—which are generously seasoned and not just sprayed with fake oil—and just watch the world go by.
The Surprising Depth of the Drink Menu
Most people think of Lulu as a food spot, but the bar program is actually pretty sophisticated. They do a Smoked Old Fashioned that isn't just a gimmick; the smoke actually integrates with the bourbon rather than just smelling like a campfire.
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- They have a solid selection of craft beers, often featuring Florida breweries.
- The wine list is approachable. You won't find $500 bottles of Bordeaux, but you will find a really crisp Sauvignon Blanc that pairs perfectly with the heat.
- The "Green Juice" cocktails are a thing here. It’s very "Miami" to have kale in your vodka, but somehow it works.
There’s a misconception that Lulu is just for tourists because it’s in a prime location. Honestly? That’s wrong. If you look at the tables, it’s mostly locals. It’s the people who live in the villas nearby and the students from UM who want something better than fast food.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Nothing is perfect. Lulu can get loud. Like, "I can't hear what you said about your crypto portfolio" loud. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic spot to propose, this probably isn't it. It’s a place for celebration, for catching up with friends, and for being part of the noise.
Also, parking in the Grove is a nightmare. It just is. Don't even try to find a street spot on a weekend. Just bite the bullet and use the valet or one of the garages a few blocks away. It’ll save you twenty minutes of circling like a shark.
The price point is "mid-range Miami." You aren't getting out of there for ten bucks, but you also aren't going to need a second mortgage to pay for dinner. It’s fair for the quality and the location.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Timing is Everything: If you want a peaceful meal, go on a Tuesday at 2:00 PM. If you want the full experience, go for Sunday Brunch, but get there by 10:30 AM to beat the heaviest rush.
- Order the Unexpected: Everyone gets the burger. Try the lamb chops or the octopus. The kitchen actually knows how to handle seafood without overcooking it into rubber.
- Dress Code: There isn't one, really. But "Grove Chic" is the vibe—think nice shorts, linen shirts, or a sundress. You'll feel out of place in a full suit or a tuxedo.
- Sit Outside: Unless it’s raining sideways, the patio is the place to be. The fans do a decent job of keeping things moving, and the atmosphere is 90% of the reason to go.
- Check the Specials: They often have seasonal rotations that aren't on the main printed menu. Ask the server; sometimes there’s a local catch that’s better than anything on the permanent list.
Lulu Coconut Grove isn't trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s just trying to be a really good restaurant in a really great neighborhood. In a city that often feels like it's trying too hard to be "the next big thing," there’s something deeply comforting about a place that just knows exactly what it is. It’s the heart of the Grove, one truffle fry at a time.