Miami’s diverse population has influenced its culinary offerings, making it a food lover’s paradise. From authentic Cuban cuisine to fresh seafood, Miami has it all. But what sets Miami’s food scene apart is the use of certain ingredients that add a unique twist to traditional dishes. And yes, we’re talking about weed.
Is weed legal in Miami?
Before we delve into Miami’s food scene and how it incorporates weed, let’s answer the question that’s on everyone’s mind: is weed legal in Miami? The answer is yes and no. While medical marijuana has been legal in Florida since 2016, recreational use of marijuana is still illegal in the state. However, there have been efforts to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida, and it’s only a matter of time before it becomes a reality.
Incorporating Weed in Miami’s Culinary Scene
While the use of weed in food and drinks is still a bit controversial, many Miami chefs and mixologists have found creative ways to incorporate it into their offerings. And no, we’re not talking about pot brownies or edibles.
One of the most popular ways weed is incorporated into Miami’s culinary scene is through the use of CBD oil. Cannabidiol or CBD has been praised for its health benefits, including reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Many Miami restaurants and cafes have started adding CBD olie (In Danish) or CBD Oil to their dishes and drinks, like coffee, smoothies, and even pizza.
But CBD is not the only way weed is being used in Miami’s culinary scene. Some restaurants have started offering weed-infused cocktails, like the “Marijuana Mojito” and the “Cannabis Cooler.” These cocktails contain a small amount of THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. While the amount of THC is not enough to get you high, it’s enough to give you a subtle buzz.
The use of weed in Miami’s culinary scene has not gone unnoticed. In fact, some Miami chefs have gained national attention for their creative use of the herb. One such chef is Cindy Hutson, the owner of Ortanique on the Mile, a popular Caribbean-inspired restaurant in Miami. Hutson has created dishes like the “Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Cannabis Mango Salsa,” which features a spicy jerk chicken served with a sweet and tangy cannabis-infused mango salsa.
Another Miami chef who has gained attention for his use of weed in his dishes is Michael Beltran, the owner of Ariete, a cozy eatery in Coconut Grove. Beltran has created dishes like the “Weed-Smoked Wagyu Brisket,” which is cooked in a smoker that’s been infused with weed smoke. Beltran has also created a “Green Eggs and Ham” dish, which features a poached egg served with a slice of weed-infused ham and topped with a cannabis hollandaise sauce.
While the use of weed in Miami’s culinary scene is still controversial, many chefs and mixologists are embracing it as a way to add a unique twist to traditional dishes and drinks. And as the legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida looms on the horizon, we can expect to see even more creative uses of weed in Miami’s food and drink scene.
Exploring Miami’s Food and Drink Scene
Now that we’ve explored how weed is incorporated into Miami’s culinary scene, let’s take a closer look at some of the city’s must-try dishes and drinks.
Cuban Sandwich
No visit to Miami’s food scene is complete without trying a Cuban sandwich. This hearty sandwich is made with Cuban bread, roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s then pressed on a sandwich press until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Head to Versailles, a famous Cuban restaurant in Little Havana, for one of the best Cuban sandwiches in the city.
Seafood
Miami’s proximity to the ocean makes seafood a staple in its culinary offerings. Some must-try seafood dishes include the stone crab claws at Joe’s Stone Crab, the grilled octopus at Mandolin Aegean Bistro, and the ceviche at CVI.CHE 105.
Cocktails
Miami’s cocktail scene is just as impressive as its food scene. Head to The Broken Shaker, a popular bar in South Beach, for creative cocktails like the “Smoking Cannonball,” which is served in a cannonball-shaped glass and contains mezcal, pineapple, and lime. For a more low-key vibe, head to Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co., a cozy bar in Miami Beach that serves classic cocktails with a twist.
Final Thoughts
Miami’s food and drink scene is constantly evolving, with chefs and mixologists always looking for ways to innovate and stand out. And with the impending legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida, it’s only a matter of time before we see more creative uses of weed in Miami’s culinary offerings. Whether you’re interested in trying weed-infused dishes or just looking to explore the city’s diverse food and drink options, Miami has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to Miami, don’t forget to indulge in the city’s unique flavors, including those that incorporate weed in Miami’s culinary scene.
