BON APPÉTIT'S FOOD CITY OF THE YEAR: MIAMI

Miami has been a destination city for a long time. Like so many others, I started traveling there decades ago for its beautiful beaches and Art Deco architecture. Later its galleries and art scene became part of the draw. It's famously a magnet for spring breakers, too, and more recently for the tech crowd. But Miami wasn't primarily thought of as a destination for its food. Now that is changing in wonderful, exciting ways.

- MARIETTE WILLIAMS

The always-evolving city is buzzing with opportunity, and a wave of creative chefs and restaurateurs have picked up on that air of possibility. It's led to a spate of daring, exciting restaurants that are contributing to the city's rich culinary history, while bringing entirely new dimensions to the dining scene. From a bakery-slash-bookstore that also pours great wine to some of the best fresh seafood you'll get in the US, there's something for everyone here. Now, the local food scene has become my impetus for exploring Miami. I'm not alone: After our editors spent months crisscrossing the country scouting restaurants, it was Miami that we all wanted to return to. That's why we named it our Food City of the Year.

If you, like me, travel to eat, I think you will be delighted at what Miami has to offer. So the next time you're planning a trip, look to this vibrant, layered city, where the next amazing meal is never far off. With the help of local writer Mariette Williams, we have enough recommendations to ensure you won't go hungry. -Dawn Davis, editor in chief

HERE ARE THE RESTAURANTS WE FELL FOR...

1. ITAMAE

Nestled in the Design District, Itamae has a pretty unassuming front, in stark contrast to the high-end designer clothing stores that surround it. Run by sibling chef duo Nando and Valerie Chang alongside their father, Fernando, Itamae has a handful of bar seats inside, plus gorgeous courtyard patio seating that offers a prime spot for people-watching. Inspired by Japanese-influenced Peruvian cuisine, the mostly raw seafood options change every few days, and the attentive staff take their time walking guests through the menu, which includes dishes like Pulpo al Olivo Bañadito, and baby Dutch potatoes with a sweet and slightly spicy huancaína sauce.