Visited for dinner last night. The lady who seated us was really unpleasant, but our waiter was fine. We each ordered something different - I had the goat, my wife had the fried pork entree, and our friend had the grouper. All three were good, but not great. Portion sizes were a little small when considering the price ($19 for the goat; $15 for the pork). The dishes that weren't served as stews were in desperate need of a sauce. Overall, it was good but I probably wouldn't go back. I think if you came here with a higher budget you could've had a better experience than we did. However, ordering a single entree and nothing else is probably not enough to fill you. The place was pretty popular, even at 9:30 PM at night, and seemed to be a local hangout, so I'm sure there's something here worth visiting for. Our visit was just fairly unremarkable.
(3)
HA F.
I haven't been to this place in years because I moved out of FL, but I can say that when I was there this place is EXCELLENT and I'm STILL thinking about it...lol... Its very difficult to find authentic Haitian food. Most places generalize Caribbean food all in one, but Haitian food has its own FLARE and this place has it down pact! I use to go there just about every Friday for dinner. I would have the king fish with rice and beans (together) and ginger tea. I've had the stewed chicken and well just about everyting on the menu... all I can say is GO THERE if you are in Miami, when I take a trip down again.. that's where I will be eating the first day. The food is special About the decor... very pretty, beautiful murals and decorative tables.
(5)
Lola P.
I ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce. Pretty tasty, delicious sauce. When it comes to shrimp I guess I like my tails off since it makes it easier to eat. I dislike having to take the tails off myself. One tail for decoration is ok, but not in all of them. I wish they had the option of sides for their dishes like many restaurants do. The shrimp came with some rice (ok) and sweet fried plantains (not a fan of ripe plaintains so I can't comment). Very nice, colorful, fun decor. Bright colors everywhere. Parking is an inconveniece of its own. I had to drive around the block several times to find a metered spots...Oh South Beach.
(4)
Steve L.
Great spot. My wife had the coconut shrimp, which she liked, but we both preferred the grilled goat I ordered. I just wish it had come with rice instead of the dry, overcooked corn on the cob. Also really enjoyed the Natif cocktail, a kind of rough-hewn proto-daiquiri that went down all too easily.
(4)
Kevin M.
Great meal, had the Griyo, loved it. The pineapple upside down cake was excellent. I took my in-laws here and they really enjoyed it despite initial trepidation (they aren't very adventurous).
(5)
Nithasha Y.
So happy we went here. The place is very welcoming and service is great. Food is DELICIOUS!! As Indians we thought we could handle any amount of spice, So made the mistake of asking them to make our food extra hot. BIG MISTAKE!! Couldn't handle it. Just stick to what's on the menu and you'll love what you eat. Very flavorful, meat cooked just right. We ordered, Spaghetti with shrimps, shrimps with coconut milk, beef stew and goat stew. Can't decide what I loved more. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Apurne G.
After surviving many years on the beach, Tap Tap may be considered a Miami Beach institution. The food is always good, sometimes awesome; and the service is usually grudgingly and pleasantly mediocre. As long as one is prepared to expect a little attitude and a sometimes long wait for attention, one can enjoy some very nice food. The conch and the legim are often stand out dishes- though none are as good as in our Haitian friends kitchens. Management has really pulled it together in recent years and the overall experience is better than ever. Not to mention their true underlying raision d'être of supporting democracy and freedom in Haiti.
(4)
F. P.
I came here a month ago, waiting eagerly for my first Haitian dining experience (had heard this place was featured on The Food Network with Guy Fieri). Managed to get an early dinner reservation so there was no wait at all. And the crowds had not come yet. The entire restaurant gives us a very festive feel, with its bright colors and decorative murals. Ordered dishes that I basically had never tried before: For for appetizer, we ordered the Lanbi Pike Nan JI Sitwon (spicy marinated conch) - this was really good, had a nice spicy kick. The texture was interesting - like ceviche, chewy but with a little "crunch" as well. Definitely memorable and quite yummy. The entrees were all right. We had: - Pwason Gwosel (steamed whole yellowtail snapper served with scotch bonnet-lime sauce with rice and beans) - the snapper was tender (almost too tender as it seemed "mushy" at times) - Griyo (light, fried marinated "kurbuta" pork chunks) - just ok Sides: Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) - very good; definitely a must-order Manyok Fri (fried yucca) - nice crisy texture on the outside but the inside was a bit dry and bland. Aside from the conch, what I liked the best were the drinks, actually. We started with the Haitian mojito (w fresh mint, lime juice, raw sugar and Barbancourt rhum), which was very refreshing and clearly well-made. Then we turned to some beers we had never tried before - Tropical Mango Pale Ale (Virgin Islands) - Prestige Lager (Haiti) - Tusker Lager (Kenya) Definitely worth a trip, especially if like me, this is your first Haitian experience. Think this is the type of place that would be great to go with a bunch of friends.
(3)
Jenn C.
The food here is excellent! It is also on the healthy side of haitian cooking as you don't have to get your fish fried. The atmophere is just great, you can walk around and just stare at the art work. and it's on South beach! which brings a bit of haitian flair to the area.....ok to the poster to said to go to overtown or liberty city to get haitian food, that is not an option for many people.
(5)
Moe J.
Hati - always forgotten as the land that told the French to go screw themselves because we aint going to be slaves for you no more! Three cheers for the anti-colonial rebellion which pre-dated our Civil War! There cuisine was simply a must try. This was my first time to try Hatian food. I wanted to make the trek to Cafe Creole but being car-less and with limited time - I took my local Hatian bell-captain's word that this was a good spot. I arrived for lunch around 1 p.m. on a Monday and the place was nearly empty. I started with the Pumpkin Soup which was light and a good start to the meal and a very reasonable five dollars. For my main course, I ordered the snapper in lime sauce - I had seen the snapper on No Reservations and was excited to try. It was good but I just think I was not in a fish mood. It could have used a bit more spice to crank up the heat a bit. Also, the portions are large so you can share easily here. I had a couple bites of the rice and beans that came with the fish - there were pretty tasty for what they are.
(3)
Philip V.
I got take out from this restaurant -- the boiled goat was phenomenal. This restaurant is pretty well known (I've spoken to Hatian cab drivers in Philly who said it's one of the best Hatian restaurants that they've been to in the states). I'll certainly go back if I'm ever back in Miami.
(5)
Kareem J.
Every time I come here it is excellent. I love the waitress, she always treats me well. I love the ambience and the food is delicious. I hope they always stay true to themselves because that's what makes coming here special
(5)
Petrine J.
Good food, friendly service, nice and relaxed atmosphere.. I was a bit disappointed with the plantain, since it was dry and flavourless, but the goat was so tender a juicy! Goat is highly recommended!
(4)
David B.
Decor's awesome, food's fine, if a bit overpriced for what it is: beans & rice, platanos, chicken & sauce...Problem for us, at least today, was the service. If you don't want to wait tables, get another job; but don't take it out on the customers. All of this would be within the realm of the familiar if not for the fact that the bill comes with gratuity already determined for you to the tune of 18%. I suppose we had the option of getting into a spat with the already surly wait staff. Not coming back.
(2)
Jose A.
Some items are tasty ... Don't know if I would go back . Have been there several times . Cats are around in the dinning room don't feel too good about that .
(3)
Huong L.
This place is so good that we had to go twice within a week during our vacation. I absolutely love the cabbage slaw that they have on each table. The grouper in lime saw is AMAZING. Everything about that fish is perfect. I ordered it for both trips there. The stewed okra side was also delicious. The service was top notch. Everyone was friendly. The place felt like a neighborhood kind of place. If you're in South Beach, make a trip. It's worth it.
(5)
Brit J.
I've never been disappointed every experience has been amazing....The staff is awesome the foods awesome the ambience is amazing I can't tell you one bad thing a bout thus place
(5)
Kristi D.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I was super excited to visit this place on a recent trip to Miami. I live in Atlanta and there aren't any Haitian restaurants that I have been able to visit. As a haitian , I often miss the traditional food I grew up eating, so visiting Tap Tap was a must for me. We arrived and was told that there will be about a 30 minute wait ( it was a Thursday night). We agreed and took a seat to the side and listened to the live band. A table opened in front of us and another waiter came and motioned for us to sit. The woman ( who turned out to be our waiter) who took our name down came and said we could not sit there ( umm ok ..) so we returned back to our seats on the side. Literally 30 seconds later she came back and said we may now sit at that table ( offered no apology for the confusion). We ordered and waited about 20 mins for the food to arrive. My friend starts eating his rice, reaches down for his chicken and the bone is cold. He tells the waiter that the meat is cold, and she responds with "ok, I didn't make it", what would you like me to do?" ( RUDE !!) . She takes the plate back and brings it out in a few minutes. I noticed that it wasn't a fresh plate but they reheated the meat in some form ( probably the microwave, or poured hot sauce over it). My friend gets a bad vibe from the waiter and decides that he is not going to eat the meat ( but didn't mention it to anyone but me). He notices that staff from the kitchen and other waiters are now coming out and looking at him ( about 4 people) , almost as if they were waiting for him to take a bite. Now he is super uncomfortable, and Im even more embarrassed because Im haitian and they are not representing us well. The waiter passes by and says to him " if you don't eat the chicken its going to get cold again" that was the last straw for my friend and words were exchanged. Tap Tap took the dish off the bill , we paid and then left. My food however was decent, but because of the service I wouldn't think twice about coming here again.
(2)
Matt B.
I had the goat stew and it was okay. A little spicy so that made it interesting but not out-of-this-world. GF had the fish, which was mostly crispy. We ordered mojitos which were okay.
(3)
Joshua D.
Food and drinks are amazing here. Very authentic Creole (spicy) Haitian food. The stewed anything is off the chart. BONUS - the prices are pretty reasonable for 5th St South Beach, and there's parking - what?? That said, I have once walked out because the servers seemed to have some miscommunication over who was waiting on us because no one ever did. :S
(4)
Beagle M.
Since it was reviewed on the Food Network today, June 21, 2015. I can't wait to try the food when I'm down there in September . I love fish. The yellow fish entree that was made during the show had an amazingly complicated marinade and was poached in a sauce that included a chile. The chef said that he doesnt open the chile. That's where the heat comes from. " We leave that up to the customer. If they want the spicy..." YUM!
(5)
Bryn H.
Who would have guessed a self-professed Gringa from Texas would fall in love with Haitian food? Well I did, and I gladly bring anybody to Tap Tap. The restaurant is decorated with brightly colored murals - both on the walls and the tables - that depict life in Haiti. I've had just about everything on the menu and it's all good. But I must recommend the legim (stewed vegetables) with shrimp, the ox tail stew (they have that sometimes instead of the goat stew), and the white rice and bean sauce. Deelish! They used to have regular live music, and sometimes they still do. If you want to catch a more festive evening feel, call ahead to see if they'll have anybody performing.
(4)
Mohini R.
Ambiance, service, and food: all excellent. Get the rhum, goat, plantains, and anise tea :)
(5)
Adeline S.
I wouldn't consider Tap Tap to be authentic Haitian cuisine. Granted, there are an array of options on the menu, but I found that it lacked the robust and spicy flavor normally found in our dishes (I'm Haitian American).
(1)
Nick A.
This place is super authentic, with vibrant Haitian art on the walls. We went here right before closing time, so it was almost totally empty. They were also unfortunately out of the goat so we didn't get to try it. I did get to have the oxtail which was absolutely incredible. Even the cornmeal mixed with bean paste was great. Their cocktails were really good too. I often find mojitos too sweet, but the one I got here had a nice tart finish. I would recommend this place to anybody who is visiting South Beach and wants to try something different and authentic.
(4)
J. L.
Never tried Haitian food before? Tap Tap is a good place to start. I've tried the Tap Tap salad (good mix of veggies). stewed goat (really savory and flavorful but kind of hard to eat around the bone, given the texture), coconut milk spinach (my FAVORITE dish on the menu!!!), lime grouper (my SECOND favorite dish!), and the grilled conch (also quite yummy; good texture, and wonderful flavor). The yucca and various fried goodies are ad additional must to each meal. Note: beware of the CRAZY spicy pickled cabbage stuff! WOoooo! Hot. Cool off that tongue with some of their delicious cocktails! The service was great---very friendly and attentive, even though we stayed way past closing before. This place is also good for groups. I love the bright colors, music and vibrant vibe. Awesome.
(4)
Christine P.
Finally got around to stopping in at Tap Tap... after driving past it for years, and reading about their "Best Mojito" award. Thursday afternoon lunch with a big group after a day on the beach... the mojitos were good, just very strong... and my 2nd round ended up being a different drink. Ordered the Griyo (fried pork)... very similar to cuban food... came with rice and beans. There's also a chicken stew on the menu, goat, you name it! Never tried Haitian food, and I was pleasantly surprised. :) Make sure to order the appetizer sampler... can't remember what exactly was in it... but very good. Good place for groups... there's so much going on at this place that I'm definitely going back... colors all over the place - the walls, the chairs, the tables... the music was good, the service was great... they were very attentive! One of those places that reminds me how lucky I am to live in such a culturally diverse place as Miami.
(3)
Raj S.
Awesome cocktails, delicious food and great service...what's not to love? I had the yellow tail snapper, grilled with lemon butter sauce on the side...rice & beans and a spinach dish side. Perfect! It's a bit off the touristy area which may or may not be what you're looking for.
(5)
Edmund G.
Went here today for dinner. We found it by browsing yelp and wanted to try something different. The food was outstanding and the staff was friendly and prompt. The Moheitos were the best I ever had and the prices were fair. I will be back on my next visit to Miami.
(5)
Scott S.
My wife had the shrimp creole and loved it. Service was very good. I went out on a ledge and had the goat stew. Bad move, 80% fat, favor was weird, squirrel like. Thought I was on Beverly Hillbillies eaten granny's road kill.
(3)
Michelle S.
I was on vacation in Miami with my besties in July and Tap Tap was recommended to us by the bartender at the hotel. Best decision yet! I've never had Haitian food, but regardless....the food was delicious!! Diamond in the rough! I had the grilled conch and it was so good! I'm Chinese from San Francisco.....I know how good conch can be, and this was goooood. Different than the way I'm used to it being prepared...who knew simply grilling it could bring out so much?! My friends had the stewed shrimp and the grilled chicken. We like to share and I can say both dishes were really really good. Loved the tomato-based sauce that came with the shrimp...tasted very yummy over my white rice. The green sauce for the grilled chicken was "delish" as my friend would say. We were here late at night so the ambience was nice and chill, a nice break from the south beach bustle. So satisfied after this! Definitely an authentic place with great service...all the staff were so nice and helpful with food/drink choices. I will definitely be coming back to this place if I come back to Miami!
(5)
French S.
Tap Tap is a Miami staple. A cool and relaxing island restaurant to go to when you want to be on Miami Beach but not have to deal with all the crappy parts of Miami Beach. Don't go here when you are in a rush, instead relax and enjoy your time. All the staff is really friendly, they are people..not like the zombies you find in many South Beach restaurants. A bartender by the name of Nancy makes dining at Tap Tap a delight. I love the grilled conch with an amazing green dressing. Love the lime-ade, mojitos, and the sorbets are delicious!
(5)
Nicole B.
I saw Tap Tap on Triple D and wanted to try it out. The flavors are there and the food is good. The prices are high and the portions are small. I left still wanting more food. The service was decent but they add the tip to the bill which was high. I will not go back because of the prices and small portions.
(2)
Jim P.
Read about the monitors and saw they served goat, I just had to stop as part of my South Beach visit. The monitor was really good. The service was a bit off. Considering it was 5:30 on a Sat, it wasn't super busy, so the gaps in service were puzzling. The goat was great, others had the stewed chicken - also quite good, and the pasta in creole sauce - great flavor. I would definitely go back, but I would make sure the staff is aware that I expect a little more care.
(4)
Melody A.
This place is super cool. I'd never had Haitian food before, so I can only judge this meal, but it was great! It was simple but great! I had the Shrimp with Creole sauce which was very flavorful. The staff was friendly and the decor is great! The whole restaurant is painted with murals by the artist who lives upstairs. I ended up buying a print of one of his paintings, although I would have LOVED one of the paintings but couldn't afford it :(
(5)
Edwin C.
This is my spot! Great food and very cozy place to chill at! Highly recommended!!
(5)
Kaiser A.
Good food, humble service. They also had a band on Saturdays which gave a beautiful experience of Haitian culture. A must try spot if visiting south beach
(5)
Jen H.
Disclaimer: only my first time having Haitian food. With that said, I really liked this place. We had the goat stew and oxtail stew (off the menu) and they were both very flavorful. Only slight complaint I have is that it was a bit too salty and it could have been a bit more spicy. The mixed rice and beans that came with the stews were delicious! We also ordered the spicy conch salad- also delicious! It tasted really chewy and the salad accompanying it was fresh! The mattanga fritters were also very good- I highly recommend it. The dipping sauce that comes with the fritters work really well together. Drinks there are also very good- we had the mojitos (apparently award winning), rum punch (bunch of tropical juices blended together with rum). Waitress was very nice and helpful. Service is a bit slow so make sure not to go there really hungry or else you might get hangry waiting.
(4)
Tamara L.
I had been meaning to come here for dinner for a while and when a friend of mine was in from out of town, I finally made it over. So glad I did. My friend Gary is the manager there and I had stopped by once before on my way home from work to say hello. He took me on a tour. As someone mentioned, it looks small from the outside, but wait till you walk in. There are rooms everywhere. Local and Haitian artists have painted murals on the walls. Everything is painted and unique, from the walls to the tables to the chairs. I was glad to have had the opportunity for the personal tour before coming back for dinner. My friend and I ordered two of their fish dishes, which we shared. Of course I wound up liking his better. I also had the spinach in coconut sauce/milk for my side. That alone was enough to bring me back. Gary had a couple of their (now officially award winning) mojitos delivered to us. A must have if you are dining in Miami. Generally on weekends they have live music also. It's a definite must visit if you're visiting, or even if you live here. It's a nice change from Sushi and Cuban food. Unique flavors and items. A great island/Caribbean flavor to spice things up.
(4)
V. A.
One of my favorite spots to take out-of-towners. Authentic, fresh, and breaks up the monotony of the vaguely Mediterranean restaurants that line Lincoln Rd & Ocean Dr. I am in love with the Malanga fritters and the Fish in Lime Sauce. The Coconut Spinach is also very tasty. The fritters are served with the most delicious watercress-lime sauce. I like it so much I always ask for extra & use it on the tostones and rice and everything else. Make sure you come on a night with live Haitian music!
(4)
Jonathan W.
I've driven or walked past TAP TAP a million times. Heck, it's right after the bridge before hitting China Grill. One day, I got curious, made a dinner date with a friend and went inside with an open mind. I was in love the second I sat down. Finally, there was a restaurant in SOBE where the clientele was local. There were no annoying children or packs of tourists. The patrons that night either walked or biked over from their micro loft on Meridian, Jefferson or Michigan. The decor was fun, colorful and Caribbean.The huge murals on the walls added a nice touch. First I ordered a Prestige beer and the "Taso Kabrit." This appetizer is basically fried all-natural goat tidbits served with spicy Creole dipping sauce. Usually goat isn't all that appetizing. However, the meat was tender and the sauce accompanied it well. I then ate the "Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulen." This entree is stewed beef and okra served with cornmeal. At the first bite, it was quickly evident that TAP TAP cared about the quality of their ingredients. Every bite both warmed my mouth and stomach. Afterward, my handsome waiter brought the bill which came out to around twenty bucks. Not bad for a beer, an appetizer and an entree. In a nutshell, at TAP TAP, you can expect a colorful ambiance, a local flavor, a handsome waiter and some seriously flavorful food.
(3)
Tamara F.
Authentic Haitian food we had never tried before. My guy got the stewed chicken and loved it. I had fish and it was great. We found on Yelp and were not disappointed, although because of Carnival they had run out of goat and some immature young guests made a scene which was unfortunate. The atmosphere was lively and we sat by the bar. Staff were great. Will definitely return on my next visit to South Beach.
(4)
Jenny J.
Because of Tap Tap, I am such a fan of conch now! It's delicious! You should go with a group so you can try everything. Also, since it takes them forever and a day to get you your food, going with a group is more entertaining. The decorations and music kept us amused for a really long time. Check their performance schedule before you go - I believe they have live music on Thurs/Sat but I'm not sure. We got the conch (of course), fried yucca (DELISH!), a fried patter with plantains, sweet potato, etc. (ehh), goat (wayyy too goaty- don't get this if you don't absolutely love lamb/goat/gamey meat), lime grouper (yum! wish we got two!), spinach in coconut milk (yumm) and a bunch of other stuff. Then we finished up with some soursop gelato for dessert. This was our first time trying Haitian food, so I don't know how authentic it is, but it was definitely delicious. Definitely a good place to go if you've never tried Haitian.
(4)
Tony A.
Noticing a bunch of reviews complaining of bad service, I have never had this problem. Though I am Haitian-American, so maybe I get some love as a countryman.
(4)
Roya M.
Came to the restaurant with family, Great food, made me remember my grandmother's cooking. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. Flavorful, authentic dishes, service was good. Great restaurant! We will be back.
(4)
Jen J.
This place has beautiful decors: whimsical floral lights and huge murals on all the doors and walls. (I almost wanted to take a picture of the women's bathroom wall!) The + and the average: Mojito was fantastic! It was not too sweet and had just the perfect amount of alcohol. The conch salad was chewy, tasty, and actually spicy the way I like it! The main dishes were mostly average. The boyfriend ordered Shrimp in Coconut Sauce, which I sampled and thought the shrimp was a bit overcooked and the special sauce tasted alot like watered down marinara. I had the pork chop, which was just slightly overcooked, but nonetheless flavorful. The portion of my dish was fairly big. The -: The dishes were pricey. Both our entries were above $15. An automatic 18% tip was added to our check. Why?! It was just a party of two. The waitress was very attentive. Nonetheless, the automatic tip was inappropriate. We were here on vacation and enjoyed the beautiful restaurant with live music. But if I were to return to the area, I will probably not re-visit it.
(3)
Kevin B.
I was in Miami for my first time and wanted to experience local cuisine. I had my mind set on Cuban food but a family friend suggested Tap Tap instead. I had never tried Hatian so being adventurous, I gave it a shot and was not disappointed. We had a couple of appetizers including the Spicy Marinaded Conch. My expectations for it were medicore but I couldn't get enough. Visually it looked like a slaw but the taste was great. There was a good amount of burn but it was very flavorful. Conch, like many sea foods, doesn't taste like much. But if you're looking for something new and like seafood and a little burn, try that out. I didn't try the pumpkin soup but the people at the table who tried it had only glowing comments about it. Their drinks were great too. I tried two or three rum based drinks enjoying all of them. I went from a sweet passion fruit beverage to a sour rum beverage. Loved both. For my main course I tried a fish recipe that was good. Nothing bad to say about it. However, my girlfriend and I had rave reviews about their rice on the side. The rice was marinaded and perfectly cooked. We both commented how much we loved it. Their restaurant is dark and a bit loud but feels appropriate as a dive. Our waiter was very kind and knowledgeable about their entire menu. When we asked why they were out of lamb, he said it may have been out of season but was a little confused like we were. He answered my questions about the different types of drinks I wanted and addressed concerns about the food that I had prior to ordering. I could have talked more about the food but it's a place worth checking out for the adventurous eater.
(5)
Sherah B.
Delicious! I went to this place on a short trip to Miami this past May and it was awesome! It's kind of hidden-meaning not on the strip in South Beach, but not too bad of a walk. Watch out for Miami drivers though-they are nuts and don't watch for pedestrians. The food is very authentic and yummy-I especially loved the desserts-a traditional Haitian cake and a coconut mousse-YUM! It was also very cute having the owner's son (who is like 10) pour our waters and bring us our bread. Nice family place! Would love to go again next time I'm in Miami!
(4)
Lauren S.
Where have you been all my life! this place is so unique I honestly forgot I was in Miami, a must have is the Rum Punch..... dying to have one as I type, the menu gives the food no justice, it might sound blah but it taste and looks AMAZING i can't begin to explain how great the food is. One thing that is a must is the Mayi Moulen, it could absolutely just end you train of thinking, because it's mouth watering.
(5)
Vivian Y.
So while we were in Miami for UMF, during one of our many cab rides, I got into a conversation with our cabbie. Of course, after the exchange of where you froms and what do you dos, we found out he was from Haiti. Big shocker there. Anyway, so this super awesome cabbie did say the best Haitian food in town was Tap Tap. Sounded legit, so we tried it out. Service was good. Food was good. I ordered the conch chowder, and if you've ever had conch chowder in Key West and want the same thing.. don't order this one. It was totally different. Not saying it was bad, but it was very different. Haitian food is very thick and spicy.. not hot like Tapatio, but with lots of spice. It's not for me, but the other people seemed to love it. They had pretty large portions so ladies, I wouldn't get a whole entree. Any place with Guinness on tap.. well, that's a major thumbs up in my book. Oh, and if you're into mojitos, apparently theirs is one of the best. ADVISORY: Parking is awful. You think you can escape the humidity in the restaurant? Think again.
(3)
Alex g.
Went on a Saturday night around 11:00 PM. Indoors was pretty busy and loud. Outdoors was empty but the tables weren't cleared. We went in and asked to be seated. The waiter grabbed menus and was walking us to a table. When we asked if we could sit outside, he gave us the menus and told us to go ahead. The bartender was grumpy when she took our order for drinks, but when she returned she was surprisingly chipper. Maybe it was because we ordered Red Stripe beer? We waited a few minutes after we decided for a waiter to come out and take our order. When I said something out loud, a gentleman sitting on a chair in the corner asked if we were ready. I said, "Yes." He offered to take our order. When I asked if he's our waiter and he said, "No." Between him and the waiters and bartender we were really confused. We ordered the Saturday special which consists of meatballs with rice and red beans, accompanied by fried plantains. The food came out pretty quickly and it was very, very good. I never had Haitian food before and was pleasantly surprised. It reminds me of Domincan, Puerto Rican and Cuban food with a Creole twist. Don't expect white glove service. Be patient and have fun. You'll enjoy your meal and the time there.
(4)
Darin C.
I had never had Haitian food before going to Tap Tap. Sadly, I still haven't had Haitian food. I arrived about 30 minutes before closing on a Sunday. I sat at the bar and asked for a menu. I asked about a couple of the dishes only to find out the they were sold out of almost everything. Why would I give it 4 out of 5 stars you ask? A few reasons. First, I like the idea that they don't over order their food, so it has to be fresh. Second, the bartender, whose name I didn't catch was very friendly. Probably in a good mood since she was off soon and it was her birthday. She sent us over to another place right around the corner which was nice. And lastly, she gave me a free beer, which was opened for another guest but not served. Free beer...that is worth an extra star any day.
(4)
Roger D.
We liked it because of the ambiance, the originality and the eats. We really liked the spinach in coconut cream. If we lived in the area, we would be regulars for sure.
(4)
Mark R.
Found on Yelp, and it did not disappoint. Family friendly, low key, quick and effective service and very tasty food. I had the 1/2 chicken and my wife the shrimp with coconut. Both were delicious. The best was that our 18 month old son could not stop eating the Spinach - the cook did something right with it...
(4)
Anthony D.
First time eating haitian food and first time trying both Malanga & Conch! Excellent! The malanga fritter reminded me of a firm hush puppies but what made it even better is the sauce they giver you. A green semi spicy, bit citrus type sauce that taste good on everything. The conch reminded me a bit like shrimp/lobster but a tad tougher and chewy, still very good. Only mark downs was that my gf's grilled chicken was a bit undercooked, we had to throw it in the microwave a bit longer.
(4)
William B.
took a long weekend vacation with the family to Miami Beach, and found TapTap through Yelp; Yelper definitely came through on this one! Outstanding. I'm a huge fan of unique, ethnic foods, and this definitely fits that bill. Had the Taso Kabrit (goat tidbit) app. great flavor and crispy. Griyo (lightly fried berkshire pork). tender & fatty inside, crispy outside; spicy dippin sauce. Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye (shrimp in creole & coconut sauce). a little skimpy on the shrimp, but with the sauce over white rice was very flavorful. Features organic, all-natural, & free-range ingredients. Would definitely make the effort to go here if i ever get back to Miami Beach.
(5)
Lauren C.
i wanted to give this place 5 stars because going there felt mildly adventurous considering Miami's lack of adventurous culinary choices. Unfortunately, Tap-Tap didn't let me love them as much as I wanted to. Reasons why I wanted to love Tap-Tap: (1) the name! (2) The atmosphere was perfect. It was non-pretentious, colorful, and felt authentic (in that culturally objectifying not-really-authentic, but still kind of fun way) (3) It was my first time trying Haitian food and the menu looked amazing (4) I wanted to convince my girlfriend that my hometown offered quality food besides cuban. Reasons why I couldn't love Tap-Tap: (1) (the main reason) I ordered a whole yellowtail and got a red snapper. When I asked the waiter and the manager about it they tried to convince me that these fish are interchangeable. Having grown up eating seafood on the regular I am well aware that the market price for yellowtail is significantly higher than that for red snapper. The fish was still delicious, but I was unable to wash down that that strong taste of rip-off. (2) The appetizers were so-so. The malanga fritters were good but the dipping sauce didn't pop. The avocado salad was too basic, and they served it with honey mustard dressing (?!). I wanted to order the conch but when I asked the waiter what he thought he said it was good but kind of chewy and not too fresh (double-?!). (3) My drink was watered down. The mojito is a drink that should leave you feeling tipsy after 1 round, not remind you of childhood summer lemonade with too much melted ice. To top it off they tried charging me $1 extra for an upgraded rum when I didn't ask for it and certainly didn't receive it. Shadesters. (4) 18% Gratuity was included on the bill for a party of 2. Tacky-Tacky.
(3)
Briana J.
try anything with Conch. Rad food and wonderful atmosphere. It is not a Large place but they can accommodate to larger parties because they have big tables. The service wasn't as bad as everyone says it is great they only have one server because it is a small venue.
(5)
Sophia S.
I went here on a visit to Miami after two different locals recommended it to me. My group, which included a wheelchair and a 15 month old, was taken care of excellently. We ordered the spicy marinated chonch appetizer which was, for me, the standout of the evening. It was almost like a ceviche, with a citrusy and definitely spicy sauce. mmmmmm... For entrees, we ordered the creole shrimp (excellent), haitian meatballs (which were the special, crispy on the outside and extremely flavorful), poached grouper (it was a whole fish, so be ready to deal with bones, but was fresh and tasty), and the stewed beef (the meat was tender and flavorful, but the broth needed a little oomph. a dash of hot sauce was enough for me to be totally content). All in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)
Lori Taylor R.
I heard about this place on the Travel Channel and wanted to check it out. My girlfriends and I had never experienced Haitian Cuisine and decided this would be the vacation to do so. The restaurant looks really small from the outside, but don't let that fool you. There is a tiny porch on the front and a small bar area right inside. We must have caught the bar tender on an off night - as everyone else working in the restaurant was extremely friendly. The atmosphere is wonderfully vibrant! Large brightly colored murals cover every inch of the walls(even in the bathroom). Two of us ordered the grilled conch and the others ordered the coconut shrimp stew. Both dishes were very flavorful! The conch has a similar texture to that of calamari and was flavored with some intense chili - it really gives the dish a great flavor as some pieces are powerful and others a little more mild. The black rice was by far all of our favorites. We all raved over this uniquely flavored rice. Our waitress was very friendly and happy to offer suggestions. We also enjoyed the live music! It's a great place to venture to - and get away from all the South Beach Club style dining.
(5)
Sarah S.
Sometimes it is real hard to find good food in Miami. However, I really enjoyed this place. Great drinks and the food was so good. I will definitely go back when I'm in the mood for great Haitian cuisine.
(4)
Ainsworth G.
I had the same experience. Horrible, horrible, horrible wait time and I didn't even get what I ordered. They ran out of what I ordered.. 35 minutes later... Who does that!!!!!!! This place has failed off. It use to be good. Not anymore. Needs new management. Your better off going to a hole-in-the wall Hatian restaurant for your food. At least you get what you order I've been reading the other reviews and it seems like I am not the only one with this experience. Not good.
(1)
Joel D.
The BEST Restaurant I have EVER dined in! First time was the Fish... Then last week , The goat.. Not to mention the exquisite herring salad.... I would eat there everyday if i could.... ALL Three meals!
(5)
Farida A.
My first experience with Haitian food... I was a little apprehensive since I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed my creole pasta, and my friend enjoyed his fish dish. I tried some of his rice, and it was pretty good too. Did not love the limeade (way too sour) but that was the only thing I didn't enjoy. The art on the walls, chairs, tabletops, etc. will give you endless things to look at and talk about. I went on the Thursday night and there was an amazing live band playing. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting South Beach.
(4)
N N.
Very, very casual, borderline dive atmosphere. Great service, not pushy w good recommendations. Food is great ans inexpensive. Try the Natif.
(4)
Megan L.
Tap Tap would be #2 (after Puerto Sagua) on my list of Miami Beach food recommendations. I've never had Haitian food so the flavors were lighter and more refreshing than I expected-- a lot of citrus and some unexpected spiciness. We had the malanga fritters and marinated conch to start with, but the standouts were the shrimp in coconut sauce and the pan-seared yellowtail snapper. The waiter also mentioned the griyo (pork chunks) but we didn't get to try it, and the restaurant was out of goat that day. The decor inside was very bright and colorful with beautiful murals on the walls and tabletops. Very casual, good for a post-beach meal.
(4)
Waybs L.
I was visiting from Boston and Haitian food in Miami just sounded bomb.com . I got an order of rice and beans with griyo (fried pork) and was too hungry to mess around! They seemed a lil short staffed bc service was slow but everyone was on the move! Three of us attempted to share Cabrit but it was way too small.. so i dropped out of the race! After waiting for what seemed like a day.. my entree finally arrived and I was stunned to find a haitian restaurant who embodies portion control! If ur an east coaster..don't expect the heap of rice or plenty pieces of griyo. I got three hunks of meat (fat and all), a petite service of rice and ONE banann peze! lol... yes 1 Food wasn't bad but I can't rave about it.. With a few bites of my rice I questioned if the cook was actually from Haiti or not. I feel like I enjoyed the environment, cocktails, cremas and the pineapple cake a lot more! Cool art painted on all the walls!
(3)
Ray P.
Definitely a great dive to check out. Tried their beef and chicken dishes and were not disappointed. If you've never had Haitian food before, you can check out the other reviews on Yelp to give you some help or ask the serving staff there who were more than helpful with suggestions.
(4)
Tracy L.
I missed this place as soon as I left South Beach! Flavorful food, friendly staff, energizing decor, delicious coffee... Prices are on par with just about everything in Miami. Not cheap ;).
(4)
Stephanie L.
Nice for some parts but on the overall not so great. I went to Tap Tap for the first time last week and was not impressed. True, I loved the building, the colorful paintings on the walls, the warm atmosphere and live music but... the service was lame. We waited 45mn for our food and when it came it was disappointing. My grilled conch was very good but the rice was dry and tasteless. My friends had different dishes and they were very disappointed and barely ate anything. Not really a good introduction to Haitian cuisine. Now I can't tell if this was just a one time mistake for them but I don't think I will come back any time soon.
(3)
Brent H.
Working in Miami has given my coworkers and I the opportunity to try some food not available at home. I was excited to hear about Haitian food, as I've never had it. Tap Tap was a second night in a row of excellent food. Cool little building, small but nice front dining patio, full bar, quaint dinning room. The whole place is colorful and cool murals. even the tables have great paintings on them. The service was great. Our waitress was super nice, accommodating, and just plain made us feel at home. We asked for recommendations and she didn't disappoint. Our group split the fried goat tid bits and the conch ceviche for appetizers. Totally good. The goat was so crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Was sort of like lamb. It was seasoned well, and came with a great sauce to dip it in. The Conch was spicy and fresh. A light counter point to the fried goat. For our dinner we shared three entrees. We ordered stewed goat, fried fish and fried pork. The sides included rice and beans, white rice with a bean sauce, and fried plantains. The pork was again the hero of the show. I'm not wasting my time describing it, just order it. The goat was super tender. the stew sauce was great and we all tried to spoon as much extra onto our plates till it was gone. I could have drank a cup of it. I will say if you are freaked out by meat that has some fat to it, the goat may not be your thing. If you just ignore the fatty bits and dive in, you get an awesome mix of chew and soft buttery flavor. Don't be afraid, just eat it. The fish was a whole fried fish. The skin was light and crispy, and the flesh was soft and flaky. There was nothing left. nothing. maybe some rice. we opted to stuff ourselves a little more and shared the banana fritters. Not super awesome, but semi sweet crispy/soft, sort of like fried banana bread batter. I wish there was a place like this where I live. Dear Haitians, please come to California. Love BL
(5)
Deborah D.
i really wish i could give this place more stars because i wanted to like it so much but it just didn't live up to my expectations. it was good, but it didn't blow my mind or anything like some of the other reviews were suggesting. i ordered take out of the stew chicken and a side of the spinach in coconut cream. my main was average but the spinach side was a standout. can't comment on their wait service because i ordered it to go but the gentleman who took my order was friendly and my food was ready in less than 15 minutes. i would still try this place again but order something different.
(3)
Kate L.
I went to Tap Tap on a Tuesday evening around 6. The restaurant was fairly empty when I arrived, and I was able to get a table on the front porch and enjoy the ocean breeze. There was a happy hour from 5-7 pm and the mojitos (a must) were half off, $3.50 for a wonderful drink. My waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and gave wonderful suggestions. For an appetizer, I had the malanga fritters with the watercress dipping sauce. Absolutely FABULOUS. I had to force myself to stop eating them and save room for dinner. For my entree, I ordered the poached whole red snapper in lime sauce. Also, absolutely incredible. The prices are also extremely reasonable. The appetizer was $7 and my entree was $19 (and it was the most expensive one on the menu). I always make a point to have dinner one night at Tap Tap when I am traveling to Miami! I just got back home and already can't wait for my next trip.
(5)
kath r.
Of all the restaurants I ate at during my Miami visit, this one was the only one I'd return to. Offering a chill vibe, great conversation and warm smiles, this is one of the few places that made me feel welcome. The front/bar area belies the space...it's HUGE! There seemed to be rooms sprouting off of each arm of the hallway and it wasn't until I walked back to the washroom did I discover just how full the place was. Whilst it was relatively empty when I initially sat at the bar, the restaurant fills quickly and people waiting in the front were chatty and engaging over drinks. I'm not up on my Haitain cuisine, so I can't speak to the authenticity of the dishes. However, my tastes buds were extremely happy to be chowing on the stewed goat. I was expecting it to be like the goat curry's I've eaten (bits of bone w uber tender/uber chewy meat, kind of diced up), turns out this dish features a half dozen goat cutlets in a flavourful stew. It wasn't spicy but it sure was tasty and did the trick - the trick being the base to soaking up the Mango Ales and Mojitos I consumed. The accompanying rice and beans was a decent portion and as per usual, I fell for the plantains, which weren't too greasy. So, whilst the food was good and I'd def go back for it, what I really LOVED about Tap Tap was the vibe and the people (both behind the bar and at it). I met some really great people at the bar: big shout outs to Maya the Professor, Gustavo the hot Colombian, Gary the Owner, Lucy the bartender and Steve - for justice!!!! If you're in the hood and looking for a bite to eat, a bevvy and new friends, I'd def recommend Tap Tap.
(4)
James R.
Loaded with atmos, nice people, and good tunes, Tap Tap is let down ever so slightly by the food. The oxtail was a pale imitation of what you can get from a Jamaican place: the flavor was derived mostly from a salty broth and lacked allspice or thyme or any other spice/herb. Plantain fritters were a little heavy. Nice bread though, and the cocktails were tasty.
(3)
Aman S.
I have had haitian food before and have been to Haiti. This is average at best. Not impressed. Service was fast and good.
(2)
Kendra C.
This was a nice little surprise. Wanting to experience some of the cultural cuisine, we stopped here. We ordered some akra for an appetizer. Akra is some sort of fritter that reminds me of a long hush puppy. There were strong flavors that I would have to get used to. Nice to experience but I wouldn't have it again. I had the fried pork with beans and rice: excellent. My husband had the beef with cornmeal that looked and tasted like grits. The beef was full of flavor and very tender. A friend had the creole shrimp that apparently tasted really good. We had a glass of passion fruit that was quite refreshing. The decor was very colorful and scenic. I actually liked it. True to other reviews, it took a while to get our food. It was well worth the wait though. If you're in South Beach, give Tap Tap a try.
OK, are your ready? cause it's gonna be funny... ! We went to this restaurant TONIGHT, so my review is not something I remember from a restaurant I tried a long time ago!!!!! First of all, when we arrived in the restaurant with my parents, we were not especially welcomed, the server gave us our table and threw miserably the menu (only 2 and we were 4) above. Then, we sat on our table, so as I said, we only had 2 menus for 4, we choose our drinks, and we order our entrees. We waited for 15 minutes to have our drinks, then we waited another 20 minutes to have our entrees. we ordered 2 rice and beef, and 2 shrimp coconut. We had 2 shrimp coconut and 2 beef with cornmeal. When I told the server that we ordered Rice he was almost upset... come on guy, you made a mistake, not me!!! I'm gonna pass the fact that our entrees were not super good, because it's almost not important !! as we were waiting for our entrees, we ate all the bread that the server gave us. So when we received our meals, we ask for more bread... so we meant to eat this bread with our meals... but guess what... we had the time to finish everything before the bread has arrived!!! Ok, we were already disappointed about the service and actually about everything... but the worst is coming... We ordered some dessert. I have to tell you that you should avoid the coconut Ice cream which is the worst I ever tried... I think this Ice cream was only water with white food coloring in it !!! Our dessert were not wonderful but... it was ok... ( exept the coconut ice cream of course). Oh I forgot that it was really noisy, we were not even able to talk to each others. (even the server had some problems to take our orders) Are you still there ? cause the best is right now !! After our dessert we ask for the check... Ok, we are 4, the check is what it is... but... they charge automatically 18% gratuity... WTF?????? We had the worst service ever and they charge 18% !!! Are you kidding???? Ok so I told the server that we wanted to choose the tips. Point 1 : this it totally/ absolutely LEGAL! Point 2: This is totally/ absolutely NORMAL. Point 3 : THIS IS OUR MONEY, I ASSUME WE CAN DO WHAT WE WANT WITH OUR MONEY ESPECIALLY IF WE HAD.... THE WORST SERVICE EVER!!!!!! I swear you would have wanted to see the face of the server when I told him that I wanted to choose his tip!!! So he took my mom's card. You have to know that we are European... but we live here. So when he came back with the receipt, where my mom had to sign, he told us... " euh... ok... well, in america, you have to know that you must put 15% tips at least" So... as I was already really upset I looked at him and I told him... " Ok We know, we live here thank you !!!" So we put 15% Tips, and we're not even forced to... but whatever. And to finish the night... the guy didn't even say goodbye, I think he thought that it wasn't necessary... Please don't tell me that kind of service worth 4 stars... I won't believe you !! That is really too bad because, the atmosphere is nice, all those colors, the table are really beautiful, it's seems to be so authentic, painted murals, wood painted chairs... But that's not enough...
(1)
Guesly P.
Authentic Haitian food. Restaurant could use remodeling because its in south beach. Price wasn't too bad
(4)
Colleen L.
Tap Tap hooray! What a great little find right off 5th street. It's kind of a divey location but it wouldn't feel right any other way. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce, but it was kind of disappointing. We think they used the wrong sauce (there's a red option, too) because there was not one bit of coconut flavor in the meal, but when we asked the waitress she said 'Oh there's just a little bit.' Hmm. It was still good, but not quite what we expected. The service was friendly, the atmosphere bright (we sat outside) and the mojitos were great. The waitress was very easy to chat with about the food and didn't make us feel too gringasa. Would love to try the goat.
(4)
Lance P.
Food is great and well seasoned. The pork chunks were really good. Fresh warm bread comes before the meal and is good as well. The menu is very small and the food isn't cheap. SA PA SEY
(4)
Janelle F.
The meaning of the name of this place was the topic of conversation for a good 10 minutes. In case anyone else is wondering-- I looked it up and the definition is: tap-tap n. a truck or van used as an independently operated taxi. However, I'm going to stick to my original suggested definition of tap-tap: n. thing I like to do in my spare time; a clapping noise. This place has been a South Beach tourist hotspot for quite some time but I never had any interest in trying it until a friend scheduled a group dinner there last Friday. What a pleasant surprise it turned out to be! The menu can be a bit intimidating at first because everything is in Creole (with tiny English descriptions). I also had a preconceived notion that the food was going to be spicy--but it was far from that. For starters, we kicked it off with the Taso Kabrit which are fried goat tidbits with a watercress dipping sauce. This dish has a stark resemblance to latin "chicharrones," except it is all meat and no fat...SIMPLY DELICIOUS - I will definitely not share this next time! For the main course, my best friend and I shared the Krihish Kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and the Griyo (pork chunks). They were each served with a side of Dirir Kole which is basically mixed rice and beans. The griyo was my favorite. It was ridiculously tender and very flavorful. It went very well with the rice, which was also tasty. The shrimp dish was also good, but not my favorite. Other notable dishes at the table were the Pwason Gwosel (whole fish), the Legin (Stewed veggies) and Akra (malanga fritters) appetizer. As for libations- I was smiling as soon as I learned they had a full bar. The drinks were very reasonably priced ($8 for top shelf vodka). They're apparently notorious for their mojitos but I wasn't in the mood so I didn't try them. Some people in our group did and slurped them down quick, so they're on my list of things to try the next time I go. To top off the delicious food, we had great and surprisingly quick service (for a party of 10). I am looking forward to going back and bringing more friends!
(5)
Senorita V.
I have never had Haitian food before, visiting from CA and yelp (and you all) did the job again. you must try the pumpkin soup (a little too cold for my taste -- hence the 4 stars) but still delicious. AND THE CONCH SALAD WAS A LITTLE SPICY BUT PERFECT!
(4)
T. B.
Very colorful, Haitian style over-decorated (not in a bad way) restaurant with a good atmosphere, very good authentic Haitian food and good unpretentious and honest service at a great price. One of the best restaurants overall in Miami.
(4)
Nicole G.
What the heck is up with East Coast service with a side of attitude!?! I LOVE the west coast, I LOVE the west coast! Maybe I should just stay here! As you can tell we had some pretty horrible service at Tap Tap! Maybe they're sick of seeing annoying tourists... I don't know!!! The girl serving us came to us 3 times total! once to get our drink order, once to take our order, and once to deliver her automatic 18% gratuity check! We tried to reduce it to under 15% and they still charged me the full 18% gratuity! She so did not deserve it! The one person that probably did deserve it was the chef because the food was really good! I had the as-seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Whole poached yellowtail fish. Ordered it grilled! I devoured the thing! Only the head and bones were left! No doggy bag for me! The breaded Akra was yummy especially with the water crest dipping sauce! Yummy flavors! The decor is lovely also. Refurbished tables and chairs painted bright colors. Beautiful Haitian murals. Definitely eye candy! Food = Great, Service = you suck!
(2)
Jul B.
an authentic Haitian delight! As you enter, you are greeted with a tap tap out front. The color, the detail.. I was speechless. The bar scene feels very islandy - the entire space is colorful, festive. I admire the owner's ability to make it a visual masterpiece. The food was good. I had the red snapper and rice & beans. I also had a haitian rum mojito. I definitely recommend Tap Tap if you are in the South Beach area :)
(4)
Susan R.
We only got appetizer but they were all good. They included conch ceviche, stewed okra and goat tidbits. The stewed okra was the best. And definitely get the begneys for dessert. Colorful, Hatian decor.
(4)
Lara W.
Between the Food Network and Yelp community, we decided to drive an hour out of our way for Tap Tap for a very late lunch/early dinner on a Friday around 4. The place was pretty empty but service was friendly and accommodating to our wanting to change seats. I'm Haitian-bred, American born, so I've had more than my fair share of griyo. My husband tho, can't get enough, so we ordered some. Best decision. This is the best griyo I've ever had. Ideal - crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. I've also only ever had mediocre akra (fritters) so Tap Tap's were a welcome surprise. Definitely coming back on our next visit to South Florida!
(5)
Cassandra M.
must. try. the. kremas. MUST! apparently, their kremas , which is similar to (if not) a rum cream or coquito (with minimal coconut and nutmeg) is delivered by some lady that makes batches of that creamy goodness at home. they are known to run out of it, so if youre lucky, order a glass or five.
(4)
Hsin P.
Service was likely the biggest downfall tonight: we were seated in a section with a large party that kept our waiter's hands full and attention somewhat diverted. (I will give him the benefit of the doubt, especially because I may have been a bit disappointed that we weren't served by the cuter waiter who seated us.) While I wanted to try the Haitian Prestige beer, I opted for a Bass on draft, which was great with the meal. We were served piping hot and crusty French bread rolls with butter. What a great surprise, after a couple of dinners with tasteless, microwave-reheated "pan cubano" rolls at various Cuban joints around town. Having had a lot of deep fried appys over the past few days, we opted to split the salad zaboka ak tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions and house dressing). The tomatoes were ripe and flavorful, and the salad had a huge wedge of avocado in the center. The house dressing could have done with a bit more acid and salt, and the salad itself might have incorporated something crunchy (e.g., radish, fennel) that would still have been appropriate for Haitian/Caribbean cuisine. For our mains, we had kribish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and poul nan sos (stewed natural free range chicken) with zepina nan sos kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) as a side. It was a mistake on our part ordering two dishes with the same coconut sauce, but it was tasty and reminiscent of a very mild Thai curry. The coconut sauces were a tad on the salty side, though. The chicken was nicely stewed, flavorful yet not cooked so long as to lose all texture falling off the bone. Both entrees were served with rice mixed with beans, which was terrific for eating with the gravies from the shrimp and chicken dishes. Bello Special Pepper Sauce from the D.R. was the house hot sauce at the table. The ingredients sounded tasty (scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, papaya, onions, vinegar, salt, and spices), and did indeed work with the food we ordered. Not being familiar with Haitian cuisine, I had assumed it would be spicier than it turned out to be--the Bello, along with the pickled (and spiced) cabbage and carrots also served at the table, allowed me to kick the flavors of our food up a notch. The dessert list looked appealing, but after waiting nearly 40 minutes for our entrees, we were ready to call it a night. Given my qualified review of the wait service, we were a bit taken aback to see gratuity already included on our bill--maybe there was a disclaimer on the menu, or the POS was still set to include it because of the large party before us?
(3)
sean k.
I went to Tap Tap because Guy Fieri told me to, and he was right! The whole-snapper dish was amazing, I've never tasted a sauce with SO much flavor. And, the fish is deceiving because it appears small, but has so much flavorful meat. The fried pork dish was great, as well. Went great with the onions the dish was served with.
(4)
Elisa L.
Love the food and the atmosphere. The murals are beautiful and full of life. The owner is warm and friendly. He was very welcoming and sweet. Love the food and the mojitos. The haitian cake and the cinnamon was amazing.
(4)
Ashley S.
Great authentic haitian food, festive atmosphere... and great Mojito's. What more do you need? Don't let the outside of this place scare you away, its great and a local favorite.
(5)
S C.
I saw this place on a re-run of Dines, Drive Ins and Dives. Enjoyed watching the method that they cooked and decided to give it a go. My family went on a random Monday evening and it was quite busy which to me spoke mounds. 1) Loved the decor! 2) Drinks could use a little more flavor. There were some selections, but the mojito was nothing like it sounded in the menu 3) Akra was delicious; Spaghetti, and Snapper were great! I loved the sauce with the Snapper, had just enough flavor of heat from pepper and tasted very fresh! 4) Rice: I have dined at many Haitian restaurants...the rice was something to be desired. Very regular, not much flavor. I know rice is tricky, but I really was hoping for better rice. All in all I would return again!
(4)
Kelsey G.
Tap Tap, you made my mini vacation that much better. No, I can't pronounce most of what I ate but it didn't matter because I was too busy constantly eating my way through each dish we shared to try to speak. The legim was some of the best I've had and I'm pretty sure we ordered about 4 appetizers without hesitation. Can't forget the alcoholic beverages: fresh juices and rum can't be beat.
(4)
Scott V.
If you haven't tried Haitian food (and I hadn't), then you're truly missing out. This is seriously good food. And the decor is incredible. You have to see the huge murals on the walls, with as much color as the food had flavor. I came here with a large group of people, and I was blown away. First, they had two iced teas - ginger and cinnamon. How awesome is that? I had this beef stew thing, which reminded me of a sauerbraten, only with a bit of spice. Really tender beef cubes in a velvety intensely flavored sauce. Lip smackin' good. To end it all, the mango sorbet came in little metal cappuccino cups. It was also intensely flavored, and a great small dessert to a very filling mirror.
(5)
todd b.
For those who don't know, it's sorta haitian food. I don't care though, I love it. I stick mainly to the fish out of dietary considerations, but also because I don't like stewed stuff. The goat is a shank and is less of a stew than stewed. Again I'm not a big creolle stewed sauce fan so don't take my word on that stuff. Their fried fish, blackened fish, and grilled fish are stellar though. Get the spicy scotch bonnet lime sauce. If you can take some heat, it is beyond worth it. It keeps me coming back. Go with friends and get the plat fritay, a combo of their fried items + watercress sweet sauce & sour scotch bonnet sauce. My favorite dish is grilled conch, but you have to love conch. It's pricey, but it's the beach and its Miami. Not Chez Bebe prices but it's way healthier. Their happy hour is a real deal. 1/2 off their barbancourt drinks! Not the 5 star rum though. They now have their own parking lot hidden in the alley. First come, first serve.
(4)
Farheen Q.
WONDERFUL restaurant, best food in miami. Authentic decor and food, you'll feel a part of the haitian culture here. We had the special that night, spiny lobster, and a spicy shrimp sauce both with rice and beans. Everything was absolutely delicious. I wouldn't miss this place if I were you! If I ever go back to Miami, this place will be at the top of my list.
(5)
Leon C.
When that first bite of sweet, beautiful plaintian hit my palette, I almost wept with happiness. I had returned home, to this Haitain paradise of yumminess. Being a Caribbean lad I truly get excited about eating anything remotely linked to my countrymen's food. The restaurant is decked out as if it were a regular haunt on the Islands. The menu is super authentic with fish dishes, goat curry and fabulous Griyo pork. I could go on about the food, the yukka, the cocktails... wow, Wow, WOW! This though would make this an exceptionally long review and that just ain't my style. Simply rest assured, not only will you be entertained by the live music, wowed by the incredible authentic Haitian food, and made to feel welcome by the staff, this place will not incinerate your wallet with inflated prices. Tap Tap, although my breathe resembled that of a rabid cat after my meal, I would come back to you again, again and again.
(4)
Bernardo A.
I was debating whether or not I should review this place. After all, I've been there only once and I am a sucker for novelty. That said, I'll admit that this review might be influenced by the fact that I had a great time. The service was great. Not a place for wall flowers or for pushy princesses with overgrown senses of entitlement. The place is a bit chaotic and that's part of the charm. NOT a place to go if you are in a hurry, or want quiet, or are a picky eater. As far as authenticity: Who knows? I've never had Haitian food before. However, I've had Caribbean food thousands of times, and this place has some of the tastiest seasoning I've ever tried. The mayi moulen, the zepina nan sos kokoye, and the malanga croquettes were great. The vinegar, cabbage and scotchbonnet hot sauce is amazing! I bet it's great on scrambled eggs. I tried the kabrit as an appetizer and it was a bit dry. So was the roasted chicken my partner ordered. On the other hand, the grilled fish in scotchbonnet and lime sauce I ordered was sublime. The fish was cooked perfectly. Flaky and moist. After dinner, the owner (I think she's the owner) came out to sit with us for a few minutes. She is quiet, speaks in short sentences, and is just a very sweet woman. I rocked on my rocking chair and she nursed her glass of white wine. I really enjoyed just sitting next to her...it was a vibe thing. She told me more than once that she loved the diversity of her customers. And she was right. What a great mix of people. There was a bit of a show going on that night. A celebration of death and sex (renewal, rebirth), so there were performers at hand. No X-rated performances. Again, I'm not sure how "authentic" the whole thing was; but I don't care. The clientele, the owner and the atmosphere were authentic enough for me. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside on the porch for our meal. The dining rooms looked a bit small and when the place got packed to standing-room only, I'm sure I would have had an attack of claustrophobia.
(4)
Adam P.
Unique, enjoyable, pleasant. Disappointing they haven't had goat though each time I go. One of the better pieces of grouper. A completely different feel to the standard South Beach establisments. Head here if you're ready for a change of scene in every sense.
(4)
Brian F.
Great food and very friendly staff
(4)
Dalton D.
Tap Tap is a vibrant and fun restaurant that happens to serve exceedingly delicious food. My plate, which I can't remember the name of, was a beef stew with a side of creamy grits. I was stupefied as to how amazing the food tasted, it was a minor miracle I didn't order a second plate to take home. So while I will champion the flavor, I must caveat this review by saying the service was slow. Nothing wrong with slower than expected service, just a heads up to anyone interested in a quick meal. There's also a full service bar at the front of the restaurant full of locals socializing with the friendly staff. All in all, a much appreciated experience at Tap Tap.
(5)
Saterah M.
I love Tap Tap! I stopped in Miami after leaving the Bahamas and was having withdrawals from the native food already. Tap Tap to the rescue. We grabbed a table outside, ordered the stewed chicken with beans and rice mixed, extra plantain (tostones style), and a mango beer! DELICIOUS! The flavors were balanced, the gravy when applied to the rice was hum-out-loud good, and the beer made me want to lay in a hammock afterward! It was a great Haitian food experience :)
I love this place!!!!! I can't express this enough. I usually go there and sit on the bar. I take advantage of their 3 star mojitos during happy hour for 6$. A steal compared to how ridiculously expensive other places are. Definitely the best mojito in Miami. The service is constantly great too!
(5)
Rathore V.
We got the grilled chicken, spinach in coconut sauce, and the rum cake. I don't remember what we got for an appetizer. Everything was excellent and different from other Caribbean food. The rum cake was the best we had since we had the cakes in Jamaica. Try it for the food, ambiance and the friendly, attentive service.
(4)
Heather L.
Would recommend: - conch dishes - tapas that come with the cilantro dressing (it was really good) - curry Would not recommend the spaghetti - they said it would be spicy but it wasn't really spicy at all - maybe for people who don't eat spicy it would be? *shrugs* Great service and awesome drinks - I enjoyed the mojito.
(4)
Asha F.
Love Tap Tap. Have traveled to Miami twice in the last three months and Tap Tap has always been one of the first places on my list to visit. The ambiance is great. Very homey and chill... The artwork inside is beautiful and really speaks to the culture. The staff on the other hand are very similar to your family...very slow to meet your needs. But once they are met, you will be very satisfied. Even the water initially brought over to the table is water with a twist...grapefruit water with mint.. Simply amazing. My favorite meal has to be the griot- fried pork. The meat is very tender and served with an amazing spicy sauce. Another great meal is the pwo djen djen-stewed chicken and mushrooms (sp?) and the stew chicken is amazing too. Tap tap is a hit!
(4)
Janet G.
We waited a really, really long time for a table. As the front barroom filled up with people, I got hungrier and hungrier (and increasingly nervous that the lack of sign-in sheet would mean we'd get seated last even though we'd arrived first). Turns out there was a sign-in sheet no one pointed out to us. Alas. Once led to our table, the experience changed completely. Turns out they were just super backed-up, and once we had a table we got a kind, attentive waitress who was really patient and helpful with us as we ordered our first Haitian meal. I had the vegetable ("legim"?) dish with beef, the traditional way it's served. I'd expected the veggies to be steamed separately, but they were combined into a sort of thick, stew-like mush that sounds kind of gross now that I write it. But it was so, so delicious! My boyfriend ordered the griyo, another traditional dish, and adored it. We told the waitress it was my birthday, and she presented us with a fat, complimentary slice of Haitian cake. (Like traditional American birthday cake, but more dense due to the corn meal and less sickly sweet.) I feel like the first 30 minutes of waiting for the table had absolutely nothing to do with the 1.5 hours we had of this amazing food and service. I wish I could go back this moment!
(5)
Dan R.
Got the herring with habanero-lime sauce and shrimp with coconut sauce...absolutely amazing food experience. Both dishes were out of this world, and I wish we had room for dessert. Will definitely come back if we are ever traveling through Miami again.
(5)
Dana S.
I found Tap Tap on Yelp and decided to give it a try while I was in Miami Beach over New Years. Boy, am I glad that I did! The food, service and ambience at Tap Tap are fantastic. Our waiter was so polite and cheerful, he also made some great suggestions. After reading about the shrimp, I knew my friend and I had to try it. All of the other reviewers are correct, It was absolutely divine! We also tried the akra, a creamy tomato/spinach dish our waiter recommended and I had a glass of chardonnay. You are also served complimentary bread. Everything was great and my bill came to $22 with tax and tip. Not bad for the outstanding food and a glass of wine. Only downside? Parking is difficult (but that's true pretty much everywhere in South Beach). Bottom line: Great West Indian food in South Beach at a reasonable price.
(5)
Daniel M.
I was on vacation in Miami and my friend from there had suggested we try this place out - and I'm glad she did! I went at about 9PM by myself, since the friend I was with didn't want to walk that far away from our hotel (haha). The guy who greeted me was extremely nice, and probably since I was by myself he gave me a tour of the restaurant and let me choose wherever I wanted to sit (I chose outside, since it was a nice night). As a vegetarian, I was afraid there wouldn't be much for me to order - but there was. I ordered the spinach in coconut sauce (a MUST order, as I know other Yelpers have suggested), the plate of fried deliciousness (I think it was fried yucca, plantains and something else) and rice and beans (didn't ask if this was vegetarian, so maybe it isn't...) Everything was delicious, and I cleaned all 3 plates like the heifer that I am (hey, I was on vacation mode!). I even ate the basket of yummy warm bread they brought as an appetizer. The ambiance of the place was really cool, too, with colorful murals on the wall. I'd definitely recommend this place, and if I'm ever back in Miami I'd go again.
(5)
Andre G.
Very Tasty spot, go with a big appetite. The place is decorated in vibrant way depicting farms, trees of bounty and of course livestock. I ate the goat, my brother ate the cow and and my sister ate the fish. All were amazing but all we very different Okra came in a beautiful broth, the cornmeal dish was amazing and flavorful and the rice was amazing. The drinks were a little pricy but tasty.
(4)
Arif M.
Live music, good cocktails, an intimate setting, and most importantly, great food. Started off with a fresh mint mojito made with Haitian rum and cane sugar. Definitely refreshing after a long day at the beach. They were out of the charcoal grilled goat so I settled for the beef, okra and cornmeal plate. What I had was incredibly simple but I loved it. It had just the right amount of spicyness and the cornmeal worked perfectly with the beef. I tried my friend's stewed conch. It was my first time trying conch cooked like that and I was pleasantly surprised. We finished the night with a round of the 15year Haitian rum, served neat of course. Service was slightly slow but I was in no rush to leave after a meal like that.
(4)
Ericstevenc T.
Great Haitan food check out the Malanga fritters & creole shrimp and of course goat meat and mojitos
(5)
Vanessa H.
The colorful paintings adorning every wall make you feel as if you're in a mural. Started off with Haitian rum cocktails. Had the anchovy spaghetti, savory goodness, and the grilled snapper. Our friends ordered the stewed goat, tender and delicious. For the sides try to the greens in coconut milk and the beans and cornmeal (reminiscent ofpolenta).
(4)
Justin E.
Great experience on South Beach. My wife and I were looking for authentic Caribbean food and trying to avoid the touristy atmosphere present throughout a lot of Miami Beach, and we weren't disappointed. Cool atmosphere. Extremely helpful waiter, went above and beyond, and we were glad we went with all his recommendations. Also, it was relatively well-priced for the area. The one disappointment was they were out of goat, so we didn't get to try any of these dishes. The drinks were great - Mojito was one of the best I've had, and my wife enjoyed the rum punch. The melanga fritters are a must try. For entrees we had shrimp in coconut sauce and fried pork chunks, which I thought were especially good. Tried the banana cake at the recommendation of the waiter and it was awesome. We had a great time and thought the food had more flavor than some of the other Cuban places we tried on South Beach. Great drinks and not ridiculously priced.
(4)
Brien W.
We were there on a sunday and they were out of a lot of things, like half the menu. The place has some really interesting and erotic art on the walls and tables, pretty funny. Food is ok, not a lot of flavor in anything but was fresh and appealing. The place is a little dirty and run down, could use a good cleaning.
(3)
Jimmy V.
The food was great, the decor is awesome but the customer service was unprofessional and they were understaffed. The worse Mojito I have ever had they had to make it twice and even then it sucked. The only thing they had going for them was the food which was awesome.
(1)
Fabian A.
They serve some great mojitos. Food is awesome!
(4)
Jessica P.
The food here is fantastic! I've literally had every dish on the menu (including the goat) and absolutely loved it! Be sure to try the Cornmeal beans side dish. Not only is the food great but the atmosphere is always fun and lively. Perfect place to come with friends and family!
(5)
Ryan R.
We came here from all the hype, but this place is overrated. The food wasn't amazing, but alright and overpriced. The place itself has a nice vibe.
(3)
Marty P.
Five of us went last night. We made reservations and we got a private room for dining. The decor is fantastic and the food is exceptional. Best fish I've ever had. Snapper with a scotch bonnet lime sauce. We had two picky eaters with us and both were won over. Great service. Great cocktails. I had come here about 8 yrs ago with my wife. I remembered it fondly and I'm glad I returned. Also, is a HUGE improvement on the quality of the food relative to anyplace on Ocean Dr. Good value.
(5)
Augusto N.
we followed the bad advise of one of those tourism channels on tv knowing that probably there might be some money exchange involved in their neutral opinion. the yelp reviews weren't that bad, we just came for mohitos and there were two two schools on the subject, either water down or very strong so what the heck. unfortunately we landed the first one so after paying for state tax, resort tax and an already included gratitude it felt like paying for a very very expensive lemonade. we thought of telling the bar tenderness that not much of their famous rum was savored with the drink but while she seemed to be a very nice gal she didn't show much interest in our overall experience then we opted to skip the whole discussion.
(2)
Wen B.
this restaurant was really cute inside, the service was not too good but if you like seafood this is the place to go. My friend had the red snapper and said it was amazing, i had the chicken and it was extremely dry so if you go to this place definitely get the seafood. the mojito was really good as well.
(4)
Peter S.
Great atmoshpere, great Hatian food, Live music, different, fun, not expensive for SoBe
(4)
Brinda M.
Awesome mojitos! Ricardo, our bartender made perfect drink suggestions and made the amazing mojitos I have had in a long time.
(5)
Amy G.
Friendly & casual place. Great ginger tea and goat dishes. Parking is mostly on the street with quarter meters :(
(4)
Katy B.
Mojitos: 5 stars Service: 1 star Food: 1-3 stars depending on dish Murals: 4 stars Tap Tap has the potential to be a really great place, but the waiter we had switched from sweet to super abrasive like flipping a switch multiple times. Abrasive as in I have never experienced such blatantly rude service in my life. The food also seems like a good start, but could stand to be prepared with a little more care. Tough meat, and lack of flavor seemed to be common themes among a few of the plates our table ordered. The worst case of tough meat was the pork chunks which my boyfriend ordered - he said they were so chewy he was afraid he was going to hurt his teeth. The vegetarian stew I had was mushy and not memorable. It wasn't that it was bad, it was just really not special. Given the amount of attitude our group was given, I'll mash up my own vegetables thankyouverymuch. But damn... that mojito was the best I've ever had. I'm going to be seeking out some Barbencourt rhum back in Chicago for sure.
(2)
Aaron V.
We dined recently at Tap Tap...our first foray into Haitian cuisine. I've waited a few days to digest the hot mess this place is....it's difficult to be objective on the food while you bask in the vibe.... We made reservations earlier in the day for 9 pm. When we arrived (8:45), there didn't seem to be a hostess, only servers running frantically about. We flagged one down who told us we'd have to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes. No problem, we could just have a drink. we ordered a couple of mojitos, quite possibly the best any of us have ever had. There had been an older woman sitting at the bar sipping wine, almost in some sort of trance. She sort of snapped together and asked us if we had been helped, to which we replied that we had. She smiled. Come to find out later, she is apparently one of the owners. While waiting, I was chatting with one of my friends how nice the breeze was...and we both noticed a vacant table on the front porch. We asked one of the passing servers if we could dine there..."sure, why not" was the response. We were seated after the table was cleaned. It took a bit of time, bit our waitress finally came and took our drink order, a little more time for our drinks to arrive, and more time for her to come back to take our orders. We all ordered some sort of appetizer - malanga fritters, pumpkin soup...all very good. Again, it took some time for them to arrive to our table. More waiting, then our main courses showed up. Two in our party ordered the fish - yellowtail snapper? One was fried, the other in some sort of sauce. The reason I added the question mark is no one at our table had heard of that fish, and they did have a minor complaint that the meat was a little more difficult to remove from the bone. The one with the sauce raved about it. My other friend had the grilled chicken with cornmeal and beans. I had the stewed chicken with the cornmeal and beans also. My friend said his grilled chicken was good, but a few pieces were a little overcooked. Even though mine was "stewed", I'm convinced mine was grilled also, then dunked in a bland creole sauce. Some of my chicken was overcooked and tough (dark meat, go figure). We both agreed that the cornmeal and beans were excellent. I had also ordered the okra, which came in more creole sauce. I love okra, but the creole sauce added nothing...more bland. After finishing our mains, and more waiting, we were asked if we wanted dessert. We went for it. Sweet potato pie, banana fritters, and coconut sorbet. The sorbet was excellent, but banana fritters were, well, eh. Then there was that pie. We all tasted it, and it was completely nasty. It tasted nothing like any sort of sweet potato pie we'd ever had, and the texture was strange. It went uneaten. Later on, we finally got our check. I point out the slowness of service throughout the evening because I would normally be really pissed off. However, we found out that it was one of the last nights of Fet Gede, a Haitian festival of the dead. There were a number of people showing up for the live band and other assorted activities...chants, parades, blessings, etc. It was loads of fun and the vibe was just right....so no worries. However, I need to visit on a more "normal" evening to re-review. Will I be pissed at slow service for mediocre food, or will I chill to the mood?
(3)
Jerri Z.
Do not recommend. Disappointed. Looked forward to trying Tap Tap, but the so so reviews hit the nail on the head. Slow, disinterested staff and kitchen. Found the snapper to be fresh, but very bland pepper sauce. Beans and rice not very good. plantains rock hard. Would never go back and would tell others to try someplace else. Closest parking in the public garage 3 blocks away.
(2)
Aileen F.
One of the first spots I ate at while in South Beach and the food was amazing. After a day of exploring South Beach, my boyfriend and I decided to eat here since we never had Haitian food. In addition, this was one of the places I had on my "things to eat" from doing my research on yelp and through my handy dandy Fodor's book. We ate around lunch time and the restaurant was super quite with a hostess in the front who sat us in the front. Not only were the menus interesting to look at with the different types of food, but the restaurant it self had a lot of art work. The place was very colorful and full of Haitian art. I enjoyed the front artwork with my glass of rum punch which was delicious. The name slips my mind, but it was blended with fresh fruits and had a wonderful sweet taste, I couldn't taste the alcohol and maybe that's why I liked it so much. For lunch, we enjoyed the Kribish Kokoye (shrimp in the coconut sauce) and pan-seared Pwason Gwosel (yellow tail with lime sauce). We enjoyed these entrees with mixed rice and beans. The 2nd dish I mentioned was highly recommended by the hostess and it was very delicious. So flavorful and it was my favorite out of the two. The fish was very fresh, the meat fell right off the bone. And the sauce...coconut with a lime taste. I also enjoyed the condiments - a spicy Haitian sauce. Cabbage, carrots, red spices all soaked in vinegar, a perfect sauce for the fish. I would definitely come during lunch time because its less busy. At night, I hear it gets very busy. This restaurant is off fifth street and very hard to miss during the day, but at night the illuminating sign is easier to spot on the busy street. Parking is found several steps away BEHIND the restaurant and its free. Gratuity is already included on the check so don't worry about leaving tip, unless your that generous lol. Decent price for good Haitian food! a MUST to go to while in South Beach!
(4)
Vanessa S.
The goat stew was delicious! The bignets for dessert were also great. We sat on the porch and enjoyed the experience.
Incredible food, awesome ambiance. The spaghetti creole and grouper were delicious, and the whole interior is coveted in murals which are fun to look at. Only damper would be the service, which was painfully slow the night I went.
(3)
Tanya E.
I celebrated my 31st birthday here in 2009 and although I can not remember what I had, I do remember it was hella good. So was my drink. My company and I had a ball and if I'm ever in Miami again this will be a definite stop. Must fill up on good stuff before heading to Wet Willie's.
(5)
Brain S.
A coworker and I stopped by Tap Tap while we were visiting south beach on a work trip. We were seated at 9pm, ordered two rum punches and decided on charcoal cooked 1/2 chicken (18$) and spicy conch salad. The server (the guy with the dreads) never returned with the drinks to take our order. 30 minutes later I walked to the bar to ask about the drinks, and found our missing waiter watching a basketball game at the bar. My buddy flagged another waiter down so we could get our orders in, but he dismissed us. Our server finally approaches, and without apology, asks if we've decided yet.. Long story short--dinner took 1:45 when we needed to get back to hotel to pack, and it cost $96 dollars with Gratuity included.... Tips stands for To Insure Prompt Service... I am NOT a complainer, and the food here IS good. But I'll not be returning. BTW Tap Tap, I work on a FOOD NETWORK show....
(1)
matt p.
This place was great. The goat, the grouper, the whole red snapper, and the pork dish rounded out our entrees. You have to ask for the green watercress sauce - I ended up dipping everything in that...yum! two bummers - they were out of the pineapple dessert and no music the night we went. Guess we'll have to back later in the week for some dessert and tunes
(4)
Jennifer F.
The food was good. Not the best Haitian food I've ever had, but the goat stew was tasty. I'd been told the grilled goat was excellent, and the waiter pushed it big time. I ordered it, but they were out. It was only about 7 pm on a weeknight, seemed early for them to be out of one of their signature dishes. But it happens, and that's not why they get a mere 2 stars. Expect to be charged more for each item than the price listed on the menu. My dining companion ordered the grouper, but was served (and charged for) the more expensive snapper (which the waiter was also pushing, must have had too much of it back in the kitchen). We were charged an extra dollar for each of our drinks, and for some reason my $15 entree on the menu was $18 on the bill. We didn't do any substitutions or special orders, they just charged us more. In the end, it's not the price itself, it's the sense of being ripped off. Like many restaurants in Miami Beach, tip was already included in the total, so we couldn't just take the difference out of the tip (my usual tactic when a server tries to rip me off). Print new menus if you need to raise the prices, but don't just surprise your patrons with an unexpected bill. That maneuver changed Tap Tap from a place I would recommend to friends to a place I would recommend my friends stay away from. There are plenty of other great places to eat within 3 blocks, and plenty of better Haitian restaurants, so why support the con artists at Tap Tap?
(2)
Marcos R.
This city slicker can't vouch for it's authenticity, but it sure tastes good! Great little spot on the fringes of the South Beach hot spots. When I was there there was a little 3 piece band playing some Haitian/Afrobeat music. I would definitely go there again.
(4)
Dennis W.
Tap Tap came highly recommended. We arrived after Art Basel on a Sunday. The place was packed, the small bar/waiting room was elbow to elbow with a very laid back friendly crowd. Every conceivable place, the floor, ceiling, walls, tables and chairs are painted with scenes, murals or words in colorful paint. Very interesting. The staff greeted us, wrote down our name, "ten minute wait no problem" Mohitos were ordered which were excellent. Forty five minutes later after inquiring about the wait list, we were seated in the very back room which was half full of diners. The other diners had one waiter, we had a darling Haitian waitress who had just us. (ominous sign) She promptly came, and advised us to get the Shrimp in Coconut milk, the whole- fish Red Snapper which came with beans and rice, we also ordered the excellent Tap Tap salad with mango, watercress, tomato and a basil based dressing. We ate the salad then waited a L O N G time for the entrees. Finally...the entrees came, the shrimp dish was excellent and the coconut sauce with red bell peppers was incredible, but the medium size shrimp were only six in number. The whole fish (head on) snapper was cooked artfully but not the easiest to eat due to the bones. It was excellent. We traded bites and used some of the coconut sauce on the snapper. Tasty. Then another long wait, and wait. Finally the waitress showed and recited the desert menu. For desert we ordered Haitian cake, along with coconut sorbet; the cake came first, it was good but dry, and needed the sorbet, yet the sorbet came a good seven minutes later. The . The sorbet by itself was refreshing but did have much flavor. Then another wait for the check. The whole thing came to $92, food, drinks, tax and the added 18% tip. The problem with the mandatory added tip is there is no incentive to excel, certainly no reason to hustle. We might go back, and try something else and hope to get another waiter. We got there at 7:30, left after 10:00, the place was mostly empty by then. Other reviews mention the slow service, it really was the worst we have experienced in a long time.
(3)
Forrest D.
As far as I know we don't have any haitian food in LA, although we probably do. This was my first experience and I loved it when I ate here about 20 years ago, and never forgot the place. When we visited with friends, we had to come and it didn't disappoint. I read some reviews here that call this Hiatian lite and it may be but that doesn't diminish the tastiness of the food. Sometimes authenticity is only good to those who grow up on it. For example, my wife is Chinese and she and her family love some restaurants that serve traditional chinese food that truth be told isn't very good. I don't mean because I don't like traditional food, I mean sometimes food changes for the better when it changes and the original is comfort food for those that grew up on it but noone else. So while this may not be truly authentic Hiatian food, it is really tasty and be aware, quite hot if you order certain dishes. In fact one of the spiciest dishes I ever had came from here, although I don't remember what it was. The goat and fish dishes are very good, and I love the shrimp. Service is always extremely slow here but the rooms are all delightfully painted with fantastical murals and designs. For those who didn't enjoy, it's always a good idea to read the reviews most restaurants post as they usually tell what's good. That's the first thing I do when we try a new place, as well as looking up reviews and it rarely leads us astray. All in all I'm looking forward to trying some truly authentic Hiatian food to see how it compares. In the meantime... Food - A- Ambience - A+ Service - B- Value - A-
(5)
Rob C.
2.5 stars for food sorry, this place is overrated. No one can deny that the restaurant is interesting however; it's like a miami institution. colorful mural artwork adorn the walls, great energy and music fill the air. ambiance may create a memorable experience but it didn't help with the food for me. caveat, i was full and only sampled appetizers... nice soursop juice (same as guanabana) had the pumpkin soup -- tasted like a can based broth fritay appetizer plate -- items either too dry or just fried mush (green cilantro sauce was ok) okra stew -- bland, all the flavors were not as bold as i thought they would be i'd go to little haiti for haitian food...but for the "experience," like most everything on sobe, you should come here.
(3)
Diana N.
Tap Tap is really off the beaten path. I spoke with the restaurant manager and he told me that the restaurant has been around for over 15 years! It's pretty traditional Haitian food and if you don't know what to get, you should ask the waitress for recommendations. Prices are good, service is pretty consistent.
(4)
Andrew P.
Excellent simple Hatian cuisine. The best mojitos in Miami made with hatian rum. Get the whole fish.
(4)
Pavel D.
Best haitian food I have ever had. Much better than any of NYC's offerings
(5)
dayna c.
I loved this restaurant. I might be biased because I am highly persuaded by bright colors, but our experience was great. We were on vacation and I was looking for restaurants with vegetarian options. Although they were out of a lot of things, it was late and I'm guessing they had been busy, all I wanted was the spinach dish. It was sooooo good. I can't even begin to explain it, like I would fly back to Miami yummy. Seriously.
(5)
Ernesto L.
Great hole in the wall place with some really good food. I went on yelp to find a great bite without walking around in the heat. Read the reviews and thought we'd try it out. Amazing! Try the fresh squeezed limeade. I had the chicken with rice, beans, and plantains. Very good! Will definitely go back next time I'm in town.
(5)
Eric S.
Really cool atmosphere, fun bar, interesting (in a good way) food. I'm a flatlander who was down in Miami for work, and decided to try the first Haitian meal of my life. I tried the kingfish with coconut sauce, which was delicious. Staff were extremely friendly.
(4)
Charlie U.
Yearning for a semi-authentic dining experience? Try Tap Tap with its great Haitian dishes served in a ramshackle setting complete with colorful murals and sleepy looking guys sitting on the front porch. The food never fails. Especially good fish preparation. Relax and enjoy the slow service. You'll start to believe you've been magically transported out of South Beach and landed in Port-au-Prince.
(4)
Patricia d.
Incredibly delicious food, that makes you feel like you're eating at your Aunt's house - especially if you're Filipino. Okay, give or take a few ingredients...lime instead of kalamansi...and butter instead of vegetable oil (I'm guessing that's the French influence on Haiti)... Menu Drinks - hubby had the mojito...DE-LISH! I had the Sitronad, which is basically lime-aid...also yummy! Our server gave a warning that it might be too sour, but I make my own kalamansi juice and try not to use too much sugar, so for me - it was perfect. Appetizer - we had the Akra (Malanga fritters)...good. A little too bread-y for my preference, but we still ate it all. The sauce that came with it was amazing!!! We were hoping for more heat, and found it in the jar of pickled something-or-others on the table...but honestly, it wasn't that hot. Main Course - I had the whole fish in lime sauce...uh, I pretty much finished it all. I would only recommend this if you're used to dealing with the fish bones, otherwise, get the fish fillet in the same sauce. My hubby had the Griyo, which is a pork dish. He also finished his meal - I mean almost licked the plate clean. Dessert - we had the Blan Mange. Completely yummy coconut dessert, kind of like jello in consistency and they serve it with mango slices. If you're Filipino, you'll think it tastes like Maja Blanca...it also kind of looks like it, minus the toasted coconut sprinkles on top. If you live in Miami, I hope you're eating here at least twice a month. If you're visiting Miami, save your appetite for a big meal here!! You will LOVE it!!
(4)
Leslie W.
Good service and solid good food. The grouper was excellent. So many locals streaming through these doors, you can't go wrong with a local fave.
(4)
Ryan K.
Wow, as if Miami couldn't be any better! Talk about awsesome food! Never had Haitian food before. It was amazing. Absalutely amazing! The service was great. the restaurant was clean. Good recommendations from the server. I'll make it a point to visit this restaurant every time I come back to Miami! And hopefully I'll be back SOON!
(5)
Asher B.
This place is full of character and characters. The mojitos lived up to the hype and the stewed goat just melted. I came back several times during my South Beach stay. Delicious and highly recommended!!! Stay for the band if you can, it is worth it and maybe you will get hungry enough to eat more of the wonderful food too. Seriously what more are you looking for?
(5)
E. Y.
We went there a few days ago because it was recommended on Diners, drive in &dives show on food network. It was a disappointment. First of all the service was slow. We waited about 20min to get some bread and then about 50 min to get our food. I can understand if it was crowded but it was not. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce..the sauce was good. Also had the pork chunks dish and the free range chicken...both were okay... Not that flavorful. The plantains were tasteless and dry..needed sugar on them. We had to go out to the car to put more coins for parking because service was so slow. There was also no close parking. Last thing was that the 18% gratuity was automatically tacked onto the bill..which I would not have complained about if the service given was good, but it was so slow, they did not deserve the tip!! I would not go back again.
(1)
Cristy M.
Long story short: I didn't know I was on a "date" until half-way through dinner. Oops. My bad. In the end, it didn't work out for the guy. For me, on the other hand, it totally did. Tap Tap is a great little Haitian restaurant that you've probably driven by a million times if you've ever come off the MacCarthur Causeway to go to Miami Beach, namely South Beach. I've had a Haitian close friend for over a decade and it had never occurred to me to ask her what Haitian cuisine was because, for whatever reason, it hadn't dawned on me that there WAS a Haitain cuisine. Big mistake. Apparently, not only is there Haitian food, but there is Haitian-style food, and this place is the only place that I've ever been to where I've eaten it. For that, I can't give much of a foodie kind of review. Instead, I'm going to stick with the ambiance of the place and how generally enjoyable just eating there is. It's been a while since I've been to Tap Tap but, I'm not gonna lie, I always want to go. This might have been perhaps the best place a guy had ever taken me to dine on a date and that's saying a lot. Being there is almost like being at someone's residence. It's comfy and quaint and really personal. It's not showy or hip or any of the stuff that places like this fall at the risk of being. Instead, it's just a great place to have a bite and chat while you eat. Good for every one. Damn, now I wanna go back. Date or no date. Considering the last guy, I might as well go with friends. Note: At the time, I was a strict ova-lacto vegetarian and was able to find a selection from which to order.
(3)
Jull Y.
Food is pretty good. But not feeling the included tip on the bill... So one star off.
(3)
Sabrina Anna C.
This is such an intereting little place! The artwork and general vibe/set up is very Caribbean and tropical. It always has a fun crowd, good music and excellent cocktails! Great place on a Thursday or Friday night. There's the live band The food is exquisite, with interesting selctions. Their seafood is always fresh and a great way to go with your meal selection! I enjoy the seafood, the plantain dishes, and the Conch (classic!). The first time I came here was in 2005. Love it! This place is excellent for anyone from locals to tourists! Just a great time, fun spot, and excellent meal! :)
(4)
IGOR B.
Are you in Miami? Do you wanna try something different and very local? Go! Nothing fancy but real Haitian food. Everything is fresh and the venue is very Hiati style. Haitian paints on the walls, haitian music, good MOJTO and not expensive at all! Colors colors colors and friendly ppl! Try it!
(4)
Maria C.
I think this place is pretty good. I had some sort of white fish which was just so very tender and soft. Simple. Yet good. Did not eat the rice or beans. They were dry. We had some deep fried sweet potatoes and plantains for appetizers. Nice and crispy. I also remember this green sauce being very tasty. We sat right in front of the band. The whole place had a mellow but somewhat sad overtone, though, despite the colorful walls and great character of the place. The owner was SUPER nice. Drinks are cheap. Good stuff.
(4)
Amy S.
Adorable atmosphere, with colorful painted chairs and beautiful murals around the restaurant. The music was also great. Definitely gets points for being a clean, attractive, relaxing restaurant. Service was friendly, though slow. We arrived mid-afternoon and were among maybe five patrons, but still waited a while to place our order and get our check. Though we were a party of three, our gratuity was added automatically, which is something that bugs me. I typically tip much more than the suggested gratuity, but this always deters me. I've found it more typical in southern Florida than anywhere else in the country, so maybe I'm just missing something. The food quality was excellent; the shrimp in creole sauce was fresh, with the best texture and flavor I've had. My brother enjoyed his pork as well. The rum punch I ordered was nothing special, especially at the price. On food and atmosphere alone, I'd give five stars. Service, drinks, and price considered; I would say Tap Tap is a nice place, I would definitely give it another chance on that shrimp alone.
(3)
Mike S.
I've been here a few times and the food is nothing to yelp about. The conch salad tasted "off" and gave me some heaves. The pork dish I saw on Triple D was a little overcooked, dry, and stringy. The coconut shrimp has a hint of aluminum, maybe they could use better cookware. The grouper was overcooked as well. The food may have been good in the past but the management needs to focus on fresher food and better quality control.
(2)
Del M.
Stepping into this place which is right in the middle of the hectic and posh life of Miami Beach is like walking into another world. From the decoration to the friendly staff to the amazing smells emanating from the kitchen you are transported into another dimension. I learned about this place from Triple D's on the Food Network and it was worth the trip. I had the Snapper which was exquisite, along amazing drinks and a unique desserts. I have not been back in a while, but I am looking forward to the day I return.
(4)
Tiffany A.
Why didn't i try this place sooner?? It's around the corner from my apartment... I met a friend for dinner there last week and I felt like I was reminded of one of my favorite bars in SF... (little baobab which is a senegalese bar/restaurant)...The decor was great... bright, colorful, just like being on the islands.. The food here at tap tap however was EXCELLENT.... i ordered the shrimp in coconut sausce triple YUMMMMM and the conch salad appetizer... they say it's spicy but I grew up on mexican food so it didn't faze me... my friend added that the conch was reasonably priced and joked 'did they smuggle it in from Haiti to get it so cheap?' lol... I didn't try the mojito but i need to... i'm only taking a star off because it was a bit hot in there.... it would have been nice to be a bit more comfy while i ate, that's all but all in all I loved it here and definitely recommend it to folks who are in Miami as a 'must do'.... The icing on the cake was the friends I made at the bar.... (where you can have a great time if your flying solo)... there were actually 2 single diners seated there who i chatted with while i waited for my friends.. we even created our own 'click' of iphone users... too funny!!! I love that this place attracts cool people!!! Must return next week.. must return!
(4)
Tony T.
Came for a late dinner and they ran out of a few things including goat. Tried the melange fritters which were lightly fried. The watercress sauce that came with the fritters was both spicy and sour and it was a nice mix. Had the conch that came in a salad. The conch salad was fresh, spicy, sour and chewy. For dinner had the shrimp in creole sauce, which was tomato based. The shrimp were well seasoned and cooked perfectly. Also tried the chicken stew. The chicken was tender but a little dry and the stew was very good. The fried fish was great. It was fried nicely on the outside but was tender on the inside. The sauce that came with the fish was sour and spicy. Also tried the griyot and the pork was well cooked and not too dry. The dish also had onions and red bell peppers. The mixed rice and beans were good but the rice was a little dry. It was the best place I tried on my Miami trip. The decor is colorful and the paintings on the wall were cool to look at as we ate. The service was fine and they had a Kenyan beer (Tusker) which was pretty good.
(4)
Deb L.
This was the first time I'd ever tried Haitian food. A friend and I shared two entrees- *shrimp with coconut sauce *stewed conch We asked the waiter what "conch" was, to which he answered "a type of shellfish." As we both love shellfish, we decided to give it a try. It was so tender, soft, and chewy. After looking it up on wikipedia, conch is actually a saltwater snail : ) The entrees came with a side of rice and beans and a piece of plaintain. There was a spicy coleslaw-like side dish on all the tables (super spicy) that went well with the bread that was served.
(4)
Miriam F.
Definitely a must try restaurant!! Haitian food is not for everyone though... but I was a fan! For appetizers we had the fried platter, malanga fritters, and the conch! All of it was amazing... I cant pick a favorite... it was all good!! My recommendation for dinner is the shrimp in coconut sauce (note: this is not your average coconut sauce.. it is very sweet!) and the grilled goat dish. Also, the pork chops were very good. When you order any of the seafood, please not they will not take of tails or heads... but it is very fresh and delicious! Prices were ok... about $20 a entree. For drinks, it is imperative that you have a Mojito, the rum is amazing and very smooth. (However, I am not a rum expert). Enjoy!
(4)
Olle P.
I'd seen the place on the check please show and we tried it for lunch on a very quiet Saturday. We ordered conch and mango watercress salad for starters and for mains shrimp in creole sauce and the goat stew. The food took way to long to arrive, especially considering that the place was nearly empty. Fortunately their mojitos are good and that amde the wait more bearable. Except for the shrimps the food was pretty bland and boring. I really can't recommend the place for the food, which is sad because the place has a cool Caribbean vibe and could be so much more. Maybe I'll come back on a busy evening just for a drink and hopefully some music, but I will have eaten my dinner before I arrive.
(2)
Rick P.
Food and service were great. Portions were perfect. I had the stewed conch and corn meal, and m wife had stewed beef Kalalu and rice and peas. The Haitian Mojito was great. I would have preferred the Kremas but they were out, they were also out of beignet. Disappointed about that but I would definitely go back. Wish that a Haitian Restaurant this good in L.A.
(4)
Pachuco K.
What a joke this place is. Yes the food is good --but not all the foods on the menu are authentic Haitian recipes. The first time I went with some family members, some of us ordered the griot, (fried pork chunks) they came back with pork chunks in sauce !!!!!!!!! We left without touching the food. They figured they would change the recipes to FIT the AMERICAN taste buds.!!!!!!!!!! Not surprising since the owners are NOT HAITIANS. I went back many years later and they now serve Fried pork chunks ( I guess too many complaints from real Haitians). But I still think most of their food and taste are spiced down, and they also serve other things on the menu not usually found on the island. But, then again it is on Miami Beach, -------tourist heaven..............
(1)
Sharon S.
What a great Haitian ethnic opportunity for me at Tap Tap. The place is very island-ly colorful and very much relaxing. The food is outstanding! I would have to say that I have never been disappointed in any of the culinary delights I have sampled. The watercress sauce is out of this world tasty! I would love to have a recipe for this so when I make akra it will be more enjoyable. The staff are very personable and pleasant beings from the management on down. Just remember that the parking is a few steps down the alley from the actual restaurant.
(5)
JoAnn D.
Tap Tap was recommended to me by coworkers and it did not disappoint! My entire group of 6 had never tried Haitian food and we are all hooked! I had the stewed beef with okra with rice and beans and malanga fritters. The stewed beef was amazinf but the malanga fritters were definitely my favorite. Soooo delicious! We went for lunch due to scheduling but this place is probably best for dinner.
(4)
Eric B.
Let me start by saying, there is no valet or lot parking available here. That means you have to try to find street parking nearby. That's not always easy, especially on the weekends. However, I encourage you to please do whatever you need to do, just make sure you get to Tap Tap! It is definitely worth the effort. Besides, the walk to the restaurant will allow you to justify dessert. And, you must have dessert! The service here is very personable. Guilo (I hope I spelled it correctly) was our server. Not only did he take the time to explain the menu and make recommendations, he took the time to learn our names. That made us feel like we were guests in his home. Nice touch. The food was amazing. While we had eaten Haitian food before, this was head and shoulders above anything we had before. We tried the Plat Fritay and 4 different dishes and all were spectacular. The griyo was the stand out dish. We had 3desserts and we were glad we chose to splurge. My sweetheart said the pineapple upside down cake reminded her of her aunt's. That is a high honor. To sum it all up, Tap Tap is top notch.
(5)
Johane M.
Came here with my husband for our anniversary. This restaurant is in a great location but parking is a bit hard to find. The decor in the place is sooooo...Haitian-bold colors, lively, and beautiful. The drinks and food were delicious at a reasonable price. Our waitress was slow but professional and friendly. I will definitely be back and recommend it for a nice dinner out with friends or a date!!!
(4)
Sandra A.
No Parking! It took forever to get my food. Staff was friendly, however they did not warn their customers that there was a chance of getting TOWED. There is only alley parking (which is still not legal) and the only parking lot is a private one. The food itself is mediocre ....not very authentic (I am Haitian). My car was towed and as I made calls to find out where my car was, another customers car was towed. When I went back inside, the staff basically stated that the towing fee should be about $150. Why not warn your customers AHEAD of time. $280 later......I will not go there again. There are cheaper Haitian restaurants with actually awesome food in Miami.
(1)
Jeff J.
Tap Tap is my go-to restaurant every time I am in Miami. The menu is unique (Haitian) and everything is wonderful. The conch ceviche is excellent. And the stewed chicken and conch creole are standouts. The restaurant is colorful and lively and absolutely worth a visit.
(5)
Rachel L.
Absolutely amazing. The stewed chicken and cornmeal was crazy good. We also loved the herring spaghetti. The best mohito I have ever had!! Glad I had it, BC it was quite a nice allow burn from the chicken. We are Totally coming back when in Miami again.
(5)
Jennifer O.
You have to try the stewed goat. This is my first Haitian restaurant that I have ever tried, but the goat stew is so good! Another option we tried was the is grouper in lime sauce - it was so flavorful! The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. Our bartender (Monica) was so cool, talkative, and explained everything to us. Parking is the biggest issue here. We parked in the parking garage about 4 blocks from the restaurant as there is no on-site parking.
(4)
Lauren O.
Omg goat stew and pumpkin soup are what I dream about .. Now that I'm thinking about it I wanna go tonight ..,
(5)
Steve S.
It takes you "right to the island." From drinks to dessert all of our senses were pleasantly transported (although patron loudness was a bit much). Great little find!
(4)
Larry R.
We ate here after visiting South Beach. Saw a recommendation on Diners Drive Ins and Dives App. I lived in Haiti off and on as a child. Grew up on haitian cuisine. This restaraunt reminded me so much of the food I ate 25 years ago. I love the creole sauce with goat. Definitely will be coming back when I'm nearby again.
(5)
Francisco T.
I had this place bookmarked for over 2 years. I was really excited about this place, but I was let down. I touched down from NYC and headed straight to TapTap. I was there around 3pm, the place was practically empty. I walked in and met with hostess who sat us down at a outdoor table as per request. 15 minutes later of siting outside in the scorching heat, and crack heads walking up to us, I requested to change our table. We set inside inside hoping for some AC, but it was hot as balls in there. We waited about 30 minutes before the waiter acknowledged us, she took our order at which time I ordered a appetizer that never arrived. I ordered the Oxtail, which was delicious but only included 3 peices of oxtail and considering its mostly bone it was practically nothing. I was left hungry. The check included the appetizer that I never received and TIP INCLUDED. I'm very generous but theres nothing more annoying than Gratuity included. I was still going to leave a tip but the waiter didn't even bring us water while waiting all that time I like to have that choice. I wish I would of had a difference experience here. I was so hyped that I texted my Haitian friends a picture of the menu when I got there, after leaving I thought to myself: I hope they dont ask me about it.
(2)
Jlin L.
It was alright.
(3)
Marie-Alice D.
Decor reminded me of Haiti, service avg. I ordered the oxtail, and didn't like the sauce it came with. It wasn't seasoned enough, asked to have gyros instead, same issue. My family is Haitian and my expectations were too high,. I was visiting MIA, and expected more, I was definitely disappointed by the food. The food is definitely made for tourists.
(2)
Jose M.
We start with Evans, which is amazing at what he does... We then go to the menu, which is well explained and so full of amazing plates!! The mojitos are good, freshly made, and the Akra, the goat, the shrimp in coconut broth are amazing!!! Also, best pumpkin soup I ever had!! Truly authentic island food!!!
(5)
Kevin C.
Best Haitian food in Miami! Most expensive Haitian food in Miami! This place is not that expensive but I guess it's more indicative of the fact that there are few if any expensive Haitian restaurants in Miami. Dishes are between $14-22, which isn't bad because what you get is absolutely delicious. The first time I came I had the goat stew and the second time I came I had the fresh fish. Both were cooked with incredibly flavorful unique sauces, curry based for the fish. The entire restaurant is brightly decorated with murals depicting various daily activities of Haiti from riding a bus to harvesting crops. I highly recommend this restaurant if you want some authentic delicious food. Also another client, kindly recommended coming for live music on Thursdays.
I had heard they had the "Best Mojito," and I was excited to try a completely new cuisine! I wasn't sure what to expect, but the decor was beautiful. They had gorgeous murals and art covering almost every inch of the walls. It really made you feel like you were stepping into a different world. Back to that mojito. It was good, but extremely sweet. I have a major sweet tooth and this was pushing it. I had the shrimp with coconut sauce and rice. Before I get to the shrimp.....THAT RICE. This is the best rice I have ever eaten in my entire life. Sounds weird, but it was that phenomenal to me. How do you make rice that delicious? In similar fashion, the shrimp with coconut sauce was super rich and amazing. It had a good combination of spices too. I'm not even sure you are supposed to eat all the coconut sauce (calorie alert) but I put it on my already favorite rice in the world and pretty much died. Delicious! The reason this isn't 5 star is the service. It took us a while to get each part of the meal, especially drinks and waters. They seemed overwhelmed and lacked some professionalism.
(4)
Lingbo J.
Very good food. The salad that came with the pork was the best I have ever had. I didn't know what the dressing was but it was amazing. I really loved the vibrant color of the restaurant. Fit right in to the art deco district.
(5)
Randall T.
Large Haitian community in Miami. This is one of their hangouts. Creole food was very good. Loved the murals on the wall. It's a bit out of the way for South Beachers, but worth it.
(4)
Jessie H.
I got the iced coffee and Shrimp Coconut. The coconut sauce is BOMB. My only complaint is that there isn't enough shrimp. Service is friendly. There's not alot of spaces outside , probably like 2-3 tables so that kind of sucks.
(4)
Michelle P.
I usually don't like Haitian restaurants because I've been spoiled by my mothers good cooking :-) but I really enjoyed the food here. Everything tasted fresh and the portions were perfect.
(5)
Pierre D.
Best Haitian food I've had in a long time.
(5)
Minty M.
Consistently good Haitian food in South Beach. Great dirty mojitos, beans with cornmeal, shrimp in coconut milk. Fun atmosphere although it could use a facelift. Service typically great although kitchen can get backed up on busy nights.
(4)
Nadine R.
Being Haitian I did not think I would be this impressed with a Haitian restaurant. Everything we had was great. Actually I'm still eating but had to write this. The Fritay platter is amazing especially with the goat. My friend had a whole fried fish which was spectacular. I got the griot with rice and plaintain and it was quite tasty. The icing on the cake is the great sauces you receive. The watercress sauce and to malice we're my favorite.
(5)
Joe T.
Lovvvved the legim (stewed vegetables)! I wish I could make that myself. :-) So much better than I would imagine stewed vegetables could taste! Cool decorations on the wall. LIVE MUSIC! Great pasta, too!
(3)
Swatee G.
Loved the ambiance here! I have never been to the caribbean, but it totally felt like I was there! The huge murals on the walls are awesome! Had the half chicken, which was good, the sides were yummy. My rum punch was not yum at all :( too bitter for me..! Service was good, the patrons seems to be locals. It was a good experience! :) Oh the corn on the cob.. excellent! :p
(4)
Jane R.
Came here for my first meal in Miami. So glad that we all went despite what felt like a very long walk. It's not super close to Ocean Drive. It's a large restaurant with so many different rooms - all different colors with murals on the wall and multicolored tables and chairs. Of course I ended up getting pork chunks with rice and beans (or called Griyo). Individual pork chunks were not as big as I expected. The rice and beans were red rice with black beans mixed in. Overall it was a delicious dish. My friend ordered the Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (or the stewed beef and okra with a side of cornmeal). It was amazing! I love pork but I wish I got this dish. The cornmeal with the beef stew complimented each other perfectly. When we came here on a Saturday night, we were seated promptly and there was live music going on in the back dining room. I'd would definitely return to try out the rest of the menu.
(4)
Melody T.
Its pretty good! Heard a lot about this place! Stopped in and its of Miami's low key food spots
(3)
Trey S.
Went here a week ago, and I still can't get over how awful this place was. Arrived right as they opened last Saturday afternoon and was able to be seated immediately. A nice young lady came right over to our table and took our drink orders. Even more impressive, she went behind the bar and made the drinks as well. The problem came in the amount of time it took us to get our food. It appeared that even though they were technically open, they really weren't ready to begin serving patrons warm, good-tasting meals in a timely fashion. After about 25min of waiting, our server came over and said they didn't have the spaghetti ready for the dish my nephew ordered. It took WELL OVER 45min for our food to finally arrive. The second problem came in the taste of our food. In a word, BLAND. I ordered the shrimp dish, with rice. I mean it was warm and tasted homemade. Does that make it good?? Not in my book. ...Nope, I won't be back..
(1)
Wen K.
Might just be this one encounter but nonetheless it was terrible. Server who we found out was apparently "new" messed up our order (maybe because she thought she was a boss and didn't bother writing it down?) and food took over an hour to come out, wrong. She forgot one person's order completely. Took forget just to get us water. Food itself was okay. Implemented an automatic 18% gratuity.
(2)
Mimi M.
Don't go there if you're vegan. I'm used to not being able to eat most of the menu at places however there's usually something you can put together. Not here. The waitress thought the rice and beans had butter in it but she nor the cooks could confirm this. In fact, no one seemed to know for sure making me wonder where the food comes from. Even the plantains are cooked in the goat meat grease and they can't think of a way to not cook them in it. The waitress told me "their food is flavorful because it's made with butter." I didn't have the strength to argue with her about the unsolicited and ridiculous comment. When I went before I was vegan, the food was decent. Nothing too exceptional. You can get much cheaper at Latino/Jamaican restaurants -- it's all the same food (ox tail, whole fish, rice and beans) why pay more?
(2)
kyle g.
This is for "online ordering" only. The online ordering is available at 11:00am, my order was done at 11:04am. Any reasonable person would expect an order relatively soon. It is now 12:48pm, and I called to inquire about wtf is my order, as its been over an hour and 40 minutes. Guy answers the phone and says there are no managers there yet, but to call back at 2:30pm to inquire about my order. I already paid. Are you fucking kidding me? 1:55pm. Its almost been 3 hours, still no word from this place. Clearly will never order from them online again.
(1)
Lisa B.
I hate the fact the restaurant is located on South Beach, however, their food has yet to disappoint. I had tried a shrimp pasta that reminded me of my mother's cooking and an oxtail dish that was good. (My opinion: Jamaicans can kill an oxtail dish. Period. And I'm not Jamaican.) I would recommend this restaurant for good Haitian food.
(4)
Maeve M.
The food was quite good and the atmosphere was better. They were really busy when we went but still gave us plenty of attention. We ordered a plate of fried things and it was unremarkable (although good--but show me fried carbs that aren't). But the beef stew I ordered! I can't stop thinking about it. It came with a side of split peas and a sided of cornmeal and the mix went so well together.
(4)
Cat L.
Thank you for having us for lunch Tap Tap! The food: Appetizer -Akra (Malanga Fritters) Crispy deep fried Malanga Fritters served hot and fresh with a watercress dipping sauce. Made my tongue dance! Entrees -Griyo (Fried Pork Chunks) Delicious tender Fried Pork Chunks topped with onions and red bellpeppers -Pwason Neg (Grouper in lime sauce) Grilled tender and flaky Grouper topped with thick buttery slices of avocado. -Beef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Stewed Beef and Okra served with Cornmeal) Tender Stewed Beef with creamy Cornmeal was just the perfect pairing. All of the entrees above were served with sides of Diri Kole (mixed rice and beans) and Banann Peze (fried plantains). We also ordered a side of Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (Spinach in Coconut Sauce) Spinach mixed with a rich and creamy coconut sauce, also delicious drizzed over your Diri Kole! Beverages -Our lovely server had given each of us a refreshing glass of iced grapefruit water with slices of lime. It was so delicious. -Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian Coffee) Being the Coffeeholic that I am I decided to order one. It was served in a very tiny ceramic red coffee cup and saucer with a side of brown sugar for sweetness. The server had told us that there was a method of making this small yet very strong coffee inwhich insured the fresh taste. The coffee had a punch to it which I did not mind one bit :). The Service Our server was a sweetheart. She was very welcoming, warm and was very helpful to answering our questions about the menu items. Gosh, I wish I remembered her name. I must say our overall experience was above average, from the very wholesome decor of the rocking chair in the front to the colorful paintings on the wall, tables and chairs that made us feel as if we were dining outside someone's home in Haiti, to our delicious Haitian meal served by our lovely server. We left with smiles and very happy belly's. Till we meet again, Tap Tap. ;)
(5)
Russell H.
great food, portions could be a little bigger, ask for extra everything...bread, pickled salsa service good atmosphere varies, too bright! could be great, if they let there hair out, more music... park on street by walgreens, 25 cents per 10 minutes
(4)
Cindy E.
Cool spot in miami ! Authentic Haitian food delicious:) ! The mojitos are a must ! Loved the art work thru out the whole restaurant
(5)
L H.
Goat stew and whole steamed snapper were delicious and the staff was super friendly and helpful. If you're not sure what to order, you can count on them to lead you in the right direction. As a general rule, I've found that prices in restaurants in Miami are ridiculous- but at least the food and service at Tap Tap were good enough that I didn't feel robbed.
(4)
Adam Y.
Another great experience at Tap Tap. Food amazing, atmosphere so cool and service is just right. Ask to order your dishes spicy, this will add the little bit of kick the dishes need to take it to the next level. Tap Tap spicy is like a mild to medium spicy at most other places. The entire building is painted to reflect the culture of Haiti from the ceilings to the floor plus all the tables and chairs in between, the entire place is one giant piece of art. Once you get used to looking at all the art in the different rooms, get ready for some really good food. Start off with a specialty cocktail, the drinks are good and strong, then try the pumpkin soup, or my favorite, but you will have to eat with your hands if you want to get the authentic experience, the free range chicken and finally try some of the coconut shrimp.
(4)
K K.
Want some Haitian food??? Don't come here. Go have some good Cuban food instead. Service was very slow and below average for a empty restaurant. They add on extra charges probably expecting ppl to not look on the bill. They also charge you more on the bill then what's on the menu. Food was decent at best. Love trying new places, but this was a disappointment.
(1)
Vicky V.
I have never had Haitian food, but while taking a cab from the airport we ask the native which place was the best. He highly recommended. Great food, nice service and I Love the wall art. Do visit! It's worth it.
(4)
Jordan N.
I guess this place is good for tourists. And the Reggae vibe. But as far as food goes, it still pales to the real thing I can get in Little Haiti and for less. The mojito ($9) is good but you can't compare it with the other mojitos around town - simply because it's different. The stew chicken ($12) was good and the shrimp in coconut sauce ($16) was surprisingly unimpressive. The portions were not very big except for the sides. They played live music that was fun and the crowd seem to enjoy dancing to it. This place is good for the tourists that would like to sample and get an idea of what Haitian food is about without leaving South Beach. As for the locals, hit the road and go up on Miami's NE or NW 2nd Avenue for the real deal.
(3)
Zephiel M.
This was my second time going to Tap Tap. My first experience was pretty good. I ordered the Poul Boukanen (grilled chicken) my first time and it was pretty good. My second visit to this restaurant was just spectacular. I went with a group of friends in which together we tried the Pwason Gwosel (while fried fish), Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye ( shrimp in creole sauce), and the Griyo (fries pork chunks). Eat dish was served with a side of rice and beans along with one piece of fried plantains. The fried pork chunks were absolutely succulent. Along with the sauce provided, it was simply delicious and it was cooked just right so that the exterior was just crunchy enough without sacrificing the juiciness of the interior. The shrimp was also very good, albeit nothing too special. The sauce provides just the right amount of subtle flavoring to the shrimp. As for the fish. The fish (market priced) was an astonishing $25. It was definitely overpriced considering I can get a larger fish at La Carreta for under $20. That being said, it was a very delicious fried fish. It was cooked just right so that the fish meat acquired that almost fluffy look and texture. The seasoning and the breeding were also quite delicious and quite unique if I might add. Overall it was damn good. As for the rice and beans, they were quite delicious as well. They contained a subtle flavoring that allowed one to not have to focus all their attention to the spices but rather that allowed one to dedicate more attention to the texture and natural flavors of the rice and beans. It was delicious. The fried plantain was pretty generic and I could find better fried plantains elsewhere. As for the environment, well the actual restaurant is quite beautiful. A variety of flavors of art adorn the walls of Tap Tap. It is undoubtedly one of the most colorful restaurants you can come across full of murals, knitted portraits, sculptures, and paintings full of depictions of Haitan culture. Tap Tap is a great restaurant and one that is highly recommended. Just watch out for those prices.
(5)
Jency M.
Real cool spot In miami.. Went there with my haitian friend, and tried lots of good food..everything we had was awesome, and tasty!
(4)
Sam G.
Food was good, but would have been better if served hot instead of barely lukewarm. Service was horrible. I have grown to very much dislike the Miami Beach custom of adding the tip to the check. In this case a 5% tip would have been generous.
(2)
Isabelle G.
Such an eclectic place filled with character that you would never know from the outside! I've never had Haitian food and now I think I've been a bit spoiled! We ordered the mojitos and they didn't disappoint, so refreshing and cooling. We ordered the akra for appetizer which was fabulous, the amazing dipping sauce, I wish they sold it by the gallon! I will be going back on a Saturday to enjoy the live music, looks to be an awesome spot for a Saturday night!
(5)
Janice R.
We tried this restaurant based on 4 star Yelp reviews. I disagree. We went on a Tuesday night around 7:15 PM. The restaurant was mostly empty. At least three of the dishes we wanted were not available--no fish, no shrimp. Really?? We ordered the beef stew, grilled conch, and pork. I can't say I was impressed by any of them. The conch had a good flavor, but was tough. The pork also had a good flavor, but seemed overcooked and dry. The beef was bland. The only dish I liked a lot was the the malanga appetizer with dip. Even the plantains, which I was excited about, were overcooked and hard to eat. The recommended Mojito with loads of fresh mint leaves was delicious. My husband and son ordered these and I kept sneaking sips of theirs. I ordered one of the fruity drinks, which was half the size (a small Martini glass perhaps?) and I couldn't taste any alcohol. It was very sweet and overpriced at $10. I agree with the slow service and servers basically ignoring us for about 15-20 minutes despite passing us many times. No one greeted us or said be back in a minute. Once a server did come, he was delightful, writing down our names and making recommendations. The paintings on the wall are great and very interesting and colorful. But I would not return.
(2)
Parry B.
YOU MUST EAT THE CABRIT (GOAT STEW)! This was my first restaurant during my first time visit to Miami on the first day of my trip :) Saw the review on Yelp and decided to come here. I liked the food so much that I went here again on the last day of my Miami visit. DECOR: The interior of Tap Tap is very average and doesn't have any lavish interior. It is simple and sticks to it's traditional Haitian ambience. It is clean! FOOD: DO NOT TRY THE MOJITO and HAITIAN COLA! I have seen lot of people recommending the Haitian Mojito however, I do not recommend it. The Mojito costs $8 per glass and doesn't taste as good as its price. Also, the Haitian Cola tastes like DayQuil cough syrup. And, it was not a Cola. It was some fruit cocktail. We ordered the Cabrit (Haitian Goat Stew) which is served with fried plantains and rice and beans. The restaurant did not have beans so the Goat Stew was served with rice and peas. The dish was very very tasty and finger licking good. One dish is enough for two adults if you order a side of rice and beans with it. For desserts, the waitress recommended her favorite, the Sweet Potato Pudding Cake. That was tasty too. Infact, it was unusual with the flavor of ginger, grated coconut and scotch bonnet peppers in a sweet cake. Bread and butter is served complimentary. SERVICE: The waitresses are very friendly and they recommend you their popular items. The food was served within 15-20 minutes from the time ordered. Lunch menu is served round the clock. I went at 5.30 pm and had lunch there. If you go at peak lunch/ dinner hours, the quality of food served is better. PRICE: Not a pricey restaurant. Mojito was expensive $8 per glass, goat stew was $17 and Haitian Cola was $3. Our total was $30 without tips. MY ONLY DISAPPOINTMENT WAS THAT I FOUND A HAIR IN THE GOAT STEW! This happened during my second visit at Tap Tap. I don't expect much on their standards since it is not a STAR rated restaurant. This place is like Dives!
(4)
Carl A.
Dined at Tap Tap last night. Food was great and our server Gary was really nice and friendly. Will definitely be going back!
(4)
Marc D.
a hidden gem in South Beach. best mojito in town, get the whole fish in the sauce for an amazing and very flavorful meal. the quality of the meals far outweighs the pricelist :-)
(5)
Erica G.
Oh my god, this mojito changed my life! Ok, not my life, but at that moment, it made me so happy- there were bits of lime floating in it, and fresh mint with just the right amount of sugar cane. The shrimp in coconut sauce with red beans and rice was also amazing- I wanted to slurp my broth like soup, but I chose the more sophisticated method of adding it to my rice and beans. The flavors were amazing. I had to talk my friend into dining here, trying to explain that authentic cuisine is so much better than the tourist trap she wanted to go to- glad I won that argument!
(5)
Angela M.
Had acra, lamei and kabrit as suggested by my girlfriend. They were all delicious! My friend is Hatian and she agrees! Nice atmosphere. Will come back when in Miami.
(5)
Saiheng S.
I love the color and the goat soupï¼ Semilar to Mongolianï¼ you have to try this.love itï¼ and the ginger soup is good too. spicy. I love the free breadï¼ï¼ kkkkkkkkkk
(4)
Abir H.
I would give this place 0 stars, except the foot was actually delicious. The service is rude and non-existent. After a great day on Miami Beach, I headed to Tap Tap on the recommendation of one of my best friends who used to live in Miami. He said I had to go eat here. After ordering a bottle of wine and our food, the waiter was no where to be seen. Finally 30 minutes later her comes by and says our food will take a little longer- which was fine, and he'll bring us more water. Here's where it gets bad, after bringing us our dishes, I again asked for more water (I usually like to drink a lot of water with dinner- especially when drinking wine). At this point I'd been there for an hour, and all 3 of our glasses were empty for at least 45 minutes. I asked him again for water, and he just walked away. Finally maybe 15 minutes after finishing our meal I got the attention of another female waiter who did bring us water maybe 15 minutes after that. While the food was good and we wanted desert, we weren't going to sit there any longer so we asked for the check. Unfortunately we had too. After asking for our check, we waited a solid 30 minutes...and still didn't get our check. Finally having to leave, I just walked up and found the waiter asking him to give me the check. He didn't even say sorry once and worse gave me an attitude for having approached him about it. So I said to him you could at least apologize to me, the customer who's paying a $100+ bill at the restaurant...and he just walked away. So I spoke to an assistant manager who offered us 3 free drinks if we came back again (which is never happening). I just said I simply wanted any apology. The assistant manager gets the waiter and he looks at me and says "I apologized to you twice I'm not apologizing again." And that was that. Never going back there. Absolutely worst service experience I've ever had...and I live in New York...
(1)
Aubrey S.
Saw this place on Trippin Out with Allie and Georgia on the Food Network. We've never tried Haitian food, so thought we would check it out. I think the mojitos won an award, but they were pretty basic mojitos in my opinion. The water was infused with fruit and was really delicious. I got goat stew and my husband got braised beef and the food was really good. The decor/art/furniture was really cool. One star off for similar complaint as other reviewers...the service is just meh. We stood around the hostess stand for a while before someone came out. One person even saw us and walked away. Service was a little slow but nothing to keep me from coming back there.
(4)
Candice C.
The only reason it didn't get 5 out of 5 is because of the lack of air conditioning however it is the best food I have had in South Beach in the 3 times that I've been there. Everyday is a new specialty rice and bean that is used which is nice for the person that goes there often but I really with I could've gotten the black rice that I'd been thinking about for weeks lol. Anywho the service was good, the food was excellent. I am not Haitian, but I know good food when I taste it. The interior art as well as the exterior gives you a feel for the culture. I loved it and recommend it and hope the business grows and expands to new places.
(4)
Shirley Z.
Just not my thing I guess. :( After yelping/bothering every cab driver we had in SoBe. We finally ended up at this super down to earth restaurant that everyone's been raving about. Me and my boyfriend made it a goal of ours to hit up all the best reviewed dives/holes in the wall/ funky restaurants, and tap tap was unfortunately a miss for us. Pros: * Employees were super friendly and helpful with everything. * Best mojito I had in miami. * Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) was fried perfectly! The quality of the fish was fresh, tender and just perfectly cooked. * Love the mural and the use of all decors. It felt very sincere & authentic. * Spicy pickled cabbage was BOMB-DIGGITY! Cons: * Coming from the south, I am very spoiled by all the amazing fried food. Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creol dipping sauce) from Tap Tap was not my BFF. I was expecting the meat to be fried with a coat of batter, tender+juicy, and the dipping sauce to be more of a thicker/creamier texture. Boy was I wrong. It was the complete opposite. * Grito (fried pork/most popular dish) was cooked the same exact way as the Taso Kabrit. Not my cup of tea. *Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) although was fried perfectly. It lacked a bit of seasoning in my opinion. We so badly wanted to love the food but unfortunately it was not a win for us. Service & Authenticity: 4.5 stars food & taste: 3 stars...sorry
(3)
Hakim W.
We made a reservation. Showed up and stood there for 15 minutes or more waiting to be seated. Staff bustled passed us and not one acknowledged us. Even if you are under staffed you can briefly acknowledge the customer. Poor customer service doesn't leave a good impression.
(1)
Stan C.
In connection with the 9/5/2013 one star reveiw, I was at Tap Tap the night all this went down (Sunday Sept 1), and the idiot (as evidenced by his spelling and grammar skills) who wrote this review is an embarrassment. My companion and I were dining in the front room, when we heard a commotion towards the back. We looked up to see 2 ratchet girls and the reviewer yelling at the staff about the amount of their bill. They appeared drunk. This shouting went on to varying degrees for about ten minutes, at which time other staff stopped what they were doing in order to try and resolve the situation. These kids rejected all of the staff's offers of contrition and ultimately demanded that their server come out and apologize to them (for what, no one is sure of). The server offered up an apology, but that was not enough - the reviewer berated the server like a schoolyard bully. To the delight of the many other diners at Tap Tap, the reviewer finally left. In case there was any doubt as to how the others in the restaurant felt about the reviewer's tantrum, as he was leaving a fine looking local told him she hopes to never see him at Tap Tap again. Everyone else applauded and thanked the reviewer for making their dining experience so unpleasant, albeit temporarily unpleasant. Good luck in Queens, Abir. Try Atlantic City next Labor Day weekend - it's more your style.
(5)
Taline C.
I was super excited to try this Haitian Restaurant for the first time; to put it mildly the experience and the food was subpar at best. The restaurant location is great although parking is non existing; we enter only to have to wait for 10 minutes before the hostess comes to greet us. When she finally arrives she tells us that the wait would be 15 minutes before we could be seated, not because there are no tables but because they have no food ready...what?! At this point we are ready to go to the Cuban spot I always go to when I'm in town but they are closed:( We wait for 20 minutes and finally are given a table. The table is not clean and there is a puddle of water left; takes 10 minutes before we can catch anyone attention to clean up the mess. When the waitress finally arrives she informs us that over half of the menu is not available. We are limited to a beef dish, legume, fish dishes and a conch dish. They have run out of everything including RICE!!! This is sacrilegious, what Haitian restaurant worth a grain of salt runs out of rice on a holiday weekend. We finally order and get the food to realize its lukewarm. By this time my goal is to eat and leave because we are beyond disappointed. This place may have been on diners, drive ins and dives but they must have gotten their act together because they new Guy was coming. I love to support my Haitian businesses and culture but I will not come back to this place again; I can go home and get better food from my mom!
(2)
O E.
I feel that this is just another restaurant that Guy Fieri and his show ruined. I was sat by the bar for and early dinner. I wanted to order the chicken stew but they ran out of it ...at 5pm? The staff recommended the grilled chicken, so I ordered that. It took about 30 minutes for me to get this. Meanwhile, the waitress apologized for the delay and served me some fried goat, which was decent if its your taste... So 30 minutes later my chicken arrives with rice and fried plantains. The chicken breast was overcooked, dry, and flavorless. The chicken thigh was raw, and only cooked on the outside. This was the worst grilled chicken I have ever tasted. I would recommend going to pollo tropical instead. The rice was very good. Once the server saw the the chicken was raw, she comped the meal. But still I would never go back.
(1)
Charles L.
Service sucked. Griot was very good. Very small portions considering the price you pay for cheap Caribbean food. I can get twice the food for 5 dollars cheaper in a North Miami Haitian restaurant that is just as good.
(3)
David S.
This is a great place for Haitian food. I come here every time I go to Miami. The stewed goat is especially good! And the restaurant is covered in Haitian murals.
(4)
K D.
The bartender's special cocktails are amazing, the food was scrumptious and the live music was good too. Ive been in Miami for the past few days, soaking up the sun while the Northeast is cold, a little quiet and just a little bleak after the holiday sparkle has been packed away for next year. While here, I have been trying to find some food and drink that is both creative and tasty while being authentic (or as authentic as Miami can dish up given how new places appear for a year and vanish without a trace the next and also Miami is not exactly known for locally sourced, good-tasting and creative foods...just saying). So we started off at the Broken Shaker - a favorite place of mine. Still great cocktails, creative and semi-affordable with a fun poolside scene. I was totally impressed with the food we had...awesome takes on Haitian classics such as codfish fritters - good with lots of fresh herbs and spicy veggies alongside. An off-duty bartender told me that if I preferred a more authentic atmosphere with actual Haitian cooks and even moire affordable tropical inspired cocktails then we should make our way to Tap Tap. On our way south, we stopped by the new Rum Line over at Loews...enjoyed another round of awesome cocktails and a cool breezy atmosphere and great conversation. Didn't order up any nibbles here as when we mentioned we were headed to Tap Tap some friendly bar patrons overheard us and re-raved to us about it...but advised that we go there mid-week so that we could experience the cocktails as made by the newer bartender who is making some of the best cocktails on the beach. That sealed the deal. It was Thursday. We went to Tap Tap, our last stop for the evening. When we sat at the bar, we were presented with a small taste of the barman's special cocktail of the night and Wow... it was FANTASTIC. I ordered one of those and was dazzled by his special drink with ginger and coconut water and a bunch of other flavors (did I taste banana?) My friend was hoping for an equally inspired cocktail made with gin (mind you - this bar is hardly a "bar" as it has only a few bottle of rum and maybe a couple of other options on an otherwise minimalist back bar) and so Gary, our friendly and professional bartender, inquired whether he preferred "sweet/fruity, tart, boozy or balanced?" To which my friend replied "balanced". He instantly whipped up a gin cocktail with guava and lime and a few other ingredients that blew us away. Absolutely delicious and inspired. Mmmmmmm! We feasted on an assorted appetizer platter of various fried goodies, whole fish and rice (how can plain white rice taste so good?) and a salad with lambi (chonch) and a watercress dressing and hot spicy cabage. Fabulous. To our left was a woman visiting from England, who was equally wowed by the special libations (she had 3), and who generously shared her food selections with us, and we shared ours with her...and a great evening was had by all.
(5)
Jennifer W.
A must try restaurant in Miami Beach! It is definitely the best! I Like the coconut sauce so much! It is sooooo good! And the cornmeal with black beans is also very special and I love it so much. I came to this restaurant at noon and there was not much people in there but you will probably expect more people in dinner time. So just come earlier if you don't want to wait in line!
(5)
S C.
STAY AWAY!! This place doesn't represent authentic good Haitian food at all. Had a reservation at 8pm didn't get seated till 20 mins later. After being seated was told they ran out of rice and beans, fish, shrimp, pork etc...after waiting an entire hour of nothing to drink and no food and no sign of our waiter I asked for my food to go leaving the rest of my party to wait. Surprisingly that only took 5 min to arrive. The food tasted BLAND not good at all. My party said they waited an additional 30 min after I left for there food which was also flavorless. Tip was included which the waiter would of never gotten from me since he basically forgot about us. Oh and no parking at all I had to park my car in a very dark public parking lot down the street and walk through some crackheads to get to it. Please save yourself the stress and money.
(1)
Jessie L.
I love this place. This is THE place for great quality Haitian food. I tried this place back in 2009 with my boyfriend and a few friends, we took out some food and brought it back to my friend's condo on the beach. I didn't think it was all that great then. I got the griot (pork chunks) with pikliz (spicy vegetables) and sweet plantains. The griot was very good quality meat with hardly any fat and very succulent but the pikliz were terrible! They didn't taste good at all. And we all know that you can't have griot without good pikliz on top. The sweet plantains were also very good. Now, last month, my boyfriend and I decided to give this place another try. This time I ordered the poule nan sos (free-range chicken). This was AMAZING. It comes with a half of a chicken that they cook in it's own juices, rice & beans which were VERY flavorful, and green plantains. I normally get the green plantains when I eat Haitian food, but this time I substituted it for the fried sweet potatoes. I gave the pikliz on the table another try and they have also greatly improved to perfection. This dish was so flavorful that you didn't even need to add the pikliz. My boyfriend ordered the griot again and said that it was excellent. I'll definitely be back here soon!
(5)
Kaneesha P.
Yesterday evening, I went to Tap Tap with my partner and two of our close friends. Three members of our group are Jamaican American, so we wanted to experience the some of the best Caribbean food Miami Beach has to offer. We were not disappointed. First, the interior of the restaurant is striking. The walls and tables display colorful scenes and landscapes, making this also a site of public art. I'd like to learn more about the artist or artists. I was unsure about what I would be able to order, as I have a severe dairy allergy and am recently gluten free. (Jamaican food does not normally rely on cream or butter.) When I shared my concerns with the server, he was receptive, advised me on what could be adapted, and spoke to the chef about my order. We waited 20-25 minutes for our food, but the wait was likely due to my dietary restrictions. While we waited, I had a glass of their refreshing limeade. I didn't try the bread and butter, but it smelled incredible and my friends seemed to really enjoy the texture and flavor. Ultimately, I ordered the goat stew, which comes with mixed rice and beans and fried plantains. I loved it! The goat was tender and well-seasoned, but not overly salty, and the rice was satisfying. The plantains were good, though they were more starchy than the over-ripe Jamaican preparation to which I'm accustomed. The prices are higher than I'm used to paying for Caribbean fare, but it was worth every penny.
(5)
Eric K.
Great, charming, little SoBe spot... not too far out of the way / nice reprieve from the busier areas. Staff was super cool... We sat near the bar so drinks came extra quick - Good $8 mojitos are a real bargain.. We split a cpl sides (awesome spinach) and the whole poached fish which was really amazing.. Done in what must hv been homemade fish stock w lime juice and herbs. Very nicely done / large portion.... Similar to the steamed whole steamed fish at SriPraPhai or other good Thai places, but better. All about the broth.. French influence in full force w this dish. The whole meal w a cpl rounds was less than $60. The ambience was really cute too - simple furniture / layout but lots of fascinating custom mural work everywhere and some excellent live music on Saturday night. Tap Tap was pretty much my first experience at a real Haitian restaurant and I'll be back / will try to seek out something comparable here in NYC next time I'm in the mood for unique, cheap sea food, but I'm not holding my breath that I'll find anything here as good. Thumbs up.
(4)
Rodd P.
Nice restaurant with outdoor sitting, service is great food is amazing, if you are in south beach or anywhere in south Florida you must stop here , it'll remind you of Haïti
(5)
Steve T.
We ate here on 6/5/2014 at their outdoor space and mostly enjoyed the experience. The hostess, waitress, and male food runner were very pleasant, attentive and helpful but the female food runner was surly and somewhat rude. When a customer thanks you for the food you've just delivered a blank look is not the correct response. Everything was very quite prepared and extremely flavorful. I ordered the goat and while it was very good thought it could have used a little more cooking time as some of it was fairly difficult to eat. The only other real negative was the very long wait we had to get our check. There was another table outside waiting for their bill as well and in the end we both ended up having to go inside to request it at the bar. This was at 10:45 and while they had been very busy earlier in the evening things had quieted considerably by then.
(4)
Cristina W.
This is the perfect restaurant if you just want to chill out w/a group of friends and eat great food. I love their live music and chill ambiance. Plus, the food is also excellent. We always order the plantains, that are not overly fried or greasy. Oh, and don't forget their art murals and artifacts.. This is somewhere I'd definitely bring some touristy friends, who want a taste of what Miami is really like.
(5)
Kristi K.
Menu Choices: Wide-range of selections from the Tap Tap salad to Legumes to Fish to Goat. Food: Yes Lawd! If you know me you know I have an affinity for goat. Every time I see that on the menu at a Caribbean restaurant it is my "when in doubt" meal. They didn't have the stewed goat that I had my last visit so I had the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creole dipping sauce). I was going to save this as a "tip" BUT by fried they don't mean "southern fried". You are not going to get a crispy layer, so if that's what you are looking for you might be disappointed. It was definitely a homemade taste, which I can appreciate. Is is the height of culinary mastery? Not so much. Service: I wasn't fall awed by the service, but we really didn't give him much to do. The orders were taken well, and came out promptly. That's good in my book. Environment: I can go on and on about the environment. From the outside you have no idea about the rich vibrant world you are going to embark on. From the painted chairs, to the beautiful wall murals (that I could have stared at all day), it is a great space. The band was great and definitely made you swear you are on the short of Port-au-Prince. What to Wear: Whatever your heart desires but you can really leave the body cons in the closet (it's not that kind of party) Overall: Strong 4. Would I go again?: It is definitely on my Miami recommendations for friends, because the locals already know about it. A couple of tips: 1. There is a live band on Thursday that definitely heightens the whole experience. 2. They are known for their Mojitos.... kinda sweet but does that dang thing.
(4)
Valerie C.
In South Beach, you HAVE to try this. The Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Beef and okra) was plate-lickable. I normally don't finish beans & rice, but nearly licked that bowl too. Brought some take out back to my husband who was skeptical about Haitian food. One bite, his eyes bulged out as he said "we're going back". Star demerit for the prices, a bit more than expected but I may need to spend more time in SB to realize most everything costs a bit more here. My husband didn't seem to think it was expensive so there you have it. Ambience is cool, every square inch is hand painted. Staff is friendly amd attentive.
(4)
Collin C.
Overpriced! Lousy $9 rum punch. Watched servers use left behind used napkins and half drank ice water to wipe tables down for next guest. Food was just ok. If this represents Haitian food well, than I'm never going to Haiti. Our waiter though was very pleasant.
(2)
Brian C.
We stopped in based on a New Times recommendation, as this place recently won the "Best Mojito" award. How could we not stop in for a mojito while in Miami? The mojito fully deserved the award and was by far the best mojito I've ever had. I wish we were hungry then, because the food we saw looked and smelled delicious. The staff was very friendly and the ambiance was awesome. Cool place.
(5)
Rene R.
Great customer service but they took forever to bring our food! 2 hours of our trip wasted!!! Not good when it is your first time to Miami!
(3)
Nathan E.
I love this restaurant. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best in the world. It's definitely one of my favorites. First, the menu. Despite the huge Haitian population in Miami, there aren't a lot of Haitian restaurants. And this is the best one. You're getting something here that you're not going to get anywhere else outside of Haiti. Start with the pumpkin soup. Try the Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) as your main. The coconut-cremed spinach is my favorite side dish. And a natif is a great cocktail, and I bet you'll never find it at another restaurant. But all the dishes are good, so if you're with company, get a bunch of stuff and share. Secondly, the decor. The taptap parked on Fifth Street in front of the restaurant establishes the Haitian ambiance. (If you don't know what a taptap is, ask the owner - he loves any excuse to talk about Haitian culture!) The walls of the restaurant are all hand-painted murals, mostly depicting Haitian Iwa (Again, ask if you don't know!) I love the room with the pair of facing Erzulies (Danto and Freda), and also the painting of the happy village in the music room. All the chairs, tables and everything else is hand-painted too with decorative patterns of lively colors. Not only is every corner of this restaurant interesting to look at, it's distinctly non-trendy and non-corporate. There's really nothing else like it on South Beach. Next, the live music. It's free live music! How often do you see that on South Beach. The band is great, the singers are great. It's a mixture of French jazz and popular Haitian folk music. Often the whole thing turns into a big sing-along. And the prices are damn cheap for what you're getting. Ok, the draw-backs: (1) It's hard to get a decent table on a weekend night, especially if you want to sit in the "music room" (2) the layout of the place is kinda funky for live music. Let me explain: The place comprises a series of small rooms with only a few tables in each. If you're sitting in the "music room" then expect that you won't be able to have a conversation while the band is playing because it's so loud in there, and expect that the room is so cramped that you're probably going to have an instrumentalist leaning on your table for balance - if not playing directly over your head. On the other hand, if you sit any place else besides the "music room," then you won't be able to see the band at all. You can hear them through the thin walls, but that's it. I always try to reserve the "music room" when I go to Tap Tap. I love the music, and live music is more interesting to me than dinner conversation. Besides there's always a chance to talk during breaks and before and after they go on. It's like a free concert with great food. I love it. It makes me want to plan a trip to Haiti.
(5)
Max S.
Such a unique place. Don't get to come here as often as I'd like but its always on my mind! Great Ambiance! Their is ART all over the walls! Great food! and sometimes they have live music.
(4)
Jason J.
The love the look and feel of this restaurant. The service was awesome and the waitress was very informative. The location isn't that great because they don't have a parking lot.
(4)
Jessica J.
We stumbled upon Tap Tap after realizing that Joe's Take away closed for the season and I'm so glad we did! We ate on a Thursday night and they had an awesome band playing in the back. I loved all the colorful murals and our server was great. He warned us on spice levels of dishes, suggested complimenting sides etc. For an app we ordered the conch ceviche and it was so good we ordered another! For our meal I had the shrimp in coconut sauce spicy and my husband got the grouper. Both were delicious! We had the upside down pineapple rum cake for dessert and while the flavors were there it was oddly crumbly texture for a cake. I would try another option. We will be back!
(4)
Brian G.
Tap Tap has 5 food and 3 service all be it friendly, but who cares, it is unique, has music, brightly colored murals, all over the walls as well as, smaller more private rooms etc. the food is fantastic. the goat, conch, chicken, fish, drinks etc etc. it is a great place to celebrate or just go for dinner. when there is music, it can get loud. they have a small bar in front, 2 tables outside and an upstairs for big events. so there is no need to travel to little Haiti!! the prices are also reasonable for South Beach.
(4)
Ashley N.
Never had Haitian food before but after trying tap tap I LOVE IT!! Had the pork!! Just amazing and perfect amount of juiciness ! A must try. Mojito was good as well.
(5)
Feyi B.
I would come back to Miami just for this place. First time having Haitian food and consider me SOLD! There arent many international food places that are non-hispanic, so when i was feigning some caribbean food, this was the closest i could find. The place is really colorful, nice live band playing, super friendly staff and food to make you SLAP your mom! (not really slap her, but you get me. notice i didnt say slap MY mom). I had oxtails, coconut spinach, fritters and this concoction thats like an oatmeal mixed with beans or something. Everything was to die for. The ONLY reason i didnt give this place 5*'s is because they kept running out of stuff, which was annoying. I wanted goat, but they ran out. I wanted fried plantains, but they ran out. I wanted bread, but they ran out... I mean..... Only thing i wasnt a big fan of was the fritters, maybe if the sauce was different.... idk. a lil tangier than i wld've liked.
(4)
Arleen L.
There's no better advice than a local's suggestion and we were fortunate enough to get the inside scoop from our awesome Haitian driver! I had the shrimp dish in coconut sauce, while my girlfriend got the grouper in a delicious traditional sauce. We're so glad we stopped by before heading to the airport!
(4)
Cece U.
I was in Miami for a conference and one of the guys in my group said a rather large female taxi driver had recommended Tap Tap for good Haitian food. He says whenever in a new city he always asks larger people for food recommendations and it never steers him wrong. I am not very impressed by his theory (esp since I am rather skinny and feel that I give good food recs)... but he's known for being crass and politically incorrect so I try not to let these things bother me anymore. Anyway, the taxi driver said it was the best place to eat in Miami beach so we decided to give it a try one evening. The food was amazing. I had the goat stew and I think I smiled throughout the entire meal. The portions are substantial. My goat stew came with plantain and rice. I also ordered a mango smoothie which was super refreshing. I wish I had known at the time that they had such good mojitos, but my colleague had one and said he enjoyed it very much. We did try the malanga appetizers. They were good but nothing to write home about in my opinion. Overall an excellent experience. I can't wait to come back and try the mojitos!
(5)
Erik W.
Now been there twice. Food is delicious. Get anything conch if you can! The service is a little spotty, but both times we went at slightly off hours, so I'm willing to forgive.
(4)
Athena K.
So, let's just preface this by saying that I'm comparing this to all the other Haitian places out there and not to your standard South Beach restaurant. Yes, the food is decent. I had some chicken that was really good. The rice with beqn sauce is good, so are the plantains. The juice is decent. But my kabrit was super dry. Overall this food is really bland. Considering it's Haitian I'd expect spice, more thyme, more Creole seasoning. It's almost like it got moved down a notch or two to accomodate American palates. All in all, it's not horrible, but if you just went to a hole in the wall in Little Haiti you'd get a better meal for half the price.
(2)
Deborah P.
Went back for a late dinner. Waiter was very pleasant with recommendations. Our vegetarian was pleased with his stewed veggies and black rice. The appetizer platter was good along with excellent Soley cocktails. My grouper was excellent and the stewed goat was also tasty. The grilled chicken was a little salty but otherwise tasty. Great spot with lots of ambiance and good eating.
(4)
Pauli L.
Was in Miami last week and researched couple of places to eat before I left so what site did I go to first? Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, of course. This restaurant was on the show so I Yelped it, had good reviews, decided to check it out, My friend and I ordered the spicy Conch (pronounced, Conk) ceviche style as an appy, which turned out to be surprisingly tasty (surprising because neither of us have tried conch before) and it wasn't too spicy unless you are very sensitive to spice then it will be spicy. For the main meal, my friend ordered the Shrimp in coconut sauce which was oh so good and very big shrimps too! I ordered the stewed vegetable dish, a bit heavy on the salt but also did not disappoint! Both these dished came with rice and beans and plantain fritters. My friend got her beans on the side and white rice and I got mine mixed in, which was way better than getting them separately. The plantain fritters were a bit on the dry side and bland too so not impressed with that. Overall service was very friendly and prompt! Bon Apetite!
(4)
Monica S.
At some point during my South Beach stroll, I wandered into this nook and cranny Caribbean hut. Something about the colorful interior reminded me of my favorite Mexican bar in Philly, Cantina. With it's charming mishmash decor, the vibrancy that surrounds you makes you feel instantly at home, instantly welcome, and altogether like you're on vacation. Bright, tropical colors, wide grins from that staff, and the frequent busboy who operates with a bounce in his step (atypical for South Beach). If you listen closely, that's the sound of the best mojito being muddled and shaken. Whether it's a seat within the outdoor front porch or indoors within one of the many seemingly separate rooms, there just isn't a bad spot in the house where island energy is palpable. On a lucky night, a live band might be playing in the backroom with sounds from native Haiti. You won't find any electro lounge music here, everything is strictly authentic. Down to the menu, you'll see goat stew, shrimp in creole or coconut sauce (with the coconut sauce was my favorite), conch, fried plantains and more. This would be a great spot to bring a date, specifically when it's so vastly different from everything else on South Beach. If Gary's there, be sure to chat him up. He's the dapper GM with a smile for miles.
(4)
Kritchel I.
If you want any of their specialty food (oxtail, goat, or conch), I suggest to call ahead. When we went at 3pm, they didn't haven't any of these food items. Disappointing! So instead, we ordered the the legim, the shrimp in coconut sauce, and the griyo. These dishes were delicious, the only reason for my 3 stars. The service was also disappointing. The server was nice but it seemed like she was the only one for the whole restaurant (the server forgot to get one of our dishes and the spoon we asked for never came).
(3)
A. A.
The goat was really yum! Reminded me of goat I enjoyed when visiting family in Nigeria. And the mojito was amazing, too.
(4)
Chris C.
I enjoyed this place while in South Beach.There were four of us so I had the opportunity to try the oxtail, (which is not on the menu), the chicken stew, and the grilled chicken. I enjoyed all ,but the Chicken stew stood out the best. The only complaints I have where the parking and how they just added on my check their tip amont of 18%.I gave it to her but found that kind of interesting.Oh I must add that the mojitos are very good.
(4)
Carlos Q.
I had the griyo and my wife had the stewed chicken. Both were so so. The mojito was weak and too limey. The rice and beans were dry and not very good. All in all for the price there are better places in Miami to eat. The service was fair. The dessert a slice of sweet potatoe pie was awful it tasted like wet sand. We took one bite and left it the server never asked if there was something wrong with it she just took it away. I wouldn't come back here.
(1)
Juan Pablo G.
I have been here 3 times and I have to say the 3 times have been the same experience. The food is delicious, I don't have any complaints about this, actually it is good to try something different from what you have in the area. But the problem comes when you talk about service. There was just 1 person handling 3 tables, but she wasn't able to take care of them. We spent over half an hour trying to get the check, half an hour trying to get something else the worst thing we had to get up twice like for example get a knife and a fork. Also for lunch, if you arrive early (before 1pm), there are dishes that are not ready/available yet.
(2)
Stan B.
Over my vacation stay I went to some really amazing restaurants with beautiful views and amazing ambiance. However, my favorite restaurant was Tap Tap. The food was delicious (I had oxtail), Alcoholic drinks were well mixed and tasty. The water was flavored with various refreshing flavors. Bread came warm with garlic butter. Overall it was an enjoyable experience and I would recommend Tap Tap to anyone.
(5)
Richard R.
We saw this place on Drive Ins, Diners and Dives. Chef was wearing a Boss T-Shirt which is always welcoming to us New Jerseyians. Tap Tap is a bit of hike from the touristy part of Ocean Drive but we hoofed it out. Colorful murals, friendly staff and this place is pretty big. Menu is not that large but everything looked good so hard to make a choice, They also have daily specials. Fruit punch was very good and they have Premier Haitian beer. We had the poached yellow tail which was fantastic, had a little heat. We also had the grilled chicken that was also really good and the avocado and tomato salad. The dressing on this was also very good. Our check for 3 people, one beer, 2 fruit drinks and the above was about $65.00 without aps or dessert so it can get a little pricey. Nice place and would go back again.
(4)
Food C.
this place is pretty cool. pros: live music, good food, nice servers, good mojitos mojitos: they were good. it was said they have one of the best mojitos in south beach. i think the mojito was good. it was well mixed because you didn't taste any sugar granules. i wouldn't say the mojito was very strong. it was sweet. everyone's level of what "strong" is different. they were good. not the best i ever had, not the worse. above average but not stellar. food: it was really tasty. tasted homemade like someone made it in their kitchen versus massed produced. it was really good. band: nice mix of live music. liked them a lot. wasn't very crowded during the time i went there. seemed empty and sparse. with all the positive reviews i had thought it was going to be more lively. the band played to a practically empty house. hopefully they have more busy days. ambiance is very casual a lot of art on the wall and various painting. cleanliness: things seemed ok but rustic. maybe that was the look they were going for. it was kind of one of those places where you dont want to look around and inspect too much because you may not want to eat. so i just focused on the food and kept my eyes on the plate and my ears on the band.
(4)
Sharon W.
I want to love this place because the interior is so cool, the staff is friendly and I do like the drinks. But! The food is just OK and it is expensive for very small portions. It seems to be lacking zest and flavor. I'm always excited to eat here and then I'm always disappointed.
(3)
Zarina R.
4/21/12 - I have seen this restaurant for years and have always wondered what it was like to eat there. Finally this past Saturday, I had the opportunity to try it out. We got there around 10 at night. and sat at the bar waiting for our table. We waited about 10 minutes for a table while sipping on mojitos. The mojitos were made just right -- not too sweet or tart. We started with the Malanga Fritters and Spicy Conch Salad. The salad definitely had a kick to it. I don't know how may glasses of water I drank that night. For dinner we had the Shrimp in coconut sauce and Oxtail. The service was slow and at times my water cup was empty. There was no one around to refill it. They also had a band playing and people dancing. The atmosphere was quite lively but the music was so loud, that my friend who was sitting across from me could not hear a word I was saying.
(3)
Matthew A.
Awesome
(4)
Christopher M.
Still awesome food! Was disappointed it was so cold inside. Bartender was slow despite few customers. Though she was nice. Or bill for two, paying in cash, cane with an automatic gratuity of 20%. That shouldn't happen.
(4)
Rajagopalan R.
Very Good options for vegetarians!! Very hospitable staff ..
(4)
Alexandra A.
This is one of SoBe's 'diamonds in the rough.' Somewhat off the beaten track, it clearly has a cache of regulars which attests to its longevity, consistency and ease of welcome. There are no airs here and that, for me, is a breath of...well, fresh air. In general, I would say it's a far cry from SoBe trendier eateries which seemed to define SoBe and all of its chicness. Hence, this is precisely why it's a gem. Too be honest, I'm not a huge fan of Haitian food (no offense intended) but I am woman enough to admit that my preconceived notions were quickly dashed. And I'm looking forward to visiting it again. I loved the casual ambiance that pays authentic homage to the colorful nature of Haitian roots and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. The restaurant brings to mind an eclectic family-oriented home in Haiti - railroad style. Vivid colors abound everywhere, effortlessly whisking you away to a tropical paradise far from the conscious glamour well-known to SoBe. The compelling Carib/Haitian art is not only everywhere, it's a wonderful touch because it's smart and well-thought out. Not kitschy in the least. The painted tables were absolutely stunning. I loved the mojitos while my guests drank beer. The food was exotic and appetizing and coming from a diversely different Carib culture (Jamaican on my mother's side), this was a particular treat.. I (along with one guest) began with an appetizer called Akra (malanga fritters) which is a root vegetable similar to yucca. Wonderful. The other guest opted for Salad Zaboka Ak Tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions, house dressing.) As our collective utensils were scraping the plate in search of more and more, I'd have to say that was a winner. We then segued to (1) Kribish Nan Sos Kokoye (Shrimp in coconut sauce) - Did I love it? Well, put it this way, I didn't hate it. But by no means is this a reflection of Tap Tap. Frankly, it's more a testament to my own pickiness (a flaw from childhood) and my even odder aversion to soupy-like dishes. This came atop Diri Blan Ak Sos Pwa (a bed of white rice with beans sauce). Overall, it was filling, flavorful and decent. On the other hand: (2) Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) ordered by the third guest evidently was a big hit. There wasn't so much as a crumb left on the plate. Suffice it to say, we were too full for desert but settled with Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian coffee) which was a dream. Prices were reasonable. Wait time was about 15 minutes during which we whiled away the time, catching up and sipping cocktails. The staff is attentive, friendly and informative, yet not intrusive. And there's no pressure to get you out. The only downside: it would've been nice to be treated to some Haitian music (Kompa is a favorite of mine.) Overall, it's a nice place to kick back and relax, particularly if you're with people who are relaxed and adept at scintillating conversation.
(4)
TK T.
While this place was recommended by some locals as well as a friend from NYC I was not too impressed with either food or service. Food did not have any distinguishing flavors (we had goat curry and shrimp dish as well as ceviche app). Service was beyond slow. I really enjoyed bright art decorations. Extremely casual.
(3)
Nikki R.
I would love to comment on ABIR H from NY's review below. I had the pleasure of witnessing ABIR and his two female friends argue w the waiter and mngr at the hostess stand. Not only does ABIR fail to mention that both he and his friends were SCREAMING "I want my apology now.." At the waiter, but one of his girlfriends would storm in and out the front door saying profanities each time she passed my table. He also seems to forget that he and his whiny friends were verbally abusing the staff in front of about 15 patrons dining in the front entrance. ( It was very busy do to Labor Day weekend) However the most important response to their obnoxious behavior ABIR conveniently left out was when they finally headed to the exit muttering profanities for all to hear, all the patrons dining along side me collectivly addressed them, " you're ruining our dining experience", "I've been listening to your insults and apology demands for 20 mins" , " just leave and never come back" There was applause when he exited the door muttering "F this place. " It's obnoxious people like ABIR and his rude friends that give Miami tourists a bad name. Shame on you ABIR for you one sided and hypocritical review of one of the best local spots. Stay in NYC. I pray to never see you and your disgusting behavior in Miami again.
(5)
Robert B.
This place is the best. I must come here any time in Miami. This is my fifth or sixth time here. I have never had a less than great experience. The wait staff is always friendly and accommodating. If you need an explanation about a dish; no problem. The goat tidbits are amazing! I won't share. The fried snapper and the oxtail (have to ask for it) are just plain incredible. There are plenty of fancy places to eat in Miami and fancy this really is not. Have had good good at fancy places in Miami. Have always had great food here. By the way, you have to have the spicy cabbage on the table. Awesome!
(5)
Peter H.
We have been to Tap Tap many times. The food is delicious, the drinks can be good. Look for the goat meat appetizers and the whole fish options for dinner. Good for kids, too. The rum punch is delicious.
(4)
Dominic T.
Was curious about Haitian food so visited here with some friends. It was amazing, reasonably priced and the waitress was very helpful in suggesting dishes. The entire restaurant is painted in Haitian style, even the floors and ceilings, and the live music set a great mood. I would visit this place again and again!
(5)
Jason A.
Excellent. Very slow (as molasses ) service , but the good is top notch and special. I love the stewed conch , the steed beef is supposed to be great. Also, the Haitian coffee is a must.
(5)
Sarah G.
the food tase good, the design of the restaurant make you feel Haitian , we couldnt finish the food and we packed, even next day we reheat the food, still taste good. But the add 18% tips on your bill. :-(
(4)
Johnny T.
Sooner or later, you have to do it. You have to go to Tap Tap. There's only so long a person can resist the brightly colored murals adorning the facade of the building. Like a moth to a flame, I tell you. I've never been to Haiti, so I can't vouch for whether the food is authentic or tourist-driven but I *can* tell you that it's good. It's very good. Start off with some malanga fritters that come with a spicy green sauce. Is it garlic? Cilantro? Magic? I dunno. All I know is that sewer rat probably would have tasted good if enough of that sauce was drizzled over it. It's very important to order a simple appetizer... because service is slow and my bread, meal and drink all came out at once and after waiting a considerable amount of time. The restaurant wasn't busy and my waiter didn't seem that concerned with making sure I was fed, fat and happy. I don't think it's a personal thing; I just think nonchalant service is the norm here (and with auto-gratuity it doesn't have to be anything but nonchalant). So, if you don't want to sit at a sticky table with nothing more than water and your thoughts, order something quick and easy from the kitchen. Your bread basket won't see you until the main event. I finished my fritters, drank some water, looked around at the walls, exchanged side-eyes with a waitress (I think it's an island greeting), and waited... for a while. I called a friend. I leaned back. I continued to wait. Finally, my bread, drink and meal came out all at once. I would have had an attitude about it but the meal was just.too.good. Bread is bread (except when it isn't and is served with herb butter... but here, bread is bread), so no big whoop. To drink I ordered a natif -- which is lime, rum and sugar. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this. The drink was served in a small water glass and was pretty weak. I didn't even get the pop of fresh lime one would think would be the signature element of the beverage. I wouldn't order it again. So, what do all of these negatives tell you? It tells you that my meal was off the hook slamming. I ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and game over. Done. This meal will make you forget about the triflingness you just encountered. Large, succulent shrimp, slathered in a sweet red coconut curry and paired with a mound of rice is good. Add to that, red beans and tostones and, well, you're not going to know what you did to deserve food like this. I am a firm believer of tasting everything separately at first and then mashing it altogether. After I satisfied my curiosity that everything was made well, I combined the food and flavor to create a Haitian food version of Captain Planet. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. Each bite was better than the last. Despite my best efforts, I inhaled my food. I wanted to savor it. I wanted the flavors to linger on my tongue... but I scarfed it down. And I'd do it all over again. That isht was good!
(4)
Karla S.
I'd like to give Tap Tap 4 stars based on the atmosphere alone. The colorful walls adorned with Haitian art are absolutely enchanting. You really see how vibrant this culture is with the restaurant's decor. It's lively and beautiful. However, as lovely as the restaurant looked, I was there for the food. I ordered the Haitian mojito which was less than memorable. To start off we ordered the conch salad (which was ok, but tasted like a really rubbery overcooked ceviche with celery bits). My entree was the grouper in lime sauce, which came with fried platains (just like Cuban tostones) and rice and beans. The fish was cooked quite well and the flavors were mild and pleasant. However, for an $20 dish, this was just average. The service was attentive, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food was simple but good. I just don't think I'll be a regular any time soon. I'd recommend to try it out once, maybe when they have live music just for the experience alone.
(3)
Katrina S.
It was the end of a beautiful day on Miami Beach. My girlfriends were trying to figure out where we wanted to get dinner that evening, so I whipped out my handy-dandy Snap Guide for Miami... budgettravel.com/bt-srv/… . I scanned through the list of potential eats, and my eyes could not move past - Haitian! - goat stewed! - live Haitian music Thurs and Sat! The day in question was indeed a Thursday so I was able to convince my companions that we must go to Tap Tap! Bonus... Tap Tap was walking distance from the beach! It was still pretty early so we were some of the first diners to arrive. Since we were still in our beach wear, we opted to sit out on the front porch to enjoy the rest of the warm day. Our server was as sweet as could be and answered all our questions about the Haitian dishes that were new to us. All the food was delicious... I especially loved the spinach in coconut sauce. Mmm, great combination. Don't forget to try one of their juices!!!! I am a soursop fanatic and I almost jumped out of my chair when I saw they served fresh soursop! My cohorts were hesitant at first, but when I passed my glass around the table to offer tastes, a new order went in for 4 more soursops! Yep, they are that good! I wish I could have tried more dishes, stayed longer to enjoy the live music, and basically just enjoyed the comforting atmosphere, but this was a short trip to Miami Beach and the night was about to get started. Reluctantly I left my empty glasses and dishes, but the next time I find myself in South Beach, Tap Tap will be at the top of my list of sights to see, to experience, and to get my grub on!
(5)
Luke W.
This place is a diamond in the rough. Miami Beach is full of template-cut art-deco bars and restaurants offering food at premium prices, and here is this incredible restaurant offering authentic cuisine from a country not known for its cuisine at very reasonable prices, along with wonderful murals of pastoral Haitian life covering practically every surface and live Haitian music on the weekends. This place is so good, it was the only restaurant I would ever go to because nothing else in Miami Beach can even come close.
(5)
AshleyMarie O.
YUMMMYYYYYYYY Mango Salad, Coco Shrimp, whole fish xoxoxxxx yummmm Mojitos are killer
(4)
Marcus K.
I agree with my friend who reviewed this place 4 years ago -- overrated. While the decor gives off an appropriate island vibe, the floors and tables were simply dirty (I especially despise it when my forearms stick to the tabletop). That pretty much ruined the meal for me. Then the food came out (VERY SLOWLY), and was pretty much underwhelmed by the flavors. Had the fried appetizer, which was fairly unremarkable, unseasoned for the most part, and with the exception of the green sauce, lacked any flavor. There was one sauce that tasted like roasted pork drippings, which unfortunately tasted too much like week-old left-overs. Then had the coconut shrimp, which was really not that good. But the kicker was that the shrimp were NOT de-veined. That's just simply unacceptable. AND, it's pricy. Don't really feel like forking over a decent wad of cash, for mediocre food, and walking through a slightly shady part of SoBe to do it. My recommendation is not to Tap Tap it.
(2)
Erik R.
Let me start out by saying that the food here is VERY good and tasty! We had the whole fish and the half chicken and they were both very good, the chicken in particular. However, each of the dishes were described by the waitress as being enough for two people, yet with our party of three, we had to order extra rice and the amount then was only just enough. The cilantro-garlic sauce was out of this world. Judged on the food quality alone, this would be a solid 5-star. However, this is where the negatives start to pile up. First off, it was quite on the pricey side and even though the service was almost non-existing (only got water refilled once, after a long wait and requests), we also had to wait for our food for quite a long time (~45 mins after being seated). Not to mention that our waitress was quite unfriendly the few times she actually made it to our table. In addition, the place is somewhat decorated with homeless people that seem to be hanging out at the place. We had outdoor seating (there are only two tables there) and there were two - apparently homeless - people sitting at chairs right next to our table and they were not told to leave by the staff. It didn't bother me too much and I actually ended up having some interesting conversations with them, but it might bother some that don't want to be bothered while eating out in a restaurant that is not cheap. They also had some odd 'booze-the-tourist' thingy going on at the bar right inside where they would semi-grab customers, put them on a bar-stool with the back against the bar then pour liquor down their throats until their mouths would overflow. Made me think of a cheap, very-sketchy Cancun experience I had years back and not something I expected from a rather expensive (and VERY nicely decorated by the way) restaurant. Furthermore, when the bill arrived, they had already added an 18% tip, which I was not happy about. Granted, I always tip, and very rarely less than at least 15%, but I reserve the right to tip according to the level of service and this was NOT worth an 18% tip as described above. There was another line for ADDITIONAL tipping and out of principle, I added a negative 3% tip to form a total of a 15% tip (I would say, the service we got from this waitress was more like a 5% tip though) and updated the total accordingly. Again, we are talking less than $2 difference, but it's the principle that matters to me. Well, when I checked my credit card statement, they had still charged me the full amount (including 18% tip), which was NOT what I signed the check for. So, while the food was tasty, the overall impression was just not great at all.
(2)
Melissa C.
This place has really tasty food. I've never had haitian food before so when this joint popped up in our yelp search for top places to eat in the area, i was excited. The building looks like an office building of some sort from the outside but inside it's colorful and fun! Lot's of decorations and pretty wall murals on the inside. We were seated right away and ordered the goat tidbits and conch for appetizers. For our main courses we shared stewed goat, the whole fried fish, and the pork. All were really good. The conch salad had a spicy kick which was really good and the salad tasted really fresh. The goat in both the appetizer and the stew were delicious...very tasty and super tender. The fish was crispy on the outside and flavorful all around. I would definitely recommend this spot if you are in the area. The service is very friendly...but a little slow, but the food makes up for it so just come here when ur not in a hurry.
(4)
Kelly S.
The bartender was the friendliest bartender ever - even though we were only having iced tea and some lunch. The food was nicely seasoned/spiced. I had a shrimp dish that was just divine. Will definately go back if I'm back in the area.
(4)
Maria K.
I must say, I'm thoroughly disappointed when it comes to restaurants in South Florida. While it's easy to find restaurants that look trendy, chic, and are full of beautiful people, it's hard to find places with substance. Which is why I was in for a real surprise when I went to Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant. First off, the atmosphere is nice. It feels authentic. The decor is very much inspired by the colors and designs of Haiti. Second (and most important) the food was phenomenal. The menu is small (a good sign that they abide by the quality over quantity principle) and you can tell all the ingredients were top notch. Definitely no cutting corners. I went there two times (within a week) and both times ordered the diri kole (mixed beans and rice), banann peze (fried plantains), kribish nan sos kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce). For dessert, we shared the benyen (banana fritters w/ sprinkled sugar), blan mange (traditional coconut dessert), and pen patat (sweet potato pie.) Deeeeelicious. Lastly, the cocktails were excellent too! If you are ever in South Beach, you have got to try this place. It's unpretentious and the real deal!
(5)
Diva A.
Absolutely love this place!!! The food is great as well as the atmosphere...i will definitely go there again
(5)
Raquel S.
What really brought me to Tap Tap is the Food Network special that featured them, plus I'm Haitian so I was really eager to go. I really appreciated that they kept the menu true to our culture, but was a little disappointed with the taste. Don't get me wrong, the food was ok, but I've had better at other authentic Haitian restaurants for cheaper. I ordered the grilled lumbi which wasn't bad. Their Kabrit en sauce was not too good though. The pieces were too large and had huge bones in it. The rice and red beans were official though...very good! Fritay was just ok. We ordered their famous poached snapper in sauce to go, so I hope it lives up to its rep. Wasn't too big on their drinks either... Love the Haitian decor and ambiance...you literally feel like you're in Haiti when you walk through their doors...they get points for that. Not going to rush back for seconds, but will not stay away either...The chef was very nice also.
(3)
Kent H.
Little bit of a wait, but it was well worth it. First comes the shrimp in coconut sauce, the coconut sauce was phenomenal. I found myself dipping everything in this sauce. The rice, that came with the shrimp had a great spice taste. Soaked the rice as well. Had the grouper in lime sauce, good, but nothing too special. The tropical rhum punch, very fruity, didn't taste much of the rum at all, this was a positive.
(4)
Jamila N.
The food here is absolutely delicious. Hands down. Flavorful, fresh, well made. The service is good, no doubt. Attentive and friendly. The decor is gorgeous, with Haitian images painted on the walls, chairs, doors, even the bathroom stalls. The location is pretty cool, and if you eat outside, it's great. I have to take away a star because of their tendency to run out of things...essential things...like rice, towards the end of the night. This is Haitian food. Even at the end, you GOTTA have rice! Oh, try the fish and the spaghetti with shrimp (share it as an appetizer). More fantastic than you'd imagine.
(4)
Gina N.
Yay for haitian food in Miami! Loved the decor and ambiance of this place. Given all the raves on yelp, we had to check it out. Even better, it was just a few blocks for our hotel. The only disappointment was there are actually no more live bands playing here. But that didn't stop us from enjoying our delicious dinner. Service was a bit slow, but expected on a busy saturday nite. We tried the malanga fritters & the grilled conch. Both very unique and distinct flavors, but oh so tasty. Us gals scarfed down our food, and our plates were wiped clean! Either we were super starving or the food was just that good! I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone visiting miami and wants to try authentic haitian cuisine!
(4)
C D.
MY ALL TIME FAVORITE RESTAURANT. I wish I could eat here everyday. The downside, they don't always have everything on the menu in stock.
(5)
Octavia Y.
Soooo, I read a few reviews about Tap Tap before going and without a doubt, they were mixed so I thought it was worth a try. Boy was I wrong!!!! I got the shrimp creole, another friend got the whole fish, and another got the stew chicken.... First off, OUR FOOD CAME OUT COLD, all except the fish. Next, my shrimp Creole came out tasting and looking like a warmed shrimp cocktail, it was gross! I told the waiter and she told me "yea, sometimes it comes out really tomatoey and sometimes not". She was so nonchalant. I should have listened to my haitian friend that said the place was no good! It was a waste of our money. We went a few minutes after it opened... To add insult to injury, I went to the bathroom before we left only to be greeted with NO TOLIET PAPER!!! I had to wipe myself with paper towel ! I would NEVER recommend this place to ANYONE. Get off the beach and get up to North Miami and check out Chef Creole ! The food is amaze and the cost is even better.
(1)
Nik J.
Overall, Tap Tap is a winner in my book. The food and drinks are authentic and good. The service can be a bit slow, but this is Miami Beach, so you can't expect things to move at the speed of light. The decor is vibrant and something really different from the contemporary look that most restaurants on the beach have. They really went authentic with the murals and colorful walls all over the restaurant. As far as the food, we got the goat tidbits and conch ceviche appetizers. They were both solid dishes but I would recommend sticking with the goat because it was tender and flavorful and something different. For entrees, we got the half grilled chicken, goat stew, shrimp in coconut sauce and the snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. The chicken was some of the best I have EVER had. It tasted like it had been marinated for days and was super tender and full of flavor. It came with a green chutney type sauce for dipping which was amazing as well. The goat stew was pretty good, but didn't knock my socks off. The shrimp in coconut sauce was outstanding.. a must have. The only negative thing I had to say about the place is that you have to be careful if you don't like spicy food. I asked the waitress if the snapper I was ordering was spicy and she said it was mild. When it came, it was blazing hot and got my sinuses working overtime. I don't know if the cook just went overboard on the hot peppers that night or what, but it was HOT. I was also disappointed about the fact that they were out of the grilled goat entree that has gotten rave reviews. Supposedly they sell out of it within a day or two of receiving it, so you should call beforehand to see if they have it before going there. Now most importantly the drinks are outstanding. Probably the best rum punch I have had that I can remember. The mojitos are also good, but the rum punch is a must have. The Haitian Pretige beer is also good.. kind of similar to a Red Stripe. Bottom line if you go there: get the half chicken, try some kind of goat dish and drink the rum punch.
(4)
Nicky L.
The food here was delicious. Service is quick and friendly. You feel like you are transported into a home in the Caribbean with the authentic decor and creative murals. I would definitely return. A lot of people mentioned having the best mojito here but thats the one thing i wasn't to thrilled about. It was just ok. While in miami i look for Mojito perfection.. just saying..
(4)
Chu Z.
Went on a friday night. Very crowded. The food was quite good but the service was definitely not that satisfying. It took me and my gf over 30 mins (which was supposed to be 10 mins) to wait for table and more than 20 mins for our dishes. During this time the waiter never came up and talked to us. Ordered their malanga fritters (amazing sauce), shrimps in coconut sauce (over cooked shrimps), fried birkshire pork chunks (yummy!), signature mojito and tropical rum punch. Food was really good, but the portion was not generous. Drink was really good too, quite strong and a little pricey ($8 each). We ended up paying over $30 each. However did not feel full. Nice deco with relaxing and joyous atmosphere, tropical theme and haitian painting were impressing as well. If only the service was better.
(3)
Michael N.
Great service. Great food. Had a party of 12 there Saturday night and they were extremely attentive and everything was superlative. I had been to Tap Tap a few years ago and loved it and was pleased that over the years nothing had slipped. What I love most about it is it's an escape from the South Beach thumping dance music vibe and generic food of Ocean and Collins and easy walking distance from the hotels. I highly suggest it.
(5)
Beth L.
South Beach is full of overpriced, hyped up scene-y restaurants that promise the best but don't deliver much more than attitude and mediocre food designed to fleece tourists and locals alike. Tap Tap is the antithesis of this -- unpretentious, down to earth, delicious food and decent sized portions. I had been meaning to try this place for years, but just never got around to it until a few days ago when a friend suggested it to celebrate the birthday for another friend. I wish I could remember the dishes we ordered and shared that night, but truthfully either my brain shorted out while I was shoveling all of that delicious food into my mouth, or I had one too many Haitian mojitos.
(4)
M. J. D.
Haiti. It's just as relaxed as you can get. So calling Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant authentic, is spot on. When we first arrived, the door was still locked. There were a lot of signs on the door, but nothing with the hours on it. After a minute or two, someone came to the door and asked what we wanted. Um, it's a restaurant at lunchtime, so I'm thinking food? He says they will be open in maybe 30 minutes. I wasn't starved, and we had rented a couple of Decobikes, so we just toured up and down South Beach and returned to Tap Tap. You see, the guy just seemed so pleasant about not being open yet, that it gave us both a good vibe. No hurry, laid back. It's why I go on vacation. Inside, it feels like a Caribbean bar. Multi-colored everything, wooden stools at the bar that couldn't have cost more than $3. We sat at the stools. No worry, my brother mon, it wont fail you. Hot and tired from our ride, the waitress treated us like friends. Water came swiftly, and we were treated quite well, despite our claim that because we were so tired, we were only going to split an appetizer, and have a couple of beers. The waitress, who also carried a certain air about her, like she was the proprietor, suggested a Haitian beer when we mentioned we were looking for something authentic. Being thirsty, I decided to play my beer safe and stuck with a familiar Jamaican beer. Also at her recommendation for authentic Haitian we ordered the Conch Salad. Prepared with scotch bonnet peppers, they managed to do something I never thought possible. They carried the flavor of the scotch bonnet pepper, without the eye tearing heat. Sure, it had some spice, but it was very pleasant. It was like the peppers were also laid-back. We were satisfied after the salad, but wanted to try a dessert too. Again, we allowed the server to make a recommendation, and we were not disappointed with the Gato Zannanna (Pineapples + Rum getting down in a cake). Now, quite full and re-hydrated, it was back to the beach to relax off all of our extra calories.
(4)
Dee B.
Good traditional Haitian food with some Dominican flavor. Loved it!
(4)
Lily A.
I have to give this place kudos for convincing me to bump up my former rating one more star solely for the service and the down-to-earth and honest owner. And we didn't even eat here this time around! We wanted to because I remembered how savory everything was, but Yelp fooled us; the restaurant opens at 2 pm, NOT 12 pm. (We did tell the owner that, and he said he will be submitting for those changes) But because we had a cruise to catch, we had no clue what to do with our rumbling tummies now that our eating plans were shot. He instead told us we must try this other restaurant a few blocks away that he absolutely loves.. and we actually ended up loving it too (refer to my last review on Fratelli La Bufala). The owner then told us that the next time we stopped by to ask for him and he'll treat us to mojitos. Ohh I remember how much I loved those fresh mojitos, almost as much as the delish stews, beans, and rice. I know I'll have to make another trip to Miami soon!
(5)
Jeff O.
Loved it! Tap Tap refers to the little passenger truck outside the door. A truly unique experience for the adventurous. You'll be very glad you graced this establishment with your presence. Bring your family, bring some friends, this place is relaxed and full of life. The big, bright and gorgeous murals will whisk you away to the Caribbean. They're on island time mon, so don't come in expecting a fast food experience. It wasn't particularly slow, mind you. Just right for made-to-order grub. We loved the malanga fritters, and the watecress dipping sauce was jaw-dropping good! I tried the chicken and beef stews. Both were rich and fresh. The bean/rice mix recommended by our server was so-so, but worked well with the stews. Plaintains were fine, not hard like one lady below said. Limeade was our drink of choice. It went well with everything. This place has been here for decades. I hope to return in two months.
(5)
Mike D.
Outstanding. If you're looking to get out off the main drag and away from the over priced tourist traps of the Miami Beach strip this is your place. It's authentic Haitian food at it's best. The grilled chicken is amazing and the snapper fish dish (which is offered poached on the menu but I ordered it grilled which is more common in Haiti and the way I suggest you have it) is amazing if you like fish. Great mojitos and when my wife and I were there they had a live band playing Compa music (the music of Haiti) which was really cool. Pricing is easily half of the cost of the main drag and it's a great place to just chill and have a great meal. Ill be back next time I'm in town.
(5)
Romy G.
5 stars for food and prices 4 on service every dish is amazingly delicious the goat, chicken creole, spinach, pumpkin soup, fish , salad etc etc you name it goooood home cooking style, love it!!!!
(4)
Robik V.
Aside from the dicks on the wall the place is nice the food is a bit pricey for what you get but it's decent and hardy oh yeah their was a green thing in my room mates water
(3)
Lis K.
I have only been to Tap Tap for their mojitos...AMAZING! Fresh and all natural. I have yet to try the food, but when I do, I'll be back to review it. :)
(5)
Tania G.
what happens when friends unite for another friend's birthday? CHAOS! thankfully, we were seated far from 'normal' customers b/c we were pretty noisy... anywho...the food was great! i had the shrimp in coconut sauce and i loved it! the sauce was just right-- not too sweet. the malanga fritters were so good and so was the watercress sauce! who would have thought?! my one complaint is that the food took VERY long to arrive...nearly an hour to be exact! parking is available in the back, so don't panic.
(4)
Tom L.
The food here is amazing. The snapper with Scotch bonnet pepper sauce was outstanding. Everyone must try it, as soon as possible. We ate way too much because it was that good. The fried pork, the rice, the plantains, the fish, the pickles..I could go on and on. Food is bursting with flavor. Service is fun and friendly, the place has amazing murals on the walls and they had- hands down- the best mojitos in miami. Yes I said the best mojitos!
(5)
Elizabeth D.
Had a large birthday dinner here and was very excited to try Haitian fare. They placed our large group in the back area. It got very loud because we were in a very echo-ey, contained space. Regardless, Tap Tap has some fantastic alcoholic beverages to distract from this fact. In particular, the Rum Punch was destructively good. Unfortunately, the food left much to be desired. Maybe it's because I grew up with Latin food, but Caribbean fare is not much different, hence, less exciting. Nothing truly stood out to us. Go if: You're looking for a uniquely different cultural experience and home-cooked style food. If I come back, it'll be by the bar area, overlooking the streets of South Beach, sipping on a delicious Rum Punch and having some fried pork bits. I'll leave dinner to a place with a little more kick.
(3)
Sheenon O.
the shrimp in coconut sauce is awesome and the whole fried snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. There is this amazing spicy pickled cabbage that I can't get enough of. Super causal and live music on the weekends. also they have the best Mojitos in town and if you get in early enough you can catch their happy hour. I think it is from 5-7 but dont quote me on that one.
(3)
Dannie M.
GO! Visiting Miami? Want to have a great dinner experience? Then try taptap. Great food (try the goat or shrimp with coconut) and fantastic live band on the weekend. The place is full of friendly servers (very hard to find in miami). Also fantastic beverages!
(5)
Sasha B.
Good food, good service, reasonably priced. Something out of the ordinary. Not something I could find in NYC.
(4)
Patrick K.
Simply amazing. The food. The restaurant. The story. The vibe. The thing about Haitian-style food that I find so wonderful (as with Cuban food) is the simplicity in it all; much more 'spice' than typical Cuban/Central American food (in my humble). When you are in Tap Tap, you almost feel like you are in a different world, a different time. The stunningly beautfiul murals speak to you (and that's not the mojitos). Since we are all new to this cuisine, we dabbled in many different items: the rice with black bean sauce (shazam!), fried plantains, red snapper, and the slap-yo-mama-and-sister flank stank. This was one of those meals, since the food is new to us, where every bite is new and exciting (and of course, helps that it was good). Casual and fun, if this place closes, Miami Beach would lose part of it's soul. Clearly a place for locals and tourists willing to step off of the sometimes awful Ocean drive, you will not be dissapointed. Next visit, this will be the first place I visit.
(5)
Michelle D.
I have been coming to Miami Beach from time to time over 18 years. I have noticed this quaint looking spot but never decided to try it until this time around. I am pleased w my decision. Personally I get bored with average food done "different" ways. I was fresh off a boat ride and starving for a real meal. By real I mean one that was authentic and really seasoned and throw in a dash of real culture. Tap Tap had that look to me so I went for it. Upon entering I was greeted by a lively crowd and perhaps the owner or GM and a feast of art for the eyes. I was seated immediately and tended to almost instantly. There was so many choices (all looked great) I could not decide so I ordered and appetizer that had a variety of items. The food and sauces were so freakin' good. I wanted more but was so full I had to leave w my left overs. I am leaving soon to go back home and I am seriously considering returning for dinner before I leave. The price was very reasonable, the service was great and atmosphere very welcoming and clean. Oh, great art for purchase was also available.
Shrimp in Coconut Sauce is by far the winner! Start off with a simple appetizer and save room for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Easily the best dish of the night and the sauce is oh so perfect for dipping your bread into. The red beans and rice were lacking that gallo pinto goodness I've come to know and love but was still a nice side dish. The service here is good but a tad slow. I'd come back for the coconut sauce and stick around for some music
(3)
Scott L.
A concise review: 1. Arrive around 12:45 and the lights are off, chairs are up and a hatian man is asking what time they open. 2. I call the number and they say 1pm, 10-15 more minutes, they are running late. 3. Who opens at 1pm?? 4. I said "that's very carribean" the hatian man said, laughing, "very unorganized" 5. We sat outside and they brought tables to us around 1:05pm. 6. Good and hot French baguettes with euro butter arrives, 1:15pm. 6. I order coffee, I receive a little espresso around 1:30pm. 4 other people show up. 7. My creole spaghetti w shrimp arrives at 1:45, the hatian guy was already done - he ordered fritters and soup. 8. Spaghetti was good w flavor and with old school canned veg-al veggies of beans, corn and carrots. Shrimp were big and fresh. I lived on a carribean island once so this tasted true - nothing fancy. 9. 1:50 - hatian guy leaves. Waiting for the check 10. 1:55 done with food - ate it all - trying to flag down waitress for check. 11. 1:56pm I wonder what the hatian guy is doing now. I'm waiting to go lay out. Waiter walks by me - I don't get his attention. 12. 1:59 - I start eating the shrimp tails I discarded earlier , because I'm bored, and respond to some FB posts. 13. 2:01 pm - music turns on. The new table of Asian girls order 14. 2:02 - I tell the waiter I'm ready to pay, he takes my plate. 15. 2:07 Got check - she didn't charge for coffee - I wait for change. The inside area is pretty full. 16. 2:10 she tells me she has to get change w a smile. 17. 2:12 - thought bubble "I've been here 1 hoir and 30 minutes." 18. 2:13 change arrives! 19. 2:14 I'm outtie 5000
(4)
Susan C.
I just went to Tap Tap for my second visit and it was as delicious as the first. Last time around, I went with my husband and had the goat stew which was extremely flavorful and delicious. It was my first time ever trying goat and I was pleasantly surprised. This time, I was going to order the goat again, but was very disappointed to learn that they didn't have any. I guess their shipment didn't come in, but this restaurant does not have a huge menu and at least 3-4 items have goat in them. Luckily, the dish I did order totally made up for it. We brought my parents and three of us all ordered the Sunday special, which was a vegetarian stew that had shrimp and blue crab in it. It came with rice and beans, and it was so delicious that I did not want to stop eating it. Like the goat last time, the stew was incredibly flavorful. However, the pieces of crab came in the shell. I don't mind cracking my own crab per se, but it was incredibly messy to eat as the pieces were mixed in with the rest of the stew. My Dad got the regular grouper with lime sauce menu item which he absolutely loved. Tap Tap may look like a hole in the wall, but it is definitely worth your time.
(4)
Donna C.
This cute little place has phenomenal food and great atmosphere! The food, oh my, was definitely the highlight. My first time having Haitian food and it did not disappoint. The Griyot was cooked to perfection. The Kabrit Nan Sos (goat stew) was so delicious. Get the white rice and bean sauce as your side instead of the one mixed together... you won't regret it. Top it all off with the Blan Mange (traditional coconut dessert)! Damn this place is awesome. Would return in a heart beat!
(5)
Ling H.
My friends and I have never tried Haitian food and I am so glad I saw this on Food Network and we were able to try this place out! Everyone here was SO nice and very helpful in suggesting from the menu. Taso kabrit- Goat tidbits came with a spicy red dipping sauce. This was pretty good. Salad Chktay- salad with herring, which was a little too salty for me. My first time having herring and I'm not too big of a fan. We also had another salad that came with marinaded conch on top, which was also okay. I would pass on salad unless you require something green on the side. Pwason Gwosel- Pan-seared Yellowtail snapper with a lime sauce. This was a crowd favorite! Definitely get this! The fish was not at all fishy and the lime sauce with this dish was amazing! Lanbi Nan Sos- Stewed conch. This is what I saw on Food Network and was disappointed. It wasn't that spicy and borderline fishy. There were also a couple other things we got that I cannot remember, but the staff will most certainly help with any questions. Definitely a place I would come back to to try again!
(4)
Jasmine L.
I have to agree with another reviewer proclaiming this place as average at best. The first problem with this food is that it's overpriced for what you get. This is typical Haitian/Caribbean/West Indian food. You can get a box meal of this to go at your local island restaurant for $5. You get bird sized portions at this place compared to what you really get and are paying for. Secondly the food is bland and dry. I see there are raves about the spices but I guess anything after salt and pepper is "spicy" to some perspectives. You want REAL spicy, authentic, Caribbean food?? Take 10 minutes to cross the bridge into Overtown, Liberty City, etc. This place is a pricey bland knockoff designed to maximize its profits while conning the average man. AKA South Beach
(2)
Andrew K.
I too went to Tap Tap after Guy Fieri made a visit here. That guy has a ridiculous ability to get me out of the house and into a restaurant. This was my first run-in with Haitian food so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect flavor wise, but boy oh boy was I pleased. I went strictly to try the whole steamed snapper dish, which ended up being great. The fish is steamed in some sort of lemon butter broth and covered with peppers. The aroma reminded me somewhat of a picatta dish. I'd say two people could share one snapper and an appetizer and be satisfied. The service was a little slow, but hey, it's South Beach. All in all, I really enjoyed this unique dining experience and will absolutely return.
(4)
Merri L.
This was all of ours first Hatian restaurant. This place looks smaller, but there are a few different rooms. All of the walls, including the bathrooms, are covered with beautiful murals. They have such yummy juice, which sounds funny to praise in a restaurant, but it was really good. I had the grouper in lime sauce with avocado and loved it, so fresh tasting. We tried a bunch of different sides and appetizers, and my favorite was actually a potato thing, even though normally i'm not big on potatoes. Very tasty! I remember seeing some desserts that I wanted to try, but we had to get going to get ready for the night and didn't get a chance. Try them out for me!
(4)
Miriam W.
Given my dining companions, it was near impossible for me not to have a terrific time at Tap Tap. If you go, I'd steer you strongly toward the fried pork chunks. One bite of this dish incited serious food envy in me. Another standout was the shrimp in coconut sauce. Thankfully Maria didn't mind me dipping liberally into her dish (if you opt for the shrimp make sure to ask for additional bread to sop up its savory sauce.) My grouper, on the other hand, was disappointing.
(3)
Tara L.
I love conch. Hot conch. Thick conch. Juicy conch. Spicy conch...just give me the conch. However, I must say, the spicy conch appetizer at Tap Tap was a bit too spicy for me. In fact, it pretty much burned off all of my taste buds upon my first aggressive spoonful of minced onions, peppers, lime and conch. At first I thought that maybe I just had some pansy little anti-spicy taste buds, but after passing it around the table, everyone agreed that this dish packed quite a fiery punch! The herring and avocado salad that I ordered was superb! After sampling everyone at the table's dishes, the consensus was that the two favorite entrees of the evening were the coconut curry shrimp and the pork entree. The mojitos were apparently voted best in Miami and I can understand why. They were delicious, well mixed and not too sweet. Presentation was wonderful as well. I also adored the colorfulness of the restaurant. Painted with vibrant colors, the restaurant is adorned with murals and character paintings. I felt as though I was in a different country for the hour or so that I was there. Overall, I really enjoyed Tap Tap. I've eaten Haitian food before at a family friend's home and I felt as though the dishes here were not too far off.
(4)
Shenika T.
This is such a beautiful place ... on the inside. I kept driving by here and I wasn't sure if I should go in b/c the outside isn't really inviting. The outside of the restaurant is very dark. I didn't know where to park here, so I almost didn't go. Anyhow upon walking up to the restaurant, I know I made a good decision. The paintings inside are so beautiful. It didn't feel like I was on South Beach. We ordered the fried goat tips for appetizer and man o man, that was delicious. I even loved the dipping sauce and dipped my bread in it to soften it. For dinner we ordered the goat stew and grilled yellow-tail snapper. The goat was so tender and the fish was moist and flavorful. We also ordered a Haitian mojito and a Haitian fruit punch for drinks. The food was as good as it gets, but overpriced. I know it's South Beach, but Haitian food is not expensive to prepare. I would recommend this place if you are in the area and want to try something new, but as for me I'm looking for more authentic Haitian food.
(3)
Jay W.
Hmm... I think I must have caught Tap Tap on a bad day or ordered the wrong stuff. We dropped by for a light lunch consisting of griyo and conch salad but were a little disappointed with the results. The griyo (fried Berkshire pork) was fried to a crisp and the cuts we got were mainly fat and no meat. The meat that was in the griyo unfortunately was dried beyond belief. They do use real Berkshire pork here, but it seems like such a waste to overcook it like this. The portion size was also disappointing though since there were just 3 little cubes of pork with our order. The conch salad though, was perfect. The conch wasn't chewy or rubbery like what you would expect. It was prepared ceviche style, so it was nice and refreshing from the Miami heat. My only complaint was that I wish they gave me more!
(3)
Michelle W.
4 stars for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Shrimp were the perfect texture, fresh and the sauce was just delicious. The drinks we ordered were also quite good (had a large variety between the 8 of us!). My dining companions were also pleased with their food choices. 2 stars for the service. The service was ridiculously slow. We were there for a birthday (had reservations) but everything was painfully slow. The restaurant wasn't that busy and we were there almost 4 hours....frequently awaiting drink refills....if you needed something it was difficult to get the servers attention and when you had it there was always a chance that they wouldn't remember what you asked for anyways. yummy food (4) + service sucked (2) = 3 stars
(3)
n l.
actually, about a 4.7 because it was a really hot that day :( I came here on a Tuesday afternoon so it was not too busy. I had a spageti kreyol with kribish (shrimp) and a hatian mojito. The spageti kreyol was delicious!!! A little spicy, but nothing most can't handle. The staff was kind and the walls were painted with colorful murals. I would come here again if I lived in Miami. Not too expensive.
(5)
Stricky T.
First impressions last, tap tap made an impression. Just like most of the reviews, I tried the grilled conch, the spinach in coconut sauce. I really liked the food and have go back someday. Grand food
(5)
Chrichelle M.
Another Yelp hit. We're visiting and have flown blind based on Yelp recommendations and haven't been steered wrong yet. The service was distant which is why it wasn't five stars
(4)
Carla B.
This place popped my Haitian cuisine cherry. :-) Pleasant, different experience. Colorful place, very authentic, nice servers, good prices and the food is good.
(3)
Nikki B.
One of the best meals I've ever had. Ever. Impeccable service. Fun decor. Highly recommend.
(5)
Kenny S.
Great food and Ambiance! Very authentic and more!
(4)
Christian B.
The appetizer platter is at must have if you are new to haitian food. The beef stew and the whole fried fish are definite good choice entrees. The Haitian mojito rocks and the virgin papaya shake
(4)
Molly M.
Amazing. The food was carefully prepared. The drinks were also wonderful. A great band showed up, and eventually my friend and I were having drinks with the owner and some of the other guests on the porch. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
(5)
laquisha v.
Eaten takeout from here once. Conch Creole, ceviche and ginger tea are excellent. Goat was a mix of tough and tender, so I wasn't crazy about it.
(4)
Karen L.
Legit. Everything I ate here was solid and a great experience for my first time trying Haitian food. Friendly service and lots of a food. Highly recommended if you ever get the chance! Just ask the waiter/waitress for what they recommend, that's what we did.
(4)
Andrea W.
I had never heard of Tap Tap or even knew what haitian food tasted like. When I walked in I felt this great energy starting with the walls bright and colorful like your childhood coloring books. We were seated immediately despite not everyone in our party being there. We started off with goat tidbits that I was super hesitant because the thought of eating goat didn't seem rappetizing but I was told I wouldn't be disappointed and i was not they looked like chicharron but tasted like oxtail! Delicious! Then we also tried shrimp in coconut cream sauce and the griyo which is pork chunks both were good but the show stealer for the night was definitely the goat. I also got to sample the vegetable stew and that is something I must order next time I go. The service there was great which is always wonderful to compliment a great meal.
(5)
Christine P.
What a great find this place is. I came here one first date and it was a perfect choice. The ambiance is very welcoming & casual. The restaurant is decorated with lots of colors and textures on the walls and very cool art to boot. I found myself paying more attention to the intricately beaded mural behind me than to my company. But the art ended up making for good conversation pieces. This was my first time having Haitian cuisine and I didn't know what to expect. They offered a few specials, but were out of the ones we were interested in. I ended up ordering the pumpkin soup and the avocado salad, both were fresh & very good. We also ordered drinks from the bar, it was a blend of rum & mango. Kudos to the bartender on a fantastic drink. I will definitely be back and next time I'll bring a bigger appetite.
(4)
Lia T.
Really, really good food. Great service. I had a shrimp and rice dish and it was saucy and delish. My friend had a shrimp and spaghetti dish that I wanted to eat too. The folk art on the walls is engaging and the lighting is creative. The music was recorded but good. The only ding was the sweet potato pie. It was a leaden cube of flavorlessness. Get the passionfruit gelato. Dreamy. The night we were there the whole front bar was full of people watching the town hall presidential debates. Everyone was quiet and respectful. Nice.
(4)
Jenny Q.
Great haitian food beware that service is sometimes slow.
(4)
Mika G.
Walked in and was greeted by I think the owner. The place was very colorful inside and out. We started with the akra (malanga fritters). Malanga is a starchy root. The fritters were yummy. I ordered the griyo (marinated pork chunks) and my coworker ordered the shrimp creole; spicy. My pork was good and I loved the vinegar dipping sauce. My coworker took a bite of her shrimp and refused to eat anymore. She said it was too shrimpy. I took a bite to try it. No it's not spoiled. The flavor was that great seafood flavor like you get with cioppino. I guess she didnt know what to expect when she ordered creole. So I ate a couple of the shrimp so it wouldnt look like she hated it. She ate some of my pork chunks. We traded dishes a couple times when we went out. I took the leftovers back to my hotel for breakfast the next day. It was a good breakfast. I liked this place. The food was great.
(4)
Maxfactor C.
I fell in love with this place as soon as i walked thru the door. The colors are amazing! There are murals on the floors,, walls, tables and ceilings. The bartender was great. Fresh mint mojitos! She mixed it in some stone bowl and it was amazing. This place looks like a little house with many rooms. As for the food I had the grilled lime grouper which was delicious. i had to come back again before I left miami so I came back the next night and had the shrimp in some coconut sauce with rice. It was great as well! This time there was a live band! I had the best time there and I will never forget tap-tap and the prices were reasonable which is so refreshing for S.Beach. I'll be back!!!
(5)
Liz T.
the food's tasty. there's bright murals all over the walls, it's always loud & fun, and pretty much all the previous reviews were spot on... but the reason i love this place is the Tap Tap Band. i believe they play on thursday and saturday nights. get there early to get a spot. some nights there will be only 1 or 2 band members and 10 the next time they play. but regardless they're always jamming out with everyone dancing and singing along. the main guy in the band (forgetting his name) is just the coolest guy ever. great guitarist and great singer... but the most interesting part about him is that he used to be the mayor of Port-Au-Prince. how bad ass. that's reason enough for me to go.
(4)
Dani B.
Changed from 4 to 2 stars. Good has gotten much worse. Service has always been slow as molasses. A shame bc used to be one of my favorites.
(2)
Bonnie n.
pass... no need to go unless you want to have a long ass meal. i went for lunch, and because i had previously read yelp reviews i knew it was gonna be a bit of a wait.. i just didn't know how long it was gonna be. the restaurant was empty, except us and one other table. the fritters came out quickly so i was hopeful... however the main course came out nearly 45 min after we ate our fritters.. and the grilled corn came out after our main course was done and we had paid the bill... malanga fritters were ok.. a little too greasy. couldn't get pass eating more than 2. coconut shrimp had good flavor, nothing special though. there were only 4 shrimp. so not really filling.. i guess if you add the rice and beans you would get full. fried whole snapper, was large. the waitress recommended it pan fried, i think it may have tasted better deep fried. the sauce was good, still nothing special. charcoal grilled corn.. plain.. nothing but plain grilled corn.. i got a virgin mojito because i had to drive... it was too sweet
(3)
Mae V.
This place was excellent! I got the snapper and it was fluffy and fresh. Beware, they give you the entire fish with the head still attached. I'm asian so I'm used to it, but the people sitting next to us were horrified. Haha they just stared at me while I devoured my fish. My sister got the shrimp in coconut sauce which was divine. The servers are very warm and friendly.
(5)
Jake W.
Crazy awesome voodoo decor and great food
(5)
Dan B.
Tap Tap is more than a restaurant. It's a showcase of the art and culture of a country who is, more often than not, considered a paradigm for the pinnacle of urban blight. The media will get an infinite amount of cracks at you to show you the extent of the poverty and suffering that goes on in Haiti, but representations of the beautiful side to the country are a dime a dozen. Does Tap Tap need to be located in Little Haiti to convince me of it's authenticity? Absolutely not. Even in "trendy" South Beach where style comes before tradition, Tap Tap convinces you from the moment you walk in that this is a true expression of artistic and religious Haiti and not a transient "cool place to be" that'll be replaced with an eclectic tapas bar. The menu is simple, but you can be assured that the dishes you select will be done right. I had the breathtaking privilege to try my first malanga fritter. Malanga is a root and they deep fry it, serve it on a bed of lettuce, and give you watercress dipping sauce, which is amazing. They also start you off with some of the hottest, freshest, and most delicious bread you can ask for. For any part of your meal, you can try the Haitian version of cole slaw, which actually serves more as a topping, as it's juicy with scotch bonnet peppers, something that you inevitably will find in most Caribbean foods. With exotic dishes such as conch in Creole sauce and stewed goat, it was hard to choose. I ended up going with the fried pork chunks, which I don't regret at all. The pork was deceivingly soft, juicy, full of flavor, and was accompanied with rice and beans, a plantain, and a garlicky/spicy dipping sauce. The meal was fabulous. I also tried some shrimp in creole sauce, which kind of reminded me of the Thai version of shrimp curry, with subtle differences. For your beverage, I highly recommend getting the Soley, which is a mix of Barbancourt Rum and Passion Fruit Juice. For $1 more, you can substitute 3 star rum for 5 star rum. The mixed beverages are delicious and tropical. For dessert, I tried the coconut pudding--a light dessert whose taste will be widely praised, yet whose texture will not be for everybody.
(5)
D S.
We ate there tonight and it was great. There was no waiting and the food was delicious. If I had one thing to improve it would be to make the drinks larger or less expensive. The shrimp with coconut sauce,red snapper and grilled chicken was perfect!
(5)
Peter C.
I started describing the heavenliness that is shrimp in coconut sauce to a friend, only to find out that he's a vegetarian since birth, hence has no idea what shrimps taste like. Thank goodness he is not blind, so I can still take him to Tap Tap and enjoy the visual feast of the wildly colorful mural. He's also not deaf, so the upbeat music will be fun for him, too. Oh, I am sure the gorgeous mojito is vegetarian, and the laid back, party atmosphere can be therapeutic in a way that does not violate his religious practice. However, if he were to venture into carnivorism once and forfeit his chance at eternal joy, the shrimp dish is probably worth it.
(4)
Luis M.
Tap Tap is amazing. I saw it on the Food Network and though man that looks good. So I went with my wife and we had a great time. The food was awesome the service was great.
(5)
Dee K.
My experience at Tap Tap was mixed. I have been anxious to try this place for years and now that I finally had a partner in crime who was as adventurous as me it was the perfect opportunity to make it happen. After tasting the food, I realized Haitian food is not as adventurous as i thought. It parallels the satisfying flavors of Latin and Thai food, which are more like staples in my flavor preference. what was adventurous was to pay that kind of money for that kind of service. The prices at Tap Tap are not THAT bad, unless you want to try new things. Everything added up pretty fast and the portions were a tad small. 4 of us tried a range of dishes from the whole red snapper to the pork chunks to the shrimp in coconut sauce to the spaghetti/shrimp special of the day. The snapper had bones and was really hard for the person to eat b/c he spent most of his time picking the fish off the bones. Pork was good and served with a clear spicy dipping sauce (onions and scotch bonnet pepper?) and was served with rice and beans (gallo pinto). Most of the dishes were served with gallo pinto and a couple fried plantains. The coconut sauce shrimp was very similar to a Thai coconut red curry sauce. The shrimp and spaghetti special was recommended to me by the server and I decided to take her advice. It was a grilled spiced shrimp tossed into a basic spaghetti with a lime/scotch bonnet sauce. We also shared the appetizer that came with a combo of fried okra, fried sweet potato and fried plantain- which we dipped in the green watercress sauce (flavors of this sauce are a MUST TRY). I also took fellow YELPers advice and ordered the spinach in coconut sauce- which was delish! The table had soursop, passionfruit and mango juices and I had a mojito. The mojito was nice- a perfect combo of flavors, but very simple. We sat outside on the front porch, which was very laid back. The inside of the restaurant was very colorful and even had a band playing in one of its rooms- nice vibes. All the walls (even the restrooms) are very colorful and bright. The service was verrrrrrry slow. Parking is a HUGE PAIN IN THE A$$. We dropped off half of our party to wait for a table and they were seated before we found parking. Our bill automatically included gratuity and probably came out to about $35.00 per person split equally 4 ways. The food was nice and everything else was ok - i think with some tweaking of the prices and attention to detail on the service this place could reach a higher standard. Nevertheless, I would come back to try additional items...
(3)
Jen L.
Dining at Tap Tap extended our Caribbean culinary adventure after our cruise. We had the Creole Spaghetti with Herring and Stewed Goat. Both dishes were superb! The pasta dish had a good balance of flavors. I love that it has some spice but it wasn't hot. The stewed goat with the white rice and beans was tender and flavorful and the taste was made perfect with a squeeze of lime. The restaurant's ambiance is festive and colorful. The waitstaff is also knowledgable about the menu and offered good recommendations. The restaurant's patrons are a combination of locals and tourists. It is a good place to dine at when in South Beach.
(5)
Agnes F.
went to tap tap for lunch the other day, no wait as i got there around noon started with a cocktail with rum, triple sec and something else (its orange in color) and its very tasty had the goat bits for appetizers, i love the deep fried goat meat with a dipping sauce that is full of flavor opted for stewed conch for entree, with a side of the polenta with red beans and coconut spinach on hind sight, plain rice would have been better as i can enjoy the stewed conch sauce even more but i really can't complain the conch was very tender and the coconut spinach was as good as everyone says here at the end, i was too stuffed to have any dessert love the beautiful murals and the friendly service, this was my first experience with Haitian food so i can't say if its authentic or not, but i enjoyed everything and look forward to going back there again
(3)
Madeleine O.
Now this was my first experience with Haitian food. It may be possible this is not the best but for me this is my #1 for food. I could go without eating anything else. Haitian food is like a magical mix of the light sweet tang of Vietnamese plus the warm kick of Indian and the zest of Cuban with mystery deliciousness thrown in! The waitstaff is extremely friendly as are the patrons. I like the art, great colors. I'd probably want to sit on the deck next time and I would suggest newbies do so. The goat tidbits were delicious. Kind of reminded me of the Filippino dish lichon minus the fat, we ordered a fried veggie platter, delicious root vegetables with three divine dipping sauces and I had goat stew with rice and beans. Seriously phenomenal. Oh also I tried conch for the first time! It was like an ahi tuna tar tar salad. Cold sweet tangy and with a real kick in the mouth of spice at the end. LOVED it! Go for the 5 star rum when you order the tropical punch (because it isn't an option not to order at least one!!!)
(5)
Isabel J.
classic, one of my favorites in miami
(4)
Trillvia P.
I love this little spot. The waiter was very attentive and sweet, so were the men (managers? owner?) who walked around to make sure we were having a good time - forgot their names! I ordered the sour sop, and a mojito with water to down it all. How thorough! Lol, For my appetizer I got the spinach in coconut sauce and a plate of the papas fritay? It had plantains, sweet potatoes, a spicy cajun sauce and another green sauce to dip this other fried food in. It was all good. I really wish I was hungrier to have gone for more afterwards, but I'll be back. The rooms inside are very kid friendly and artsy. Lovely to be in, I sat outdoors though :)
(5)
Ha R.
Had the Conch stew. Not as spicy as I had wanted. The ginger tea is really good. Worth a visit.
(3)
Andrew B.
Great food! The service was wonderful - we took our recommended foods to go, fried goat, coconut shrimp, fried plantains, beans and rice--- the woman in-charge rushed the order and spent 10ish minutes chatting while it was prepared. If I lived in Miami I'd return here often!
(4)
Adam O.
I love this place. Although it is almost always super loud and packed with people or closed for a month long vacation, I really like it. The brightly colored and "fun" flags and murals often depicting something grisly taking place in the graveyard are pretty much awesome, and really are works of serious art. In fact the whole ambiance here is pretty good. Hipsters, haitians, aging world-travelers, jazz musicians, kind of tropical bohemian that isn't too pretentious, but is fun to look at. If your table isn't ready when you get there (call ahead) you can sit at the bar and try one of many delicious caribbean drink specialties while you wait, which are all very delicious. The food is consistently good. I've had the Ox Tail stew, Goat Curry, Fish, Conch, Legim, etc., and they are all good. I think most of it comes with the spicy haitian-style cabbage pickliz, which is cool and hot at the same time. This is definitely one good place to get away from the cuban sensibility about spices (or lack thereof). Things are hot, and they taste good. The menu seems to change seasonally, and there are sometimes some great specials. Also, for an entertaining meal on the beach, you will pay about $10-15 per entree which is unheard of and totally radical. I take out of town guests here all the time.
(5)
Dan F.
Take this review with a grain of salt, I didn't actually eat dinner here, I only sat at the bar and had mojitos. But seriously, one of the best Mojitos on planet earth. The haitian rum really packs a kick without tasting strong. Drink these with caution. The service was good, the interior charming and again, best mojitos in Miami. Well worth a stop if just for a Mojito.
(5)
Jennifer N.
Tap Tap, located on 5th St. in South Beach, is an unexpected, inexpensive, Haitian restaurant that serves really good food. The moment you walk in, you're struck by the vibrant colors on the wall, the murals and works of art, and the staff. You feel like you're in Haiti, if this is how Haiti is supposedly like. It is lively and fun. We started the meal off with a huge bowl of Bouyon, which consisted of beef, boniata, malanga, potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dumplings in a clear broth. The soup was homey and soothing. Quite tasty for a soup. For the entrees, I ordered the Oxtails stewed in tomatoes and my friend ordered the Crab stewed with Eggplant and Tomatoes. Hands down, my dish was the best that night. The oxtails were so tender and succulent, and full of flavor. Served with a side of dirty rice and Tostones, I couldn't have been happier. So much good food, how could I complain! My friends dish was decent but not fantastic. The dish was mostly crab shells hiding the little meat it had. There was a jumble of flavors, complicating the simplicity of the way the dish should've been. I guess you just can't have it all can ya? We were too full to have dessert, so we opted to end it there. Definitely a place to revisit again. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Mcduff G.
Not authentic Haitian food. Was very dissapointed because it is advertising as a Haitian restaurant. I am Haitian and this is def not Haitian food.
(2)
Rick K.
Just arrived in Miami and this was the first place I went. It was a Sunday afternoon and I was the only one there. I ordered a mojito drink that didn't have mint (its called something different but I can't recall the name) and the coconut shrimp with the rice and beans. Everything was incredible. The coconut sauce was unlike anything I had tried before, and when you douse their amazing homemade hot sauce all over it, you are talking some incredible flavors. The drink was tangy, sweet, fresh and strong (although small). All in all I think this place is great. I considered giving it 4 stars because it is a bit expensive (the coconut shrimp was $16, the drink $7 -- lunch menu) but really it blew me away so 5 it is.
(5)
Bruce R.
After you are done gawking at the half clothed beautiful people on the beach, head on over to Tap Tap for some great Haitian cuisine. This place was AWESOME. Great Happy Hour and great food and ambiance. Our server was superb! Must eat at if you are in Miami.
(4)
john m.
What a cool place! The atmosphere was very cool. You eat in painted chairs surrounded by murals of Haitian life. We started with the fried plate. I had the whole fried yellow tail snapper. All very well prepared. Good friendly service. Set in the middle of the Art Deco South Beach this is an ethnic find. Creole food is such a wonderful treat.
(4)
bridget e.
when you get on board the metaphoric tap tap conveyance, you are transported to a magical tropical realm. upon entering, gone are the notions of pink stucco, sun scorched asphalt, gleaming, pedicured, massaged like kobe beef, sleek delorean riders. an impossible riot of color, murals adorn the edifice. scenes unfold, stories painted in scarlet hibiscus, orange african tulip blossom, lavender jacaranda, mustard spotted orchid, emerald fern tree green, and cobalt sky blue. vivid matriarchs and smiling children, a veritable hustle and bustle of life. we were led into our own room whereupon our cranky matriarch complained about the cold. the server, wisely assessed the situation and suggested i follow him to find a warmer spot. none was found, but he cleverly opened a window, and after struggling valiantly, managed to open another. grandma unlucky was satisfied. the food was excellent. i was leery of ordering krihish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce), because experiences with this in lesser eateries invariably materialized as cloying and sickeningly sweet. fortunately this was not the case here, the shrimp in coconut sauce was tender, flavorful and fabulous. we ordered griyo (pork), spinach in coconut sauce, snapper with a spicy scotch bonnet sauce. everything was truly delicious with the exception, as noted by maria, of the rice and beans. sadly, they were out of cabrito (goat) my mojito was excellent and made with my favorite rum, barbancourt. as new york yelper's know, you don't just go with any motoconcho, or tap tap. BABAY! p.s. they have parking!
(5)
Drew G.
This place is good. I had one of the fish specialities which was pretty underflavored. My friend had the goat stew and that was really great! Lots of good flavors. Wish the fish had been similar! Other than that, nice staff and great ambience.
(3)
Affifa A.
Great place to have a nice time with friends. The ambiance, the live music really brings out the place. The waiters and bartenders are great.
(5)
Paul N.
Food ok; waited an hour after they forgot my partners dinner; same thing fr couple next to us:-/
(2)
Mike M.
Had a great lunch here yesterday. Cool spot to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful Miami air. First time trying Haitian food and glad I did, the shrimp creole and fried goat chunks were great. Definitely would like to come back and try some more stuff and another Mojito or Guinness.
(4)
Joey V.
I had a great time here. I loved the goat tidbits appetizer and the Griyo was outstanding. delicious sides and mojitos as well
(5)
Matt R.
this was our first time having haitian food and it was a good experience. we tried the malanga fritters, spicy marinated conch, avocado and tomato salad, and the shrimp in coconut sauce. it was all extremely good and tasted even better with a mojito.
(4)
Emilia P.
I expected better! I had been here once before and while the food was good the service was poor yet, I decided to give them a second chance. Yes the food is good, I will not take that from them, the place is also very cute but the service well, is poor and this time, enough for me not to comeback. It took them 50 minutes to serve us the appetizers (it was only 3 of us and the place was empty) after waiting over an hour the waiter came back to tell us that they didn't have one of the dishes we requested so we waited some more. The entire time we were there, nobody came to ask how we where let alone to refill our glasses. As I said, the food was good once we got it, the place is cute and tastefully decorated on the other hand, the prices where not cheap. After the entire meal all I was left with was...why did we wait?. next time I will walk out from any place that makes me wait 1 to 2 hrs for a meal unless the food is to die for, but here? sorry but not worth it.
(2)
Katrina C.
okay, so not being haitian and not having eaten in little haiti, i cannot vouch for authenticity, but i LOVE this place. i passed by it many times before realizing it was there, it's kind of a hole in the wall but once you are inside, you can't believe you were missing it. the ambience is fantastic, particularly on weekends when they have live music. the murals on the walls are gorgeous. portions are huge, while i rarely got too adventurous (i think the most i can boast about is trying someone else's fried goat) everything i tried was deelish. there was a drink there that i cannot remember the name of for the life of me, but if you like ridiculously sour things, it's got your name on it. it's basically rum and fresh lime juice. we took almost all of our out-of-town visitors there and it was always appreciated.
(5)
Joseluis A.
finally, after years of hearing good things about tap tap... i finally checked in today for lunch. i sat by the bar and ordered a guinness cause they have it on tap ... tap. so, to be honest, my beer was not cold, they musta have just changed kegs, so i had no other choice but to chug it. oh, the sacrifice... the menu looks good but also sorta pricey, two digit numbers all over the place. i ended up getting the goat stew which i compare to clives cafe, that lovely jamaican place on north miami avenue and 28th street. this is the deal, tap tap has better quality goat. lean, less fatty, flavorful .. very meaty chunks. came with rice and beans. a small portion of that and ONE, a SINGLE piece of plantain. for $15? thats a little bit too much in my book. although i liked my meal, i dont think i would just come back here for kicks and giggles .. i rather go to little haiti and find something similar but at 1/2 the price.
(3)
Nicole M.
pretty good prices and great flavors. and it's so nice to be somewhere colorful and unique and a bit rustic (quirky in a word) which south beach prides itself on getting away from. only small problem is that things aren't exactly what you'd imagine from the description sometimes. i ordered some sort of stewed chicken but it was really more like roasted chicken that was placed into stew before serving (yes, there's a difference). they definitely have the best fried yucca in town though, good for any "fries" connoseur... you know who you are. i would go back just for that. Also try the face-burning clear hot sauce that's on the table (that my friend requested additional jalapenos for) and a haitian after dinner drink called crema which tastes like super creamy spiked horchata.
(4)
Michael Y.
Very cool restaurant. Great art work throughout. Really enjoyed the goat stew and the fish dish that was recommended was delicious.
(5)
Sabrina M.
Assuming you didn't know much about Haitian food, or you've never had it before, Tap Tap is a great place to start. But when you go have a meal in Little Haiti, you quickly realize that what you had at Tap Tap was "Haitian lite."
(3)
Wona C.
cool colorful Haitian decor welcomes you and i was very excited to try Haitian as an island food lover. but overall, this place didn't do much for me. i ordered their authentic fried pork dish(griyo), they overcooked and I didn't like my dried out pork. but regardless of my food quality, i think it is worth the visit if you want to experience new culture & food.
(3)
Sabrina B.
This is the worse excuse for a Haitian restaurant if there ever was one. As a Haitian myself, I grew up eating a lot of the foods on their menu, and let me tell you, some of their entrees are simply not edible. The chef uses so much salt and drowns the food in so much sauce that you can barely identify what you're eating. If you're in Miami and want authentic Haitian, go to Little Haiti, this place is not worth your time and will be VERY disappointing! The decor is interesting and the appetizers are at least edible, but there are FAR better choices in Miami than this place. Save yourself the stomach ache and walk on by, you'll be so glad that you did!!!
(1)
Irene W.
I was looking for a dinner place that could accommodate a party of 10, and I chanced upon this place on Yelp. None of us had ever tried Haitian food before, so we really didn't know what to expect. We were not disappointed though - it was delicious and not overly expensive! Including alcohol we spent around $40 a person. I'd definitely come back the next time I'm in Miami. We decided to go family style and order a bunch of dishes to share - the stewed goat, spinach in coconut sauce, shrimp in coconut sauce, oxtail, fried pork chunks, grilled chicken, and a steamed whole fish. The general consensus among our group was that the goat, shrimp, spinach and fried pork were the best, but everything was very flavorful. The coconut sauce was incredibly good - it's the consistency of a thai curry, only with other spices in lieu of curry...so good in fact that we all just wanted to drink the sauce. The goat and the pork were cooked just right and nicely moist, with great flavor. Apparently they're also known for their cocktails, and while I didn't try any of it, my friends LOVED the mojitos and other cocktails on offer. The colorful decor adds to the character of the place, and the service was just about right - not overbearing, but just enough to get what we needed. The server also made some great recommendations on what to order.
(5)
Gretchen T.
A real treat for a California kid to try Haitian food. We opted for take out but the restaurant is very festive and has a little bar area where the cool server offered to make us a fresh mojito while we waited. My favorite dishes were the coconut and spinach, and the prawns. We skipped the goat and other more creative dishes but I would try them next time. Note: the prices are cheap but the portions are also small, so order away!
(4)
Mel M.
The food's ok, but the people are nice and the atmosphere is amazing. Love just sitting there looking at the stuff on the walls. I've been there on live music nights and it's a lot of fun, but given this is a renovated house and the spaces are narrow, it's LOUD. But it's still the first place I try to talk my friends into going whenever I'm in for a visit.
(4)
Carolyn T.
Friday night's dinner was at Tap-Tap. I probably made a mistake by trying to taste too many dishes and sufficed by ordering all of their appetizers; a pumpkin soup which was redolent with mostly large chunks of cabbage and smaller bites of pumpkin but was overall WAY too salty and a platter of goat bits served with a red sauce that was (happily) not too spicy. Then there were the two platters of fried vegetables... One was a sampler platter which included three vegetables and two sauces; the same red goat sauce and a green salsa verde. The other was a duplicate plate of one of the same vegetables. Meaning? When I placed my order, it would have been nice if my server told me that I was ordering the same thing as it was made apparent that I was ordering this way to get a lot of tastes... To their credit, they WERE slammed and my solo meal at the bar took over two hours.
(2)
Derkins R.
amazing. if you're in miami, this is a must. went with a group of 9 and got to try a lot of different dishes. they were all so delicious! we need one of these in nyc.
(5)
Liza H.
A bright and cheery place. Vibrant fresh tasting food made with primo produce. Grouper in spicy lime/cabbage sauce, Tap tap salad and Goat were very good. Fun Caribbean color scheme with Haitian metal work, paintings, voodoo flags and a late model truck dolled up like a Tap tap give a quirky and fun vibe.
(4)
Gourmet G.
With its festive wall murals, brightly painted tabletops, and rotating art, the decor here is as colorful as the jitney buses seen around Haiti, from where the menu draws its inspiration. The pumpkin soup, fried Haitian pork, and shrimp in a spicy Creole sauce were as delicious as I remember them being in Port-au-Prince. Live - and lively - native music adds to the fun in this cramped, noisy restaurant.
(4)
Bebe L.
This place is totally overrated. I just ate there last week during my visit to Miami. Seeked out this place mainly because of such good reviews on yelp. I wonder what people ordered that they loved so much. I had the shrimp in coconut sauce, but I couldn't taste any trace of coconut. It tasted like salty, flavorless tomato sauce to me. My boyfriend agreed that it was really bad. I asked the waitress if the dish was really "shrimp in coconut sauce" and she said that it is. Yeah right. My boyfriend had the grilled chicken and that was decent, escpecially when dipping in the green sauce. The avocado salad was good, just nothing I'd want to come back for. That being said, the decor was very nice and colorful. There was a 1-person solo keyboard player/singer and he was pretty good.
(2)
Juhani P.
The place looks FUN - very Caribbian - food was good and portions were big. That 'cole slaw' thing was really hot. Way too hot. Watch out for that. Otherwise, the service wasn't that great but if you are not in a hurry, the balcony on is nice place to chill out and watch for Ferraris and Rolls-Royces cruise by.
(4)
Neusom P.
Great food and great people. Highly recommend if you are in south beach . I ordered the pork chunks with rice, beans, and plantains. Everything was perfectly cooked and you really can't beat the price compared to other restaurants in south beach.
(5)
Ashley M.
Where did these people eat?!? All I can say is BLAND, BLAND, BLAND! I had the lime grouper with avocado, rice and beans, & fried plantain. Let's just say I was thankful for the avocado on my plate. I was extremely unimpressed and would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. The art on the walls are nice but that's about it. I'd you look closely you'll see that it's rather dirty. The service was decent. Not great and not bad. Just go somewhere else.
(1)
Lynette D.
Do not visit They do not have parking I purchase parking after the employees said use the machines. Their service was slow. The parking went over by 19 minutes & my car was towed costing me &$259.00. The city of Miami beach needs to address visitors bringing tourism dollars being fleeced because their is limited parking & a rest with no parking tells customers to park and pay & you pay & get taken for $259.00. No matter how the food tastes it is not worth going to be taken advantage of because they do not have parking! Stay away
(1)
Cassie G.
How awesome is it that one of the most highly reviewed spots in South Beach is Haitian? This is why I love Miami. Tap Tap was my first Haitian food experience and definitely a great spot for first timers. We stopped by for lunch on a weekday and the place was pretty empty. The waitress wasn't too welcoming but, alas, you're still in South Beach. To start, we ordered the akra, malanga fritters with watercress dipping sauce. I've never had malanga cooked like this and did enjoy it, with the sauce being the star of the dish. It provided a needed flavor and freshness to the fritters. I would also encourage spicy fiends to grab the scotch bonnet condiment on the table to kick it up a bit. For my main course, I ordered the much lauded kribish kekoye, shrimp in coconut sauce. I see why this is one of the most popular dishes! I essentially dumped it over the rice and didn't leave one speck on the plate. The shrimp were plump, sauce very flavorful and rice cooked perfectly. With one Haitian food experience under my belt, I'm feeling a little more confident to venture to Little Haiti for a taste of some more.
(4)
Colleen B.
Thank you, Yelp! No way I would have ventured in here without the resounding echoes of Yelpers. So delicious. My very first time having Haitian food and it was a delight. Headed in right at lunchtime and were seated immediately. Don't expect much in the service area for lunch as they weren't extremely attentive but the staff was kind and served us some delicious food so I wasn't mad. The murals are so very bright and vibrant, they make the decor very engaging. We started with the Akra: Malanga fritters with avocado and watercress dipping sauce. When I say I could have bathed in that sauce, I am not joking. I put my finger in the dish and scooped out the very end of this sauce after asking my dining companions if they minded. It was everything I have ever wanted to accompany me on a dish; refreshing, flavorful with a hint of sweetness and a kick of bitter. I even used it on my main dish and I hope to the sauce gods that I can recreate this sauce of beauty. My main dish, I went for the Kribish Kreyol o Kokoye -- the Shrimp in Coconut Sauce. I always get thrown off when restaurants serve the shrimp with their tails still on but I assume it's to show their freshness, which I appreciate. It was delicious. The coconut sauce was lovely and rich and the shrimp were plump and cooked to perfection. A pleasant first Haitian food experience!
(4)
Blue A.
It took me about 30 years before I tried Haitian food. What was I waiting for? I will say the cuisine is typical of what you'd expect from a Caribbean restaurant. Rice. Beans. Roots. Meat in sauces. Tropical flavors. The layout of the restaurant is interesting. There's a couple of tables and a bar area when you walk in - that's where the hostess greeted us. Then through a little doorway there's another room with plenty of seats. We sat back there - and there was only one other table while we were there. That room is brightly colored - and once again, very tropical! I'd been having a hankering for some oxtail for months. So when I saw it on the menu I was excited and nervous - excited to get oxtail, nervous it would taste drastically different from what I am used to (Cuban style). Of course the spices were pretty different - but this was equally delicious! The dish came with some rice and beans mixed together (moro) and all around a filling dish. The table also got some fried malanga! Growing up my mom always made me malanga soup when I was sick. I don't think I have ever seen malanga available at a restaurant before. These are basically like yuca fries and the came with a watercress and avocado sauce that was really good. Overall it was great. Of course the main things wrong here are pretty much par for most of Miami - parking can be very tricky and service could be a little more attentive. However the food makes up for that.
(4)
Judy C.
I got the lime fish based on other Yelp reviews. It was good. This fish was a tad dry, but the sauce on it made up for the dryness. Also, I wanted it with rice, but they didn't have rice left, so I got it with Yucca fries. The Yucca fries are ok. Those were a bit dry for me too. This is more like Caribbean food. The coconut pudding was the highlight of my meal. It was creamy and sweet and duper yummy!
(4)
Derrick K.
Nice Haitian spot in South Beach. The restaurant is easy to miss if you are not looking for it, but once you step inside it is colorful and you feel like you are in the owner's home. My wife and I had the goat stew and the fried fish. We had a lot of fried fish on our stay in Miami and theirs was up to par. Make sure to get extra pickled salsa with the fried fish because it is so good.
(4)
Chris S.
This was my first experience with Haitian food and Tap Tap made a good impression. Haitian cuisine is very similar to the food of their surrounding Caribbean neighbors but with their own unique flavor. Tap Tap is very pleasant to look at, lots of nice bright colors and larger than it appears from the outside. Furniture is designed to remind you of the no thrills vibe of many Caribbean nations. Very simple chairs and tables. Service was good, hostesses was warm and welcoming. Waiter was also very good and attentive. Food was good, I had the Griyo, pork chunks, portion size was generous and pork was cooked well and remained moist which is difficult with the way the chunks were cut. Accompanying rice was prepared well and was an excellent compliant to the main protein. Excellent overall presentation and flavor profile. Tap Tap is a must visit if you like the vibe of Caribbean food and are in the Miami area. Short walk from the beach and worth your time.
(4)
Antonio B.
Authentic for sure, loved it. I had the griot, but we also had the stewed goat and stewed chicken. The art work and furniture are unique, colorful and pretty.
(5)
Elizabeth Y.
Definitely a gem in south beach. Reasonably priced. Had to check this place out after seeing it being featured in food network's diners drive ins and dives. Highly recommend their malanga fritters. It's some sort of root but not as dense as yuca. Served with watercress sauce that reminds me of a healthy fresh green juice. Main courses: ox tail stew (not on the menu but request and waitress will see if the chef can cook it up) really tender. Also recommend the coconut shrimp. As for drinks you can try their krema which is made in house (rum and milk). Or you can try their Haitian mojito or their natif which is more tart and strong. I would not recommend their cake however. It was really dry, maybe bc we had the last piece and it tasted as though it had been sitting for awhile.
(4)
Mandy R.
1) Sunnie is amazing and adorable 2) The mojitos are the best I've ever had 3) This better be on your list while in town
(5)
Sandy P.
Awesome authentic Haitian food. Definitely a must if you're in south beach! The drinks were amazing as well and the restaurant decor is absolutely gorgeous.
(5)
Landy S.
We went to Tap Tap after recommendations from fellow yelpers and a friend, to try some good ol' haitian food. The food was good, but not extraordinary. We tried the stewed chicken dish with rice and plaintain, and the "fried" platter. The service was also good and timely. We recommend this restaurant.
(3)
Angie P.
Wasn't real authentic Haitian food, just okay. Server was nice and art work was amazing!
(3)
Samantha S.
While on vacation in Miami I was craving lambi (conch), Haitian style. After doing a bit of researching and forgoing another spot because of their lack of seating, me and my girlfriend settled on Tap Tap and we were both glad we did. I ordered the lambi and it came with rice and beans and plantain and my girlfriend had the griot (fried pork chunks) which came with the same sides. There's nothing to say except the food was tasty. We also finished all the pikliz (pickled, spicy cabbage) that they sat on the table. I guess my only gripe is that service is slow and that may be why my rice was a little cold? Besides that, amazing food, definitely hit the spot.
(4)
Greg S.
Tap Tap was a great find in South Beach. Despite the protestations of our Cuban cab driver ("Haitian food? Oh my god! Ugh!"), I was more than pleased with the meal that we had here. It's a fairly small space, but the staff is friendly and we had no problem getting a table on a Sunday night. The decor is fantastic. Large, Rivera-esque murals of Haitian scenes on the walls and beautifully painted tables (ours had a mermaid). Definitely set a high bar, but luckily the food was just as good. Having little experience with Haitian cuisine, we asked for recommendations and ended up going with an appetizer of fried plantains, malanga, and sweet potato; stewed beef with okra, cornmeal, and white beans; and shrimp with a coconut sauce. Honestly, the recommendations couldn't have been better. Despite being fried and somewhat heavy, the plantains and malanga came with a watercress dipping sauce that I would have eaten by the bowlful. Absolutely delicious, and definitely necessary to lighten things up a bit. The entrees were also great. The beef and okra stew was rich, flavorful, and thick. Our waiter advised adding the white beans to the cornmeal--tasty, but so dense that I couldn't eat more than 1/3 of it. The shrimp reminded me of a Thai curry, but less sweet and with a more pronounced coconut flavor, which is a good thing in my book. If you're in or around South Beach, Tap Tap is worth your time. I'll probably end up returning here the next time I'm in Miami.
(4)
John Z.
Very good for tasty Haitian food. Appetizers are very good, creamy spinach side is a must, grilled conch could be a bit softer, but chicken was the bomb - nice spices and nicely cooked. The restaurant makes you feel as if you are on vacation on an island. The place is simple, a bit run down, but colorful and authentic. It is a must for every tourist on South Beach.
(4)
Jonathan P.
Wow not sure where the ratings come from. I had the griyo and legim and the mais molune. The griyo with rice and beans was good. My wife's mais was horrible. Some of the art work was interesting but there's a lot of gede themed (diety of Sex, mischief, and death) stuff. Left a weird vibe. Food took a year and a day to come out.
(2)
Andrew K.
3.5 stars, rounding down. Went here due to outstanding recommendations. Ambiance was dingy. Service was friendly. The food was pretty good, kind of like Cuban. Expectations were high due to status on Eater 38 essential and seeing it on tv. Didn't deliver. Watercress salad dressing and non-greasy fries yams/plantains, were highlights. The grouper had no flavor at all. The shrimp with coconut sauce was not mind-boggling. The griot was ok.
(3)
Juliana L.
Shrimp in kreyol sauce... heaven on a plate. My first Haitian food experience, and it couldn't have been nicer. The decor is bright and beautiful, outdoor seating is lovely, staff is relaxed and attentive. A few blocks' walk from the beach and totally worth it. Tastes like food made from the heart!
(5)
Peter C.
Back to old Haiti after 5 years. This place is a gem., a utopia amongst the culinary riffraff of ocean avenue. Here I sit with with a beautifully mind-altering rhum (yea, rhum) punch, in a room amazingly painted with Haitian art. My dish was lime infused grouper perfectly cooked and wonderfully cruelly spicy. Momma K (mojito Momma for this trip) had Mohitos, pumpkin soup and salad. She still shivers with delight when she thinks of it. Our friends, ox tail and goat soups, a bit bony but good none the less. And ao the night progressed. We sat around a lovely painted table and talked of life. This, in my humble opinion is what dining out is about; a forum to share with friends and family good times, good drinks and good food. This is my Haitian refuge from the storm. You are a fool if you miss this.
(5)
Maevs D.
plat fritay 'lan te gou anpil eh lanbi Nan saus te pli gou. Mwen te fashe emplarye yo pa'te ayesyen! Men manje yan bon eh geyen anpil atizay ayisyen Nan restoran. Li bel eh gen bel ambyans Nan mitan south beach.
(4)
A H.
Nice art! We didn't love the food or service and wish we'd went somewhere else for my wife's 37th but I would go back for beers and possibly apps at the bar. The food was carb heavy and typical Caribbean island fare but fun enough. Locals like it and I can see why. Do not go for romantic dinner........don't worry I made up for it the next day (wife happy again)! I thought the Kenyan beer was fun (Tusker). Shame it wasn't draught but that's cool.
(3)
Kevin G.
Service was bad Waiting for EVER ! Food was undercooked for most of the dishes Sides arrived with the dessert Really OVERpriced
(1)
Leesa F.
I was visiting Miami and my friend wanted to try this place so I decided to give it a shot after checking out the menu. We were absolutely starving by the time we got there and ordered an app, malanga fritters, and the grouper and oxtail for our entrees. For drinks, my friend had the rum punch and I had the Haitian mojito. The mojito was delicious, I definitely recommend it! For the appetizer, the actual food part was just ok but the sauce is where it's at! I would recommend just ordering the sauce and using it to dip the delicious fresh bread (with an amazing butter!) or use it to put on your entree if you get fish or chicken. The grouper was just ok but my friend's oxtail was very good. I dipped my plantains in the sauce and it was heavenly. Overall, this place was good. It's not a quick meal, it was very slow and I'm pretty sure our waiter forgot about us a few times. Their outside seating is only 3 tables so the chance of sitting outside is slim. If I lived in Miami, I would probably be back and order just the appetizer sauce and the oxtail. Enjoy!
(3)
Chanel G.
This place is AMAZING! If you are tired of the over priced places on Ocean Dr walk a few blocks to Tap Tap. The art and decor takes you to the island of Haiti immediately. Our waitress Karen was so hospitable her level of service was top notch! Ok to the food....we started with fruit punch and rum punch....punch is made in house and delish....then the plat fritay (excuse spelling) ADD THE GOAT...you will thank me. Main course was the shrimp in coconut with rice and beans!!! It was heaven!!! Also try the spinach in coconut! If your in Miami GO HERE!!! I will def be back!!! Also they should bottle and sell their watercress sauce....Id put it on everything!!!
(5)
Jules B.
I grew up in Miami and lived here for 23 years and I always saw this place but never tried. I changed that on this trip. Went with my cousin who also had never tried it and we both enjoyed it very much. We shared the appetizer platter and it was all really good. The dipping sauces really made that dish and the goat "tidbits" were really tasty. Not sure what "tidbits" are really but regardless they were good. I had the beef stew with cornmeal and I really liked that dish. The cornmeal is basically grits and it had great flavor with the black bean sauce on top. The stew was really tender and didn't even require a knife. My cousin had the shrimp and it was cooked well and had great flavor as well. My only complaint with the food is it needed more spice. I was expecting a lot of spice and it was just jot there really. I live in California now so I really like my spicy food. The drinks were also good as well. I had the Haitian Mojito and it was really good. I'm sure there might be better Haitian food in the heart of Little Haiti but if you rather stick to beach area then try this.
(4)
Jenny H.
Everything here is delicious!!! Authentic Haitian. My favorites are their spinach in coconut milk...and surprisingly, their spaghetti! Try anything and everything and you'll be pleasantly surprised I'm sure.
Saw this restaurant on the cooking channel and fell in love with their drink menu. Came here with my best friend and ate the most delicious Haitian meal ever. I could taste everything in the dish! I will definitely come back. The food is great and so is the service and those drinks are not shabby either.
(5)
Brad N.
Great ambience, atmosphere and service. We brought a party of 8 and they took great care of us. The Griyo was very good and several of my party enjoyed the grouper. One of the best Mojitos in Miami - worth the upgrade to the 5 star rhum!
(4)
Kashif K.
This place was recommended by a taxi driver who was Haitian, and I had expressed some curiosity about Haitian cuisine. Hmmm... I love talking to taxi drivers in Miami! I have now been here for lunch and dinner a number of times, and have always enjoyed my meal. Tap Tap is a means of public transportation (like a mini bus) in Haiti, and this restaurant has an ornate model of a Tap Tap parked right in front of it. The interior of the restaurant is similarly adorned in the traditional island fashion of Haiti, and exudes a very relaxed vibe, such that the bustle of South Beach seems thousands of miles away, once you're inside this restaurant. My favorite appetizer is the Taso Kabrit (chunks of goat meat, fried crisp, served with a dipping sauce). I've had the grilled grouper filet in lime sauce and the grilled whole yellowtail snapper, and the yellowtail snapper is my personal preference. The stewed oxtail is pretty tasty too.
(4)
Vanessa R.
Came here for lunch on a Sunday. Slow service. Ordered spicy conch for appetizer which was good. Had griot for main entree and hubby had oxtail. Food was served cold but the flavor was there, would've been excellent if it was served right off the stove. Was expecting mixed rice and beans but was served white rice with white beans on the side? Food is good but disappointed by the service.
(3)
Adriana O.
Visited during our Florida vacation , Sunday night 8/14 and we enjoyed the experience! South beach area prices and 18% tip included in check FYI. Enjoyed trying Haitian food for our first time! Forgot to take pics but we had two appetizers between 3 of us (malanga with watercress sauce and the other was a fried pork with another amazing sauce ) * forgot what it was called but the sauce was green and amazzzing ! I had the shrimp dinner with coconut sauce (other option is Creole). It was very good but it didn't taste much like coconut flavors or anything special, mostly the taste of tomato sauce with peppers. Although the shrimp was large and good . Each dinner plate comes with rice and beans and fried plantains. My boyfriend had the goat stew which was fantastic!!! Highly recommended. Our friend had the fried pork which he enjoyed as well. All in all it was a great experience but 4 stars for the pricing ,my somewhat bland entree and the service wasn't thoroughly present. Our waitress was super nice and helpful but we hardly saw her unfortunately. I will definitely try Haitian food again though.
(4)
Jess C.
To complete my culinary adventures in Miami, I made sure I had some Haitian cuisine before I left. I had their goat stew ($18), which I came with a relatively small portion of goat and large portion of rice. I wanted to share my dish, but because there was such limited portion of goat pieces (2-3), it is difficult to share. Even though the eatery is filled with beautiful, colorful depictions of Haitian life and culture, I thought the lighting made the place a bit dark and gloomy during dinnertime. We were having an early dinner, and even though we were the only one in the restaurant, it took awhile to get our food & drinks refilled.
(3)
Basshector J.
From start to finish this place was bad. After asking to speak with a manager I was informed she "stepped out." Our waitress asked if we were asking about our food taking long. How did she not realize it was her service we had a problem with? Since it was going so poorly? I am a server myself and it was deplorable. Servers can give a bare minimum of service with a greet, order, check back at the table once after their first bite, and then refill beverages. You can get a 20% tip out of that. You don't even have to smile. It took what felt like 10 minutes for us to be acknowledged. No introduction or greet, no "Welcome to Tap Tap." We didn't feel very welcomed after a while. Another 10 minutes to get water. When our Malinga appetizer was dropped we had no plates on the table. We had to ask after several minutes. When my friend's salad hit the table they just walked away before we could ask for silverware. My friend then had to go get silverware for the table himself (we're all restaurant industry so it was an educated guess where to find it). Once our food came out she never once checked to see if we were OK. Every server knows that is the most crucial point to be at the table to know if they need anything, if something isn't good, etc. I noticed the meat portion on my plate was half the size it was in the pictures here on Yelp. I also didn't get the sauce that it's supposed to come with but rather some oily bland orange dip. My friend's chicken was good, the fried plantain was good. She did not come to refill water for anyone unless she was asked to. Twice we sat there with empty glasses. And when we asked for more water she brought 2-3 empty glasses to us which was weird. I don't know if they are understaffed or if they are still training their staff but there should be more servers if they cannot handle their tables. I hate writing this but to save this place the staff needs to know this. I would have rather expressed this in person but the manager was not there and I wasn't going to complain to my waitress because she was dealing with other people. It's not all her fault, you cannot leave one server for an entire restaurant and one food runner. I don't know if there is a better and bigger staff for dinner. I would have comped something for such bad service. An apology would be cool. People are forgiving, if you show them even an ounce of fucks given, they usually will accept that. The first bill they printed out was wrong and didn't have an automatic gratuity. After they fixed it they added an 18% gratuity for a table of 4 people. This is not okay. No one there wanted to tip that for the service we just received and it almost made sense out of our entire experience. They add an automatic 18% gratuity there so why should they care about the service they give? No wonder. They're gonna get a nearly perfect tip if they give horrible service anyway. The tip is up to us unless we are a large party. After I asked for them to take it off they told me it was basically just a suggestion even though it was added into my grand total. There are tip suggestions at the bottom of the receipt for 15% 18% 20% already if I really need a "suggestion." This is taking advantage of people who are too polite and just wanna get out of there at that point. I spoked to two other tables there while they were standing around at the bar looking for help and they were both annoyed. They as well said it was horrible service. One guy had been there for 2 hours, he said. The place wasn't packed, it was at a steady pace of people in and out with about half to just under half the place being full. They didn't even know how to separate 2 items off a bill for a separate check. Please don't take this to heart or as hate. We got nothing but love but I feel as a business you need to hear these types of things to progress and continue.
(1)
Crystine W.
Tap Tap was bookmarked before our flight even landed in Miami. Our adventures led us further away than the restaurant itself, so we didn't get to plan it into our days in Miami although we stayed a block down from the restaurant. Delight came when our food tour guide brought us to Tap Tap to sample their mojitos (voted best in SoBe at least 3 years running) and the Malangas, fried root vegetable. Tap Tap's mojito is true to its reputation and it truly is top-notch. That fresh-squeezed lime juice really packs a special punch into the beverage. We also sampled some of their Malanga Fritters (vegetarian, fried root of some type) that is served alongside some watercress dipping sauce. I wish they sold that sauce because it goes so well with probably everything. The restaurant itself is also very special. We learned that all of the tables and chairs are furniture pieces up for sale so they are constantly changing. Also, all of the art is done either by a Haitian artist who lives in Miami, or from an artist in Haiti. There is even a specific Haitian artist who randomly makes stops into the restaurant to add more to his art mural. Fancy? No. But uber cool? Hell yeah!
(4)
Becka N.
I'm so happy we stumbled upon this art mecca! This place is awesome, literally slathered in art. Sharon, our bartender, explained that when the restaurant first opened, they hired a slew of local artists and gave each one a room as their canvas. Wow! Beautiful, just beautiful, from floor to ceiling. There are intimate private rooms if you're looking to throw a dinner party, outdoor seating and plenty of space at the friendly bar. If Sharon is manning the bar, you're guaranteed a tasty cocktail, local insider tips and fantastic service! No kidding! My friend asked if they have tea. They don't but whipped up a yummy spice tea with star anise right on the spot to accommodate us. We didn't eat but after checking out the menu, I'm definitely coming back to try a few dishes. Can't wait!
(5)
Gym S.
I recently visited Tap Tap while visiting Miami again. It was delightful. The quality of the Haitian food was great and presentation was well executed. What's more, they have amazing cocktails and happy hour too boot! While it's not my first time enjoying Haitian cuisine, I did enjoy Tap Tap's refinement its art, and its storied 20 year history on Miami Beach. I spend most of my time enjoying food and drinks at the bar, where I hung with Miami Beach locals and felt like I fit right in. Mind you, this was a Monday night, so quite by Tap Tap and Miami Beach standards. But overall it was a great. I ended up staying an extra hour and a half talking Miami Beach history and trading points about the fine points about cuisine. If you're in Miami and want to try a fine rendition of Haitian cuisine- like griyot, oxtail, other stews and conch ceviche- try Tap Tap. I felt like I came out of the restaurant a better person.
(5)
Jess H.
Good food, reasonably priced in Miami. Make the trek up from the beach to enjoy top of the line Haitian food. It's worth it.
(4)
David K.
What I had: goat stew (18 dollars) first item on the menu. Comes with a healthy portion of flavoured rice and a fried plantation piece (potato) Haitian Cola. Opinion: 4 stars? Sounds about right, maybe slightly lower. Food portions are great, they give you bread for an appetiser and service is generally polite. The goat stew was ok, not the best goat dish I've had but it was a good cultural experience. Very flavoursome and tangy and has a little spice in it if that's your style. The Haitian Cola is a 20oz serving just like a soda pop with a unique taste. Try it if you want a soda :) I came here to try some different food from different parts of the world and it's nice place to try. Good for kids, good for a drink and has desserts too!
(4)
Lisa N.
Great food and experience! Started with the combination plate of fried plantains and veggies - so good! None of the spices are spicy but have a great flavor! Moved onto the bef (beef)and pork dishes. Rice and beans were perfectly cooked and the meats were tender and juicy. Mild spices used - and fills you up fast (don't let the pictures confuse you, you get a lot of food. Ended with pineapple upside down and sweet potato pie - both highly recommend!!! Amazing place and such friendly staff.
(5)
Pamela P.
When I came here to visit I initially wrote a very sarcastic review because I could not believe what I experienced. The owner was completely inebriated and extremely rude and I thought I would give her a pass and maybe it was an isolated incident. I made the decision to change my completely SARCASTIC good review to an objective one after just skewering someone else on bad customer service. Fair is fair and credible is credible. I was feeling a little under the weather and my favorite Colombian place on the beach runs out of the best soups ever by the time I get home (about 4 or 5) for good reason, they are phenomenal! So I need some healing home cooked food. Next best thing is a hearty stew. So I remember the Haitian restaurant on 5th Street from Food Network, it was really good that last time I went with Mom and Sis, and Haitians like to cook spicy which I love. I get to Tap Tap and YAY! They have 2 kinds of stews... chicken and goat. I walk in to the quaint little and I was about to sit by myself at a table by the window when a lady sitting at the bar protested and asked that I sit at the bar next to her. I thought that was really nice and I obliged. The bartender was very polite and helpful, out of the 2 choices he recommended the goat and I agreed. As I was waiting, I come to find out the lady next to me is actually the owner of the restaurant and she sarcastically introduced herself as "George". (She slurred George) She acted as if I had invited myself to sit with her... but I played along. She was very much into listening to some Hatian music that reminded me very much of Edith Piaf, so when I mentioned it she asked what do YOU know about Haitian culture? As if I had committed an ultimate offense. I said nothing, I am here to learn. She went back to her music for which I was thankful. Then my food came out... OMG it was heaven, just what I was looking for and it made me feel better immediately. That goat stew with the rice and beans and the Hatian version of spicy encurtido is just what I was craving and needed. I found out the entire kitchen staff is Haitian so you know you're getting authentic. As for the company, I want to thank Mrs. Kean, for making my rough day worse with her overall unpleasantness. It is very disappointing that an owner so rudely express their disdain of a customer's humble patronage. I say this because she repeatedly asked me why I was drinking her wine and eating her food? She asked as if I was pilfering her restaurant. I thought thats what restauranteurs want people to do, you sell, I buy. The bartender was nice and looked absolutely mortified at his boss' behavior, so did the rest of the staff, but they were too afraid to say anything. Overall, the unpleasantness left a bitter taste in my mouth despite the very good food. I will think twice before I support this business again.
A few friends recommended this place during our honeymoon in Miami. I absolutely lovedddd our meal there! I think it was one of my favorites while we were in south beach. We had the malanga(?) fritters and omg. SOO good! We also had the shrimp with coconut sauce and the pork chunks which were delicious, too. I wish they had food like this somewhere here! Soo yummyy!!
(5)
Jack J.
Amazing! Completely authentic and delicious food, incredible artwork on walls, tables, chairs, etc. great live traditional music. People are clearly having a very good time in this place.
(5)
Will W.
If you're looking for authentic Caribbean food at a reasonable price, this is the place to go. The food is awesome, and the place has a very laid back and friendly vibe.
(5)
Snehal Rudra B.
Went to tap tap with some friends for dinner. The scene was loud, fun and and friendly. I thoroughly enjoyed the bar. I appreciated that they served Rhum Barbancourt, one of the finest rums in all of the caribbean, and all their mixed drinks are made with this very distinctive rum. I particularly enjoyed a drink that was a simple mix of rum, lots of fresh lime juice and raw sugar. It was tart, sweet, and deceptively potent. I had about three of those, along with a Prestige, and all of that made for a very fun night. My friends had the rum punch, and raved about it. Now the food. Akra was quite delicious. Taso kabrit was good, but just a tad bit dry. I had a steamed whole snapper in a lime sauce. The lime sauce was delicious. I could taste the scotch bonnet peppers that probably went into the sauce, and I love me some scotch bonnets! It was not too spicy, but extremely flavorful. The snapper was also cooked very well. However, i expected it to be fresher, considering how close we were to the ocean. One of my friends had the stew chicken,and claimed it was the best chicken of her life. Another friend had griyo and also enjoyed it. Certainly a fun experience in south beach.
(3)
Cass M.
While exploring SoBe I came across this little jewel. I had the coconut shrimp with a side of coconut spinach. Brittney, the barkeep, was cute, super cool and friendly. Her rum punch will sit you down. I left satisfied and a tad tipsy. Great way to start a mini vacay!! I would give 5 stars but the spinach was drowning in coconut. I would have preferred a larger portion as well. I cleaned the plate with ease. Will return next visit!
(4)
Nancy Y.
Love their whole fried yellowtail snapper! The batter was light and crispy, and the fish, served alongside a semi-spicy limey olive oil-based sauce, was fresh and delicious. Their goat (both the goat tidbits appetizer and the goat stew entree) was super tender and flavorful. The restaurant itself has colorful tables and chairs, murals on walls, and live music on some nights. Overall, it's a welcoming low-key place and definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(4)
Aleena N.
Summary: Shrimp Coconut. Every time I come to Miami. This place is a MUST! Sweet and short. Customer Service: Good. Sometimes the staff appears a little irritated but worth smiling through (we all have good & bad days right) and waiting patiently for the food to sing to your palate. Pricing: Reasonable comparative to south beach and way better food! What I ordered: I don't remember the name but it's the coconut shrimp and it comes with plantains ( nom ) and rice. Food timing: Reasonable (15-20) and it's a light crowd today. But if you are super hungry they have warm bread and garlic dip! Mmmmmm! What I come back?: I do every single time I come to Miami. Also the rum is delish! I got the 8 year aged rum. Enjoyyyy! The end!
(5)
Rye M.
Food is okay, i had better haitian food. Service is subpar too. Only came here coz of guy fieri. Not coming back to this place again
(1)
E S.
My first experience with Haitian food and I'm sold. My husband and I ordered the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbits w/spicy creole dipping sauce), The Lanbi Nann Sos (conch creole) and Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (stewed beef and okra). The conch was awesome and was served ceviche style. The stewed beef and okra was AMAZING. The beef was incredibly tender and the sauce was perfection. The goat tidbits were really dry and hard to chew and the dipping sauce was bland. When I ordered the ginger tea, the waiter bet that I couldn't drink it in under 5 minutes and he was right. It was incredibly strong and creamy, so so so good and just what I needed to start the day. If you like ginger, do it! We came in during the afternoon and had the entire back of the restaurant to ourselves. It was super peaceful and we were surrounded with beautiful, vibrant murals. The service is slower than I think most people can deal with. You have to ask for everything including water, bread, etc. and it could take 5-10 minutes to arrive. I chalked the snails pace up to a general Miami vibe; coming from New York, you better be prepared to zen out and sip on some rum while you wait.
(4)
Ann P.
Malanga fritters, grilled Turks and Caicos Conch and a crazy good pork dish that my man loved. Nice cocktails and friendly wait staff. The only reason it earned 4 stars was because it's not too clean. Dirty napkins littered the floor and the bathroom was gross.
(4)
Kelly O.
Quite possibly the most overrated restaurant in miami. The food was bland and the drinks were just ok. Nothing that we had (stews, rice, conch) would tempt me to ever go back.
(1)
Rachel Y.
Awesome experience! Never have I been to a more colorful restaurant. Murals painted on every possible inch including the walls, tables and chairs. Weekday lunches are slow and the juice-driven cocktails are strong, which makes for a perfect afternoon. Stewed coconut shrimp with red beans and rice are a must. The spicy conch appetizer is pretty much a diced conch ceviche with celery and onions and will be a recurring order for me. The fact that this 2 story colorfully run-down space exists still on 5th street adds to the authority and charm of TapTap.
(4)
Naty K.
My oh my, I had no idea Haitian food could be so delicious! I have been missing out. This place can get crowded and unfortunately, I could not tell you about parking, I always end up parking on 5th and Alton (Shoppes at 5th) and just walking. The building looks like a large house, it's hard to miss, as it is a rather tall structure, with the sign in pink letters that says "TAP TAP" and a heart underneath. It's beautiful inside, and you will feel like you stepped out of Miami, and definitely, out of South Beach. The porch is very cozy, with a colorful rocking chair and some outdoor seating. If you're lucky, you may even catch the Tap Tap bike, chained on a post nearby, with the rainbow colors that the restaurant is famous for. The place is really chill inside, the staff is very friendly and accommodating and will make an effort to explain dishes and even show concern when you order a spicy dish. There are gorgeous murals in colorful shades on every wall, and the chairs all have their own color motifs. Very vibrant tropical shades. The tables themselves also have nice art. The food can get expensive, but I have been told everything is organic, so maybe that is to be expected. The food is delicious, very well-seasoned, perfectly spiced, and mouth-watering. I have yet to try something that was a miss, from seafood to beef, everything is tender and delicious. If you come on a Saturday, be sure to catch their live band, playing authentic Haitian music. The crowds can get interesting, from foreign tourists that are drunk and failing at dancing to the Haitian music, to business executives to Haitian natives reading the Haitian newspapers. On my most recent visit (I have been here about 3-4 times), I had the Salad Tap Tap, which is a nice alternative to the standard salad (you don't see many places using the tart watercress), and the green dressing was delicious, although I am not sure what they put in it. My main course was a stew, which was not only tender and flavorful, but plentiful. Most places serve a lot of fatty meat and bone, so you only end up with a meager portion, but not here. For dessert, a light and fluffy coconut flan hit the spot. The flavor of coconut was not overwhelming and the creamy, cool texture was great and refreshing on a warm summer evening. It is a very light dessert so if you're very full or have indigestion but want dessert, I highly recommend this. Come here at least once, if not for the ambiance and delicious fare, then for the groovy decor. You will thank me later.
(5)
Sarah C.
Ate here again and once again the food/drinks blew me away! Fresh, fresh, and a few brilliant new takes on traditional food. I am a repeat for sure! Thank you again Tap Tap!
(4)
Samara M.
Its unfortunate because i heard such great things and also read great reviews on this place but i was extremely disappointed. I was in Miami on vacation and my boyfriend wanted Haitian food and since i never had good haitian food so i figured why not. I looked up the restaurant on various foodie sites and this place was where we had to go. We arrived around quarter to 10 on a Sunday. We were greeted right away however we were not seated as quickly. When we were seated our waiter was nice and personable. We looked over the menu and were ready well i should say i was finally ready to eat some delicious haitian food! To my complete dismay the kitchen ran out of food!!!!! So the only thing i can base this review on is soley my experience here. I did order the "tropical rhum punch with 5 star rhum" the drink was fantastic. I wish i was able to taste the food. Honestly they should have just closed early given that they only had 3 items on the menu. So in closing not sure when I'll be back to MIAMI but when i do I'll give this place another try. Note: come before 9pm and you may have better luck
(1)
Raechel S.
Having never had Haitian food before, we were excited to try this place out. Their mojitos are award winning and amazing--so dangerous, we had three by the end of dinner and were grateful we walked to the restaurant. Definitely try the goat stew and their pineapple upside down cake. Both were so tasty! Expect a colorful restaurant with homemade chairs, murals, and authentic food. The prices are totally reasonable for being in South Beach, and it's a total must try!
(5)
Poka H.
Delicious!!! The waitress was very attentive and the food was delicious. Well seasoned and outstanding. Reminds me of the mother land I love it!!
(4)
Althrycon H.
HAITIAN FOOD!! Griyo (fried pork chunks) with pikliz and a side of chopped Scotch Bonnet pepper... probably one of the reasons why I keep coming back to this restaurant every time I go to South Beach!! Their food is so good I sometimes wish I grew up in Haiti. Got to try their Creole conch last time I was in town; shout-out to the local chillin' at the bar for recommending the dish!! Overall, this is definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(5)
Nga P.
I'm very impressed by Tap Tap. They are located in an area not so far from Ocean Drive. From the outside it doesn't look very fancy or look like it's gonna be great. But don't judge a book by its cover. Once I stepped inside, I found the decorations beautiful and colorful. The staff was very nice as well. Above all, it's the food that won 5 star for my review. Everyone get bread and onion infused butter to start. The butter is flavorful and outstanding. My boyfriend ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and he was amazed by how good it was. I tried it and agreed with him though I believe my stewed oxtail dish was the best. The oxtail was stewed to soft and the broth was so good I'm thinking about going back to the restaurant for the second night. Highly recommended restaurant overall!
(5)
Samantha S.
While on vacation in Miami I was craving lambi (conch), Haitian style. After doing a bit of researching and forgoing another spot because of their lack of seating, me and my girlfriend settled on Tap Tap and we were both glad we did. I ordered the lambi and it came with rice and beans and plantain and my girlfriend had the griot (fried pork chunks) which came with the same sides. There's nothing to say except the food was tasty. We also finished all the pikliz (pickled, spicy cabbage) that they sat on the table. I guess my only gripe is that service is slow and that may be why my rice was a little cold? Besides that, amazing food, definitely hit the spot.
(4)
Elizabeth Y.
Definitely a gem in south beach. Reasonably priced. Had to check this place out after seeing it being featured in food network's diners drive ins and dives. Highly recommend their malanga fritters. It's some sort of root but not as dense as yuca. Served with watercress sauce that reminds me of a healthy fresh green juice. Main courses: ox tail stew (not on the menu but request and waitress will see if the chef can cook it up) really tender. Also recommend the coconut shrimp. As for drinks you can try their krema which is made in house (rum and milk). Or you can try their Haitian mojito or their natif which is more tart and strong. I would not recommend their cake however. It was really dry, maybe bc we had the last piece and it tasted as though it had been sitting for awhile.
(4)
Mandy R.
1) Sunnie is amazing and adorable 2) The mojitos are the best I've ever had 3) This better be on your list while in town
(5)
Sandy P.
Awesome authentic Haitian food. Definitely a must if you're in south beach! The drinks were amazing as well and the restaurant decor is absolutely gorgeous.
(5)
Landy S.
We went to Tap Tap after recommendations from fellow yelpers and a friend, to try some good ol' haitian food. The food was good, but not extraordinary. We tried the stewed chicken dish with rice and plaintain, and the "fried" platter. The service was also good and timely. We recommend this restaurant.
(3)
Angie P.
Wasn't real authentic Haitian food, just okay. Server was nice and art work was amazing!
(3)
Greg S.
Tap Tap was a great find in South Beach. Despite the protestations of our Cuban cab driver ("Haitian food? Oh my god! Ugh!"), I was more than pleased with the meal that we had here. It's a fairly small space, but the staff is friendly and we had no problem getting a table on a Sunday night. The decor is fantastic. Large, Rivera-esque murals of Haitian scenes on the walls and beautifully painted tables (ours had a mermaid). Definitely set a high bar, but luckily the food was just as good. Having little experience with Haitian cuisine, we asked for recommendations and ended up going with an appetizer of fried plantains, malanga, and sweet potato; stewed beef with okra, cornmeal, and white beans; and shrimp with a coconut sauce. Honestly, the recommendations couldn't have been better. Despite being fried and somewhat heavy, the plantains and malanga came with a watercress dipping sauce that I would have eaten by the bowlful. Absolutely delicious, and definitely necessary to lighten things up a bit. The entrees were also great. The beef and okra stew was rich, flavorful, and thick. Our waiter advised adding the white beans to the cornmeal--tasty, but so dense that I couldn't eat more than 1/3 of it. The shrimp reminded me of a Thai curry, but less sweet and with a more pronounced coconut flavor, which is a good thing in my book. If you're in or around South Beach, Tap Tap is worth your time. I'll probably end up returning here the next time I'm in Miami.
(4)
John Z.
Very good for tasty Haitian food. Appetizers are very good, creamy spinach side is a must, grilled conch could be a bit softer, but chicken was the bomb - nice spices and nicely cooked. The restaurant makes you feel as if you are on vacation on an island. The place is simple, a bit run down, but colorful and authentic. It is a must for every tourist on South Beach.
(4)
Jonathan P.
Wow not sure where the ratings come from. I had the griyo and legim and the mais molune. The griyo with rice and beans was good. My wife's mais was horrible. Some of the art work was interesting but there's a lot of gede themed (diety of Sex, mischief, and death) stuff. Left a weird vibe. Food took a year and a day to come out.
(2)
Andrew K.
3.5 stars, rounding down. Went here due to outstanding recommendations. Ambiance was dingy. Service was friendly. The food was pretty good, kind of like Cuban. Expectations were high due to status on Eater 38 essential and seeing it on tv. Didn't deliver. Watercress salad dressing and non-greasy fries yams/plantains, were highlights. The grouper had no flavor at all. The shrimp with coconut sauce was not mind-boggling. The griot was ok.
(3)
Juliana L.
Shrimp in kreyol sauce... heaven on a plate. My first Haitian food experience, and it couldn't have been nicer. The decor is bright and beautiful, outdoor seating is lovely, staff is relaxed and attentive. A few blocks' walk from the beach and totally worth it. Tastes like food made from the heart!
(5)
Peter C.
Back to old Haiti after 5 years. This place is a gem., a utopia amongst the culinary riffraff of ocean avenue. Here I sit with with a beautifully mind-altering rhum (yea, rhum) punch, in a room amazingly painted with Haitian art. My dish was lime infused grouper perfectly cooked and wonderfully cruelly spicy. Momma K (mojito Momma for this trip) had Mohitos, pumpkin soup and salad. She still shivers with delight when she thinks of it. Our friends, ox tail and goat soups, a bit bony but good none the less. And ao the night progressed. We sat around a lovely painted table and talked of life. This, in my humble opinion is what dining out is about; a forum to share with friends and family good times, good drinks and good food. This is my Haitian refuge from the storm. You are a fool if you miss this.
(5)
Maevs D.
plat fritay 'lan te gou anpil eh lanbi Nan saus te pli gou. Mwen te fashe emplarye yo pa'te ayesyen! Men manje yan bon eh geyen anpil atizay ayisyen Nan restoran. Li bel eh gen bel ambyans Nan mitan south beach.
(4)
A H.
Nice art! We didn't love the food or service and wish we'd went somewhere else for my wife's 37th but I would go back for beers and possibly apps at the bar. The food was carb heavy and typical Caribbean island fare but fun enough. Locals like it and I can see why. Do not go for romantic dinner........don't worry I made up for it the next day (wife happy again)! I thought the Kenyan beer was fun (Tusker). Shame it wasn't draught but that's cool.
(3)
Kevin G.
Service was bad Waiting for EVER ! Food was undercooked for most of the dishes Sides arrived with the dessert Really OVERpriced
(1)
Leesa F.
I was visiting Miami and my friend wanted to try this place so I decided to give it a shot after checking out the menu. We were absolutely starving by the time we got there and ordered an app, malanga fritters, and the grouper and oxtail for our entrees. For drinks, my friend had the rum punch and I had the Haitian mojito. The mojito was delicious, I definitely recommend it! For the appetizer, the actual food part was just ok but the sauce is where it's at! I would recommend just ordering the sauce and using it to dip the delicious fresh bread (with an amazing butter!) or use it to put on your entree if you get fish or chicken. The grouper was just ok but my friend's oxtail was very good. I dipped my plantains in the sauce and it was heavenly. Overall, this place was good. It's not a quick meal, it was very slow and I'm pretty sure our waiter forgot about us a few times. Their outside seating is only 3 tables so the chance of sitting outside is slim. If I lived in Miami, I would probably be back and order just the appetizer sauce and the oxtail. Enjoy!
(3)
Chanel G.
This place is AMAZING! If you are tired of the over priced places on Ocean Dr walk a few blocks to Tap Tap. The art and decor takes you to the island of Haiti immediately. Our waitress Karen was so hospitable her level of service was top notch! Ok to the food....we started with fruit punch and rum punch....punch is made in house and delish....then the plat fritay (excuse spelling) ADD THE GOAT...you will thank me. Main course was the shrimp in coconut with rice and beans!!! It was heaven!!! Also try the spinach in coconut! If your in Miami GO HERE!!! I will def be back!!! Also they should bottle and sell their watercress sauce....Id put it on everything!!!
(5)
Jules B.
I grew up in Miami and lived here for 23 years and I always saw this place but never tried. I changed that on this trip. Went with my cousin who also had never tried it and we both enjoyed it very much. We shared the appetizer platter and it was all really good. The dipping sauces really made that dish and the goat "tidbits" were really tasty. Not sure what "tidbits" are really but regardless they were good. I had the beef stew with cornmeal and I really liked that dish. The cornmeal is basically grits and it had great flavor with the black bean sauce on top. The stew was really tender and didn't even require a knife. My cousin had the shrimp and it was cooked well and had great flavor as well. My only complaint with the food is it needed more spice. I was expecting a lot of spice and it was just jot there really. I live in California now so I really like my spicy food. The drinks were also good as well. I had the Haitian Mojito and it was really good. I'm sure there might be better Haitian food in the heart of Little Haiti but if you rather stick to beach area then try this.
(4)
Jenny H.
Everything here is delicious!!! Authentic Haitian. My favorites are their spinach in coconut milk...and surprisingly, their spaghetti! Try anything and everything and you'll be pleasantly surprised I'm sure.
Saw this restaurant on the cooking channel and fell in love with their drink menu. Came here with my best friend and ate the most delicious Haitian meal ever. I could taste everything in the dish! I will definitely come back. The food is great and so is the service and those drinks are not shabby either.
(5)
Brad N.
Great ambience, atmosphere and service. We brought a party of 8 and they took great care of us. The Griyo was very good and several of my party enjoyed the grouper. One of the best Mojitos in Miami - worth the upgrade to the 5 star rhum!
(4)
Kashif K.
This place was recommended by a taxi driver who was Haitian, and I had expressed some curiosity about Haitian cuisine. Hmmm... I love talking to taxi drivers in Miami! I have now been here for lunch and dinner a number of times, and have always enjoyed my meal. Tap Tap is a means of public transportation (like a mini bus) in Haiti, and this restaurant has an ornate model of a Tap Tap parked right in front of it. The interior of the restaurant is similarly adorned in the traditional island fashion of Haiti, and exudes a very relaxed vibe, such that the bustle of South Beach seems thousands of miles away, once you're inside this restaurant. My favorite appetizer is the Taso Kabrit (chunks of goat meat, fried crisp, served with a dipping sauce). I've had the grilled grouper filet in lime sauce and the grilled whole yellowtail snapper, and the yellowtail snapper is my personal preference. The stewed oxtail is pretty tasty too.
(4)
Vanessa R.
Came here for lunch on a Sunday. Slow service. Ordered spicy conch for appetizer which was good. Had griot for main entree and hubby had oxtail. Food was served cold but the flavor was there, would've been excellent if it was served right off the stove. Was expecting mixed rice and beans but was served white rice with white beans on the side? Food is good but disappointed by the service.
(3)
Adriana O.
Visited during our Florida vacation , Sunday night 8/14 and we enjoyed the experience! South beach area prices and 18% tip included in check FYI. Enjoyed trying Haitian food for our first time! Forgot to take pics but we had two appetizers between 3 of us (malanga with watercress sauce and the other was a fried pork with another amazing sauce ) * forgot what it was called but the sauce was green and amazzzing ! I had the shrimp dinner with coconut sauce (other option is Creole). It was very good but it didn't taste much like coconut flavors or anything special, mostly the taste of tomato sauce with peppers. Although the shrimp was large and good . Each dinner plate comes with rice and beans and fried plantains. My boyfriend had the goat stew which was fantastic!!! Highly recommended. Our friend had the fried pork which he enjoyed as well. All in all it was a great experience but 4 stars for the pricing ,my somewhat bland entree and the service wasn't thoroughly present. Our waitress was super nice and helpful but we hardly saw her unfortunately. I will definitely try Haitian food again though.
(4)
Jess C.
To complete my culinary adventures in Miami, I made sure I had some Haitian cuisine before I left. I had their goat stew ($18), which I came with a relatively small portion of goat and large portion of rice. I wanted to share my dish, but because there was such limited portion of goat pieces (2-3), it is difficult to share. Even though the eatery is filled with beautiful, colorful depictions of Haitian life and culture, I thought the lighting made the place a bit dark and gloomy during dinnertime. We were having an early dinner, and even though we were the only one in the restaurant, it took awhile to get our food & drinks refilled.
(3)
Basshector J.
From start to finish this place was bad. After asking to speak with a manager I was informed she "stepped out." Our waitress asked if we were asking about our food taking long. How did she not realize it was her service we had a problem with? Since it was going so poorly? I am a server myself and it was deplorable. Servers can give a bare minimum of service with a greet, order, check back at the table once after their first bite, and then refill beverages. You can get a 20% tip out of that. You don't even have to smile. It took what felt like 10 minutes for us to be acknowledged. No introduction or greet, no "Welcome to Tap Tap." We didn't feel very welcomed after a while. Another 10 minutes to get water. When our Malinga appetizer was dropped we had no plates on the table. We had to ask after several minutes. When my friend's salad hit the table they just walked away before we could ask for silverware. My friend then had to go get silverware for the table himself (we're all restaurant industry so it was an educated guess where to find it). Once our food came out she never once checked to see if we were OK. Every server knows that is the most crucial point to be at the table to know if they need anything, if something isn't good, etc. I noticed the meat portion on my plate was half the size it was in the pictures here on Yelp. I also didn't get the sauce that it's supposed to come with but rather some oily bland orange dip. My friend's chicken was good, the fried plantain was good. She did not come to refill water for anyone unless she was asked to. Twice we sat there with empty glasses. And when we asked for more water she brought 2-3 empty glasses to us which was weird. I don't know if they are understaffed or if they are still training their staff but there should be more servers if they cannot handle their tables. I hate writing this but to save this place the staff needs to know this. I would have rather expressed this in person but the manager was not there and I wasn't going to complain to my waitress because she was dealing with other people. It's not all her fault, you cannot leave one server for an entire restaurant and one food runner. I don't know if there is a better and bigger staff for dinner. I would have comped something for such bad service. An apology would be cool. People are forgiving, if you show them even an ounce of fucks given, they usually will accept that. The first bill they printed out was wrong and didn't have an automatic gratuity. After they fixed it they added an 18% gratuity for a table of 4 people. This is not okay. No one there wanted to tip that for the service we just received and it almost made sense out of our entire experience. They add an automatic 18% gratuity there so why should they care about the service they give? No wonder. They're gonna get a nearly perfect tip if they give horrible service anyway. The tip is up to us unless we are a large party. After I asked for them to take it off they told me it was basically just a suggestion even though it was added into my grand total. There are tip suggestions at the bottom of the receipt for 15% 18% 20% already if I really need a "suggestion." This is taking advantage of people who are too polite and just wanna get out of there at that point. I spoked to two other tables there while they were standing around at the bar looking for help and they were both annoyed. They as well said it was horrible service. One guy had been there for 2 hours, he said. The place wasn't packed, it was at a steady pace of people in and out with about half to just under half the place being full. They didn't even know how to separate 2 items off a bill for a separate check. Please don't take this to heart or as hate. We got nothing but love but I feel as a business you need to hear these types of things to progress and continue.
(1)
Crystine W.
Tap Tap was bookmarked before our flight even landed in Miami. Our adventures led us further away than the restaurant itself, so we didn't get to plan it into our days in Miami although we stayed a block down from the restaurant. Delight came when our food tour guide brought us to Tap Tap to sample their mojitos (voted best in SoBe at least 3 years running) and the Malangas, fried root vegetable. Tap Tap's mojito is true to its reputation and it truly is top-notch. That fresh-squeezed lime juice really packs a special punch into the beverage. We also sampled some of their Malanga Fritters (vegetarian, fried root of some type) that is served alongside some watercress dipping sauce. I wish they sold that sauce because it goes so well with probably everything. The restaurant itself is also very special. We learned that all of the tables and chairs are furniture pieces up for sale so they are constantly changing. Also, all of the art is done either by a Haitian artist who lives in Miami, or from an artist in Haiti. There is even a specific Haitian artist who randomly makes stops into the restaurant to add more to his art mural. Fancy? No. But uber cool? Hell yeah!
(4)
Becka N.
I'm so happy we stumbled upon this art mecca! This place is awesome, literally slathered in art. Sharon, our bartender, explained that when the restaurant first opened, they hired a slew of local artists and gave each one a room as their canvas. Wow! Beautiful, just beautiful, from floor to ceiling. There are intimate private rooms if you're looking to throw a dinner party, outdoor seating and plenty of space at the friendly bar. If Sharon is manning the bar, you're guaranteed a tasty cocktail, local insider tips and fantastic service! No kidding! My friend asked if they have tea. They don't but whipped up a yummy spice tea with star anise right on the spot to accommodate us. We didn't eat but after checking out the menu, I'm definitely coming back to try a few dishes. Can't wait!
(5)
Gym S.
I recently visited Tap Tap while visiting Miami again. It was delightful. The quality of the Haitian food was great and presentation was well executed. What's more, they have amazing cocktails and happy hour too boot! While it's not my first time enjoying Haitian cuisine, I did enjoy Tap Tap's refinement its art, and its storied 20 year history on Miami Beach. I spend most of my time enjoying food and drinks at the bar, where I hung with Miami Beach locals and felt like I fit right in. Mind you, this was a Monday night, so quite by Tap Tap and Miami Beach standards. But overall it was a great. I ended up staying an extra hour and a half talking Miami Beach history and trading points about the fine points about cuisine. If you're in Miami and want to try a fine rendition of Haitian cuisine- like griyot, oxtail, other stews and conch ceviche- try Tap Tap. I felt like I came out of the restaurant a better person.
(5)
Ashley M.
Where did these people eat?!? All I can say is BLAND, BLAND, BLAND! I had the lime grouper with avocado, rice and beans, & fried plantain. Let's just say I was thankful for the avocado on my plate. I was extremely unimpressed and would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. The art on the walls are nice but that's about it. I'd you look closely you'll see that it's rather dirty. The service was decent. Not great and not bad. Just go somewhere else.
(1)
Lynette D.
Do not visit They do not have parking I purchase parking after the employees said use the machines. Their service was slow. The parking went over by 19 minutes & my car was towed costing me &$259.00. The city of Miami beach needs to address visitors bringing tourism dollars being fleeced because their is limited parking & a rest with no parking tells customers to park and pay & you pay & get taken for $259.00. No matter how the food tastes it is not worth going to be taken advantage of because they do not have parking! Stay away
(1)
Cassie G.
How awesome is it that one of the most highly reviewed spots in South Beach is Haitian? This is why I love Miami. Tap Tap was my first Haitian food experience and definitely a great spot for first timers. We stopped by for lunch on a weekday and the place was pretty empty. The waitress wasn't too welcoming but, alas, you're still in South Beach. To start, we ordered the akra, malanga fritters with watercress dipping sauce. I've never had malanga cooked like this and did enjoy it, with the sauce being the star of the dish. It provided a needed flavor and freshness to the fritters. I would also encourage spicy fiends to grab the scotch bonnet condiment on the table to kick it up a bit. For my main course, I ordered the much lauded kribish kekoye, shrimp in coconut sauce. I see why this is one of the most popular dishes! I essentially dumped it over the rice and didn't leave one speck on the plate. The shrimp were plump, sauce very flavorful and rice cooked perfectly. With one Haitian food experience under my belt, I'm feeling a little more confident to venture to Little Haiti for a taste of some more.
(4)
Colleen B.
Thank you, Yelp! No way I would have ventured in here without the resounding echoes of Yelpers. So delicious. My very first time having Haitian food and it was a delight. Headed in right at lunchtime and were seated immediately. Don't expect much in the service area for lunch as they weren't extremely attentive but the staff was kind and served us some delicious food so I wasn't mad. The murals are so very bright and vibrant, they make the decor very engaging. We started with the Akra: Malanga fritters with avocado and watercress dipping sauce. When I say I could have bathed in that sauce, I am not joking. I put my finger in the dish and scooped out the very end of this sauce after asking my dining companions if they minded. It was everything I have ever wanted to accompany me on a dish; refreshing, flavorful with a hint of sweetness and a kick of bitter. I even used it on my main dish and I hope to the sauce gods that I can recreate this sauce of beauty. My main dish, I went for the Kribish Kreyol o Kokoye -- the Shrimp in Coconut Sauce. I always get thrown off when restaurants serve the shrimp with their tails still on but I assume it's to show their freshness, which I appreciate. It was delicious. The coconut sauce was lovely and rich and the shrimp were plump and cooked to perfection. A pleasant first Haitian food experience!
(4)
Blue A.
It took me about 30 years before I tried Haitian food. What was I waiting for? I will say the cuisine is typical of what you'd expect from a Caribbean restaurant. Rice. Beans. Roots. Meat in sauces. Tropical flavors. The layout of the restaurant is interesting. There's a couple of tables and a bar area when you walk in - that's where the hostess greeted us. Then through a little doorway there's another room with plenty of seats. We sat back there - and there was only one other table while we were there. That room is brightly colored - and once again, very tropical! I'd been having a hankering for some oxtail for months. So when I saw it on the menu I was excited and nervous - excited to get oxtail, nervous it would taste drastically different from what I am used to (Cuban style). Of course the spices were pretty different - but this was equally delicious! The dish came with some rice and beans mixed together (moro) and all around a filling dish. The table also got some fried malanga! Growing up my mom always made me malanga soup when I was sick. I don't think I have ever seen malanga available at a restaurant before. These are basically like yuca fries and the came with a watercress and avocado sauce that was really good. Overall it was great. Of course the main things wrong here are pretty much par for most of Miami - parking can be very tricky and service could be a little more attentive. However the food makes up for that.
(4)
Judy C.
I got the lime fish based on other Yelp reviews. It was good. This fish was a tad dry, but the sauce on it made up for the dryness. Also, I wanted it with rice, but they didn't have rice left, so I got it with Yucca fries. The Yucca fries are ok. Those were a bit dry for me too. This is more like Caribbean food. The coconut pudding was the highlight of my meal. It was creamy and sweet and duper yummy!
(4)
Derrick K.
Nice Haitian spot in South Beach. The restaurant is easy to miss if you are not looking for it, but once you step inside it is colorful and you feel like you are in the owner's home. My wife and I had the goat stew and the fried fish. We had a lot of fried fish on our stay in Miami and theirs was up to par. Make sure to get extra pickled salsa with the fried fish because it is so good.
(4)
Chris S.
This was my first experience with Haitian food and Tap Tap made a good impression. Haitian cuisine is very similar to the food of their surrounding Caribbean neighbors but with their own unique flavor. Tap Tap is very pleasant to look at, lots of nice bright colors and larger than it appears from the outside. Furniture is designed to remind you of the no thrills vibe of many Caribbean nations. Very simple chairs and tables. Service was good, hostesses was warm and welcoming. Waiter was also very good and attentive. Food was good, I had the Griyo, pork chunks, portion size was generous and pork was cooked well and remained moist which is difficult with the way the chunks were cut. Accompanying rice was prepared well and was an excellent compliant to the main protein. Excellent overall presentation and flavor profile. Tap Tap is a must visit if you like the vibe of Caribbean food and are in the Miami area. Short walk from the beach and worth your time.
(4)
Eric B.
Let me start by saying, there is no valet or lot parking available here. That means you have to try to find street parking nearby. That's not always easy, especially on the weekends. However, I encourage you to please do whatever you need to do, just make sure you get to Tap Tap! It is definitely worth the effort. Besides, the walk to the restaurant will allow you to justify dessert. And, you must have dessert! The service here is very personable. Guilo (I hope I spelled it correctly) was our server. Not only did he take the time to explain the menu and make recommendations, he took the time to learn our names. That made us feel like we were guests in his home. Nice touch. The food was amazing. While we had eaten Haitian food before, this was head and shoulders above anything we had before. We tried the Plat Fritay and 4 different dishes and all were spectacular. The griyo was the stand out dish. We had 3desserts and we were glad we chose to splurge. My sweetheart said the pineapple upside down cake reminded her of her aunt's. That is a high honor. To sum it all up, Tap Tap is top notch.
(5)
Johane M.
Came here with my husband for our anniversary. This restaurant is in a great location but parking is a bit hard to find. The decor in the place is sooooo...Haitian-bold colors, lively, and beautiful. The drinks and food were delicious at a reasonable price. Our waitress was slow but professional and friendly. I will definitely be back and recommend it for a nice dinner out with friends or a date!!!
(4)
Sandra A.
No Parking! It took forever to get my food. Staff was friendly, however they did not warn their customers that there was a chance of getting TOWED. There is only alley parking (which is still not legal) and the only parking lot is a private one. The food itself is mediocre ....not very authentic (I am Haitian). My car was towed and as I made calls to find out where my car was, another customers car was towed. When I went back inside, the staff basically stated that the towing fee should be about $150. Why not warn your customers AHEAD of time. $280 later......I will not go there again. There are cheaper Haitian restaurants with actually awesome food in Miami.
(1)
Kelly O.
Quite possibly the most overrated restaurant in miami. The food was bland and the drinks were just ok. Nothing that we had (stews, rice, conch) would tempt me to ever go back.
(1)
Rachel Y.
Awesome experience! Never have I been to a more colorful restaurant. Murals painted on every possible inch including the walls, tables and chairs. Weekday lunches are slow and the juice-driven cocktails are strong, which makes for a perfect afternoon. Stewed coconut shrimp with red beans and rice are a must. The spicy conch appetizer is pretty much a diced conch ceviche with celery and onions and will be a recurring order for me. The fact that this 2 story colorfully run-down space exists still on 5th street adds to the authority and charm of TapTap.
(4)
Kristi D.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I was super excited to visit this place on a recent trip to Miami. I live in Atlanta and there aren't any Haitian restaurants that I have been able to visit. As a haitian , I often miss the traditional food I grew up eating, so visiting Tap Tap was a must for me. We arrived and was told that there will be about a 30 minute wait ( it was a Thursday night). We agreed and took a seat to the side and listened to the live band. A table opened in front of us and another waiter came and motioned for us to sit. The woman ( who turned out to be our waiter) who took our name down came and said we could not sit there ( umm ok ..) so we returned back to our seats on the side. Literally 30 seconds later she came back and said we may now sit at that table ( offered no apology for the confusion). We ordered and waited about 20 mins for the food to arrive. My friend starts eating his rice, reaches down for his chicken and the bone is cold. He tells the waiter that the meat is cold, and she responds with "ok, I didn't make it", what would you like me to do?" ( RUDE !!) . She takes the plate back and brings it out in a few minutes. I noticed that it wasn't a fresh plate but they reheated the meat in some form ( probably the microwave, or poured hot sauce over it). My friend gets a bad vibe from the waiter and decides that he is not going to eat the meat ( but didn't mention it to anyone but me). He notices that staff from the kitchen and other waiters are now coming out and looking at him ( about 4 people) , almost as if they were waiting for him to take a bite. Now he is super uncomfortable, and Im even more embarrassed because Im haitian and they are not representing us well. The waiter passes by and says to him " if you don't eat the chicken its going to get cold again" that was the last straw for my friend and words were exchanged. Tap Tap took the dish off the bill , we paid and then left. My food however was decent, but because of the service I wouldn't think twice about coming here again.
(2)
Matt B.
I had the goat stew and it was okay. A little spicy so that made it interesting but not out-of-this-world. GF had the fish, which was mostly crispy. We ordered mojitos which were okay.
(3)
Joshua D.
Food and drinks are amazing here. Very authentic Creole (spicy) Haitian food. The stewed anything is off the chart. BONUS - the prices are pretty reasonable for 5th St South Beach, and there's parking - what?? That said, I have once walked out because the servers seemed to have some miscommunication over who was waiting on us because no one ever did. :S
(4)
Beagle M.
Since it was reviewed on the Food Network today, June 21, 2015. I can't wait to try the food when I'm down there in September . I love fish. The yellow fish entree that was made during the show had an amazingly complicated marinade and was poached in a sauce that included a chile. The chef said that he doesnt open the chile. That's where the heat comes from. " We leave that up to the customer. If they want the spicy..." YUM!
(5)
Lauren O.
Omg goat stew and pumpkin soup are what I dream about .. Now that I'm thinking about it I wanna go tonight ..,
(5)
Steve S.
It takes you "right to the island." From drinks to dessert all of our senses were pleasantly transported (although patron loudness was a bit much). Great little find!
(4)
Larry R.
We ate here after visiting South Beach. Saw a recommendation on Diners Drive Ins and Dives App. I lived in Haiti off and on as a child. Grew up on haitian cuisine. This restaraunt reminded me so much of the food I ate 25 years ago. I love the creole sauce with goat. Definitely will be coming back when I'm nearby again.
(5)
Jeff J.
Tap Tap is my go-to restaurant every time I am in Miami. The menu is unique (Haitian) and everything is wonderful. The conch ceviche is excellent. And the stewed chicken and conch creole are standouts. The restaurant is colorful and lively and absolutely worth a visit.
(5)
Rachel L.
Absolutely amazing. The stewed chicken and cornmeal was crazy good. We also loved the herring spaghetti. The best mohito I have ever had!! Glad I had it, BC it was quite a nice allow burn from the chicken. We are Totally coming back when in Miami again.
(5)
Jennifer O.
You have to try the stewed goat. This is my first Haitian restaurant that I have ever tried, but the goat stew is so good! Another option we tried was the is grouper in lime sauce - it was so flavorful! The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. Our bartender (Monica) was so cool, talkative, and explained everything to us. Parking is the biggest issue here. We parked in the parking garage about 4 blocks from the restaurant as there is no on-site parking.
(4)
Francisco T.
I had this place bookmarked for over 2 years. I was really excited about this place, but I was let down. I touched down from NYC and headed straight to TapTap. I was there around 3pm, the place was practically empty. I walked in and met with hostess who sat us down at a outdoor table as per request. 15 minutes later of siting outside in the scorching heat, and crack heads walking up to us, I requested to change our table. We set inside inside hoping for some AC, but it was hot as balls in there. We waited about 30 minutes before the waiter acknowledged us, she took our order at which time I ordered a appetizer that never arrived. I ordered the Oxtail, which was delicious but only included 3 peices of oxtail and considering its mostly bone it was practically nothing. I was left hungry. The check included the appetizer that I never received and TIP INCLUDED. I'm very generous but theres nothing more annoying than Gratuity included. I was still going to leave a tip but the waiter didn't even bring us water while waiting all that time I like to have that choice. I wish I would of had a difference experience here. I was so hyped that I texted my Haitian friends a picture of the menu when I got there, after leaving I thought to myself: I hope they dont ask me about it.
(2)
Jlin L.
It was alright.
(3)
Marie-Alice D.
Decor reminded me of Haiti, service avg. I ordered the oxtail, and didn't like the sauce it came with. It wasn't seasoned enough, asked to have gyros instead, same issue. My family is Haitian and my expectations were too high,. I was visiting MIA, and expected more, I was definitely disappointed by the food. The food is definitely made for tourists.
(2)
Jose M.
We start with Evans, which is amazing at what he does... We then go to the menu, which is well explained and so full of amazing plates!! The mojitos are good, freshly made, and the Akra, the goat, the shrimp in coconut broth are amazing!!! Also, best pumpkin soup I ever had!! Truly authentic island food!!!
(5)
Kevin C.
Best Haitian food in Miami! Most expensive Haitian food in Miami! This place is not that expensive but I guess it's more indicative of the fact that there are few if any expensive Haitian restaurants in Miami. Dishes are between $14-22, which isn't bad because what you get is absolutely delicious. The first time I came I had the goat stew and the second time I came I had the fresh fish. Both were cooked with incredibly flavorful unique sauces, curry based for the fish. The entire restaurant is brightly decorated with murals depicting various daily activities of Haiti from riding a bus to harvesting crops. I highly recommend this restaurant if you want some authentic delicious food. Also another client, kindly recommended coming for live music on Thursdays.
I had heard they had the "Best Mojito," and I was excited to try a completely new cuisine! I wasn't sure what to expect, but the decor was beautiful. They had gorgeous murals and art covering almost every inch of the walls. It really made you feel like you were stepping into a different world. Back to that mojito. It was good, but extremely sweet. I have a major sweet tooth and this was pushing it. I had the shrimp with coconut sauce and rice. Before I get to the shrimp.....THAT RICE. This is the best rice I have ever eaten in my entire life. Sounds weird, but it was that phenomenal to me. How do you make rice that delicious? In similar fashion, the shrimp with coconut sauce was super rich and amazing. It had a good combination of spices too. I'm not even sure you are supposed to eat all the coconut sauce (calorie alert) but I put it on my already favorite rice in the world and pretty much died. Delicious! The reason this isn't 5 star is the service. It took us a while to get each part of the meal, especially drinks and waters. They seemed overwhelmed and lacked some professionalism.
(4)
Lingbo J.
Very good food. The salad that came with the pork was the best I have ever had. I didn't know what the dressing was but it was amazing. I really loved the vibrant color of the restaurant. Fit right in to the art deco district.
(5)
Randall T.
Large Haitian community in Miami. This is one of their hangouts. Creole food was very good. Loved the murals on the wall. It's a bit out of the way for South Beachers, but worth it.
(4)
Jessie H.
I got the iced coffee and Shrimp Coconut. The coconut sauce is BOMB. My only complaint is that there isn't enough shrimp. Service is friendly. There's not alot of spaces outside , probably like 2-3 tables so that kind of sucks.
(4)
Michelle P.
I usually don't like Haitian restaurants because I've been spoiled by my mothers good cooking :-) but I really enjoyed the food here. Everything tasted fresh and the portions were perfect.
(5)
Pierre D.
Best Haitian food I've had in a long time.
(5)
Minty M.
Consistently good Haitian food in South Beach. Great dirty mojitos, beans with cornmeal, shrimp in coconut milk. Fun atmosphere although it could use a facelift. Service typically great although kitchen can get backed up on busy nights.
(4)
Nadine R.
Being Haitian I did not think I would be this impressed with a Haitian restaurant. Everything we had was great. Actually I'm still eating but had to write this. The Fritay platter is amazing especially with the goat. My friend had a whole fried fish which was spectacular. I got the griot with rice and plaintain and it was quite tasty. The icing on the cake is the great sauces you receive. The watercress sauce and to malice we're my favorite.
(5)
Joe T.
Lovvvved the legim (stewed vegetables)! I wish I could make that myself. :-) So much better than I would imagine stewed vegetables could taste! Cool decorations on the wall. LIVE MUSIC! Great pasta, too!
(3)
Swatee G.
Loved the ambiance here! I have never been to the caribbean, but it totally felt like I was there! The huge murals on the walls are awesome! Had the half chicken, which was good, the sides were yummy. My rum punch was not yum at all :( too bitter for me..! Service was good, the patrons seems to be locals. It was a good experience! :) Oh the corn on the cob.. excellent! :p
(4)
Jane R.
Came here for my first meal in Miami. So glad that we all went despite what felt like a very long walk. It's not super close to Ocean Drive. It's a large restaurant with so many different rooms - all different colors with murals on the wall and multicolored tables and chairs. Of course I ended up getting pork chunks with rice and beans (or called Griyo). Individual pork chunks were not as big as I expected. The rice and beans were red rice with black beans mixed in. Overall it was a delicious dish. My friend ordered the Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (or the stewed beef and okra with a side of cornmeal). It was amazing! I love pork but I wish I got this dish. The cornmeal with the beef stew complimented each other perfectly. When we came here on a Saturday night, we were seated promptly and there was live music going on in the back dining room. I'd would definitely return to try out the rest of the menu.
(4)
Melody T.
Its pretty good! Heard a lot about this place! Stopped in and its of Miami's low key food spots
(3)
Maeve M.
The food was quite good and the atmosphere was better. They were really busy when we went but still gave us plenty of attention. We ordered a plate of fried things and it was unremarkable (although good--but show me fried carbs that aren't). But the beef stew I ordered! I can't stop thinking about it. It came with a side of split peas and a sided of cornmeal and the mix went so well together.
(4)
Trey S.
Went here a week ago, and I still can't get over how awful this place was. Arrived right as they opened last Saturday afternoon and was able to be seated immediately. A nice young lady came right over to our table and took our drink orders. Even more impressive, she went behind the bar and made the drinks as well. The problem came in the amount of time it took us to get our food. It appeared that even though they were technically open, they really weren't ready to begin serving patrons warm, good-tasting meals in a timely fashion. After about 25min of waiting, our server came over and said they didn't have the spaghetti ready for the dish my nephew ordered. It took WELL OVER 45min for our food to finally arrive. The second problem came in the taste of our food. In a word, BLAND. I ordered the shrimp dish, with rice. I mean it was warm and tasted homemade. Does that make it good?? Not in my book. ...Nope, I won't be back..
(1)
Wen K.
Might just be this one encounter but nonetheless it was terrible. Server who we found out was apparently "new" messed up our order (maybe because she thought she was a boss and didn't bother writing it down?) and food took over an hour to come out, wrong. She forgot one person's order completely. Took forget just to get us water. Food itself was okay. Implemented an automatic 18% gratuity.
(2)
Mimi M.
Don't go there if you're vegan. I'm used to not being able to eat most of the menu at places however there's usually something you can put together. Not here. The waitress thought the rice and beans had butter in it but she nor the cooks could confirm this. In fact, no one seemed to know for sure making me wonder where the food comes from. Even the plantains are cooked in the goat meat grease and they can't think of a way to not cook them in it. The waitress told me "their food is flavorful because it's made with butter." I didn't have the strength to argue with her about the unsolicited and ridiculous comment. When I went before I was vegan, the food was decent. Nothing too exceptional. You can get much cheaper at Latino/Jamaican restaurants -- it's all the same food (ox tail, whole fish, rice and beans) why pay more?
(2)
kyle g.
This is for "online ordering" only. The online ordering is available at 11:00am, my order was done at 11:04am. Any reasonable person would expect an order relatively soon. It is now 12:48pm, and I called to inquire about wtf is my order, as its been over an hour and 40 minutes. Guy answers the phone and says there are no managers there yet, but to call back at 2:30pm to inquire about my order. I already paid. Are you fucking kidding me? 1:55pm. Its almost been 3 hours, still no word from this place. Clearly will never order from them online again.
(1)
Lisa B.
I hate the fact the restaurant is located on South Beach, however, their food has yet to disappoint. I had tried a shrimp pasta that reminded me of my mother's cooking and an oxtail dish that was good. (My opinion: Jamaicans can kill an oxtail dish. Period. And I'm not Jamaican.) I would recommend this restaurant for good Haitian food.
(4)
Cat L.
Thank you for having us for lunch Tap Tap! The food: Appetizer -Akra (Malanga Fritters) Crispy deep fried Malanga Fritters served hot and fresh with a watercress dipping sauce. Made my tongue dance! Entrees -Griyo (Fried Pork Chunks) Delicious tender Fried Pork Chunks topped with onions and red bellpeppers -Pwason Neg (Grouper in lime sauce) Grilled tender and flaky Grouper topped with thick buttery slices of avocado. -Beef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Stewed Beef and Okra served with Cornmeal) Tender Stewed Beef with creamy Cornmeal was just the perfect pairing. All of the entrees above were served with sides of Diri Kole (mixed rice and beans) and Banann Peze (fried plantains). We also ordered a side of Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (Spinach in Coconut Sauce) Spinach mixed with a rich and creamy coconut sauce, also delicious drizzed over your Diri Kole! Beverages -Our lovely server had given each of us a refreshing glass of iced grapefruit water with slices of lime. It was so delicious. -Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian Coffee) Being the Coffeeholic that I am I decided to order one. It was served in a very tiny ceramic red coffee cup and saucer with a side of brown sugar for sweetness. The server had told us that there was a method of making this small yet very strong coffee inwhich insured the fresh taste. The coffee had a punch to it which I did not mind one bit :). The Service Our server was a sweetheart. She was very welcoming, warm and was very helpful to answering our questions about the menu items. Gosh, I wish I remembered her name. I must say our overall experience was above average, from the very wholesome decor of the rocking chair in the front to the colorful paintings on the wall, tables and chairs that made us feel as if we were dining outside someone's home in Haiti, to our delicious Haitian meal served by our lovely server. We left with smiles and very happy belly's. Till we meet again, Tap Tap. ;)
(5)
Russell H.
great food, portions could be a little bigger, ask for extra everything...bread, pickled salsa service good atmosphere varies, too bright! could be great, if they let there hair out, more music... park on street by walgreens, 25 cents per 10 minutes
(4)
Cindy E.
Cool spot in miami ! Authentic Haitian food delicious:) ! The mojitos are a must ! Loved the art work thru out the whole restaurant
(5)
L H.
Goat stew and whole steamed snapper were delicious and the staff was super friendly and helpful. If you're not sure what to order, you can count on them to lead you in the right direction. As a general rule, I've found that prices in restaurants in Miami are ridiculous- but at least the food and service at Tap Tap were good enough that I didn't feel robbed.
(4)
Adam Y.
Another great experience at Tap Tap. Food amazing, atmosphere so cool and service is just right. Ask to order your dishes spicy, this will add the little bit of kick the dishes need to take it to the next level. Tap Tap spicy is like a mild to medium spicy at most other places. The entire building is painted to reflect the culture of Haiti from the ceilings to the floor plus all the tables and chairs in between, the entire place is one giant piece of art. Once you get used to looking at all the art in the different rooms, get ready for some really good food. Start off with a specialty cocktail, the drinks are good and strong, then try the pumpkin soup, or my favorite, but you will have to eat with your hands if you want to get the authentic experience, the free range chicken and finally try some of the coconut shrimp.
(4)
K K.
Want some Haitian food??? Don't come here. Go have some good Cuban food instead. Service was very slow and below average for a empty restaurant. They add on extra charges probably expecting ppl to not look on the bill. They also charge you more on the bill then what's on the menu. Food was decent at best. Love trying new places, but this was a disappointment.
(1)
Vicky V.
I have never had Haitian food, but while taking a cab from the airport we ask the native which place was the best. He highly recommended. Great food, nice service and I Love the wall art. Do visit! It's worth it.
(4)
Jordan N.
I guess this place is good for tourists. And the Reggae vibe. But as far as food goes, it still pales to the real thing I can get in Little Haiti and for less. The mojito ($9) is good but you can't compare it with the other mojitos around town - simply because it's different. The stew chicken ($12) was good and the shrimp in coconut sauce ($16) was surprisingly unimpressive. The portions were not very big except for the sides. They played live music that was fun and the crowd seem to enjoy dancing to it. This place is good for the tourists that would like to sample and get an idea of what Haitian food is about without leaving South Beach. As for the locals, hit the road and go up on Miami's NE or NW 2nd Avenue for the real deal.
(3)
Zephiel M.
This was my second time going to Tap Tap. My first experience was pretty good. I ordered the Poul Boukanen (grilled chicken) my first time and it was pretty good. My second visit to this restaurant was just spectacular. I went with a group of friends in which together we tried the Pwason Gwosel (while fried fish), Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye ( shrimp in creole sauce), and the Griyo (fries pork chunks). Eat dish was served with a side of rice and beans along with one piece of fried plantains. The fried pork chunks were absolutely succulent. Along with the sauce provided, it was simply delicious and it was cooked just right so that the exterior was just crunchy enough without sacrificing the juiciness of the interior. The shrimp was also very good, albeit nothing too special. The sauce provides just the right amount of subtle flavoring to the shrimp. As for the fish. The fish (market priced) was an astonishing $25. It was definitely overpriced considering I can get a larger fish at La Carreta for under $20. That being said, it was a very delicious fried fish. It was cooked just right so that the fish meat acquired that almost fluffy look and texture. The seasoning and the breeding were also quite delicious and quite unique if I might add. Overall it was damn good. As for the rice and beans, they were quite delicious as well. They contained a subtle flavoring that allowed one to not have to focus all their attention to the spices but rather that allowed one to dedicate more attention to the texture and natural flavors of the rice and beans. It was delicious. The fried plantain was pretty generic and I could find better fried plantains elsewhere. As for the environment, well the actual restaurant is quite beautiful. A variety of flavors of art adorn the walls of Tap Tap. It is undoubtedly one of the most colorful restaurants you can come across full of murals, knitted portraits, sculptures, and paintings full of depictions of Haitan culture. Tap Tap is a great restaurant and one that is highly recommended. Just watch out for those prices.
(5)
Jency M.
Real cool spot In miami.. Went there with my haitian friend, and tried lots of good food..everything we had was awesome, and tasty!
(4)
Althrycon H.
HAITIAN FOOD!! Griyo (fried pork chunks) with pikliz and a side of chopped Scotch Bonnet pepper... probably one of the reasons why I keep coming back to this restaurant every time I go to South Beach!! Their food is so good I sometimes wish I grew up in Haiti. Got to try their Creole conch last time I was in town; shout-out to the local chillin' at the bar for recommending the dish!! Overall, this is definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(5)
Nga P.
I'm very impressed by Tap Tap. They are located in an area not so far from Ocean Drive. From the outside it doesn't look very fancy or look like it's gonna be great. But don't judge a book by its cover. Once I stepped inside, I found the decorations beautiful and colorful. The staff was very nice as well. Above all, it's the food that won 5 star for my review. Everyone get bread and onion infused butter to start. The butter is flavorful and outstanding. My boyfriend ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and he was amazed by how good it was. I tried it and agreed with him though I believe my stewed oxtail dish was the best. The oxtail was stewed to soft and the broth was so good I'm thinking about going back to the restaurant for the second night. Highly recommended restaurant overall!
(5)
Christopher D.
Visited for dinner last night. The lady who seated us was really unpleasant, but our waiter was fine. We each ordered something different - I had the goat, my wife had the fried pork entree, and our friend had the grouper. All three were good, but not great. Portion sizes were a little small when considering the price ($19 for the goat; $15 for the pork). The dishes that weren't served as stews were in desperate need of a sauce. Overall, it was good but I probably wouldn't go back. I think if you came here with a higher budget you could've had a better experience than we did. However, ordering a single entree and nothing else is probably not enough to fill you. The place was pretty popular, even at 9:30 PM at night, and seemed to be a local hangout, so I'm sure there's something here worth visiting for. Our visit was just fairly unremarkable.
(3)
Philip V.
I got take out from this restaurant -- the boiled goat was phenomenal. This restaurant is pretty well known (I've spoken to Hatian cab drivers in Philly who said it's one of the best Hatian restaurants that they've been to in the states). I'll certainly go back if I'm ever back in Miami.
(5)
Kareem J.
Every time I come here it is excellent. I love the waitress, she always treats me well. I love the ambience and the food is delicious. I hope they always stay true to themselves because that's what makes coming here special
(5)
Petrine J.
Good food, friendly service, nice and relaxed atmosphere.. I was a bit disappointed with the plantain, since it was dry and flavourless, but the goat was so tender a juicy! Goat is highly recommended!
(4)
David B.
Decor's awesome, food's fine, if a bit overpriced for what it is: beans & rice, platanos, chicken & sauce...Problem for us, at least today, was the service. If you don't want to wait tables, get another job; but don't take it out on the customers. All of this would be within the realm of the familiar if not for the fact that the bill comes with gratuity already determined for you to the tune of 18%. I suppose we had the option of getting into a spat with the already surly wait staff. Not coming back.
(2)
Jose A.
Some items are tasty ... Don't know if I would go back . Have been there several times . Cats are around in the dinning room don't feel too good about that .
(3)
Huong L.
This place is so good that we had to go twice within a week during our vacation. I absolutely love the cabbage slaw that they have on each table. The grouper in lime saw is AMAZING. Everything about that fish is perfect. I ordered it for both trips there. The stewed okra side was also delicious. The service was top notch. Everyone was friendly. The place felt like a neighborhood kind of place. If you're in South Beach, make a trip. It's worth it.
(5)
Brit J.
I've never been disappointed every experience has been amazing....The staff is awesome the foods awesome the ambience is amazing I can't tell you one bad thing a bout thus place
(5)
Sam G.
Food was good, but would have been better if served hot instead of barely lukewarm. Service was horrible. I have grown to very much dislike the Miami Beach custom of adding the tip to the check. In this case a 5% tip would have been generous.
(2)
Isabelle G.
Such an eclectic place filled with character that you would never know from the outside! I've never had Haitian food and now I think I've been a bit spoiled! We ordered the mojitos and they didn't disappoint, so refreshing and cooling. We ordered the akra for appetizer which was fabulous, the amazing dipping sauce, I wish they sold it by the gallon! I will be going back on a Saturday to enjoy the live music, looks to be an awesome spot for a Saturday night!
(5)
Janice R.
We tried this restaurant based on 4 star Yelp reviews. I disagree. We went on a Tuesday night around 7:15 PM. The restaurant was mostly empty. At least three of the dishes we wanted were not available--no fish, no shrimp. Really?? We ordered the beef stew, grilled conch, and pork. I can't say I was impressed by any of them. The conch had a good flavor, but was tough. The pork also had a good flavor, but seemed overcooked and dry. The beef was bland. The only dish I liked a lot was the the malanga appetizer with dip. Even the plantains, which I was excited about, were overcooked and hard to eat. The recommended Mojito with loads of fresh mint leaves was delicious. My husband and son ordered these and I kept sneaking sips of theirs. I ordered one of the fruity drinks, which was half the size (a small Martini glass perhaps?) and I couldn't taste any alcohol. It was very sweet and overpriced at $10. I agree with the slow service and servers basically ignoring us for about 15-20 minutes despite passing us many times. No one greeted us or said be back in a minute. Once a server did come, he was delightful, writing down our names and making recommendations. The paintings on the wall are great and very interesting and colorful. But I would not return.
(2)
Parry B.
YOU MUST EAT THE CABRIT (GOAT STEW)! This was my first restaurant during my first time visit to Miami on the first day of my trip :) Saw the review on Yelp and decided to come here. I liked the food so much that I went here again on the last day of my Miami visit. DECOR: The interior of Tap Tap is very average and doesn't have any lavish interior. It is simple and sticks to it's traditional Haitian ambience. It is clean! FOOD: DO NOT TRY THE MOJITO and HAITIAN COLA! I have seen lot of people recommending the Haitian Mojito however, I do not recommend it. The Mojito costs $8 per glass and doesn't taste as good as its price. Also, the Haitian Cola tastes like DayQuil cough syrup. And, it was not a Cola. It was some fruit cocktail. We ordered the Cabrit (Haitian Goat Stew) which is served with fried plantains and rice and beans. The restaurant did not have beans so the Goat Stew was served with rice and peas. The dish was very very tasty and finger licking good. One dish is enough for two adults if you order a side of rice and beans with it. For desserts, the waitress recommended her favorite, the Sweet Potato Pudding Cake. That was tasty too. Infact, it was unusual with the flavor of ginger, grated coconut and scotch bonnet peppers in a sweet cake. Bread and butter is served complimentary. SERVICE: The waitresses are very friendly and they recommend you their popular items. The food was served within 15-20 minutes from the time ordered. Lunch menu is served round the clock. I went at 5.30 pm and had lunch there. If you go at peak lunch/ dinner hours, the quality of food served is better. PRICE: Not a pricey restaurant. Mojito was expensive $8 per glass, goat stew was $17 and Haitian Cola was $3. Our total was $30 without tips. MY ONLY DISAPPOINTMENT WAS THAT I FOUND A HAIR IN THE GOAT STEW! This happened during my second visit at Tap Tap. I don't expect much on their standards since it is not a STAR rated restaurant. This place is like Dives!
(4)
Carl A.
Dined at Tap Tap last night. Food was great and our server Gary was really nice and friendly. Will definitely be going back!
(4)
Bryn H.
Who would have guessed a self-professed Gringa from Texas would fall in love with Haitian food? Well I did, and I gladly bring anybody to Tap Tap. The restaurant is decorated with brightly colored murals - both on the walls and the tables - that depict life in Haiti. I've had just about everything on the menu and it's all good. But I must recommend the legim (stewed vegetables) with shrimp, the ox tail stew (they have that sometimes instead of the goat stew), and the white rice and bean sauce. Deelish! They used to have regular live music, and sometimes they still do. If you want to catch a more festive evening feel, call ahead to see if they'll have anybody performing.
(4)
Mohini R.
Ambiance, service, and food: all excellent. Get the rhum, goat, plantains, and anise tea :)
(5)
Adeline S.
I wouldn't consider Tap Tap to be authentic Haitian cuisine. Granted, there are an array of options on the menu, but I found that it lacked the robust and spicy flavor normally found in our dishes (I'm Haitian American).
(1)
Nick A.
This place is super authentic, with vibrant Haitian art on the walls. We went here right before closing time, so it was almost totally empty. They were also unfortunately out of the goat so we didn't get to try it. I did get to have the oxtail which was absolutely incredible. Even the cornmeal mixed with bean paste was great. Their cocktails were really good too. I often find mojitos too sweet, but the one I got here had a nice tart finish. I would recommend this place to anybody who is visiting South Beach and wants to try something different and authentic.
(4)
J. L.
Never tried Haitian food before? Tap Tap is a good place to start. I've tried the Tap Tap salad (good mix of veggies). stewed goat (really savory and flavorful but kind of hard to eat around the bone, given the texture), coconut milk spinach (my FAVORITE dish on the menu!!!), lime grouper (my SECOND favorite dish!), and the grilled conch (also quite yummy; good texture, and wonderful flavor). The yucca and various fried goodies are ad additional must to each meal. Note: beware of the CRAZY spicy pickled cabbage stuff! WOoooo! Hot. Cool off that tongue with some of their delicious cocktails! The service was great---very friendly and attentive, even though we stayed way past closing before. This place is also good for groups. I love the bright colors, music and vibrant vibe. Awesome.
(4)
Christine P.
Finally got around to stopping in at Tap Tap... after driving past it for years, and reading about their "Best Mojito" award. Thursday afternoon lunch with a big group after a day on the beach... the mojitos were good, just very strong... and my 2nd round ended up being a different drink. Ordered the Griyo (fried pork)... very similar to cuban food... came with rice and beans. There's also a chicken stew on the menu, goat, you name it! Never tried Haitian food, and I was pleasantly surprised. :) Make sure to order the appetizer sampler... can't remember what exactly was in it... but very good. Good place for groups... there's so much going on at this place that I'm definitely going back... colors all over the place - the walls, the chairs, the tables... the music was good, the service was great... they were very attentive! One of those places that reminds me how lucky I am to live in such a culturally diverse place as Miami.
(3)
Raj S.
Awesome cocktails, delicious food and great service...what's not to love? I had the yellow tail snapper, grilled with lemon butter sauce on the side...rice & beans and a spinach dish side. Perfect! It's a bit off the touristy area which may or may not be what you're looking for.
(5)
Edmund G.
Went here today for dinner. We found it by browsing yelp and wanted to try something different. The food was outstanding and the staff was friendly and prompt. The Moheitos were the best I ever had and the prices were fair. I will be back on my next visit to Miami.
(5)
Scott S.
My wife had the shrimp creole and loved it. Service was very good. I went out on a ledge and had the goat stew. Bad move, 80% fat, favor was weird, squirrel like. Thought I was on Beverly Hillbillies eaten granny's road kill.
(3)
Michelle S.
I was on vacation in Miami with my besties in July and Tap Tap was recommended to us by the bartender at the hotel. Best decision yet! I've never had Haitian food, but regardless....the food was delicious!! Diamond in the rough! I had the grilled conch and it was so good! I'm Chinese from San Francisco.....I know how good conch can be, and this was goooood. Different than the way I'm used to it being prepared...who knew simply grilling it could bring out so much?! My friends had the stewed shrimp and the grilled chicken. We like to share and I can say both dishes were really really good. Loved the tomato-based sauce that came with the shrimp...tasted very yummy over my white rice. The green sauce for the grilled chicken was "delish" as my friend would say. We were here late at night so the ambience was nice and chill, a nice break from the south beach bustle. So satisfied after this! Definitely an authentic place with great service...all the staff were so nice and helpful with food/drink choices. I will definitely be coming back to this place if I come back to Miami!
(5)
French S.
Tap Tap is a Miami staple. A cool and relaxing island restaurant to go to when you want to be on Miami Beach but not have to deal with all the crappy parts of Miami Beach. Don't go here when you are in a rush, instead relax and enjoy your time. All the staff is really friendly, they are people..not like the zombies you find in many South Beach restaurants. A bartender by the name of Nancy makes dining at Tap Tap a delight. I love the grilled conch with an amazing green dressing. Love the lime-ade, mojitos, and the sorbets are delicious!
(5)
Nicole B.
I saw Tap Tap on Triple D and wanted to try it out. The flavors are there and the food is good. The prices are high and the portions are small. I left still wanting more food. The service was decent but they add the tip to the bill which was high. I will not go back because of the prices and small portions.
(2)
Jim P.
Read about the monitors and saw they served goat, I just had to stop as part of my South Beach visit. The monitor was really good. The service was a bit off. Considering it was 5:30 on a Sat, it wasn't super busy, so the gaps in service were puzzling. The goat was great, others had the stewed chicken - also quite good, and the pasta in creole sauce - great flavor. I would definitely go back, but I would make sure the staff is aware that I expect a little more care.
(4)
Melody A.
This place is super cool. I'd never had Haitian food before, so I can only judge this meal, but it was great! It was simple but great! I had the Shrimp with Creole sauce which was very flavorful. The staff was friendly and the decor is great! The whole restaurant is painted with murals by the artist who lives upstairs. I ended up buying a print of one of his paintings, although I would have LOVED one of the paintings but couldn't afford it :(
(5)
Edwin C.
This is my spot! Great food and very cozy place to chill at! Highly recommended!!
(5)
Kaiser A.
Good food, humble service. They also had a band on Saturdays which gave a beautiful experience of Haitian culture. A must try spot if visiting south beach
(5)
Jen H.
Disclaimer: only my first time having Haitian food. With that said, I really liked this place. We had the goat stew and oxtail stew (off the menu) and they were both very flavorful. Only slight complaint I have is that it was a bit too salty and it could have been a bit more spicy. The mixed rice and beans that came with the stews were delicious! We also ordered the spicy conch salad- also delicious! It tasted really chewy and the salad accompanying it was fresh! The mattanga fritters were also very good- I highly recommend it. The dipping sauce that comes with the fritters work really well together. Drinks there are also very good- we had the mojitos (apparently award winning), rum punch (bunch of tropical juices blended together with rum). Waitress was very nice and helpful. Service is a bit slow so make sure not to go there really hungry or else you might get hangry waiting.
(4)
Tamara L.
I had been meaning to come here for dinner for a while and when a friend of mine was in from out of town, I finally made it over. So glad I did. My friend Gary is the manager there and I had stopped by once before on my way home from work to say hello. He took me on a tour. As someone mentioned, it looks small from the outside, but wait till you walk in. There are rooms everywhere. Local and Haitian artists have painted murals on the walls. Everything is painted and unique, from the walls to the tables to the chairs. I was glad to have had the opportunity for the personal tour before coming back for dinner. My friend and I ordered two of their fish dishes, which we shared. Of course I wound up liking his better. I also had the spinach in coconut sauce/milk for my side. That alone was enough to bring me back. Gary had a couple of their (now officially award winning) mojitos delivered to us. A must have if you are dining in Miami. Generally on weekends they have live music also. It's a definite must visit if you're visiting, or even if you live here. It's a nice change from Sushi and Cuban food. Unique flavors and items. A great island/Caribbean flavor to spice things up.
(4)
V. A.
One of my favorite spots to take out-of-towners. Authentic, fresh, and breaks up the monotony of the vaguely Mediterranean restaurants that line Lincoln Rd & Ocean Dr. I am in love with the Malanga fritters and the Fish in Lime Sauce. The Coconut Spinach is also very tasty. The fritters are served with the most delicious watercress-lime sauce. I like it so much I always ask for extra & use it on the tostones and rice and everything else. Make sure you come on a night with live Haitian music!
(4)
Jonathan W.
I've driven or walked past TAP TAP a million times. Heck, it's right after the bridge before hitting China Grill. One day, I got curious, made a dinner date with a friend and went inside with an open mind. I was in love the second I sat down. Finally, there was a restaurant in SOBE where the clientele was local. There were no annoying children or packs of tourists. The patrons that night either walked or biked over from their micro loft on Meridian, Jefferson or Michigan. The decor was fun, colorful and Caribbean.The huge murals on the walls added a nice touch. First I ordered a Prestige beer and the "Taso Kabrit." This appetizer is basically fried all-natural goat tidbits served with spicy Creole dipping sauce. Usually goat isn't all that appetizing. However, the meat was tender and the sauce accompanied it well. I then ate the "Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulen." This entree is stewed beef and okra served with cornmeal. At the first bite, it was quickly evident that TAP TAP cared about the quality of their ingredients. Every bite both warmed my mouth and stomach. Afterward, my handsome waiter brought the bill which came out to around twenty bucks. Not bad for a beer, an appetizer and an entree. In a nutshell, at TAP TAP, you can expect a colorful ambiance, a local flavor, a handsome waiter and some seriously flavorful food.
(3)
Tamara F.
Authentic Haitian food we had never tried before. My guy got the stewed chicken and loved it. I had fish and it was great. We found on Yelp and were not disappointed, although because of Carnival they had run out of goat and some immature young guests made a scene which was unfortunate. The atmosphere was lively and we sat by the bar. Staff were great. Will definitely return on my next visit to South Beach.
(4)
Jenny J.
Because of Tap Tap, I am such a fan of conch now! It's delicious! You should go with a group so you can try everything. Also, since it takes them forever and a day to get you your food, going with a group is more entertaining. The decorations and music kept us amused for a really long time. Check their performance schedule before you go - I believe they have live music on Thurs/Sat but I'm not sure. We got the conch (of course), fried yucca (DELISH!), a fried patter with plantains, sweet potato, etc. (ehh), goat (wayyy too goaty- don't get this if you don't absolutely love lamb/goat/gamey meat), lime grouper (yum! wish we got two!), spinach in coconut milk (yumm) and a bunch of other stuff. Then we finished up with some soursop gelato for dessert. This was our first time trying Haitian food, so I don't know how authentic it is, but it was definitely delicious. Definitely a good place to go if you've never tried Haitian.
(4)
Tony A.
Noticing a bunch of reviews complaining of bad service, I have never had this problem. Though I am Haitian-American, so maybe I get some love as a countryman.
(4)
Roya M.
Came to the restaurant with family, Great food, made me remember my grandmother's cooking. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. Flavorful, authentic dishes, service was good. Great restaurant! We will be back.
(4)
Jen J.
This place has beautiful decors: whimsical floral lights and huge murals on all the doors and walls. (I almost wanted to take a picture of the women's bathroom wall!) The + and the average: Mojito was fantastic! It was not too sweet and had just the perfect amount of alcohol. The conch salad was chewy, tasty, and actually spicy the way I like it! The main dishes were mostly average. The boyfriend ordered Shrimp in Coconut Sauce, which I sampled and thought the shrimp was a bit overcooked and the special sauce tasted alot like watered down marinara. I had the pork chop, which was just slightly overcooked, but nonetheless flavorful. The portion of my dish was fairly big. The -: The dishes were pricey. Both our entries were above $15. An automatic 18% tip was added to our check. Why?! It was just a party of two. The waitress was very attentive. Nonetheless, the automatic tip was inappropriate. We were here on vacation and enjoyed the beautiful restaurant with live music. But if I were to return to the area, I will probably not re-visit it.
(3)
Kevin B.
I was in Miami for my first time and wanted to experience local cuisine. I had my mind set on Cuban food but a family friend suggested Tap Tap instead. I had never tried Hatian so being adventurous, I gave it a shot and was not disappointed. We had a couple of appetizers including the Spicy Marinaded Conch. My expectations for it were medicore but I couldn't get enough. Visually it looked like a slaw but the taste was great. There was a good amount of burn but it was very flavorful. Conch, like many sea foods, doesn't taste like much. But if you're looking for something new and like seafood and a little burn, try that out. I didn't try the pumpkin soup but the people at the table who tried it had only glowing comments about it. Their drinks were great too. I tried two or three rum based drinks enjoying all of them. I went from a sweet passion fruit beverage to a sour rum beverage. Loved both. For my main course I tried a fish recipe that was good. Nothing bad to say about it. However, my girlfriend and I had rave reviews about their rice on the side. The rice was marinaded and perfectly cooked. We both commented how much we loved it. Their restaurant is dark and a bit loud but feels appropriate as a dive. Our waiter was very kind and knowledgeable about their entire menu. When we asked why they were out of lamb, he said it may have been out of season but was a little confused like we were. He answered my questions about the different types of drinks I wanted and addressed concerns about the food that I had prior to ordering. I could have talked more about the food but it's a place worth checking out for the adventurous eater.
(5)
Sherah B.
Delicious! I went to this place on a short trip to Miami this past May and it was awesome! It's kind of hidden-meaning not on the strip in South Beach, but not too bad of a walk. Watch out for Miami drivers though-they are nuts and don't watch for pedestrians. The food is very authentic and yummy-I especially loved the desserts-a traditional Haitian cake and a coconut mousse-YUM! It was also very cute having the owner's son (who is like 10) pour our waters and bring us our bread. Nice family place! Would love to go again next time I'm in Miami!
(4)
Lauren S.
Where have you been all my life! this place is so unique I honestly forgot I was in Miami, a must have is the Rum Punch..... dying to have one as I type, the menu gives the food no justice, it might sound blah but it taste and looks AMAZING i can't begin to explain how great the food is. One thing that is a must is the Mayi Moulen, it could absolutely just end you train of thinking, because it's mouth watering.
(5)
Vivian Y.
So while we were in Miami for UMF, during one of our many cab rides, I got into a conversation with our cabbie. Of course, after the exchange of where you froms and what do you dos, we found out he was from Haiti. Big shocker there. Anyway, so this super awesome cabbie did say the best Haitian food in town was Tap Tap. Sounded legit, so we tried it out. Service was good. Food was good. I ordered the conch chowder, and if you've ever had conch chowder in Key West and want the same thing.. don't order this one. It was totally different. Not saying it was bad, but it was very different. Haitian food is very thick and spicy.. not hot like Tapatio, but with lots of spice. It's not for me, but the other people seemed to love it. They had pretty large portions so ladies, I wouldn't get a whole entree. Any place with Guinness on tap.. well, that's a major thumbs up in my book. Oh, and if you're into mojitos, apparently theirs is one of the best. ADVISORY: Parking is awful. You think you can escape the humidity in the restaurant? Think again.
(3)
Alex g.
Went on a Saturday night around 11:00 PM. Indoors was pretty busy and loud. Outdoors was empty but the tables weren't cleared. We went in and asked to be seated. The waiter grabbed menus and was walking us to a table. When we asked if we could sit outside, he gave us the menus and told us to go ahead. The bartender was grumpy when she took our order for drinks, but when she returned she was surprisingly chipper. Maybe it was because we ordered Red Stripe beer? We waited a few minutes after we decided for a waiter to come out and take our order. When I said something out loud, a gentleman sitting on a chair in the corner asked if we were ready. I said, "Yes." He offered to take our order. When I asked if he's our waiter and he said, "No." Between him and the waiters and bartender we were really confused. We ordered the Saturday special which consists of meatballs with rice and red beans, accompanied by fried plantains. The food came out pretty quickly and it was very, very good. I never had Haitian food before and was pleasantly surprised. It reminds me of Domincan, Puerto Rican and Cuban food with a Creole twist. Don't expect white glove service. Be patient and have fun. You'll enjoy your meal and the time there.
(4)
Darin C.
I had never had Haitian food before going to Tap Tap. Sadly, I still haven't had Haitian food. I arrived about 30 minutes before closing on a Sunday. I sat at the bar and asked for a menu. I asked about a couple of the dishes only to find out the they were sold out of almost everything. Why would I give it 4 out of 5 stars you ask? A few reasons. First, I like the idea that they don't over order their food, so it has to be fresh. Second, the bartender, whose name I didn't catch was very friendly. Probably in a good mood since she was off soon and it was her birthday. She sent us over to another place right around the corner which was nice. And lastly, she gave me a free beer, which was opened for another guest but not served. Free beer...that is worth an extra star any day.
(4)
Roger D.
We liked it because of the ambiance, the originality and the eats. We really liked the spinach in coconut cream. If we lived in the area, we would be regulars for sure.
(4)
Mark R.
Found on Yelp, and it did not disappoint. Family friendly, low key, quick and effective service and very tasty food. I had the 1/2 chicken and my wife the shrimp with coconut. Both were delicious. The best was that our 18 month old son could not stop eating the Spinach - the cook did something right with it...
(4)
Anthony D.
First time eating haitian food and first time trying both Malanga & Conch! Excellent! The malanga fritter reminded me of a firm hush puppies but what made it even better is the sauce they giver you. A green semi spicy, bit citrus type sauce that taste good on everything. The conch reminded me a bit like shrimp/lobster but a tad tougher and chewy, still very good. Only mark downs was that my gf's grilled chicken was a bit undercooked, we had to throw it in the microwave a bit longer.
(4)
William B.
took a long weekend vacation with the family to Miami Beach, and found TapTap through Yelp; Yelper definitely came through on this one! Outstanding. I'm a huge fan of unique, ethnic foods, and this definitely fits that bill. Had the Taso Kabrit (goat tidbit) app. great flavor and crispy. Griyo (lightly fried berkshire pork). tender & fatty inside, crispy outside; spicy dippin sauce. Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye (shrimp in creole & coconut sauce). a little skimpy on the shrimp, but with the sauce over white rice was very flavorful. Features organic, all-natural, & free-range ingredients. Would definitely make the effort to go here if i ever get back to Miami Beach.
(5)
Lauren C.
i wanted to give this place 5 stars because going there felt mildly adventurous considering Miami's lack of adventurous culinary choices. Unfortunately, Tap-Tap didn't let me love them as much as I wanted to. Reasons why I wanted to love Tap-Tap: (1) the name! (2) The atmosphere was perfect. It was non-pretentious, colorful, and felt authentic (in that culturally objectifying not-really-authentic, but still kind of fun way) (3) It was my first time trying Haitian food and the menu looked amazing (4) I wanted to convince my girlfriend that my hometown offered quality food besides cuban. Reasons why I couldn't love Tap-Tap: (1) (the main reason) I ordered a whole yellowtail and got a red snapper. When I asked the waiter and the manager about it they tried to convince me that these fish are interchangeable. Having grown up eating seafood on the regular I am well aware that the market price for yellowtail is significantly higher than that for red snapper. The fish was still delicious, but I was unable to wash down that that strong taste of rip-off. (2) The appetizers were so-so. The malanga fritters were good but the dipping sauce didn't pop. The avocado salad was too basic, and they served it with honey mustard dressing (?!). I wanted to order the conch but when I asked the waiter what he thought he said it was good but kind of chewy and not too fresh (double-?!). (3) My drink was watered down. The mojito is a drink that should leave you feeling tipsy after 1 round, not remind you of childhood summer lemonade with too much melted ice. To top it off they tried charging me $1 extra for an upgraded rum when I didn't ask for it and certainly didn't receive it. Shadesters. (4) 18% Gratuity was included on the bill for a party of 2. Tacky-Tacky.
(3)
Briana J.
try anything with Conch. Rad food and wonderful atmosphere. It is not a Large place but they can accommodate to larger parties because they have big tables. The service wasn't as bad as everyone says it is great they only have one server because it is a small venue.
(5)
Sophia S.
I went here on a visit to Miami after two different locals recommended it to me. My group, which included a wheelchair and a 15 month old, was taken care of excellently. We ordered the spicy marinated chonch appetizer which was, for me, the standout of the evening. It was almost like a ceviche, with a citrusy and definitely spicy sauce. mmmmmm... For entrees, we ordered the creole shrimp (excellent), haitian meatballs (which were the special, crispy on the outside and extremely flavorful), poached grouper (it was a whole fish, so be ready to deal with bones, but was fresh and tasty), and the stewed beef (the meat was tender and flavorful, but the broth needed a little oomph. a dash of hot sauce was enough for me to be totally content). All in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)
Lori Taylor R.
I heard about this place on the Travel Channel and wanted to check it out. My girlfriends and I had never experienced Haitian Cuisine and decided this would be the vacation to do so. The restaurant looks really small from the outside, but don't let that fool you. There is a tiny porch on the front and a small bar area right inside. We must have caught the bar tender on an off night - as everyone else working in the restaurant was extremely friendly. The atmosphere is wonderfully vibrant! Large brightly colored murals cover every inch of the walls(even in the bathroom). Two of us ordered the grilled conch and the others ordered the coconut shrimp stew. Both dishes were very flavorful! The conch has a similar texture to that of calamari and was flavored with some intense chili - it really gives the dish a great flavor as some pieces are powerful and others a little more mild. The black rice was by far all of our favorites. We all raved over this uniquely flavored rice. Our waitress was very friendly and happy to offer suggestions. We also enjoyed the live music! It's a great place to venture to - and get away from all the South Beach Club style dining.
(5)
Sarah S.
Sometimes it is real hard to find good food in Miami. However, I really enjoyed this place. Great drinks and the food was so good. I will definitely go back when I'm in the mood for great Haitian cuisine.
(4)
Colleen L.
Tap Tap hooray! What a great little find right off 5th street. It's kind of a divey location but it wouldn't feel right any other way. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce, but it was kind of disappointing. We think they used the wrong sauce (there's a red option, too) because there was not one bit of coconut flavor in the meal, but when we asked the waitress she said 'Oh there's just a little bit.' Hmm. It was still good, but not quite what we expected. The service was friendly, the atmosphere bright (we sat outside) and the mojitos were great. The waitress was very easy to chat with about the food and didn't make us feel too gringasa. Would love to try the goat.
(4)
Lance P.
Food is great and well seasoned. The pork chunks were really good. Fresh warm bread comes before the meal and is good as well. The menu is very small and the food isn't cheap. SA PA SEY
(4)
Stephanie L.
Nice for some parts but on the overall not so great. I went to Tap Tap for the first time last week and was not impressed. True, I loved the building, the colorful paintings on the walls, the warm atmosphere and live music but... the service was lame. We waited 45mn for our food and when it came it was disappointing. My grilled conch was very good but the rice was dry and tasteless. My friends had different dishes and they were very disappointed and barely ate anything. Not really a good introduction to Haitian cuisine. Now I can't tell if this was just a one time mistake for them but I don't think I will come back any time soon.
(3)
Kate L.
I went to Tap Tap on a Tuesday evening around 6. The restaurant was fairly empty when I arrived, and I was able to get a table on the front porch and enjoy the ocean breeze. There was a happy hour from 5-7 pm and the mojitos (a must) were half off, $3.50 for a wonderful drink. My waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and gave wonderful suggestions. For an appetizer, I had the malanga fritters with the watercress dipping sauce. Absolutely FABULOUS. I had to force myself to stop eating them and save room for dinner. For my entree, I ordered the poached whole red snapper in lime sauce. Also, absolutely incredible. The prices are also extremely reasonable. The appetizer was $7 and my entree was $19 (and it was the most expensive one on the menu). I always make a point to have dinner one night at Tap Tap when I am traveling to Miami! I just got back home and already can't wait for my next trip.
(5)
kath r.
Of all the restaurants I ate at during my Miami visit, this one was the only one I'd return to. Offering a chill vibe, great conversation and warm smiles, this is one of the few places that made me feel welcome. The front/bar area belies the space...it's HUGE! There seemed to be rooms sprouting off of each arm of the hallway and it wasn't until I walked back to the washroom did I discover just how full the place was. Whilst it was relatively empty when I initially sat at the bar, the restaurant fills quickly and people waiting in the front were chatty and engaging over drinks. I'm not up on my Haitain cuisine, so I can't speak to the authenticity of the dishes. However, my tastes buds were extremely happy to be chowing on the stewed goat. I was expecting it to be like the goat curry's I've eaten (bits of bone w uber tender/uber chewy meat, kind of diced up), turns out this dish features a half dozen goat cutlets in a flavourful stew. It wasn't spicy but it sure was tasty and did the trick - the trick being the base to soaking up the Mango Ales and Mojitos I consumed. The accompanying rice and beans was a decent portion and as per usual, I fell for the plantains, which weren't too greasy. So, whilst the food was good and I'd def go back for it, what I really LOVED about Tap Tap was the vibe and the people (both behind the bar and at it). I met some really great people at the bar: big shout outs to Maya the Professor, Gustavo the hot Colombian, Gary the Owner, Lucy the bartender and Steve - for justice!!!! If you're in the hood and looking for a bite to eat, a bevvy and new friends, I'd def recommend Tap Tap.
(4)
James R.
Loaded with atmos, nice people, and good tunes, Tap Tap is let down ever so slightly by the food. The oxtail was a pale imitation of what you can get from a Jamaican place: the flavor was derived mostly from a salty broth and lacked allspice or thyme or any other spice/herb. Plantain fritters were a little heavy. Nice bread though, and the cocktails were tasty.
(3)
Aman S.
I have had haitian food before and have been to Haiti. This is average at best. Not impressed. Service was fast and good.
(2)
Kendra C.
This was a nice little surprise. Wanting to experience some of the cultural cuisine, we stopped here. We ordered some akra for an appetizer. Akra is some sort of fritter that reminds me of a long hush puppy. There were strong flavors that I would have to get used to. Nice to experience but I wouldn't have it again. I had the fried pork with beans and rice: excellent. My husband had the beef with cornmeal that looked and tasted like grits. The beef was full of flavor and very tender. A friend had the creole shrimp that apparently tasted really good. We had a glass of passion fruit that was quite refreshing. The decor was very colorful and scenic. I actually liked it. True to other reviews, it took a while to get our food. It was well worth the wait though. If you're in South Beach, give Tap Tap a try.
OK, are your ready? cause it's gonna be funny... ! We went to this restaurant TONIGHT, so my review is not something I remember from a restaurant I tried a long time ago!!!!! First of all, when we arrived in the restaurant with my parents, we were not especially welcomed, the server gave us our table and threw miserably the menu (only 2 and we were 4) above. Then, we sat on our table, so as I said, we only had 2 menus for 4, we choose our drinks, and we order our entrees. We waited for 15 minutes to have our drinks, then we waited another 20 minutes to have our entrees. we ordered 2 rice and beef, and 2 shrimp coconut. We had 2 shrimp coconut and 2 beef with cornmeal. When I told the server that we ordered Rice he was almost upset... come on guy, you made a mistake, not me!!! I'm gonna pass the fact that our entrees were not super good, because it's almost not important !! as we were waiting for our entrees, we ate all the bread that the server gave us. So when we received our meals, we ask for more bread... so we meant to eat this bread with our meals... but guess what... we had the time to finish everything before the bread has arrived!!! Ok, we were already disappointed about the service and actually about everything... but the worst is coming... We ordered some dessert. I have to tell you that you should avoid the coconut Ice cream which is the worst I ever tried... I think this Ice cream was only water with white food coloring in it !!! Our dessert were not wonderful but... it was ok... ( exept the coconut ice cream of course). Oh I forgot that it was really noisy, we were not even able to talk to each others. (even the server had some problems to take our orders) Are you still there ? cause the best is right now !! After our dessert we ask for the check... Ok, we are 4, the check is what it is... but... they charge automatically 18% gratuity... WTF?????? We had the worst service ever and they charge 18% !!! Are you kidding???? Ok so I told the server that we wanted to choose the tips. Point 1 : this it totally/ absolutely LEGAL! Point 2: This is totally/ absolutely NORMAL. Point 3 : THIS IS OUR MONEY, I ASSUME WE CAN DO WHAT WE WANT WITH OUR MONEY ESPECIALLY IF WE HAD.... THE WORST SERVICE EVER!!!!!! I swear you would have wanted to see the face of the server when I told him that I wanted to choose his tip!!! So he took my mom's card. You have to know that we are European... but we live here. So when he came back with the receipt, where my mom had to sign, he told us... " euh... ok... well, in america, you have to know that you must put 15% tips at least" So... as I was already really upset I looked at him and I told him... " Ok We know, we live here thank you !!!" So we put 15% Tips, and we're not even forced to... but whatever. And to finish the night... the guy didn't even say goodbye, I think he thought that it wasn't necessary... Please don't tell me that kind of service worth 4 stars... I won't believe you !! That is really too bad because, the atmosphere is nice, all those colors, the table are really beautiful, it's seems to be so authentic, painted murals, wood painted chairs... But that's not enough...
(1)
Guesly P.
Authentic Haitian food. Restaurant could use remodeling because its in south beach. Price wasn't too bad
(4)
Janelle F.
The meaning of the name of this place was the topic of conversation for a good 10 minutes. In case anyone else is wondering-- I looked it up and the definition is: tap-tap n. a truck or van used as an independently operated taxi. However, I'm going to stick to my original suggested definition of tap-tap: n. thing I like to do in my spare time; a clapping noise. This place has been a South Beach tourist hotspot for quite some time but I never had any interest in trying it until a friend scheduled a group dinner there last Friday. What a pleasant surprise it turned out to be! The menu can be a bit intimidating at first because everything is in Creole (with tiny English descriptions). I also had a preconceived notion that the food was going to be spicy--but it was far from that. For starters, we kicked it off with the Taso Kabrit which are fried goat tidbits with a watercress dipping sauce. This dish has a stark resemblance to latin "chicharrones," except it is all meat and no fat...SIMPLY DELICIOUS - I will definitely not share this next time! For the main course, my best friend and I shared the Krihish Kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and the Griyo (pork chunks). They were each served with a side of Dirir Kole which is basically mixed rice and beans. The griyo was my favorite. It was ridiculously tender and very flavorful. It went very well with the rice, which was also tasty. The shrimp dish was also good, but not my favorite. Other notable dishes at the table were the Pwason Gwosel (whole fish), the Legin (Stewed veggies) and Akra (malanga fritters) appetizer. As for libations- I was smiling as soon as I learned they had a full bar. The drinks were very reasonably priced ($8 for top shelf vodka). They're apparently notorious for their mojitos but I wasn't in the mood so I didn't try them. Some people in our group did and slurped them down quick, so they're on my list of things to try the next time I go. To top off the delicious food, we had great and surprisingly quick service (for a party of 10). I am looking forward to going back and bringing more friends!
(5)
Senorita V.
I have never had Haitian food before, visiting from CA and yelp (and you all) did the job again. you must try the pumpkin soup (a little too cold for my taste -- hence the 4 stars) but still delicious. AND THE CONCH SALAD WAS A LITTLE SPICY BUT PERFECT!
(4)
T. B.
Very colorful, Haitian style over-decorated (not in a bad way) restaurant with a good atmosphere, very good authentic Haitian food and good unpretentious and honest service at a great price. One of the best restaurants overall in Miami.
(4)
Elisa L.
Love the food and the atmosphere. The murals are beautiful and full of life. The owner is warm and friendly. He was very welcoming and sweet. Love the food and the mojitos. The haitian cake and the cinnamon was amazing.
(4)
Ashley S.
Great authentic haitian food, festive atmosphere... and great Mojito's. What more do you need? Don't let the outside of this place scare you away, its great and a local favorite.
(5)
Nicole G.
What the heck is up with East Coast service with a side of attitude!?! I LOVE the west coast, I LOVE the west coast! Maybe I should just stay here! As you can tell we had some pretty horrible service at Tap Tap! Maybe they're sick of seeing annoying tourists... I don't know!!! The girl serving us came to us 3 times total! once to get our drink order, once to take our order, and once to deliver her automatic 18% gratuity check! We tried to reduce it to under 15% and they still charged me the full 18% gratuity! She so did not deserve it! The one person that probably did deserve it was the chef because the food was really good! I had the as-seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Whole poached yellowtail fish. Ordered it grilled! I devoured the thing! Only the head and bones were left! No doggy bag for me! The breaded Akra was yummy especially with the water crest dipping sauce! Yummy flavors! The decor is lovely also. Refurbished tables and chairs painted bright colors. Beautiful Haitian murals. Definitely eye candy! Food = Great, Service = you suck!
(2)
Jul B.
an authentic Haitian delight! As you enter, you are greeted with a tap tap out front. The color, the detail.. I was speechless. The bar scene feels very islandy - the entire space is colorful, festive. I admire the owner's ability to make it a visual masterpiece. The food was good. I had the red snapper and rice & beans. I also had a haitian rum mojito. I definitely recommend Tap Tap if you are in the South Beach area :)
(4)
Susan R.
We only got appetizer but they were all good. They included conch ceviche, stewed okra and goat tidbits. The stewed okra was the best. And definitely get the begneys for dessert. Colorful, Hatian decor.
(4)
Lara W.
Between the Food Network and Yelp community, we decided to drive an hour out of our way for Tap Tap for a very late lunch/early dinner on a Friday around 4. The place was pretty empty but service was friendly and accommodating to our wanting to change seats. I'm Haitian-bred, American born, so I've had more than my fair share of griyo. My husband tho, can't get enough, so we ordered some. Best decision. This is the best griyo I've ever had. Ideal - crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. I've also only ever had mediocre akra (fritters) so Tap Tap's were a welcome surprise. Definitely coming back on our next visit to South Florida!
(5)
Cassandra M.
must. try. the. kremas. MUST! apparently, their kremas , which is similar to (if not) a rum cream or coquito (with minimal coconut and nutmeg) is delivered by some lady that makes batches of that creamy goodness at home. they are known to run out of it, so if youre lucky, order a glass or five.
(4)
Hsin P.
Service was likely the biggest downfall tonight: we were seated in a section with a large party that kept our waiter's hands full and attention somewhat diverted. (I will give him the benefit of the doubt, especially because I may have been a bit disappointed that we weren't served by the cuter waiter who seated us.) While I wanted to try the Haitian Prestige beer, I opted for a Bass on draft, which was great with the meal. We were served piping hot and crusty French bread rolls with butter. What a great surprise, after a couple of dinners with tasteless, microwave-reheated "pan cubano" rolls at various Cuban joints around town. Having had a lot of deep fried appys over the past few days, we opted to split the salad zaboka ak tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions and house dressing). The tomatoes were ripe and flavorful, and the salad had a huge wedge of avocado in the center. The house dressing could have done with a bit more acid and salt, and the salad itself might have incorporated something crunchy (e.g., radish, fennel) that would still have been appropriate for Haitian/Caribbean cuisine. For our mains, we had kribish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and poul nan sos (stewed natural free range chicken) with zepina nan sos kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) as a side. It was a mistake on our part ordering two dishes with the same coconut sauce, but it was tasty and reminiscent of a very mild Thai curry. The coconut sauces were a tad on the salty side, though. The chicken was nicely stewed, flavorful yet not cooked so long as to lose all texture falling off the bone. Both entrees were served with rice mixed with beans, which was terrific for eating with the gravies from the shrimp and chicken dishes. Bello Special Pepper Sauce from the D.R. was the house hot sauce at the table. The ingredients sounded tasty (scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, papaya, onions, vinegar, salt, and spices), and did indeed work with the food we ordered. Not being familiar with Haitian cuisine, I had assumed it would be spicier than it turned out to be--the Bello, along with the pickled (and spiced) cabbage and carrots also served at the table, allowed me to kick the flavors of our food up a notch. The dessert list looked appealing, but after waiting nearly 40 minutes for our entrees, we were ready to call it a night. Given my qualified review of the wait service, we were a bit taken aback to see gratuity already included on our bill--maybe there was a disclaimer on the menu, or the POS was still set to include it because of the large party before us?
(3)
sean k.
I went to Tap Tap because Guy Fieri told me to, and he was right! The whole-snapper dish was amazing, I've never tasted a sauce with SO much flavor. And, the fish is deceiving because it appears small, but has so much flavorful meat. The fried pork dish was great, as well. Went great with the onions the dish was served with.
(4)
S C.
I saw this place on a re-run of Dines, Drive Ins and Dives. Enjoyed watching the method that they cooked and decided to give it a go. My family went on a random Monday evening and it was quite busy which to me spoke mounds. 1) Loved the decor! 2) Drinks could use a little more flavor. There were some selections, but the mojito was nothing like it sounded in the menu 3) Akra was delicious; Spaghetti, and Snapper were great! I loved the sauce with the Snapper, had just enough flavor of heat from pepper and tasted very fresh! 4) Rice: I have dined at many Haitian restaurants...the rice was something to be desired. Very regular, not much flavor. I know rice is tricky, but I really was hoping for better rice. All in all I would return again!
(4)
Kelsey G.
Tap Tap, you made my mini vacation that much better. No, I can't pronounce most of what I ate but it didn't matter because I was too busy constantly eating my way through each dish we shared to try to speak. The legim was some of the best I've had and I'm pretty sure we ordered about 4 appetizers without hesitation. Can't forget the alcoholic beverages: fresh juices and rum can't be beat.
(4)
Scott V.
If you haven't tried Haitian food (and I hadn't), then you're truly missing out. This is seriously good food. And the decor is incredible. You have to see the huge murals on the walls, with as much color as the food had flavor. I came here with a large group of people, and I was blown away. First, they had two iced teas - ginger and cinnamon. How awesome is that? I had this beef stew thing, which reminded me of a sauerbraten, only with a bit of spice. Really tender beef cubes in a velvety intensely flavored sauce. Lip smackin' good. To end it all, the mango sorbet came in little metal cappuccino cups. It was also intensely flavored, and a great small dessert to a very filling mirror.
(5)
todd b.
For those who don't know, it's sorta haitian food. I don't care though, I love it. I stick mainly to the fish out of dietary considerations, but also because I don't like stewed stuff. The goat is a shank and is less of a stew than stewed. Again I'm not a big creolle stewed sauce fan so don't take my word on that stuff. Their fried fish, blackened fish, and grilled fish are stellar though. Get the spicy scotch bonnet lime sauce. If you can take some heat, it is beyond worth it. It keeps me coming back. Go with friends and get the plat fritay, a combo of their fried items + watercress sweet sauce & sour scotch bonnet sauce. My favorite dish is grilled conch, but you have to love conch. It's pricey, but it's the beach and its Miami. Not Chez Bebe prices but it's way healthier. Their happy hour is a real deal. 1/2 off their barbancourt drinks! Not the 5 star rum though. They now have their own parking lot hidden in the alley. First come, first serve.
(4)
Farheen Q.
WONDERFUL restaurant, best food in miami. Authentic decor and food, you'll feel a part of the haitian culture here. We had the special that night, spiny lobster, and a spicy shrimp sauce both with rice and beans. Everything was absolutely delicious. I wouldn't miss this place if I were you! If I ever go back to Miami, this place will be at the top of my list.
(5)
Leon C.
When that first bite of sweet, beautiful plaintian hit my palette, I almost wept with happiness. I had returned home, to this Haitain paradise of yumminess. Being a Caribbean lad I truly get excited about eating anything remotely linked to my countrymen's food. The restaurant is decked out as if it were a regular haunt on the Islands. The menu is super authentic with fish dishes, goat curry and fabulous Griyo pork. I could go on about the food, the yukka, the cocktails... wow, Wow, WOW! This though would make this an exceptionally long review and that just ain't my style. Simply rest assured, not only will you be entertained by the live music, wowed by the incredible authentic Haitian food, and made to feel welcome by the staff, this place will not incinerate your wallet with inflated prices. Tap Tap, although my breathe resembled that of a rabid cat after my meal, I would come back to you again, again and again.
(4)
Bernardo A.
I was debating whether or not I should review this place. After all, I've been there only once and I am a sucker for novelty. That said, I'll admit that this review might be influenced by the fact that I had a great time. The service was great. Not a place for wall flowers or for pushy princesses with overgrown senses of entitlement. The place is a bit chaotic and that's part of the charm. NOT a place to go if you are in a hurry, or want quiet, or are a picky eater. As far as authenticity: Who knows? I've never had Haitian food before. However, I've had Caribbean food thousands of times, and this place has some of the tastiest seasoning I've ever tried. The mayi moulen, the zepina nan sos kokoye, and the malanga croquettes were great. The vinegar, cabbage and scotchbonnet hot sauce is amazing! I bet it's great on scrambled eggs. I tried the kabrit as an appetizer and it was a bit dry. So was the roasted chicken my partner ordered. On the other hand, the grilled fish in scotchbonnet and lime sauce I ordered was sublime. The fish was cooked perfectly. Flaky and moist. After dinner, the owner (I think she's the owner) came out to sit with us for a few minutes. She is quiet, speaks in short sentences, and is just a very sweet woman. I rocked on my rocking chair and she nursed her glass of white wine. I really enjoyed just sitting next to her...it was a vibe thing. She told me more than once that she loved the diversity of her customers. And she was right. What a great mix of people. There was a bit of a show going on that night. A celebration of death and sex (renewal, rebirth), so there were performers at hand. No X-rated performances. Again, I'm not sure how "authentic" the whole thing was; but I don't care. The clientele, the owner and the atmosphere were authentic enough for me. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside on the porch for our meal. The dining rooms looked a bit small and when the place got packed to standing-room only, I'm sure I would have had an attack of claustrophobia.
(4)
Adam P.
Unique, enjoyable, pleasant. Disappointing they haven't had goat though each time I go. One of the better pieces of grouper. A completely different feel to the standard South Beach establisments. Head here if you're ready for a change of scene in every sense.
(4)
Farida A.
My first experience with Haitian food... I was a little apprehensive since I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed my creole pasta, and my friend enjoyed his fish dish. I tried some of his rice, and it was pretty good too. Did not love the limeade (way too sour) but that was the only thing I didn't enjoy. The art on the walls, chairs, tabletops, etc. will give you endless things to look at and talk about. I went on the Thursday night and there was an amazing live band playing. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting South Beach.
(4)
N N.
Very, very casual, borderline dive atmosphere. Great service, not pushy w good recommendations. Food is great ans inexpensive. Try the Natif.
(4)
Megan L.
Tap Tap would be #2 (after Puerto Sagua) on my list of Miami Beach food recommendations. I've never had Haitian food so the flavors were lighter and more refreshing than I expected-- a lot of citrus and some unexpected spiciness. We had the malanga fritters and marinated conch to start with, but the standouts were the shrimp in coconut sauce and the pan-seared yellowtail snapper. The waiter also mentioned the griyo (pork chunks) but we didn't get to try it, and the restaurant was out of goat that day. The decor inside was very bright and colorful with beautiful murals on the walls and tabletops. Very casual, good for a post-beach meal.
(4)
Waybs L.
I was visiting from Boston and Haitian food in Miami just sounded bomb.com . I got an order of rice and beans with griyo (fried pork) and was too hungry to mess around! They seemed a lil short staffed bc service was slow but everyone was on the move! Three of us attempted to share Cabrit but it was way too small.. so i dropped out of the race! After waiting for what seemed like a day.. my entree finally arrived and I was stunned to find a haitian restaurant who embodies portion control! If ur an east coaster..don't expect the heap of rice or plenty pieces of griyo. I got three hunks of meat (fat and all), a petite service of rice and ONE banann peze! lol... yes 1 Food wasn't bad but I can't rave about it.. With a few bites of my rice I questioned if the cook was actually from Haiti or not. I feel like I enjoyed the environment, cocktails, cremas and the pineapple cake a lot more! Cool art painted on all the walls!
(3)
Ray P.
Definitely a great dive to check out. Tried their beef and chicken dishes and were not disappointed. If you've never had Haitian food before, you can check out the other reviews on Yelp to give you some help or ask the serving staff there who were more than helpful with suggestions.
(4)
Tracy L.
I missed this place as soon as I left South Beach! Flavorful food, friendly staff, energizing decor, delicious coffee... Prices are on par with just about everything in Miami. Not cheap ;).
(4)
Brent H.
Working in Miami has given my coworkers and I the opportunity to try some food not available at home. I was excited to hear about Haitian food, as I've never had it. Tap Tap was a second night in a row of excellent food. Cool little building, small but nice front dining patio, full bar, quaint dinning room. The whole place is colorful and cool murals. even the tables have great paintings on them. The service was great. Our waitress was super nice, accommodating, and just plain made us feel at home. We asked for recommendations and she didn't disappoint. Our group split the fried goat tid bits and the conch ceviche for appetizers. Totally good. The goat was so crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Was sort of like lamb. It was seasoned well, and came with a great sauce to dip it in. The Conch was spicy and fresh. A light counter point to the fried goat. For our dinner we shared three entrees. We ordered stewed goat, fried fish and fried pork. The sides included rice and beans, white rice with a bean sauce, and fried plantains. The pork was again the hero of the show. I'm not wasting my time describing it, just order it. The goat was super tender. the stew sauce was great and we all tried to spoon as much extra onto our plates till it was gone. I could have drank a cup of it. I will say if you are freaked out by meat that has some fat to it, the goat may not be your thing. If you just ignore the fatty bits and dive in, you get an awesome mix of chew and soft buttery flavor. Don't be afraid, just eat it. The fish was a whole fried fish. The skin was light and crispy, and the flesh was soft and flaky. There was nothing left. nothing. maybe some rice. we opted to stuff ourselves a little more and shared the banana fritters. Not super awesome, but semi sweet crispy/soft, sort of like fried banana bread batter. I wish there was a place like this where I live. Dear Haitians, please come to California. Love BL
(5)
Deborah D.
i really wish i could give this place more stars because i wanted to like it so much but it just didn't live up to my expectations. it was good, but it didn't blow my mind or anything like some of the other reviews were suggesting. i ordered take out of the stew chicken and a side of the spinach in coconut cream. my main was average but the spinach side was a standout. can't comment on their wait service because i ordered it to go but the gentleman who took my order was friendly and my food was ready in less than 15 minutes. i would still try this place again but order something different.
(3)
Jess H.
Good food, reasonably priced in Miami. Make the trek up from the beach to enjoy top of the line Haitian food. It's worth it.
(4)
David K.
What I had: goat stew (18 dollars) first item on the menu. Comes with a healthy portion of flavoured rice and a fried plantation piece (potato) Haitian Cola. Opinion: 4 stars? Sounds about right, maybe slightly lower. Food portions are great, they give you bread for an appetiser and service is generally polite. The goat stew was ok, not the best goat dish I've had but it was a good cultural experience. Very flavoursome and tangy and has a little spice in it if that's your style. The Haitian Cola is a 20oz serving just like a soda pop with a unique taste. Try it if you want a soda :) I came here to try some different food from different parts of the world and it's nice place to try. Good for kids, good for a drink and has desserts too!
(4)
Lisa N.
Great food and experience! Started with the combination plate of fried plantains and veggies - so good! None of the spices are spicy but have a great flavor! Moved onto the bef (beef)and pork dishes. Rice and beans were perfectly cooked and the meats were tender and juicy. Mild spices used - and fills you up fast (don't let the pictures confuse you, you get a lot of food. Ended with pineapple upside down and sweet potato pie - both highly recommend!!! Amazing place and such friendly staff.
(5)
Pamela P.
When I came here to visit I initially wrote a very sarcastic review because I could not believe what I experienced. The owner was completely inebriated and extremely rude and I thought I would give her a pass and maybe it was an isolated incident. I made the decision to change my completely SARCASTIC good review to an objective one after just skewering someone else on bad customer service. Fair is fair and credible is credible. I was feeling a little under the weather and my favorite Colombian place on the beach runs out of the best soups ever by the time I get home (about 4 or 5) for good reason, they are phenomenal! So I need some healing home cooked food. Next best thing is a hearty stew. So I remember the Haitian restaurant on 5th Street from Food Network, it was really good that last time I went with Mom and Sis, and Haitians like to cook spicy which I love. I get to Tap Tap and YAY! They have 2 kinds of stews... chicken and goat. I walk in to the quaint little and I was about to sit by myself at a table by the window when a lady sitting at the bar protested and asked that I sit at the bar next to her. I thought that was really nice and I obliged. The bartender was very polite and helpful, out of the 2 choices he recommended the goat and I agreed. As I was waiting, I come to find out the lady next to me is actually the owner of the restaurant and she sarcastically introduced herself as "George". (She slurred George) She acted as if I had invited myself to sit with her... but I played along. She was very much into listening to some Hatian music that reminded me very much of Edith Piaf, so when I mentioned it she asked what do YOU know about Haitian culture? As if I had committed an ultimate offense. I said nothing, I am here to learn. She went back to her music for which I was thankful. Then my food came out... OMG it was heaven, just what I was looking for and it made me feel better immediately. That goat stew with the rice and beans and the Hatian version of spicy encurtido is just what I was craving and needed. I found out the entire kitchen staff is Haitian so you know you're getting authentic. As for the company, I want to thank Mrs. Kean, for making my rough day worse with her overall unpleasantness. It is very disappointing that an owner so rudely express their disdain of a customer's humble patronage. I say this because she repeatedly asked me why I was drinking her wine and eating her food? She asked as if I was pilfering her restaurant. I thought thats what restauranteurs want people to do, you sell, I buy. The bartender was nice and looked absolutely mortified at his boss' behavior, so did the rest of the staff, but they were too afraid to say anything. Overall, the unpleasantness left a bitter taste in my mouth despite the very good food. I will think twice before I support this business again.
A few friends recommended this place during our honeymoon in Miami. I absolutely lovedddd our meal there! I think it was one of my favorites while we were in south beach. We had the malanga(?) fritters and omg. SOO good! We also had the shrimp with coconut sauce and the pork chunks which were delicious, too. I wish they had food like this somewhere here! Soo yummyy!!
(5)
Jack J.
Amazing! Completely authentic and delicious food, incredible artwork on walls, tables, chairs, etc. great live traditional music. People are clearly having a very good time in this place.
(5)
Will W.
If you're looking for authentic Caribbean food at a reasonable price, this is the place to go. The food is awesome, and the place has a very laid back and friendly vibe.
(5)
Snehal Rudra B.
Went to tap tap with some friends for dinner. The scene was loud, fun and and friendly. I thoroughly enjoyed the bar. I appreciated that they served Rhum Barbancourt, one of the finest rums in all of the caribbean, and all their mixed drinks are made with this very distinctive rum. I particularly enjoyed a drink that was a simple mix of rum, lots of fresh lime juice and raw sugar. It was tart, sweet, and deceptively potent. I had about three of those, along with a Prestige, and all of that made for a very fun night. My friends had the rum punch, and raved about it. Now the food. Akra was quite delicious. Taso kabrit was good, but just a tad bit dry. I had a steamed whole snapper in a lime sauce. The lime sauce was delicious. I could taste the scotch bonnet peppers that probably went into the sauce, and I love me some scotch bonnets! It was not too spicy, but extremely flavorful. The snapper was also cooked very well. However, i expected it to be fresher, considering how close we were to the ocean. One of my friends had the stew chicken,and claimed it was the best chicken of her life. Another friend had griyo and also enjoyed it. Certainly a fun experience in south beach.
(3)
Cass M.
While exploring SoBe I came across this little jewel. I had the coconut shrimp with a side of coconut spinach. Brittney, the barkeep, was cute, super cool and friendly. Her rum punch will sit you down. I left satisfied and a tad tipsy. Great way to start a mini vacay!! I would give 5 stars but the spinach was drowning in coconut. I would have preferred a larger portion as well. I cleaned the plate with ease. Will return next visit!
(4)
Nancy Y.
Love their whole fried yellowtail snapper! The batter was light and crispy, and the fish, served alongside a semi-spicy limey olive oil-based sauce, was fresh and delicious. Their goat (both the goat tidbits appetizer and the goat stew entree) was super tender and flavorful. The restaurant itself has colorful tables and chairs, murals on walls, and live music on some nights. Overall, it's a welcoming low-key place and definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(4)
Aleena N.
Summary: Shrimp Coconut. Every time I come to Miami. This place is a MUST! Sweet and short. Customer Service: Good. Sometimes the staff appears a little irritated but worth smiling through (we all have good & bad days right) and waiting patiently for the food to sing to your palate. Pricing: Reasonable comparative to south beach and way better food! What I ordered: I don't remember the name but it's the coconut shrimp and it comes with plantains ( nom ) and rice. Food timing: Reasonable (15-20) and it's a light crowd today. But if you are super hungry they have warm bread and garlic dip! Mmmmmm! What I come back?: I do every single time I come to Miami. Also the rum is delish! I got the 8 year aged rum. Enjoyyyy! The end!
(5)
Rye M.
Food is okay, i had better haitian food. Service is subpar too. Only came here coz of guy fieri. Not coming back to this place again
(1)
E S.
My first experience with Haitian food and I'm sold. My husband and I ordered the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbits w/spicy creole dipping sauce), The Lanbi Nann Sos (conch creole) and Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (stewed beef and okra). The conch was awesome and was served ceviche style. The stewed beef and okra was AMAZING. The beef was incredibly tender and the sauce was perfection. The goat tidbits were really dry and hard to chew and the dipping sauce was bland. When I ordered the ginger tea, the waiter bet that I couldn't drink it in under 5 minutes and he was right. It was incredibly strong and creamy, so so so good and just what I needed to start the day. If you like ginger, do it! We came in during the afternoon and had the entire back of the restaurant to ourselves. It was super peaceful and we were surrounded with beautiful, vibrant murals. The service is slower than I think most people can deal with. You have to ask for everything including water, bread, etc. and it could take 5-10 minutes to arrive. I chalked the snails pace up to a general Miami vibe; coming from New York, you better be prepared to zen out and sip on some rum while you wait.
(4)
Ann P.
Malanga fritters, grilled Turks and Caicos Conch and a crazy good pork dish that my man loved. Nice cocktails and friendly wait staff. The only reason it earned 4 stars was because it's not too clean. Dirty napkins littered the floor and the bathroom was gross.
(4)
Naty K.
My oh my, I had no idea Haitian food could be so delicious! I have been missing out. This place can get crowded and unfortunately, I could not tell you about parking, I always end up parking on 5th and Alton (Shoppes at 5th) and just walking. The building looks like a large house, it's hard to miss, as it is a rather tall structure, with the sign in pink letters that says "TAP TAP" and a heart underneath. It's beautiful inside, and you will feel like you stepped out of Miami, and definitely, out of South Beach. The porch is very cozy, with a colorful rocking chair and some outdoor seating. If you're lucky, you may even catch the Tap Tap bike, chained on a post nearby, with the rainbow colors that the restaurant is famous for. The place is really chill inside, the staff is very friendly and accommodating and will make an effort to explain dishes and even show concern when you order a spicy dish. There are gorgeous murals in colorful shades on every wall, and the chairs all have their own color motifs. Very vibrant tropical shades. The tables themselves also have nice art. The food can get expensive, but I have been told everything is organic, so maybe that is to be expected. The food is delicious, very well-seasoned, perfectly spiced, and mouth-watering. I have yet to try something that was a miss, from seafood to beef, everything is tender and delicious. If you come on a Saturday, be sure to catch their live band, playing authentic Haitian music. The crowds can get interesting, from foreign tourists that are drunk and failing at dancing to the Haitian music, to business executives to Haitian natives reading the Haitian newspapers. On my most recent visit (I have been here about 3-4 times), I had the Salad Tap Tap, which is a nice alternative to the standard salad (you don't see many places using the tart watercress), and the green dressing was delicious, although I am not sure what they put in it. My main course was a stew, which was not only tender and flavorful, but plentiful. Most places serve a lot of fatty meat and bone, so you only end up with a meager portion, but not here. For dessert, a light and fluffy coconut flan hit the spot. The flavor of coconut was not overwhelming and the creamy, cool texture was great and refreshing on a warm summer evening. It is a very light dessert so if you're very full or have indigestion but want dessert, I highly recommend this. Come here at least once, if not for the ambiance and delicious fare, then for the groovy decor. You will thank me later.
(5)
Sarah C.
Ate here again and once again the food/drinks blew me away! Fresh, fresh, and a few brilliant new takes on traditional food. I am a repeat for sure! Thank you again Tap Tap!
(4)
Antonio B.
Authentic for sure, loved it. I had the griot, but we also had the stewed goat and stewed chicken. The art work and furniture are unique, colorful and pretty.
(5)
JoAnn D.
Tap Tap was recommended to me by coworkers and it did not disappoint! My entire group of 6 had never tried Haitian food and we are all hooked! I had the stewed beef with okra with rice and beans and malanga fritters. The stewed beef was amazinf but the malanga fritters were definitely my favorite. Soooo delicious! We went for lunch due to scheduling but this place is probably best for dinner.
(4)
Samara M.
Its unfortunate because i heard such great things and also read great reviews on this place but i was extremely disappointed. I was in Miami on vacation and my boyfriend wanted Haitian food and since i never had good haitian food so i figured why not. I looked up the restaurant on various foodie sites and this place was where we had to go. We arrived around quarter to 10 on a Sunday. We were greeted right away however we were not seated as quickly. When we were seated our waiter was nice and personable. We looked over the menu and were ready well i should say i was finally ready to eat some delicious haitian food! To my complete dismay the kitchen ran out of food!!!!! So the only thing i can base this review on is soley my experience here. I did order the "tropical rhum punch with 5 star rhum" the drink was fantastic. I wish i was able to taste the food. Honestly they should have just closed early given that they only had 3 items on the menu. So in closing not sure when I'll be back to MIAMI but when i do I'll give this place another try. Note: come before 9pm and you may have better luck
(1)
Raechel S.
Having never had Haitian food before, we were excited to try this place out. Their mojitos are award winning and amazing--so dangerous, we had three by the end of dinner and were grateful we walked to the restaurant. Definitely try the goat stew and their pineapple upside down cake. Both were so tasty! Expect a colorful restaurant with homemade chairs, murals, and authentic food. The prices are totally reasonable for being in South Beach, and it's a total must try!
(5)
Poka H.
Delicious!!! The waitress was very attentive and the food was delicious. Well seasoned and outstanding. Reminds me of the mother land I love it!!
(4)
Ainsworth G.
I had the same experience. Horrible, horrible, horrible wait time and I didn't even get what I ordered. They ran out of what I ordered.. 35 minutes later... Who does that!!!!!!! This place has failed off. It use to be good. Not anymore. Needs new management. Your better off going to a hole-in-the wall Hatian restaurant for your food. At least you get what you order I've been reading the other reviews and it seems like I am not the only one with this experience. Not good.
(1)
Joel D.
The BEST Restaurant I have EVER dined in! First time was the Fish... Then last week , The goat.. Not to mention the exquisite herring salad.... I would eat there everyday if i could.... ALL Three meals!
(5)
Neusom P.
Great food and great people. Highly recommend if you are in south beach . I ordered the pork chunks with rice, beans, and plantains. Everything was perfectly cooked and you really can't beat the price compared to other restaurants in south beach.
(5)
Arleen L.
There's no better advice than a local's suggestion and we were fortunate enough to get the inside scoop from our awesome Haitian driver! I had the shrimp dish in coconut sauce, while my girlfriend got the grouper in a delicious traditional sauce. We're so glad we stopped by before heading to the airport!
(4)
Cece U.
I was in Miami for a conference and one of the guys in my group said a rather large female taxi driver had recommended Tap Tap for good Haitian food. He says whenever in a new city he always asks larger people for food recommendations and it never steers him wrong. I am not very impressed by his theory (esp since I am rather skinny and feel that I give good food recs)... but he's known for being crass and politically incorrect so I try not to let these things bother me anymore. Anyway, the taxi driver said it was the best place to eat in Miami beach so we decided to give it a try one evening. The food was amazing. I had the goat stew and I think I smiled throughout the entire meal. The portions are substantial. My goat stew came with plantain and rice. I also ordered a mango smoothie which was super refreshing. I wish I had known at the time that they had such good mojitos, but my colleague had one and said he enjoyed it very much. We did try the malanga appetizers. They were good but nothing to write home about in my opinion. Overall an excellent experience. I can't wait to come back and try the mojitos!
(5)
Erik W.
Now been there twice. Food is delicious. Get anything conch if you can! The service is a little spotty, but both times we went at slightly off hours, so I'm willing to forgive.
(4)
Athena K.
So, let's just preface this by saying that I'm comparing this to all the other Haitian places out there and not to your standard South Beach restaurant. Yes, the food is decent. I had some chicken that was really good. The rice with beqn sauce is good, so are the plantains. The juice is decent. But my kabrit was super dry. Overall this food is really bland. Considering it's Haitian I'd expect spice, more thyme, more Creole seasoning. It's almost like it got moved down a notch or two to accomodate American palates. All in all, it's not horrible, but if you just went to a hole in the wall in Little Haiti you'd get a better meal for half the price.
(2)
Deborah P.
Went back for a late dinner. Waiter was very pleasant with recommendations. Our vegetarian was pleased with his stewed veggies and black rice. The appetizer platter was good along with excellent Soley cocktails. My grouper was excellent and the stewed goat was also tasty. The grilled chicken was a little salty but otherwise tasty. Great spot with lots of ambiance and good eating.
(4)
Pauli L.
Was in Miami last week and researched couple of places to eat before I left so what site did I go to first? Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, of course. This restaurant was on the show so I Yelped it, had good reviews, decided to check it out, My friend and I ordered the spicy Conch (pronounced, Conk) ceviche style as an appy, which turned out to be surprisingly tasty (surprising because neither of us have tried conch before) and it wasn't too spicy unless you are very sensitive to spice then it will be spicy. For the main meal, my friend ordered the Shrimp in coconut sauce which was oh so good and very big shrimps too! I ordered the stewed vegetable dish, a bit heavy on the salt but also did not disappoint! Both these dished came with rice and beans and plantain fritters. My friend got her beans on the side and white rice and I got mine mixed in, which was way better than getting them separately. The plantain fritters were a bit on the dry side and bland too so not impressed with that. Overall service was very friendly and prompt! Bon Apetite!
(4)
Monica S.
At some point during my South Beach stroll, I wandered into this nook and cranny Caribbean hut. Something about the colorful interior reminded me of my favorite Mexican bar in Philly, Cantina. With it's charming mishmash decor, the vibrancy that surrounds you makes you feel instantly at home, instantly welcome, and altogether like you're on vacation. Bright, tropical colors, wide grins from that staff, and the frequent busboy who operates with a bounce in his step (atypical for South Beach). If you listen closely, that's the sound of the best mojito being muddled and shaken. Whether it's a seat within the outdoor front porch or indoors within one of the many seemingly separate rooms, there just isn't a bad spot in the house where island energy is palpable. On a lucky night, a live band might be playing in the backroom with sounds from native Haiti. You won't find any electro lounge music here, everything is strictly authentic. Down to the menu, you'll see goat stew, shrimp in creole or coconut sauce (with the coconut sauce was my favorite), conch, fried plantains and more. This would be a great spot to bring a date, specifically when it's so vastly different from everything else on South Beach. If Gary's there, be sure to chat him up. He's the dapper GM with a smile for miles.
(4)
Kritchel I.
If you want any of their specialty food (oxtail, goat, or conch), I suggest to call ahead. When we went at 3pm, they didn't haven't any of these food items. Disappointing! So instead, we ordered the the legim, the shrimp in coconut sauce, and the griyo. These dishes were delicious, the only reason for my 3 stars. The service was also disappointing. The server was nice but it seemed like she was the only one for the whole restaurant (the server forgot to get one of our dishes and the spoon we asked for never came).
(3)
A. A.
The goat was really yum! Reminded me of goat I enjoyed when visiting family in Nigeria. And the mojito was amazing, too.
(4)
Chris C.
I enjoyed this place while in South Beach.There were four of us so I had the opportunity to try the oxtail, (which is not on the menu), the chicken stew, and the grilled chicken. I enjoyed all ,but the Chicken stew stood out the best. The only complaints I have where the parking and how they just added on my check their tip amont of 18%.I gave it to her but found that kind of interesting.Oh I must add that the mojitos are very good.
(4)
Carlos Q.
I had the griyo and my wife had the stewed chicken. Both were so so. The mojito was weak and too limey. The rice and beans were dry and not very good. All in all for the price there are better places in Miami to eat. The service was fair. The dessert a slice of sweet potatoe pie was awful it tasted like wet sand. We took one bite and left it the server never asked if there was something wrong with it she just took it away. I wouldn't come back here.
(1)
Juan Pablo G.
I have been here 3 times and I have to say the 3 times have been the same experience. The food is delicious, I don't have any complaints about this, actually it is good to try something different from what you have in the area. But the problem comes when you talk about service. There was just 1 person handling 3 tables, but she wasn't able to take care of them. We spent over half an hour trying to get the check, half an hour trying to get something else the worst thing we had to get up twice like for example get a knife and a fork. Also for lunch, if you arrive early (before 1pm), there are dishes that are not ready/available yet.
(2)
Stan B.
Over my vacation stay I went to some really amazing restaurants with beautiful views and amazing ambiance. However, my favorite restaurant was Tap Tap. The food was delicious (I had oxtail), Alcoholic drinks were well mixed and tasty. The water was flavored with various refreshing flavors. Bread came warm with garlic butter. Overall it was an enjoyable experience and I would recommend Tap Tap to anyone.
(5)
Richard R.
We saw this place on Drive Ins, Diners and Dives. Chef was wearing a Boss T-Shirt which is always welcoming to us New Jerseyians. Tap Tap is a bit of hike from the touristy part of Ocean Drive but we hoofed it out. Colorful murals, friendly staff and this place is pretty big. Menu is not that large but everything looked good so hard to make a choice, They also have daily specials. Fruit punch was very good and they have Premier Haitian beer. We had the poached yellow tail which was fantastic, had a little heat. We also had the grilled chicken that was also really good and the avocado and tomato salad. The dressing on this was also very good. Our check for 3 people, one beer, 2 fruit drinks and the above was about $65.00 without aps or dessert so it can get a little pricey. Nice place and would go back again.
(4)
Food C.
this place is pretty cool. pros: live music, good food, nice servers, good mojitos mojitos: they were good. it was said they have one of the best mojitos in south beach. i think the mojito was good. it was well mixed because you didn't taste any sugar granules. i wouldn't say the mojito was very strong. it was sweet. everyone's level of what "strong" is different. they were good. not the best i ever had, not the worse. above average but not stellar. food: it was really tasty. tasted homemade like someone made it in their kitchen versus massed produced. it was really good. band: nice mix of live music. liked them a lot. wasn't very crowded during the time i went there. seemed empty and sparse. with all the positive reviews i had thought it was going to be more lively. the band played to a practically empty house. hopefully they have more busy days. ambiance is very casual a lot of art on the wall and various painting. cleanliness: things seemed ok but rustic. maybe that was the look they were going for. it was kind of one of those places where you dont want to look around and inspect too much because you may not want to eat. so i just focused on the food and kept my eyes on the plate and my ears on the band.
(4)
Sharon W.
I want to love this place because the interior is so cool, the staff is friendly and I do like the drinks. But! The food is just OK and it is expensive for very small portions. It seems to be lacking zest and flavor. I'm always excited to eat here and then I'm always disappointed.
(3)
Zarina R.
4/21/12 - I have seen this restaurant for years and have always wondered what it was like to eat there. Finally this past Saturday, I had the opportunity to try it out. We got there around 10 at night. and sat at the bar waiting for our table. We waited about 10 minutes for a table while sipping on mojitos. The mojitos were made just right -- not too sweet or tart. We started with the Malanga Fritters and Spicy Conch Salad. The salad definitely had a kick to it. I don't know how may glasses of water I drank that night. For dinner we had the Shrimp in coconut sauce and Oxtail. The service was slow and at times my water cup was empty. There was no one around to refill it. They also had a band playing and people dancing. The atmosphere was quite lively but the music was so loud, that my friend who was sitting across from me could not hear a word I was saying.
(3)
Matthew A.
Awesome
(4)
Christopher M.
Still awesome food! Was disappointed it was so cold inside. Bartender was slow despite few customers. Though she was nice. Or bill for two, paying in cash, cane with an automatic gratuity of 20%. That shouldn't happen.
(4)
Rajagopalan R.
Very Good options for vegetarians!! Very hospitable staff ..
(4)
Alexandra A.
This is one of SoBe's 'diamonds in the rough.' Somewhat off the beaten track, it clearly has a cache of regulars which attests to its longevity, consistency and ease of welcome. There are no airs here and that, for me, is a breath of...well, fresh air. In general, I would say it's a far cry from SoBe trendier eateries which seemed to define SoBe and all of its chicness. Hence, this is precisely why it's a gem. Too be honest, I'm not a huge fan of Haitian food (no offense intended) but I am woman enough to admit that my preconceived notions were quickly dashed. And I'm looking forward to visiting it again. I loved the casual ambiance that pays authentic homage to the colorful nature of Haitian roots and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. The restaurant brings to mind an eclectic family-oriented home in Haiti - railroad style. Vivid colors abound everywhere, effortlessly whisking you away to a tropical paradise far from the conscious glamour well-known to SoBe. The compelling Carib/Haitian art is not only everywhere, it's a wonderful touch because it's smart and well-thought out. Not kitschy in the least. The painted tables were absolutely stunning. I loved the mojitos while my guests drank beer. The food was exotic and appetizing and coming from a diversely different Carib culture (Jamaican on my mother's side), this was a particular treat.. I (along with one guest) began with an appetizer called Akra (malanga fritters) which is a root vegetable similar to yucca. Wonderful. The other guest opted for Salad Zaboka Ak Tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions, house dressing.) As our collective utensils were scraping the plate in search of more and more, I'd have to say that was a winner. We then segued to (1) Kribish Nan Sos Kokoye (Shrimp in coconut sauce) - Did I love it? Well, put it this way, I didn't hate it. But by no means is this a reflection of Tap Tap. Frankly, it's more a testament to my own pickiness (a flaw from childhood) and my even odder aversion to soupy-like dishes. This came atop Diri Blan Ak Sos Pwa (a bed of white rice with beans sauce). Overall, it was filling, flavorful and decent. On the other hand: (2) Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) ordered by the third guest evidently was a big hit. There wasn't so much as a crumb left on the plate. Suffice it to say, we were too full for desert but settled with Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian coffee) which was a dream. Prices were reasonable. Wait time was about 15 minutes during which we whiled away the time, catching up and sipping cocktails. The staff is attentive, friendly and informative, yet not intrusive. And there's no pressure to get you out. The only downside: it would've been nice to be treated to some Haitian music (Kompa is a favorite of mine.) Overall, it's a nice place to kick back and relax, particularly if you're with people who are relaxed and adept at scintillating conversation.
(4)
TK T.
While this place was recommended by some locals as well as a friend from NYC I was not too impressed with either food or service. Food did not have any distinguishing flavors (we had goat curry and shrimp dish as well as ceviche app). Service was beyond slow. I really enjoyed bright art decorations. Extremely casual.
(3)
Nikki R.
I would love to comment on ABIR H from NY's review below. I had the pleasure of witnessing ABIR and his two female friends argue w the waiter and mngr at the hostess stand. Not only does ABIR fail to mention that both he and his friends were SCREAMING "I want my apology now.." At the waiter, but one of his girlfriends would storm in and out the front door saying profanities each time she passed my table. He also seems to forget that he and his whiny friends were verbally abusing the staff in front of about 15 patrons dining in the front entrance. ( It was very busy do to Labor Day weekend) However the most important response to their obnoxious behavior ABIR conveniently left out was when they finally headed to the exit muttering profanities for all to hear, all the patrons dining along side me collectivly addressed them, " you're ruining our dining experience", "I've been listening to your insults and apology demands for 20 mins" , " just leave and never come back" There was applause when he exited the door muttering "F this place. " It's obnoxious people like ABIR and his rude friends that give Miami tourists a bad name. Shame on you ABIR for you one sided and hypocritical review of one of the best local spots. Stay in NYC. I pray to never see you and your disgusting behavior in Miami again.
(5)
Robert B.
This place is the best. I must come here any time in Miami. This is my fifth or sixth time here. I have never had a less than great experience. The wait staff is always friendly and accommodating. If you need an explanation about a dish; no problem. The goat tidbits are amazing! I won't share. The fried snapper and the oxtail (have to ask for it) are just plain incredible. There are plenty of fancy places to eat in Miami and fancy this really is not. Have had good good at fancy places in Miami. Have always had great food here. By the way, you have to have the spicy cabbage on the table. Awesome!
(5)
Peter H.
We have been to Tap Tap many times. The food is delicious, the drinks can be good. Look for the goat meat appetizers and the whole fish options for dinner. Good for kids, too. The rum punch is delicious.
(4)
Dominic T.
Was curious about Haitian food so visited here with some friends. It was amazing, reasonably priced and the waitress was very helpful in suggesting dishes. The entire restaurant is painted in Haitian style, even the floors and ceilings, and the live music set a great mood. I would visit this place again and again!
(5)
Jason A.
Excellent. Very slow (as molasses ) service , but the good is top notch and special. I love the stewed conch , the steed beef is supposed to be great. Also, the Haitian coffee is a must.
(5)
Sarah G.
the food tase good, the design of the restaurant make you feel Haitian , we couldnt finish the food and we packed, even next day we reheat the food, still taste good. But the add 18% tips on your bill. :-(
(4)
Johnny T.
Sooner or later, you have to do it. You have to go to Tap Tap. There's only so long a person can resist the brightly colored murals adorning the facade of the building. Like a moth to a flame, I tell you. I've never been to Haiti, so I can't vouch for whether the food is authentic or tourist-driven but I *can* tell you that it's good. It's very good. Start off with some malanga fritters that come with a spicy green sauce. Is it garlic? Cilantro? Magic? I dunno. All I know is that sewer rat probably would have tasted good if enough of that sauce was drizzled over it. It's very important to order a simple appetizer... because service is slow and my bread, meal and drink all came out at once and after waiting a considerable amount of time. The restaurant wasn't busy and my waiter didn't seem that concerned with making sure I was fed, fat and happy. I don't think it's a personal thing; I just think nonchalant service is the norm here (and with auto-gratuity it doesn't have to be anything but nonchalant). So, if you don't want to sit at a sticky table with nothing more than water and your thoughts, order something quick and easy from the kitchen. Your bread basket won't see you until the main event. I finished my fritters, drank some water, looked around at the walls, exchanged side-eyes with a waitress (I think it's an island greeting), and waited... for a while. I called a friend. I leaned back. I continued to wait. Finally, my bread, drink and meal came out all at once. I would have had an attitude about it but the meal was just.too.good. Bread is bread (except when it isn't and is served with herb butter... but here, bread is bread), so no big whoop. To drink I ordered a natif -- which is lime, rum and sugar. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this. The drink was served in a small water glass and was pretty weak. I didn't even get the pop of fresh lime one would think would be the signature element of the beverage. I wouldn't order it again. So, what do all of these negatives tell you? It tells you that my meal was off the hook slamming. I ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and game over. Done. This meal will make you forget about the triflingness you just encountered. Large, succulent shrimp, slathered in a sweet red coconut curry and paired with a mound of rice is good. Add to that, red beans and tostones and, well, you're not going to know what you did to deserve food like this. I am a firm believer of tasting everything separately at first and then mashing it altogether. After I satisfied my curiosity that everything was made well, I combined the food and flavor to create a Haitian food version of Captain Planet. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. Each bite was better than the last. Despite my best efforts, I inhaled my food. I wanted to savor it. I wanted the flavors to linger on my tongue... but I scarfed it down. And I'd do it all over again. That isht was good!
(4)
Karla S.
I'd like to give Tap Tap 4 stars based on the atmosphere alone. The colorful walls adorned with Haitian art are absolutely enchanting. You really see how vibrant this culture is with the restaurant's decor. It's lively and beautiful. However, as lovely as the restaurant looked, I was there for the food. I ordered the Haitian mojito which was less than memorable. To start off we ordered the conch salad (which was ok, but tasted like a really rubbery overcooked ceviche with celery bits). My entree was the grouper in lime sauce, which came with fried platains (just like Cuban tostones) and rice and beans. The fish was cooked quite well and the flavors were mild and pleasant. However, for an $20 dish, this was just average. The service was attentive, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food was simple but good. I just don't think I'll be a regular any time soon. I'd recommend to try it out once, maybe when they have live music just for the experience alone.
(3)
Katrina S.
It was the end of a beautiful day on Miami Beach. My girlfriends were trying to figure out where we wanted to get dinner that evening, so I whipped out my handy-dandy Snap Guide for Miami... budgettravel.com/bt-srv/… . I scanned through the list of potential eats, and my eyes could not move past - Haitian! - goat stewed! - live Haitian music Thurs and Sat! The day in question was indeed a Thursday so I was able to convince my companions that we must go to Tap Tap! Bonus... Tap Tap was walking distance from the beach! It was still pretty early so we were some of the first diners to arrive. Since we were still in our beach wear, we opted to sit out on the front porch to enjoy the rest of the warm day. Our server was as sweet as could be and answered all our questions about the Haitian dishes that were new to us. All the food was delicious... I especially loved the spinach in coconut sauce. Mmm, great combination. Don't forget to try one of their juices!!!! I am a soursop fanatic and I almost jumped out of my chair when I saw they served fresh soursop! My cohorts were hesitant at first, but when I passed my glass around the table to offer tastes, a new order went in for 4 more soursops! Yep, they are that good! I wish I could have tried more dishes, stayed longer to enjoy the live music, and basically just enjoyed the comforting atmosphere, but this was a short trip to Miami Beach and the night was about to get started. Reluctantly I left my empty glasses and dishes, but the next time I find myself in South Beach, Tap Tap will be at the top of my list of sights to see, to experience, and to get my grub on!
(5)
Luke W.
This place is a diamond in the rough. Miami Beach is full of template-cut art-deco bars and restaurants offering food at premium prices, and here is this incredible restaurant offering authentic cuisine from a country not known for its cuisine at very reasonable prices, along with wonderful murals of pastoral Haitian life covering practically every surface and live Haitian music on the weekends. This place is so good, it was the only restaurant I would ever go to because nothing else in Miami Beach can even come close.
(5)
AshleyMarie O.
YUMMMYYYYYYYY Mango Salad, Coco Shrimp, whole fish xoxoxxxx yummmm Mojitos are killer
(4)
Marcus K.
I agree with my friend who reviewed this place 4 years ago -- overrated. While the decor gives off an appropriate island vibe, the floors and tables were simply dirty (I especially despise it when my forearms stick to the tabletop). That pretty much ruined the meal for me. Then the food came out (VERY SLOWLY), and was pretty much underwhelmed by the flavors. Had the fried appetizer, which was fairly unremarkable, unseasoned for the most part, and with the exception of the green sauce, lacked any flavor. There was one sauce that tasted like roasted pork drippings, which unfortunately tasted too much like week-old left-overs. Then had the coconut shrimp, which was really not that good. But the kicker was that the shrimp were NOT de-veined. That's just simply unacceptable. AND, it's pricy. Don't really feel like forking over a decent wad of cash, for mediocre food, and walking through a slightly shady part of SoBe to do it. My recommendation is not to Tap Tap it.
(2)
Erik R.
Let me start out by saying that the food here is VERY good and tasty! We had the whole fish and the half chicken and they were both very good, the chicken in particular. However, each of the dishes were described by the waitress as being enough for two people, yet with our party of three, we had to order extra rice and the amount then was only just enough. The cilantro-garlic sauce was out of this world. Judged on the food quality alone, this would be a solid 5-star. However, this is where the negatives start to pile up. First off, it was quite on the pricey side and even though the service was almost non-existing (only got water refilled once, after a long wait and requests), we also had to wait for our food for quite a long time (~45 mins after being seated). Not to mention that our waitress was quite unfriendly the few times she actually made it to our table. In addition, the place is somewhat decorated with homeless people that seem to be hanging out at the place. We had outdoor seating (there are only two tables there) and there were two - apparently homeless - people sitting at chairs right next to our table and they were not told to leave by the staff. It didn't bother me too much and I actually ended up having some interesting conversations with them, but it might bother some that don't want to be bothered while eating out in a restaurant that is not cheap. They also had some odd 'booze-the-tourist' thingy going on at the bar right inside where they would semi-grab customers, put them on a bar-stool with the back against the bar then pour liquor down their throats until their mouths would overflow. Made me think of a cheap, very-sketchy Cancun experience I had years back and not something I expected from a rather expensive (and VERY nicely decorated by the way) restaurant. Furthermore, when the bill arrived, they had already added an 18% tip, which I was not happy about. Granted, I always tip, and very rarely less than at least 15%, but I reserve the right to tip according to the level of service and this was NOT worth an 18% tip as described above. There was another line for ADDITIONAL tipping and out of principle, I added a negative 3% tip to form a total of a 15% tip (I would say, the service we got from this waitress was more like a 5% tip though) and updated the total accordingly. Again, we are talking less than $2 difference, but it's the principle that matters to me. Well, when I checked my credit card statement, they had still charged me the full amount (including 18% tip), which was NOT what I signed the check for. So, while the food was tasty, the overall impression was just not great at all.
(2)
Melissa C.
This place has really tasty food. I've never had haitian food before so when this joint popped up in our yelp search for top places to eat in the area, i was excited. The building looks like an office building of some sort from the outside but inside it's colorful and fun! Lot's of decorations and pretty wall murals on the inside. We were seated right away and ordered the goat tidbits and conch for appetizers. For our main courses we shared stewed goat, the whole fried fish, and the pork. All were really good. The conch salad had a spicy kick which was really good and the salad tasted really fresh. The goat in both the appetizer and the stew were delicious...very tasty and super tender. The fish was crispy on the outside and flavorful all around. I would definitely recommend this spot if you are in the area. The service is very friendly...but a little slow, but the food makes up for it so just come here when ur not in a hurry.
(4)
Kelly S.
The bartender was the friendliest bartender ever - even though we were only having iced tea and some lunch. The food was nicely seasoned/spiced. I had a shrimp dish that was just divine. Will definately go back if I'm back in the area.
(4)
Maria K.
I must say, I'm thoroughly disappointed when it comes to restaurants in South Florida. While it's easy to find restaurants that look trendy, chic, and are full of beautiful people, it's hard to find places with substance. Which is why I was in for a real surprise when I went to Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant. First off, the atmosphere is nice. It feels authentic. The decor is very much inspired by the colors and designs of Haiti. Second (and most important) the food was phenomenal. The menu is small (a good sign that they abide by the quality over quantity principle) and you can tell all the ingredients were top notch. Definitely no cutting corners. I went there two times (within a week) and both times ordered the diri kole (mixed beans and rice), banann peze (fried plantains), kribish nan sos kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce). For dessert, we shared the benyen (banana fritters w/ sprinkled sugar), blan mange (traditional coconut dessert), and pen patat (sweet potato pie.) Deeeeelicious. Lastly, the cocktails were excellent too! If you are ever in South Beach, you have got to try this place. It's unpretentious and the real deal!
(5)
Diva A.
Absolutely love this place!!! The food is great as well as the atmosphere...i will definitely go there again
(5)
Raquel S.
What really brought me to Tap Tap is the Food Network special that featured them, plus I'm Haitian so I was really eager to go. I really appreciated that they kept the menu true to our culture, but was a little disappointed with the taste. Don't get me wrong, the food was ok, but I've had better at other authentic Haitian restaurants for cheaper. I ordered the grilled lumbi which wasn't bad. Their Kabrit en sauce was not too good though. The pieces were too large and had huge bones in it. The rice and red beans were official though...very good! Fritay was just ok. We ordered their famous poached snapper in sauce to go, so I hope it lives up to its rep. Wasn't too big on their drinks either... Love the Haitian decor and ambiance...you literally feel like you're in Haiti when you walk through their doors...they get points for that. Not going to rush back for seconds, but will not stay away either...The chef was very nice also.
(3)
Kent H.
Little bit of a wait, but it was well worth it. First comes the shrimp in coconut sauce, the coconut sauce was phenomenal. I found myself dipping everything in this sauce. The rice, that came with the shrimp had a great spice taste. Soaked the rice as well. Had the grouper in lime sauce, good, but nothing too special. The tropical rhum punch, very fruity, didn't taste much of the rum at all, this was a positive.
(4)
Tania G.
what happens when friends unite for another friend's birthday? CHAOS! thankfully, we were seated far from 'normal' customers b/c we were pretty noisy... anywho...the food was great! i had the shrimp in coconut sauce and i loved it! the sauce was just right-- not too sweet. the malanga fritters were so good and so was the watercress sauce! who would have thought?! my one complaint is that the food took VERY long to arrive...nearly an hour to be exact! parking is available in the back, so don't panic.
(4)
Tom L.
The food here is amazing. The snapper with Scotch bonnet pepper sauce was outstanding. Everyone must try it, as soon as possible. We ate way too much because it was that good. The fried pork, the rice, the plantains, the fish, the pickles..I could go on and on. Food is bursting with flavor. Service is fun and friendly, the place has amazing murals on the walls and they had- hands down- the best mojitos in miami. Yes I said the best mojitos!
(5)
Michael N.
Great service. Great food. Had a party of 12 there Saturday night and they were extremely attentive and everything was superlative. I had been to Tap Tap a few years ago and loved it and was pleased that over the years nothing had slipped. What I love most about it is it's an escape from the South Beach thumping dance music vibe and generic food of Ocean and Collins and easy walking distance from the hotels. I highly suggest it.
(5)
Jamila N.
The food here is absolutely delicious. Hands down. Flavorful, fresh, well made. The service is good, no doubt. Attentive and friendly. The decor is gorgeous, with Haitian images painted on the walls, chairs, doors, even the bathroom stalls. The location is pretty cool, and if you eat outside, it's great. I have to take away a star because of their tendency to run out of things...essential things...like rice, towards the end of the night. This is Haitian food. Even at the end, you GOTTA have rice! Oh, try the fish and the spaghetti with shrimp (share it as an appetizer). More fantastic than you'd imagine.
(4)
Gina N.
Yay for haitian food in Miami! Loved the decor and ambiance of this place. Given all the raves on yelp, we had to check it out. Even better, it was just a few blocks for our hotel. The only disappointment was there are actually no more live bands playing here. But that didn't stop us from enjoying our delicious dinner. Service was a bit slow, but expected on a busy saturday nite. We tried the malanga fritters & the grilled conch. Both very unique and distinct flavors, but oh so tasty. Us gals scarfed down our food, and our plates were wiped clean! Either we were super starving or the food was just that good! I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone visiting miami and wants to try authentic haitian cuisine!
(4)
C D.
MY ALL TIME FAVORITE RESTAURANT. I wish I could eat here everyday. The downside, they don't always have everything on the menu in stock.
(5)
Octavia Y.
Soooo, I read a few reviews about Tap Tap before going and without a doubt, they were mixed so I thought it was worth a try. Boy was I wrong!!!! I got the shrimp creole, another friend got the whole fish, and another got the stew chicken.... First off, OUR FOOD CAME OUT COLD, all except the fish. Next, my shrimp Creole came out tasting and looking like a warmed shrimp cocktail, it was gross! I told the waiter and she told me "yea, sometimes it comes out really tomatoey and sometimes not". She was so nonchalant. I should have listened to my haitian friend that said the place was no good! It was a waste of our money. We went a few minutes after it opened... To add insult to injury, I went to the bathroom before we left only to be greeted with NO TOLIET PAPER!!! I had to wipe myself with paper towel ! I would NEVER recommend this place to ANYONE. Get off the beach and get up to North Miami and check out Chef Creole ! The food is amaze and the cost is even better.
(1)
Nik J.
Overall, Tap Tap is a winner in my book. The food and drinks are authentic and good. The service can be a bit slow, but this is Miami Beach, so you can't expect things to move at the speed of light. The decor is vibrant and something really different from the contemporary look that most restaurants on the beach have. They really went authentic with the murals and colorful walls all over the restaurant. As far as the food, we got the goat tidbits and conch ceviche appetizers. They were both solid dishes but I would recommend sticking with the goat because it was tender and flavorful and something different. For entrees, we got the half grilled chicken, goat stew, shrimp in coconut sauce and the snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. The chicken was some of the best I have EVER had. It tasted like it had been marinated for days and was super tender and full of flavor. It came with a green chutney type sauce for dipping which was amazing as well. The goat stew was pretty good, but didn't knock my socks off. The shrimp in coconut sauce was outstanding.. a must have. The only negative thing I had to say about the place is that you have to be careful if you don't like spicy food. I asked the waitress if the snapper I was ordering was spicy and she said it was mild. When it came, it was blazing hot and got my sinuses working overtime. I don't know if the cook just went overboard on the hot peppers that night or what, but it was HOT. I was also disappointed about the fact that they were out of the grilled goat entree that has gotten rave reviews. Supposedly they sell out of it within a day or two of receiving it, so you should call beforehand to see if they have it before going there. Now most importantly the drinks are outstanding. Probably the best rum punch I have had that I can remember. The mojitos are also good, but the rum punch is a must have. The Haitian Pretige beer is also good.. kind of similar to a Red Stripe. Bottom line if you go there: get the half chicken, try some kind of goat dish and drink the rum punch.
(4)
Nicky L.
The food here was delicious. Service is quick and friendly. You feel like you are transported into a home in the Caribbean with the authentic decor and creative murals. I would definitely return. A lot of people mentioned having the best mojito here but thats the one thing i wasn't to thrilled about. It was just ok. While in miami i look for Mojito perfection.. just saying..
(4)
Chu Z.
Went on a friday night. Very crowded. The food was quite good but the service was definitely not that satisfying. It took me and my gf over 30 mins (which was supposed to be 10 mins) to wait for table and more than 20 mins for our dishes. During this time the waiter never came up and talked to us. Ordered their malanga fritters (amazing sauce), shrimps in coconut sauce (over cooked shrimps), fried birkshire pork chunks (yummy!), signature mojito and tropical rum punch. Food was really good, but the portion was not generous. Drink was really good too, quite strong and a little pricey ($8 each). We ended up paying over $30 each. However did not feel full. Nice deco with relaxing and joyous atmosphere, tropical theme and haitian painting were impressing as well. If only the service was better.
(3)
Beth L.
South Beach is full of overpriced, hyped up scene-y restaurants that promise the best but don't deliver much more than attitude and mediocre food designed to fleece tourists and locals alike. Tap Tap is the antithesis of this -- unpretentious, down to earth, delicious food and decent sized portions. I had been meaning to try this place for years, but just never got around to it until a few days ago when a friend suggested it to celebrate the birthday for another friend. I wish I could remember the dishes we ordered and shared that night, but truthfully either my brain shorted out while I was shoveling all of that delicious food into my mouth, or I had one too many Haitian mojitos.
(4)
M. J. D.
Haiti. It's just as relaxed as you can get. So calling Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant authentic, is spot on. When we first arrived, the door was still locked. There were a lot of signs on the door, but nothing with the hours on it. After a minute or two, someone came to the door and asked what we wanted. Um, it's a restaurant at lunchtime, so I'm thinking food? He says they will be open in maybe 30 minutes. I wasn't starved, and we had rented a couple of Decobikes, so we just toured up and down South Beach and returned to Tap Tap. You see, the guy just seemed so pleasant about not being open yet, that it gave us both a good vibe. No hurry, laid back. It's why I go on vacation. Inside, it feels like a Caribbean bar. Multi-colored everything, wooden stools at the bar that couldn't have cost more than $3. We sat at the stools. No worry, my brother mon, it wont fail you. Hot and tired from our ride, the waitress treated us like friends. Water came swiftly, and we were treated quite well, despite our claim that because we were so tired, we were only going to split an appetizer, and have a couple of beers. The waitress, who also carried a certain air about her, like she was the proprietor, suggested a Haitian beer when we mentioned we were looking for something authentic. Being thirsty, I decided to play my beer safe and stuck with a familiar Jamaican beer. Also at her recommendation for authentic Haitian we ordered the Conch Salad. Prepared with scotch bonnet peppers, they managed to do something I never thought possible. They carried the flavor of the scotch bonnet pepper, without the eye tearing heat. Sure, it had some spice, but it was very pleasant. It was like the peppers were also laid-back. We were satisfied after the salad, but wanted to try a dessert too. Again, we allowed the server to make a recommendation, and we were not disappointed with the Gato Zannanna (Pineapples + Rum getting down in a cake). Now, quite full and re-hydrated, it was back to the beach to relax off all of our extra calories.
(4)
Dee B.
Good traditional Haitian food with some Dominican flavor. Loved it!
(4)
Lily A.
I have to give this place kudos for convincing me to bump up my former rating one more star solely for the service and the down-to-earth and honest owner. And we didn't even eat here this time around! We wanted to because I remembered how savory everything was, but Yelp fooled us; the restaurant opens at 2 pm, NOT 12 pm. (We did tell the owner that, and he said he will be submitting for those changes) But because we had a cruise to catch, we had no clue what to do with our rumbling tummies now that our eating plans were shot. He instead told us we must try this other restaurant a few blocks away that he absolutely loves.. and we actually ended up loving it too (refer to my last review on Fratelli La Bufala). The owner then told us that the next time we stopped by to ask for him and he'll treat us to mojitos. Ohh I remember how much I loved those fresh mojitos, almost as much as the delish stews, beans, and rice. I know I'll have to make another trip to Miami soon!
(5)
Jeff O.
Loved it! Tap Tap refers to the little passenger truck outside the door. A truly unique experience for the adventurous. You'll be very glad you graced this establishment with your presence. Bring your family, bring some friends, this place is relaxed and full of life. The big, bright and gorgeous murals will whisk you away to the Caribbean. They're on island time mon, so don't come in expecting a fast food experience. It wasn't particularly slow, mind you. Just right for made-to-order grub. We loved the malanga fritters, and the watecress dipping sauce was jaw-dropping good! I tried the chicken and beef stews. Both were rich and fresh. The bean/rice mix recommended by our server was so-so, but worked well with the stews. Plaintains were fine, not hard like one lady below said. Limeade was our drink of choice. It went well with everything. This place has been here for decades. I hope to return in two months.
(5)
Mike D.
Outstanding. If you're looking to get out off the main drag and away from the over priced tourist traps of the Miami Beach strip this is your place. It's authentic Haitian food at it's best. The grilled chicken is amazing and the snapper fish dish (which is offered poached on the menu but I ordered it grilled which is more common in Haiti and the way I suggest you have it) is amazing if you like fish. Great mojitos and when my wife and I were there they had a live band playing Compa music (the music of Haiti) which was really cool. Pricing is easily half of the cost of the main drag and it's a great place to just chill and have a great meal. Ill be back next time I'm in town.
(5)
Romy G.
5 stars for food and prices 4 on service every dish is amazingly delicious the goat, chicken creole, spinach, pumpkin soup, fish , salad etc etc you name it goooood home cooking style, love it!!!!
(4)
Robik V.
Aside from the dicks on the wall the place is nice the food is a bit pricey for what you get but it's decent and hardy oh yeah their was a green thing in my room mates water
(3)
Lis K.
I have only been to Tap Tap for their mojitos...AMAZING! Fresh and all natural. I have yet to try the food, but when I do, I'll be back to review it. :)
(5)
Elizabeth D.
Had a large birthday dinner here and was very excited to try Haitian fare. They placed our large group in the back area. It got very loud because we were in a very echo-ey, contained space. Regardless, Tap Tap has some fantastic alcoholic beverages to distract from this fact. In particular, the Rum Punch was destructively good. Unfortunately, the food left much to be desired. Maybe it's because I grew up with Latin food, but Caribbean fare is not much different, hence, less exciting. Nothing truly stood out to us. Go if: You're looking for a uniquely different cultural experience and home-cooked style food. If I come back, it'll be by the bar area, overlooking the streets of South Beach, sipping on a delicious Rum Punch and having some fried pork bits. I'll leave dinner to a place with a little more kick.
(3)
Sheenon O.
the shrimp in coconut sauce is awesome and the whole fried snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. There is this amazing spicy pickled cabbage that I can't get enough of. Super causal and live music on the weekends. also they have the best Mojitos in town and if you get in early enough you can catch their happy hour. I think it is from 5-7 but dont quote me on that one.
(3)
Dannie M.
GO! Visiting Miami? Want to have a great dinner experience? Then try taptap. Great food (try the goat or shrimp with coconut) and fantastic live band on the weekend. The place is full of friendly servers (very hard to find in miami). Also fantastic beverages!
(5)
Sasha B.
Good food, good service, reasonably priced. Something out of the ordinary. Not something I could find in NYC.
(4)
Patrick K.
Simply amazing. The food. The restaurant. The story. The vibe. The thing about Haitian-style food that I find so wonderful (as with Cuban food) is the simplicity in it all; much more 'spice' than typical Cuban/Central American food (in my humble). When you are in Tap Tap, you almost feel like you are in a different world, a different time. The stunningly beautfiul murals speak to you (and that's not the mojitos). Since we are all new to this cuisine, we dabbled in many different items: the rice with black bean sauce (shazam!), fried plantains, red snapper, and the slap-yo-mama-and-sister flank stank. This was one of those meals, since the food is new to us, where every bite is new and exciting (and of course, helps that it was good). Casual and fun, if this place closes, Miami Beach would lose part of it's soul. Clearly a place for locals and tourists willing to step off of the sometimes awful Ocean drive, you will not be dissapointed. Next visit, this will be the first place I visit.
(5)
Michelle D.
I have been coming to Miami Beach from time to time over 18 years. I have noticed this quaint looking spot but never decided to try it until this time around. I am pleased w my decision. Personally I get bored with average food done "different" ways. I was fresh off a boat ride and starving for a real meal. By real I mean one that was authentic and really seasoned and throw in a dash of real culture. Tap Tap had that look to me so I went for it. Upon entering I was greeted by a lively crowd and perhaps the owner or GM and a feast of art for the eyes. I was seated immediately and tended to almost instantly. There was so many choices (all looked great) I could not decide so I ordered and appetizer that had a variety of items. The food and sauces were so freakin' good. I wanted more but was so full I had to leave w my left overs. I am leaving soon to go back home and I am seriously considering returning for dinner before I leave. The price was very reasonable, the service was great and atmosphere very welcoming and clean. Oh, great art for purchase was also available.
(4)
Scott L.
A concise review: 1. Arrive around 12:45 and the lights are off, chairs are up and a hatian man is asking what time they open. 2. I call the number and they say 1pm, 10-15 more minutes, they are running late. 3. Who opens at 1pm?? 4. I said "that's very carribean" the hatian man said, laughing, "very unorganized" 5. We sat outside and they brought tables to us around 1:05pm. 6. Good and hot French baguettes with euro butter arrives, 1:15pm. 6. I order coffee, I receive a little espresso around 1:30pm. 4 other people show up. 7. My creole spaghetti w shrimp arrives at 1:45, the hatian guy was already done - he ordered fritters and soup. 8. Spaghetti was good w flavor and with old school canned veg-al veggies of beans, corn and carrots. Shrimp were big and fresh. I lived on a carribean island once so this tasted true - nothing fancy. 9. 1:50 - hatian guy leaves. Waiting for the check 10. 1:55 done with food - ate it all - trying to flag down waitress for check. 11. 1:56pm I wonder what the hatian guy is doing now. I'm waiting to go lay out. Waiter walks by me - I don't get his attention. 12. 1:59 - I start eating the shrimp tails I discarded earlier , because I'm bored, and respond to some FB posts. 13. 2:01 pm - music turns on. The new table of Asian girls order 14. 2:02 - I tell the waiter I'm ready to pay, he takes my plate. 15. 2:07 Got check - she didn't charge for coffee - I wait for change. The inside area is pretty full. 16. 2:10 she tells me she has to get change w a smile. 17. 2:12 - thought bubble "I've been here 1 hoir and 30 minutes." 18. 2:13 change arrives! 19. 2:14 I'm outtie 5000
(4)
Susan C.
I just went to Tap Tap for my second visit and it was as delicious as the first. Last time around, I went with my husband and had the goat stew which was extremely flavorful and delicious. It was my first time ever trying goat and I was pleasantly surprised. This time, I was going to order the goat again, but was very disappointed to learn that they didn't have any. I guess their shipment didn't come in, but this restaurant does not have a huge menu and at least 3-4 items have goat in them. Luckily, the dish I did order totally made up for it. We brought my parents and three of us all ordered the Sunday special, which was a vegetarian stew that had shrimp and blue crab in it. It came with rice and beans, and it was so delicious that I did not want to stop eating it. Like the goat last time, the stew was incredibly flavorful. However, the pieces of crab came in the shell. I don't mind cracking my own crab per se, but it was incredibly messy to eat as the pieces were mixed in with the rest of the stew. My Dad got the regular grouper with lime sauce menu item which he absolutely loved. Tap Tap may look like a hole in the wall, but it is definitely worth your time.
(4)
Donna C.
This cute little place has phenomenal food and great atmosphere! The food, oh my, was definitely the highlight. My first time having Haitian food and it did not disappoint. The Griyot was cooked to perfection. The Kabrit Nan Sos (goat stew) was so delicious. Get the white rice and bean sauce as your side instead of the one mixed together... you won't regret it. Top it all off with the Blan Mange (traditional coconut dessert)! Damn this place is awesome. Would return in a heart beat!
My friends and I have never tried Haitian food and I am so glad I saw this on Food Network and we were able to try this place out! Everyone here was SO nice and very helpful in suggesting from the menu. Taso kabrit- Goat tidbits came with a spicy red dipping sauce. This was pretty good. Salad Chktay- salad with herring, which was a little too salty for me. My first time having herring and I'm not too big of a fan. We also had another salad that came with marinaded conch on top, which was also okay. I would pass on salad unless you require something green on the side. Pwason Gwosel- Pan-seared Yellowtail snapper with a lime sauce. This was a crowd favorite! Definitely get this! The fish was not at all fishy and the lime sauce with this dish was amazing! Lanbi Nan Sos- Stewed conch. This is what I saw on Food Network and was disappointed. It wasn't that spicy and borderline fishy. There were also a couple other things we got that I cannot remember, but the staff will most certainly help with any questions. Definitely a place I would come back to to try again!
(4)
Jasmine L.
I have to agree with another reviewer proclaiming this place as average at best. The first problem with this food is that it's overpriced for what you get. This is typical Haitian/Caribbean/West Indian food. You can get a box meal of this to go at your local island restaurant for $5. You get bird sized portions at this place compared to what you really get and are paying for. Secondly the food is bland and dry. I see there are raves about the spices but I guess anything after salt and pepper is "spicy" to some perspectives. You want REAL spicy, authentic, Caribbean food?? Take 10 minutes to cross the bridge into Overtown, Liberty City, etc. This place is a pricey bland knockoff designed to maximize its profits while conning the average man. AKA South Beach
(2)
Andrew K.
I too went to Tap Tap after Guy Fieri made a visit here. That guy has a ridiculous ability to get me out of the house and into a restaurant. This was my first run-in with Haitian food so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect flavor wise, but boy oh boy was I pleased. I went strictly to try the whole steamed snapper dish, which ended up being great. The fish is steamed in some sort of lemon butter broth and covered with peppers. The aroma reminded me somewhat of a picatta dish. I'd say two people could share one snapper and an appetizer and be satisfied. The service was a little slow, but hey, it's South Beach. All in all, I really enjoyed this unique dining experience and will absolutely return.
(4)
Merri L.
This was all of ours first Hatian restaurant. This place looks smaller, but there are a few different rooms. All of the walls, including the bathrooms, are covered with beautiful murals. They have such yummy juice, which sounds funny to praise in a restaurant, but it was really good. I had the grouper in lime sauce with avocado and loved it, so fresh tasting. We tried a bunch of different sides and appetizers, and my favorite was actually a potato thing, even though normally i'm not big on potatoes. Very tasty! I remember seeing some desserts that I wanted to try, but we had to get going to get ready for the night and didn't get a chance. Try them out for me!
(4)
Maria A.
Shrimp in Coconut Sauce is by far the winner! Start off with a simple appetizer and save room for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Easily the best dish of the night and the sauce is oh so perfect for dipping your bread into. The red beans and rice were lacking that gallo pinto goodness I've come to know and love but was still a nice side dish. The service here is good but a tad slow. I'd come back for the coconut sauce and stick around for some music
(3)
Miriam W.
Given my dining companions, it was near impossible for me not to have a terrific time at Tap Tap. If you go, I'd steer you strongly toward the fried pork chunks. One bite of this dish incited serious food envy in me. Another standout was the shrimp in coconut sauce. Thankfully Maria didn't mind me dipping liberally into her dish (if you opt for the shrimp make sure to ask for additional bread to sop up its savory sauce.) My grouper, on the other hand, was disappointing.
(3)
Tara L.
I love conch. Hot conch. Thick conch. Juicy conch. Spicy conch...just give me the conch. However, I must say, the spicy conch appetizer at Tap Tap was a bit too spicy for me. In fact, it pretty much burned off all of my taste buds upon my first aggressive spoonful of minced onions, peppers, lime and conch. At first I thought that maybe I just had some pansy little anti-spicy taste buds, but after passing it around the table, everyone agreed that this dish packed quite a fiery punch! The herring and avocado salad that I ordered was superb! After sampling everyone at the table's dishes, the consensus was that the two favorite entrees of the evening were the coconut curry shrimp and the pork entree. The mojitos were apparently voted best in Miami and I can understand why. They were delicious, well mixed and not too sweet. Presentation was wonderful as well. I also adored the colorfulness of the restaurant. Painted with vibrant colors, the restaurant is adorned with murals and character paintings. I felt as though I was in a different country for the hour or so that I was there. Overall, I really enjoyed Tap Tap. I've eaten Haitian food before at a family friend's home and I felt as though the dishes here were not too far off.
(4)
Shenika T.
This is such a beautiful place ... on the inside. I kept driving by here and I wasn't sure if I should go in b/c the outside isn't really inviting. The outside of the restaurant is very dark. I didn't know where to park here, so I almost didn't go. Anyhow upon walking up to the restaurant, I know I made a good decision. The paintings inside are so beautiful. It didn't feel like I was on South Beach. We ordered the fried goat tips for appetizer and man o man, that was delicious. I even loved the dipping sauce and dipped my bread in it to soften it. For dinner we ordered the goat stew and grilled yellow-tail snapper. The goat was so tender and the fish was moist and flavorful. We also ordered a Haitian mojito and a Haitian fruit punch for drinks. The food was as good as it gets, but overpriced. I know it's South Beach, but Haitian food is not expensive to prepare. I would recommend this place if you are in the area and want to try something new, but as for me I'm looking for more authentic Haitian food.
(3)
Jay W.
Hmm... I think I must have caught Tap Tap on a bad day or ordered the wrong stuff. We dropped by for a light lunch consisting of griyo and conch salad but were a little disappointed with the results. The griyo (fried Berkshire pork) was fried to a crisp and the cuts we got were mainly fat and no meat. The meat that was in the griyo unfortunately was dried beyond belief. They do use real Berkshire pork here, but it seems like such a waste to overcook it like this. The portion size was also disappointing though since there were just 3 little cubes of pork with our order. The conch salad though, was perfect. The conch wasn't chewy or rubbery like what you would expect. It was prepared ceviche style, so it was nice and refreshing from the Miami heat. My only complaint was that I wish they gave me more!
(3)
Michelle W.
4 stars for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Shrimp were the perfect texture, fresh and the sauce was just delicious. The drinks we ordered were also quite good (had a large variety between the 8 of us!). My dining companions were also pleased with their food choices. 2 stars for the service. The service was ridiculously slow. We were there for a birthday (had reservations) but everything was painfully slow. The restaurant wasn't that busy and we were there almost 4 hours....frequently awaiting drink refills....if you needed something it was difficult to get the servers attention and when you had it there was always a chance that they wouldn't remember what you asked for anyways. yummy food (4) + service sucked (2) = 3 stars
(3)
Brian F.
Great food and very friendly staff
(4)
Dalton D.
Tap Tap is a vibrant and fun restaurant that happens to serve exceedingly delicious food. My plate, which I can't remember the name of, was a beef stew with a side of creamy grits. I was stupefied as to how amazing the food tasted, it was a minor miracle I didn't order a second plate to take home. So while I will champion the flavor, I must caveat this review by saying the service was slow. Nothing wrong with slower than expected service, just a heads up to anyone interested in a quick meal. There's also a full service bar at the front of the restaurant full of locals socializing with the friendly staff. All in all, a much appreciated experience at Tap Tap.
(5)
Saterah M.
I love Tap Tap! I stopped in Miami after leaving the Bahamas and was having withdrawals from the native food already. Tap Tap to the rescue. We grabbed a table outside, ordered the stewed chicken with beans and rice mixed, extra plantain (tostones style), and a mango beer! DELICIOUS! The flavors were balanced, the gravy when applied to the rice was hum-out-loud good, and the beer made me want to lay in a hammock afterward! It was a great Haitian food experience :)
I love this place!!!!! I can't express this enough. I usually go there and sit on the bar. I take advantage of their 3 star mojitos during happy hour for 6$. A steal compared to how ridiculously expensive other places are. Definitely the best mojito in Miami. The service is constantly great too!
(5)
Rathore V.
We got the grilled chicken, spinach in coconut sauce, and the rum cake. I don't remember what we got for an appetizer. Everything was excellent and different from other Caribbean food. The rum cake was the best we had since we had the cakes in Jamaica. Try it for the food, ambiance and the friendly, attentive service.
(4)
Heather L.
Would recommend: - conch dishes - tapas that come with the cilantro dressing (it was really good) - curry Would not recommend the spaghetti - they said it would be spicy but it wasn't really spicy at all - maybe for people who don't eat spicy it would be? *shrugs* Great service and awesome drinks - I enjoyed the mojito.
(4)
Asha F.
Love Tap Tap. Have traveled to Miami twice in the last three months and Tap Tap has always been one of the first places on my list to visit. The ambiance is great. Very homey and chill... The artwork inside is beautiful and really speaks to the culture. The staff on the other hand are very similar to your family...very slow to meet your needs. But once they are met, you will be very satisfied. Even the water initially brought over to the table is water with a twist...grapefruit water with mint.. Simply amazing. My favorite meal has to be the griot- fried pork. The meat is very tender and served with an amazing spicy sauce. Another great meal is the pwo djen djen-stewed chicken and mushrooms (sp?) and the stew chicken is amazing too. Tap tap is a hit!
(4)
Janet G.
We waited a really, really long time for a table. As the front barroom filled up with people, I got hungrier and hungrier (and increasingly nervous that the lack of sign-in sheet would mean we'd get seated last even though we'd arrived first). Turns out there was a sign-in sheet no one pointed out to us. Alas. Once led to our table, the experience changed completely. Turns out they were just super backed-up, and once we had a table we got a kind, attentive waitress who was really patient and helpful with us as we ordered our first Haitian meal. I had the vegetable ("legim"?) dish with beef, the traditional way it's served. I'd expected the veggies to be steamed separately, but they were combined into a sort of thick, stew-like mush that sounds kind of gross now that I write it. But it was so, so delicious! My boyfriend ordered the griyo, another traditional dish, and adored it. We told the waitress it was my birthday, and she presented us with a fat, complimentary slice of Haitian cake. (Like traditional American birthday cake, but more dense due to the corn meal and less sickly sweet.) I feel like the first 30 minutes of waiting for the table had absolutely nothing to do with the 1.5 hours we had of this amazing food and service. I wish I could go back this moment!
(5)
Dan R.
Got the herring with habanero-lime sauce and shrimp with coconut sauce...absolutely amazing food experience. Both dishes were out of this world, and I wish we had room for dessert. Will definitely come back if we are ever traveling through Miami again.
(5)
Dana S.
I found Tap Tap on Yelp and decided to give it a try while I was in Miami Beach over New Years. Boy, am I glad that I did! The food, service and ambience at Tap Tap are fantastic. Our waiter was so polite and cheerful, he also made some great suggestions. After reading about the shrimp, I knew my friend and I had to try it. All of the other reviewers are correct, It was absolutely divine! We also tried the akra, a creamy tomato/spinach dish our waiter recommended and I had a glass of chardonnay. You are also served complimentary bread. Everything was great and my bill came to $22 with tax and tip. Not bad for the outstanding food and a glass of wine. Only downside? Parking is difficult (but that's true pretty much everywhere in South Beach). Bottom line: Great West Indian food in South Beach at a reasonable price.
(5)
Daniel M.
I was on vacation in Miami and my friend from there had suggested we try this place out - and I'm glad she did! I went at about 9PM by myself, since the friend I was with didn't want to walk that far away from our hotel (haha). The guy who greeted me was extremely nice, and probably since I was by myself he gave me a tour of the restaurant and let me choose wherever I wanted to sit (I chose outside, since it was a nice night). As a vegetarian, I was afraid there wouldn't be much for me to order - but there was. I ordered the spinach in coconut sauce (a MUST order, as I know other Yelpers have suggested), the plate of fried deliciousness (I think it was fried yucca, plantains and something else) and rice and beans (didn't ask if this was vegetarian, so maybe it isn't...) Everything was delicious, and I cleaned all 3 plates like the heifer that I am (hey, I was on vacation mode!). I even ate the basket of yummy warm bread they brought as an appetizer. The ambiance of the place was really cool, too, with colorful murals on the wall. I'd definitely recommend this place, and if I'm ever back in Miami I'd go again.
(5)
Andre G.
Very Tasty spot, go with a big appetite. The place is decorated in vibrant way depicting farms, trees of bounty and of course livestock. I ate the goat, my brother ate the cow and and my sister ate the fish. All were amazing but all we very different Okra came in a beautiful broth, the cornmeal dish was amazing and flavorful and the rice was amazing. The drinks were a little pricy but tasty.
(4)
Arif M.
Live music, good cocktails, an intimate setting, and most importantly, great food. Started off with a fresh mint mojito made with Haitian rum and cane sugar. Definitely refreshing after a long day at the beach. They were out of the charcoal grilled goat so I settled for the beef, okra and cornmeal plate. What I had was incredibly simple but I loved it. It had just the right amount of spicyness and the cornmeal worked perfectly with the beef. I tried my friend's stewed conch. It was my first time trying conch cooked like that and I was pleasantly surprised. We finished the night with a round of the 15year Haitian rum, served neat of course. Service was slightly slow but I was in no rush to leave after a meal like that.
(4)
Ericstevenc T.
Great Haitan food check out the Malanga fritters & creole shrimp and of course goat meat and mojitos
(5)
Vanessa H.
The colorful paintings adorning every wall make you feel as if you're in a mural. Started off with Haitian rum cocktails. Had the anchovy spaghetti, savory goodness, and the grilled snapper. Our friends ordered the stewed goat, tender and delicious. For the sides try to the greens in coconut milk and the beans and cornmeal (reminiscent ofpolenta).
(4)
Justin E.
Great experience on South Beach. My wife and I were looking for authentic Caribbean food and trying to avoid the touristy atmosphere present throughout a lot of Miami Beach, and we weren't disappointed. Cool atmosphere. Extremely helpful waiter, went above and beyond, and we were glad we went with all his recommendations. Also, it was relatively well-priced for the area. The one disappointment was they were out of goat, so we didn't get to try any of these dishes. The drinks were great - Mojito was one of the best I've had, and my wife enjoyed the rum punch. The melanga fritters are a must try. For entrees we had shrimp in coconut sauce and fried pork chunks, which I thought were especially good. Tried the banana cake at the recommendation of the waiter and it was awesome. We had a great time and thought the food had more flavor than some of the other Cuban places we tried on South Beach. Great drinks and not ridiculously priced.
(4)
Brien W.
We were there on a sunday and they were out of a lot of things, like half the menu. The place has some really interesting and erotic art on the walls and tables, pretty funny. Food is ok, not a lot of flavor in anything but was fresh and appealing. The place is a little dirty and run down, could use a good cleaning.
(3)
Jimmy V.
The food was great, the decor is awesome but the customer service was unprofessional and they were understaffed. The worse Mojito I have ever had they had to make it twice and even then it sucked. The only thing they had going for them was the food which was awesome.
(1)
Fabian A.
They serve some great mojitos. Food is awesome!
(4)
Katy B.
Mojitos: 5 stars Service: 1 star Food: 1-3 stars depending on dish Murals: 4 stars Tap Tap has the potential to be a really great place, but the waiter we had switched from sweet to super abrasive like flipping a switch multiple times. Abrasive as in I have never experienced such blatantly rude service in my life. The food also seems like a good start, but could stand to be prepared with a little more care. Tough meat, and lack of flavor seemed to be common themes among a few of the plates our table ordered. The worst case of tough meat was the pork chunks which my boyfriend ordered - he said they were so chewy he was afraid he was going to hurt his teeth. The vegetarian stew I had was mushy and not memorable. It wasn't that it was bad, it was just really not special. Given the amount of attitude our group was given, I'll mash up my own vegetables thankyouverymuch. But damn... that mojito was the best I've ever had. I'm going to be seeking out some Barbencourt rhum back in Chicago for sure.
(2)
HA F.
I haven't been to this place in years because I moved out of FL, but I can say that when I was there this place is EXCELLENT and I'm STILL thinking about it...lol... Its very difficult to find authentic Haitian food. Most places generalize Caribbean food all in one, but Haitian food has its own FLARE and this place has it down pact! I use to go there just about every Friday for dinner. I would have the king fish with rice and beans (together) and ginger tea. I've had the stewed chicken and well just about everyting on the menu... all I can say is GO THERE if you are in Miami, when I take a trip down again.. that's where I will be eating the first day. The food is special About the decor... very pretty, beautiful murals and decorative tables.
(5)
Lola P.
I ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce. Pretty tasty, delicious sauce. When it comes to shrimp I guess I like my tails off since it makes it easier to eat. I dislike having to take the tails off myself. One tail for decoration is ok, but not in all of them. I wish they had the option of sides for their dishes like many restaurants do. The shrimp came with some rice (ok) and sweet fried plantains (not a fan of ripe plaintains so I can't comment). Very nice, colorful, fun decor. Bright colors everywhere. Parking is an inconveniece of its own. I had to drive around the block several times to find a metered spots...Oh South Beach.
(4)
Steve L.
Great spot. My wife had the coconut shrimp, which she liked, but we both preferred the grilled goat I ordered. I just wish it had come with rice instead of the dry, overcooked corn on the cob. Also really enjoyed the Natif cocktail, a kind of rough-hewn proto-daiquiri that went down all too easily.
(4)
Kevin M.
Great meal, had the Griyo, loved it. The pineapple upside down cake was excellent. I took my in-laws here and they really enjoyed it despite initial trepidation (they aren't very adventurous).
(5)
Nithasha Y.
So happy we went here. The place is very welcoming and service is great. Food is DELICIOUS!! As Indians we thought we could handle any amount of spice, So made the mistake of asking them to make our food extra hot. BIG MISTAKE!! Couldn't handle it. Just stick to what's on the menu and you'll love what you eat. Very flavorful, meat cooked just right. We ordered, Spaghetti with shrimps, shrimps with coconut milk, beef stew and goat stew. Can't decide what I loved more. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Apurne G.
After surviving many years on the beach, Tap Tap may be considered a Miami Beach institution. The food is always good, sometimes awesome; and the service is usually grudgingly and pleasantly mediocre. As long as one is prepared to expect a little attitude and a sometimes long wait for attention, one can enjoy some very nice food. The conch and the legim are often stand out dishes- though none are as good as in our Haitian friends kitchens. Management has really pulled it together in recent years and the overall experience is better than ever. Not to mention their true underlying raision d'être of supporting democracy and freedom in Haiti.
(4)
F. P.
I came here a month ago, waiting eagerly for my first Haitian dining experience (had heard this place was featured on The Food Network with Guy Fieri). Managed to get an early dinner reservation so there was no wait at all. And the crowds had not come yet. The entire restaurant gives us a very festive feel, with its bright colors and decorative murals. Ordered dishes that I basically had never tried before: For for appetizer, we ordered the Lanbi Pike Nan JI Sitwon (spicy marinated conch) - this was really good, had a nice spicy kick. The texture was interesting - like ceviche, chewy but with a little "crunch" as well. Definitely memorable and quite yummy. The entrees were all right. We had: - Pwason Gwosel (steamed whole yellowtail snapper served with scotch bonnet-lime sauce with rice and beans) - the snapper was tender (almost too tender as it seemed "mushy" at times) - Griyo (light, fried marinated "kurbuta" pork chunks) - just ok Sides: Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) - very good; definitely a must-order Manyok Fri (fried yucca) - nice crisy texture on the outside but the inside was a bit dry and bland. Aside from the conch, what I liked the best were the drinks, actually. We started with the Haitian mojito (w fresh mint, lime juice, raw sugar and Barbancourt rhum), which was very refreshing and clearly well-made. Then we turned to some beers we had never tried before - Tropical Mango Pale Ale (Virgin Islands) - Prestige Lager (Haiti) - Tusker Lager (Kenya) Definitely worth a trip, especially if like me, this is your first Haitian experience. Think this is the type of place that would be great to go with a bunch of friends.
(3)
Jenn C.
The food here is excellent! It is also on the healthy side of haitian cooking as you don't have to get your fish fried. The atmophere is just great, you can walk around and just stare at the art work. and it's on South beach! which brings a bit of haitian flair to the area.....ok to the poster to said to go to overtown or liberty city to get haitian food, that is not an option for many people.
(5)
Moe J.
Hati - always forgotten as the land that told the French to go screw themselves because we aint going to be slaves for you no more! Three cheers for the anti-colonial rebellion which pre-dated our Civil War! There cuisine was simply a must try. This was my first time to try Hatian food. I wanted to make the trek to Cafe Creole but being car-less and with limited time - I took my local Hatian bell-captain's word that this was a good spot. I arrived for lunch around 1 p.m. on a Monday and the place was nearly empty. I started with the Pumpkin Soup which was light and a good start to the meal and a very reasonable five dollars. For my main course, I ordered the snapper in lime sauce - I had seen the snapper on No Reservations and was excited to try. It was good but I just think I was not in a fish mood. It could have used a bit more spice to crank up the heat a bit. Also, the portions are large so you can share easily here. I had a couple bites of the rice and beans that came with the fish - there were pretty tasty for what they are.
(3)
Amy S.
Adorable atmosphere, with colorful painted chairs and beautiful murals around the restaurant. The music was also great. Definitely gets points for being a clean, attractive, relaxing restaurant. Service was friendly, though slow. We arrived mid-afternoon and were among maybe five patrons, but still waited a while to place our order and get our check. Though we were a party of three, our gratuity was added automatically, which is something that bugs me. I typically tip much more than the suggested gratuity, but this always deters me. I've found it more typical in southern Florida than anywhere else in the country, so maybe I'm just missing something. The food quality was excellent; the shrimp in creole sauce was fresh, with the best texture and flavor I've had. My brother enjoyed his pork as well. The rum punch I ordered was nothing special, especially at the price. On food and atmosphere alone, I'd give five stars. Service, drinks, and price considered; I would say Tap Tap is a nice place, I would definitely give it another chance on that shrimp alone.
(3)
Mike S.
I've been here a few times and the food is nothing to yelp about. The conch salad tasted "off" and gave me some heaves. The pork dish I saw on Triple D was a little overcooked, dry, and stringy. The coconut shrimp has a hint of aluminum, maybe they could use better cookware. The grouper was overcooked as well. The food may have been good in the past but the management needs to focus on fresher food and better quality control.
(2)
Sharon S.
What a great Haitian ethnic opportunity for me at Tap Tap. The place is very island-ly colorful and very much relaxing. The food is outstanding! I would have to say that I have never been disappointed in any of the culinary delights I have sampled. The watercress sauce is out of this world tasty! I would love to have a recipe for this so when I make akra it will be more enjoyable. The staff are very personable and pleasant beings from the management on down. Just remember that the parking is a few steps down the alley from the actual restaurant.
(5)
Tiffany A.
Why didn't i try this place sooner?? It's around the corner from my apartment... I met a friend for dinner there last week and I felt like I was reminded of one of my favorite bars in SF... (little baobab which is a senegalese bar/restaurant)...The decor was great... bright, colorful, just like being on the islands.. The food here at tap tap however was EXCELLENT.... i ordered the shrimp in coconut sausce triple YUMMMMM and the conch salad appetizer... they say it's spicy but I grew up on mexican food so it didn't faze me... my friend added that the conch was reasonably priced and joked 'did they smuggle it in from Haiti to get it so cheap?' lol... I didn't try the mojito but i need to... i'm only taking a star off because it was a bit hot in there.... it would have been nice to be a bit more comfy while i ate, that's all but all in all I loved it here and definitely recommend it to folks who are in Miami as a 'must do'.... The icing on the cake was the friends I made at the bar.... (where you can have a great time if your flying solo)... there were actually 2 single diners seated there who i chatted with while i waited for my friends.. we even created our own 'click' of iphone users... too funny!!! I love that this place attracts cool people!!! Must return next week.. must return!
(4)
Tony T.
Came for a late dinner and they ran out of a few things including goat. Tried the melange fritters which were lightly fried. The watercress sauce that came with the fritters was both spicy and sour and it was a nice mix. Had the conch that came in a salad. The conch salad was fresh, spicy, sour and chewy. For dinner had the shrimp in creole sauce, which was tomato based. The shrimp were well seasoned and cooked perfectly. Also tried the chicken stew. The chicken was tender but a little dry and the stew was very good. The fried fish was great. It was fried nicely on the outside but was tender on the inside. The sauce that came with the fish was sour and spicy. Also tried the griyot and the pork was well cooked and not too dry. The dish also had onions and red bell peppers. The mixed rice and beans were good but the rice was a little dry. It was the best place I tried on my Miami trip. The decor is colorful and the paintings on the wall were cool to look at as we ate. The service was fine and they had a Kenyan beer (Tusker) which was pretty good.
(4)
Deb L.
This was the first time I'd ever tried Haitian food. A friend and I shared two entrees- *shrimp with coconut sauce *stewed conch We asked the waiter what "conch" was, to which he answered "a type of shellfish." As we both love shellfish, we decided to give it a try. It was so tender, soft, and chewy. After looking it up on wikipedia, conch is actually a saltwater snail : ) The entrees came with a side of rice and beans and a piece of plaintain. There was a spicy coleslaw-like side dish on all the tables (super spicy) that went well with the bread that was served.
(4)
Miriam F.
Definitely a must try restaurant!! Haitian food is not for everyone though... but I was a fan! For appetizers we had the fried platter, malanga fritters, and the conch! All of it was amazing... I cant pick a favorite... it was all good!! My recommendation for dinner is the shrimp in coconut sauce (note: this is not your average coconut sauce.. it is very sweet!) and the grilled goat dish. Also, the pork chops were very good. When you order any of the seafood, please not they will not take of tails or heads... but it is very fresh and delicious! Prices were ok... about $20 a entree. For drinks, it is imperative that you have a Mojito, the rum is amazing and very smooth. (However, I am not a rum expert). Enjoy!
(4)
Olle P.
I'd seen the place on the check please show and we tried it for lunch on a very quiet Saturday. We ordered conch and mango watercress salad for starters and for mains shrimp in creole sauce and the goat stew. The food took way to long to arrive, especially considering that the place was nearly empty. Fortunately their mojitos are good and that amde the wait more bearable. Except for the shrimps the food was pretty bland and boring. I really can't recommend the place for the food, which is sad because the place has a cool Caribbean vibe and could be so much more. Maybe I'll come back on a busy evening just for a drink and hopefully some music, but I will have eaten my dinner before I arrive.
(2)
Rick P.
Food and service were great. Portions were perfect. I had the stewed conch and corn meal, and m wife had stewed beef Kalalu and rice and peas. The Haitian Mojito was great. I would have preferred the Kremas but they were out, they were also out of beignet. Disappointed about that but I would definitely go back. Wish that a Haitian Restaurant this good in L.A.
(4)
Pachuco K.
What a joke this place is. Yes the food is good --but not all the foods on the menu are authentic Haitian recipes. The first time I went with some family members, some of us ordered the griot, (fried pork chunks) they came back with pork chunks in sauce !!!!!!!!! We left without touching the food. They figured they would change the recipes to FIT the AMERICAN taste buds.!!!!!!!!!! Not surprising since the owners are NOT HAITIANS. I went back many years later and they now serve Fried pork chunks ( I guess too many complaints from real Haitians). But I still think most of their food and taste are spiced down, and they also serve other things on the menu not usually found on the island. But, then again it is on Miami Beach, -------tourist heaven..............
(1)
Del M.
Stepping into this place which is right in the middle of the hectic and posh life of Miami Beach is like walking into another world. From the decoration to the friendly staff to the amazing smells emanating from the kitchen you are transported into another dimension. I learned about this place from Triple D's on the Food Network and it was worth the trip. I had the Snapper which was exquisite, along amazing drinks and a unique desserts. I have not been back in a while, but I am looking forward to the day I return.
(4)
Aileen F.
One of the first spots I ate at while in South Beach and the food was amazing. After a day of exploring South Beach, my boyfriend and I decided to eat here since we never had Haitian food. In addition, this was one of the places I had on my "things to eat" from doing my research on yelp and through my handy dandy Fodor's book. We ate around lunch time and the restaurant was super quite with a hostess in the front who sat us in the front. Not only were the menus interesting to look at with the different types of food, but the restaurant it self had a lot of art work. The place was very colorful and full of Haitian art. I enjoyed the front artwork with my glass of rum punch which was delicious. The name slips my mind, but it was blended with fresh fruits and had a wonderful sweet taste, I couldn't taste the alcohol and maybe that's why I liked it so much. For lunch, we enjoyed the Kribish Kokoye (shrimp in the coconut sauce) and pan-seared Pwason Gwosel (yellow tail with lime sauce). We enjoyed these entrees with mixed rice and beans. The 2nd dish I mentioned was highly recommended by the hostess and it was very delicious. So flavorful and it was my favorite out of the two. The fish was very fresh, the meat fell right off the bone. And the sauce...coconut with a lime taste. I also enjoyed the condiments - a spicy Haitian sauce. Cabbage, carrots, red spices all soaked in vinegar, a perfect sauce for the fish. I would definitely come during lunch time because its less busy. At night, I hear it gets very busy. This restaurant is off fifth street and very hard to miss during the day, but at night the illuminating sign is easier to spot on the busy street. Parking is found several steps away BEHIND the restaurant and its free. Gratuity is already included on the check so don't worry about leaving tip, unless your that generous lol. Decent price for good Haitian food! a MUST to go to while in South Beach!
(4)
Vanessa S.
The goat stew was delicious! The bignets for dessert were also great. We sat on the porch and enjoyed the experience.
Incredible food, awesome ambiance. The spaghetti creole and grouper were delicious, and the whole interior is coveted in murals which are fun to look at. Only damper would be the service, which was painfully slow the night I went.
(3)
Tanya E.
I celebrated my 31st birthday here in 2009 and although I can not remember what I had, I do remember it was hella good. So was my drink. My company and I had a ball and if I'm ever in Miami again this will be a definite stop. Must fill up on good stuff before heading to Wet Willie's.
(5)
Brain S.
A coworker and I stopped by Tap Tap while we were visiting south beach on a work trip. We were seated at 9pm, ordered two rum punches and decided on charcoal cooked 1/2 chicken (18$) and spicy conch salad. The server (the guy with the dreads) never returned with the drinks to take our order. 30 minutes later I walked to the bar to ask about the drinks, and found our missing waiter watching a basketball game at the bar. My buddy flagged another waiter down so we could get our orders in, but he dismissed us. Our server finally approaches, and without apology, asks if we've decided yet.. Long story short--dinner took 1:45 when we needed to get back to hotel to pack, and it cost $96 dollars with Gratuity included.... Tips stands for To Insure Prompt Service... I am NOT a complainer, and the food here IS good. But I'll not be returning. BTW Tap Tap, I work on a FOOD NETWORK show....
(1)
matt p.
This place was great. The goat, the grouper, the whole red snapper, and the pork dish rounded out our entrees. You have to ask for the green watercress sauce - I ended up dipping everything in that...yum! two bummers - they were out of the pineapple dessert and no music the night we went. Guess we'll have to back later in the week for some dessert and tunes
(4)
Jennifer F.
The food was good. Not the best Haitian food I've ever had, but the goat stew was tasty. I'd been told the grilled goat was excellent, and the waiter pushed it big time. I ordered it, but they were out. It was only about 7 pm on a weeknight, seemed early for them to be out of one of their signature dishes. But it happens, and that's not why they get a mere 2 stars. Expect to be charged more for each item than the price listed on the menu. My dining companion ordered the grouper, but was served (and charged for) the more expensive snapper (which the waiter was also pushing, must have had too much of it back in the kitchen). We were charged an extra dollar for each of our drinks, and for some reason my $15 entree on the menu was $18 on the bill. We didn't do any substitutions or special orders, they just charged us more. In the end, it's not the price itself, it's the sense of being ripped off. Like many restaurants in Miami Beach, tip was already included in the total, so we couldn't just take the difference out of the tip (my usual tactic when a server tries to rip me off). Print new menus if you need to raise the prices, but don't just surprise your patrons with an unexpected bill. That maneuver changed Tap Tap from a place I would recommend to friends to a place I would recommend my friends stay away from. There are plenty of other great places to eat within 3 blocks, and plenty of better Haitian restaurants, so why support the con artists at Tap Tap?
(2)
Marcos R.
This city slicker can't vouch for it's authenticity, but it sure tastes good! Great little spot on the fringes of the South Beach hot spots. When I was there there was a little 3 piece band playing some Haitian/Afrobeat music. I would definitely go there again.
(4)
Dennis W.
Tap Tap came highly recommended. We arrived after Art Basel on a Sunday. The place was packed, the small bar/waiting room was elbow to elbow with a very laid back friendly crowd. Every conceivable place, the floor, ceiling, walls, tables and chairs are painted with scenes, murals or words in colorful paint. Very interesting. The staff greeted us, wrote down our name, "ten minute wait no problem" Mohitos were ordered which were excellent. Forty five minutes later after inquiring about the wait list, we were seated in the very back room which was half full of diners. The other diners had one waiter, we had a darling Haitian waitress who had just us. (ominous sign) She promptly came, and advised us to get the Shrimp in Coconut milk, the whole- fish Red Snapper which came with beans and rice, we also ordered the excellent Tap Tap salad with mango, watercress, tomato and a basil based dressing. We ate the salad then waited a L O N G time for the entrees. Finally...the entrees came, the shrimp dish was excellent and the coconut sauce with red bell peppers was incredible, but the medium size shrimp were only six in number. The whole fish (head on) snapper was cooked artfully but not the easiest to eat due to the bones. It was excellent. We traded bites and used some of the coconut sauce on the snapper. Tasty. Then another long wait, and wait. Finally the waitress showed and recited the desert menu. For desert we ordered Haitian cake, along with coconut sorbet; the cake came first, it was good but dry, and needed the sorbet, yet the sorbet came a good seven minutes later. The . The sorbet by itself was refreshing but did have much flavor. Then another wait for the check. The whole thing came to $92, food, drinks, tax and the added 18% tip. The problem with the mandatory added tip is there is no incentive to excel, certainly no reason to hustle. We might go back, and try something else and hope to get another waiter. We got there at 7:30, left after 10:00, the place was mostly empty by then. Other reviews mention the slow service, it really was the worst we have experienced in a long time.
(3)
Forrest D.
As far as I know we don't have any haitian food in LA, although we probably do. This was my first experience and I loved it when I ate here about 20 years ago, and never forgot the place. When we visited with friends, we had to come and it didn't disappoint. I read some reviews here that call this Hiatian lite and it may be but that doesn't diminish the tastiness of the food. Sometimes authenticity is only good to those who grow up on it. For example, my wife is Chinese and she and her family love some restaurants that serve traditional chinese food that truth be told isn't very good. I don't mean because I don't like traditional food, I mean sometimes food changes for the better when it changes and the original is comfort food for those that grew up on it but noone else. So while this may not be truly authentic Hiatian food, it is really tasty and be aware, quite hot if you order certain dishes. In fact one of the spiciest dishes I ever had came from here, although I don't remember what it was. The goat and fish dishes are very good, and I love the shrimp. Service is always extremely slow here but the rooms are all delightfully painted with fantastical murals and designs. For those who didn't enjoy, it's always a good idea to read the reviews most restaurants post as they usually tell what's good. That's the first thing I do when we try a new place, as well as looking up reviews and it rarely leads us astray. All in all I'm looking forward to trying some truly authentic Hiatian food to see how it compares. In the meantime... Food - A- Ambience - A+ Service - B- Value - A-
(5)
Rob C.
2.5 stars for food sorry, this place is overrated. No one can deny that the restaurant is interesting however; it's like a miami institution. colorful mural artwork adorn the walls, great energy and music fill the air. ambiance may create a memorable experience but it didn't help with the food for me. caveat, i was full and only sampled appetizers... nice soursop juice (same as guanabana) had the pumpkin soup -- tasted like a can based broth fritay appetizer plate -- items either too dry or just fried mush (green cilantro sauce was ok) okra stew -- bland, all the flavors were not as bold as i thought they would be i'd go to little haiti for haitian food...but for the "experience," like most everything on sobe, you should come here.
(3)
Diana N.
Tap Tap is really off the beaten path. I spoke with the restaurant manager and he told me that the restaurant has been around for over 15 years! It's pretty traditional Haitian food and if you don't know what to get, you should ask the waitress for recommendations. Prices are good, service is pretty consistent.
(4)
Andrew P.
Excellent simple Hatian cuisine. The best mojitos in Miami made with hatian rum. Get the whole fish.
(4)
Pavel D.
Best haitian food I have ever had. Much better than any of NYC's offerings
(5)
dayna c.
I loved this restaurant. I might be biased because I am highly persuaded by bright colors, but our experience was great. We were on vacation and I was looking for restaurants with vegetarian options. Although they were out of a lot of things, it was late and I'm guessing they had been busy, all I wanted was the spinach dish. It was sooooo good. I can't even begin to explain it, like I would fly back to Miami yummy. Seriously.
(5)
Ernesto L.
Great hole in the wall place with some really good food. I went on yelp to find a great bite without walking around in the heat. Read the reviews and thought we'd try it out. Amazing! Try the fresh squeezed limeade. I had the chicken with rice, beans, and plantains. Very good! Will definitely go back next time I'm in town.
(5)
Eric S.
Really cool atmosphere, fun bar, interesting (in a good way) food. I'm a flatlander who was down in Miami for work, and decided to try the first Haitian meal of my life. I tried the kingfish with coconut sauce, which was delicious. Staff were extremely friendly.
(4)
Charlie U.
Yearning for a semi-authentic dining experience? Try Tap Tap with its great Haitian dishes served in a ramshackle setting complete with colorful murals and sleepy looking guys sitting on the front porch. The food never fails. Especially good fish preparation. Relax and enjoy the slow service. You'll start to believe you've been magically transported out of South Beach and landed in Port-au-Prince.
(4)
Patricia d.
Incredibly delicious food, that makes you feel like you're eating at your Aunt's house - especially if you're Filipino. Okay, give or take a few ingredients...lime instead of kalamansi...and butter instead of vegetable oil (I'm guessing that's the French influence on Haiti)... Menu Drinks - hubby had the mojito...DE-LISH! I had the Sitronad, which is basically lime-aid...also yummy! Our server gave a warning that it might be too sour, but I make my own kalamansi juice and try not to use too much sugar, so for me - it was perfect. Appetizer - we had the Akra (Malanga fritters)...good. A little too bread-y for my preference, but we still ate it all. The sauce that came with it was amazing!!! We were hoping for more heat, and found it in the jar of pickled something-or-others on the table...but honestly, it wasn't that hot. Main Course - I had the whole fish in lime sauce...uh, I pretty much finished it all. I would only recommend this if you're used to dealing with the fish bones, otherwise, get the fish fillet in the same sauce. My hubby had the Griyo, which is a pork dish. He also finished his meal - I mean almost licked the plate clean. Dessert - we had the Blan Mange. Completely yummy coconut dessert, kind of like jello in consistency and they serve it with mango slices. If you're Filipino, you'll think it tastes like Maja Blanca...it also kind of looks like it, minus the toasted coconut sprinkles on top. If you live in Miami, I hope you're eating here at least twice a month. If you're visiting Miami, save your appetite for a big meal here!! You will LOVE it!!
(4)
Leslie W.
Good service and solid good food. The grouper was excellent. So many locals streaming through these doors, you can't go wrong with a local fave.
(4)
Ryan K.
Wow, as if Miami couldn't be any better! Talk about awsesome food! Never had Haitian food before. It was amazing. Absalutely amazing! The service was great. the restaurant was clean. Good recommendations from the server. I'll make it a point to visit this restaurant every time I come back to Miami! And hopefully I'll be back SOON!
(5)
Asher B.
This place is full of character and characters. The mojitos lived up to the hype and the stewed goat just melted. I came back several times during my South Beach stay. Delicious and highly recommended!!! Stay for the band if you can, it is worth it and maybe you will get hungry enough to eat more of the wonderful food too. Seriously what more are you looking for?
(5)
E. Y.
We went there a few days ago because it was recommended on Diners, drive in &dives show on food network. It was a disappointment. First of all the service was slow. We waited about 20min to get some bread and then about 50 min to get our food. I can understand if it was crowded but it was not. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce..the sauce was good. Also had the pork chunks dish and the free range chicken...both were okay... Not that flavorful. The plantains were tasteless and dry..needed sugar on them. We had to go out to the car to put more coins for parking because service was so slow. There was also no close parking. Last thing was that the 18% gratuity was automatically tacked onto the bill..which I would not have complained about if the service given was good, but it was so slow, they did not deserve the tip!! I would not go back again.
(1)
Cristy M.
Long story short: I didn't know I was on a "date" until half-way through dinner. Oops. My bad. In the end, it didn't work out for the guy. For me, on the other hand, it totally did. Tap Tap is a great little Haitian restaurant that you've probably driven by a million times if you've ever come off the MacCarthur Causeway to go to Miami Beach, namely South Beach. I've had a Haitian close friend for over a decade and it had never occurred to me to ask her what Haitian cuisine was because, for whatever reason, it hadn't dawned on me that there WAS a Haitain cuisine. Big mistake. Apparently, not only is there Haitian food, but there is Haitian-style food, and this place is the only place that I've ever been to where I've eaten it. For that, I can't give much of a foodie kind of review. Instead, I'm going to stick with the ambiance of the place and how generally enjoyable just eating there is. It's been a while since I've been to Tap Tap but, I'm not gonna lie, I always want to go. This might have been perhaps the best place a guy had ever taken me to dine on a date and that's saying a lot. Being there is almost like being at someone's residence. It's comfy and quaint and really personal. It's not showy or hip or any of the stuff that places like this fall at the risk of being. Instead, it's just a great place to have a bite and chat while you eat. Good for every one. Damn, now I wanna go back. Date or no date. Considering the last guy, I might as well go with friends. Note: At the time, I was a strict ova-lacto vegetarian and was able to find a selection from which to order.
(3)
Jull Y.
Food is pretty good. But not feeling the included tip on the bill... So one star off.
(3)
Sabrina Anna C.
This is such an intereting little place! The artwork and general vibe/set up is very Caribbean and tropical. It always has a fun crowd, good music and excellent cocktails! Great place on a Thursday or Friday night. There's the live band The food is exquisite, with interesting selctions. Their seafood is always fresh and a great way to go with your meal selection! I enjoy the seafood, the plantain dishes, and the Conch (classic!). The first time I came here was in 2005. Love it! This place is excellent for anyone from locals to tourists! Just a great time, fun spot, and excellent meal! :)
(4)
IGOR B.
Are you in Miami? Do you wanna try something different and very local? Go! Nothing fancy but real Haitian food. Everything is fresh and the venue is very Hiati style. Haitian paints on the walls, haitian music, good MOJTO and not expensive at all! Colors colors colors and friendly ppl! Try it!
(4)
Maria C.
I think this place is pretty good. I had some sort of white fish which was just so very tender and soft. Simple. Yet good. Did not eat the rice or beans. They were dry. We had some deep fried sweet potatoes and plantains for appetizers. Nice and crispy. I also remember this green sauce being very tasty. We sat right in front of the band. The whole place had a mellow but somewhat sad overtone, though, despite the colorful walls and great character of the place. The owner was SUPER nice. Drinks are cheap. Good stuff.
(4)
Jessica P.
The food here is fantastic! I've literally had every dish on the menu (including the goat) and absolutely loved it! Be sure to try the Cornmeal beans side dish. Not only is the food great but the atmosphere is always fun and lively. Perfect place to come with friends and family!
(5)
Ryan R.
We came here from all the hype, but this place is overrated. The food wasn't amazing, but alright and overpriced. The place itself has a nice vibe.
(3)
Marty P.
Five of us went last night. We made reservations and we got a private room for dining. The decor is fantastic and the food is exceptional. Best fish I've ever had. Snapper with a scotch bonnet lime sauce. We had two picky eaters with us and both were won over. Great service. Great cocktails. I had come here about 8 yrs ago with my wife. I remembered it fondly and I'm glad I returned. Also, is a HUGE improvement on the quality of the food relative to anyplace on Ocean Dr. Good value.
(5)
Augusto N.
we followed the bad advise of one of those tourism channels on tv knowing that probably there might be some money exchange involved in their neutral opinion. the yelp reviews weren't that bad, we just came for mohitos and there were two two schools on the subject, either water down or very strong so what the heck. unfortunately we landed the first one so after paying for state tax, resort tax and an already included gratitude it felt like paying for a very very expensive lemonade. we thought of telling the bar tenderness that not much of their famous rum was savored with the drink but while she seemed to be a very nice gal she didn't show much interest in our overall experience then we opted to skip the whole discussion.
(2)
Wen B.
this restaurant was really cute inside, the service was not too good but if you like seafood this is the place to go. My friend had the red snapper and said it was amazing, i had the chicken and it was extremely dry so if you go to this place definitely get the seafood. the mojito was really good as well.
(4)
Peter S.
Great atmoshpere, great Hatian food, Live music, different, fun, not expensive for SoBe
(4)
Brinda M.
Awesome mojitos! Ricardo, our bartender made perfect drink suggestions and made the amazing mojitos I have had in a long time.
(5)
Amy G.
Friendly & casual place. Great ginger tea and goat dishes. Parking is mostly on the street with quarter meters :(
(4)
Aaron V.
We dined recently at Tap Tap...our first foray into Haitian cuisine. I've waited a few days to digest the hot mess this place is....it's difficult to be objective on the food while you bask in the vibe.... We made reservations earlier in the day for 9 pm. When we arrived (8:45), there didn't seem to be a hostess, only servers running frantically about. We flagged one down who told us we'd have to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes. No problem, we could just have a drink. we ordered a couple of mojitos, quite possibly the best any of us have ever had. There had been an older woman sitting at the bar sipping wine, almost in some sort of trance. She sort of snapped together and asked us if we had been helped, to which we replied that we had. She smiled. Come to find out later, she is apparently one of the owners. While waiting, I was chatting with one of my friends how nice the breeze was...and we both noticed a vacant table on the front porch. We asked one of the passing servers if we could dine there..."sure, why not" was the response. We were seated after the table was cleaned. It took a bit of time, bit our waitress finally came and took our drink order, a little more time for our drinks to arrive, and more time for her to come back to take our orders. We all ordered some sort of appetizer - malanga fritters, pumpkin soup...all very good. Again, it took some time for them to arrive to our table. More waiting, then our main courses showed up. Two in our party ordered the fish - yellowtail snapper? One was fried, the other in some sort of sauce. The reason I added the question mark is no one at our table had heard of that fish, and they did have a minor complaint that the meat was a little more difficult to remove from the bone. The one with the sauce raved about it. My other friend had the grilled chicken with cornmeal and beans. I had the stewed chicken with the cornmeal and beans also. My friend said his grilled chicken was good, but a few pieces were a little overcooked. Even though mine was "stewed", I'm convinced mine was grilled also, then dunked in a bland creole sauce. Some of my chicken was overcooked and tough (dark meat, go figure). We both agreed that the cornmeal and beans were excellent. I had also ordered the okra, which came in more creole sauce. I love okra, but the creole sauce added nothing...more bland. After finishing our mains, and more waiting, we were asked if we wanted dessert. We went for it. Sweet potato pie, banana fritters, and coconut sorbet. The sorbet was excellent, but banana fritters were, well, eh. Then there was that pie. We all tasted it, and it was completely nasty. It tasted nothing like any sort of sweet potato pie we'd ever had, and the texture was strange. It went uneaten. Later on, we finally got our check. I point out the slowness of service throughout the evening because I would normally be really pissed off. However, we found out that it was one of the last nights of Fet Gede, a Haitian festival of the dead. There were a number of people showing up for the live band and other assorted activities...chants, parades, blessings, etc. It was loads of fun and the vibe was just right....so no worries. However, I need to visit on a more "normal" evening to re-review. Will I be pissed at slow service for mediocre food, or will I chill to the mood?
(3)
Jerri Z.
Do not recommend. Disappointed. Looked forward to trying Tap Tap, but the so so reviews hit the nail on the head. Slow, disinterested staff and kitchen. Found the snapper to be fresh, but very bland pepper sauce. Beans and rice not very good. plantains rock hard. Would never go back and would tell others to try someplace else. Closest parking in the public garage 3 blocks away.
(2)
n l.
actually, about a 4.7 because it was a really hot that day :( I came here on a Tuesday afternoon so it was not too busy. I had a spageti kreyol with kribish (shrimp) and a hatian mojito. The spageti kreyol was delicious!!! A little spicy, but nothing most can't handle. The staff was kind and the walls were painted with colorful murals. I would come here again if I lived in Miami. Not too expensive.
(5)
Stricky T.
First impressions last, tap tap made an impression. Just like most of the reviews, I tried the grilled conch, the spinach in coconut sauce. I really liked the food and have go back someday. Grand food
(5)
Chrichelle M.
Another Yelp hit. We're visiting and have flown blind based on Yelp recommendations and haven't been steered wrong yet. The service was distant which is why it wasn't five stars
(4)
Jake W.
Crazy awesome voodoo decor and great food
(5)
Carla B.
This place popped my Haitian cuisine cherry. :-) Pleasant, different experience. Colorful place, very authentic, nice servers, good prices and the food is good.
(3)
Nikki B.
One of the best meals I've ever had. Ever. Impeccable service. Fun decor. Highly recommend.
(5)
Kenny S.
Great food and Ambiance! Very authentic and more!
(4)
Christian B.
The appetizer platter is at must have if you are new to haitian food. The beef stew and the whole fried fish are definite good choice entrees. The Haitian mojito rocks and the virgin papaya shake
(4)
Molly M.
Amazing. The food was carefully prepared. The drinks were also wonderful. A great band showed up, and eventually my friend and I were having drinks with the owner and some of the other guests on the porch. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
(5)
laquisha v.
Eaten takeout from here once. Conch Creole, ceviche and ginger tea are excellent. Goat was a mix of tough and tender, so I wasn't crazy about it.
(4)
Karen L.
Legit. Everything I ate here was solid and a great experience for my first time trying Haitian food. Friendly service and lots of a food. Highly recommended if you ever get the chance! Just ask the waiter/waitress for what they recommend, that's what we did.
(4)
Andrea W.
I had never heard of Tap Tap or even knew what haitian food tasted like. When I walked in I felt this great energy starting with the walls bright and colorful like your childhood coloring books. We were seated immediately despite not everyone in our party being there. We started off with goat tidbits that I was super hesitant because the thought of eating goat didn't seem rappetizing but I was told I wouldn't be disappointed and i was not they looked like chicharron but tasted like oxtail! Delicious! Then we also tried shrimp in coconut cream sauce and the griyo which is pork chunks both were good but the show stealer for the night was definitely the goat. I also got to sample the vegetable stew and that is something I must order next time I go. The service there was great which is always wonderful to compliment a great meal.
(5)
Christine P.
What a great find this place is. I came here one first date and it was a perfect choice. The ambiance is very welcoming & casual. The restaurant is decorated with lots of colors and textures on the walls and very cool art to boot. I found myself paying more attention to the intricately beaded mural behind me than to my company. But the art ended up making for good conversation pieces. This was my first time having Haitian cuisine and I didn't know what to expect. They offered a few specials, but were out of the ones we were interested in. I ended up ordering the pumpkin soup and the avocado salad, both were fresh & very good. We also ordered drinks from the bar, it was a blend of rum & mango. Kudos to the bartender on a fantastic drink. I will definitely be back and next time I'll bring a bigger appetite.
(4)
Lia T.
Really, really good food. Great service. I had a shrimp and rice dish and it was saucy and delish. My friend had a shrimp and spaghetti dish that I wanted to eat too. The folk art on the walls is engaging and the lighting is creative. The music was recorded but good. The only ding was the sweet potato pie. It was a leaden cube of flavorlessness. Get the passionfruit gelato. Dreamy. The night we were there the whole front bar was full of people watching the town hall presidential debates. Everyone was quiet and respectful. Nice.
(4)
Jenny Q.
Great haitian food beware that service is sometimes slow.
(4)
Mika G.
Walked in and was greeted by I think the owner. The place was very colorful inside and out. We started with the akra (malanga fritters). Malanga is a starchy root. The fritters were yummy. I ordered the griyo (marinated pork chunks) and my coworker ordered the shrimp creole; spicy. My pork was good and I loved the vinegar dipping sauce. My coworker took a bite of her shrimp and refused to eat anymore. She said it was too shrimpy. I took a bite to try it. No it's not spoiled. The flavor was that great seafood flavor like you get with cioppino. I guess she didnt know what to expect when she ordered creole. So I ate a couple of the shrimp so it wouldnt look like she hated it. She ate some of my pork chunks. We traded dishes a couple times when we went out. I took the leftovers back to my hotel for breakfast the next day. It was a good breakfast. I liked this place. The food was great.
(4)
Maxfactor C.
I fell in love with this place as soon as i walked thru the door. The colors are amazing! There are murals on the floors,, walls, tables and ceilings. The bartender was great. Fresh mint mojitos! She mixed it in some stone bowl and it was amazing. This place looks like a little house with many rooms. As for the food I had the grilled lime grouper which was delicious. i had to come back again before I left miami so I came back the next night and had the shrimp in some coconut sauce with rice. It was great as well! This time there was a live band! I had the best time there and I will never forget tap-tap and the prices were reasonable which is so refreshing for S.Beach. I'll be back!!!
(5)
Liz T.
the food's tasty. there's bright murals all over the walls, it's always loud & fun, and pretty much all the previous reviews were spot on... but the reason i love this place is the Tap Tap Band. i believe they play on thursday and saturday nights. get there early to get a spot. some nights there will be only 1 or 2 band members and 10 the next time they play. but regardless they're always jamming out with everyone dancing and singing along. the main guy in the band (forgetting his name) is just the coolest guy ever. great guitarist and great singer... but the most interesting part about him is that he used to be the mayor of Port-Au-Prince. how bad ass. that's reason enough for me to go.
(4)
Dani B.
Changed from 4 to 2 stars. Good has gotten much worse. Service has always been slow as molasses. A shame bc used to be one of my favorites.
(2)
Bonnie n.
pass... no need to go unless you want to have a long ass meal. i went for lunch, and because i had previously read yelp reviews i knew it was gonna be a bit of a wait.. i just didn't know how long it was gonna be. the restaurant was empty, except us and one other table. the fritters came out quickly so i was hopeful... however the main course came out nearly 45 min after we ate our fritters.. and the grilled corn came out after our main course was done and we had paid the bill... malanga fritters were ok.. a little too greasy. couldn't get pass eating more than 2. coconut shrimp had good flavor, nothing special though. there were only 4 shrimp. so not really filling.. i guess if you add the rice and beans you would get full. fried whole snapper, was large. the waitress recommended it pan fried, i think it may have tasted better deep fried. the sauce was good, still nothing special. charcoal grilled corn.. plain.. nothing but plain grilled corn.. i got a virgin mojito because i had to drive... it was too sweet
(3)
Mae V.
This place was excellent! I got the snapper and it was fluffy and fresh. Beware, they give you the entire fish with the head still attached. I'm asian so I'm used to it, but the people sitting next to us were horrified. Haha they just stared at me while I devoured my fish. My sister got the shrimp in coconut sauce which was divine. The servers are very warm and friendly.
(5)
Dan B.
Tap Tap is more than a restaurant. It's a showcase of the art and culture of a country who is, more often than not, considered a paradigm for the pinnacle of urban blight. The media will get an infinite amount of cracks at you to show you the extent of the poverty and suffering that goes on in Haiti, but representations of the beautiful side to the country are a dime a dozen. Does Tap Tap need to be located in Little Haiti to convince me of it's authenticity? Absolutely not. Even in "trendy" South Beach where style comes before tradition, Tap Tap convinces you from the moment you walk in that this is a true expression of artistic and religious Haiti and not a transient "cool place to be" that'll be replaced with an eclectic tapas bar. The menu is simple, but you can be assured that the dishes you select will be done right. I had the breathtaking privilege to try my first malanga fritter. Malanga is a root and they deep fry it, serve it on a bed of lettuce, and give you watercress dipping sauce, which is amazing. They also start you off with some of the hottest, freshest, and most delicious bread you can ask for. For any part of your meal, you can try the Haitian version of cole slaw, which actually serves more as a topping, as it's juicy with scotch bonnet peppers, something that you inevitably will find in most Caribbean foods. With exotic dishes such as conch in Creole sauce and stewed goat, it was hard to choose. I ended up going with the fried pork chunks, which I don't regret at all. The pork was deceivingly soft, juicy, full of flavor, and was accompanied with rice and beans, a plantain, and a garlicky/spicy dipping sauce. The meal was fabulous. I also tried some shrimp in creole sauce, which kind of reminded me of the Thai version of shrimp curry, with subtle differences. For your beverage, I highly recommend getting the Soley, which is a mix of Barbancourt Rum and Passion Fruit Juice. For $1 more, you can substitute 3 star rum for 5 star rum. The mixed beverages are delicious and tropical. For dessert, I tried the coconut pudding--a light dessert whose taste will be widely praised, yet whose texture will not be for everybody.
(5)
D S.
We ate there tonight and it was great. There was no waiting and the food was delicious. If I had one thing to improve it would be to make the drinks larger or less expensive. The shrimp with coconut sauce,red snapper and grilled chicken was perfect!
(5)
Peter C.
I started describing the heavenliness that is shrimp in coconut sauce to a friend, only to find out that he's a vegetarian since birth, hence has no idea what shrimps taste like. Thank goodness he is not blind, so I can still take him to Tap Tap and enjoy the visual feast of the wildly colorful mural. He's also not deaf, so the upbeat music will be fun for him, too. Oh, I am sure the gorgeous mojito is vegetarian, and the laid back, party atmosphere can be therapeutic in a way that does not violate his religious practice. However, if he were to venture into carnivorism once and forfeit his chance at eternal joy, the shrimp dish is probably worth it.
(4)
Luis M.
Tap Tap is amazing. I saw it on the Food Network and though man that looks good. So I went with my wife and we had a great time. The food was awesome the service was great.
(5)
Dee K.
My experience at Tap Tap was mixed. I have been anxious to try this place for years and now that I finally had a partner in crime who was as adventurous as me it was the perfect opportunity to make it happen. After tasting the food, I realized Haitian food is not as adventurous as i thought. It parallels the satisfying flavors of Latin and Thai food, which are more like staples in my flavor preference. what was adventurous was to pay that kind of money for that kind of service. The prices at Tap Tap are not THAT bad, unless you want to try new things. Everything added up pretty fast and the portions were a tad small. 4 of us tried a range of dishes from the whole red snapper to the pork chunks to the shrimp in coconut sauce to the spaghetti/shrimp special of the day. The snapper had bones and was really hard for the person to eat b/c he spent most of his time picking the fish off the bones. Pork was good and served with a clear spicy dipping sauce (onions and scotch bonnet pepper?) and was served with rice and beans (gallo pinto). Most of the dishes were served with gallo pinto and a couple fried plantains. The coconut sauce shrimp was very similar to a Thai coconut red curry sauce. The shrimp and spaghetti special was recommended to me by the server and I decided to take her advice. It was a grilled spiced shrimp tossed into a basic spaghetti with a lime/scotch bonnet sauce. We also shared the appetizer that came with a combo of fried okra, fried sweet potato and fried plantain- which we dipped in the green watercress sauce (flavors of this sauce are a MUST TRY). I also took fellow YELPers advice and ordered the spinach in coconut sauce- which was delish! The table had soursop, passionfruit and mango juices and I had a mojito. The mojito was nice- a perfect combo of flavors, but very simple. We sat outside on the front porch, which was very laid back. The inside of the restaurant was very colorful and even had a band playing in one of its rooms- nice vibes. All the walls (even the restrooms) are very colorful and bright. The service was verrrrrrry slow. Parking is a HUGE PAIN IN THE A$$. We dropped off half of our party to wait for a table and they were seated before we found parking. Our bill automatically included gratuity and probably came out to about $35.00 per person split equally 4 ways. The food was nice and everything else was ok - i think with some tweaking of the prices and attention to detail on the service this place could reach a higher standard. Nevertheless, I would come back to try additional items...
(3)
Jen L.
Dining at Tap Tap extended our Caribbean culinary adventure after our cruise. We had the Creole Spaghetti with Herring and Stewed Goat. Both dishes were superb! The pasta dish had a good balance of flavors. I love that it has some spice but it wasn't hot. The stewed goat with the white rice and beans was tender and flavorful and the taste was made perfect with a squeeze of lime. The restaurant's ambiance is festive and colorful. The waitstaff is also knowledgable about the menu and offered good recommendations. The restaurant's patrons are a combination of locals and tourists. It is a good place to dine at when in South Beach.
(5)
Agnes F.
went to tap tap for lunch the other day, no wait as i got there around noon started with a cocktail with rum, triple sec and something else (its orange in color) and its very tasty had the goat bits for appetizers, i love the deep fried goat meat with a dipping sauce that is full of flavor opted for stewed conch for entree, with a side of the polenta with red beans and coconut spinach on hind sight, plain rice would have been better as i can enjoy the stewed conch sauce even more but i really can't complain the conch was very tender and the coconut spinach was as good as everyone says here at the end, i was too stuffed to have any dessert love the beautiful murals and the friendly service, this was my first experience with Haitian food so i can't say if its authentic or not, but i enjoyed everything and look forward to going back there again
(3)
Madeleine O.
Now this was my first experience with Haitian food. It may be possible this is not the best but for me this is my #1 for food. I could go without eating anything else. Haitian food is like a magical mix of the light sweet tang of Vietnamese plus the warm kick of Indian and the zest of Cuban with mystery deliciousness thrown in! The waitstaff is extremely friendly as are the patrons. I like the art, great colors. I'd probably want to sit on the deck next time and I would suggest newbies do so. The goat tidbits were delicious. Kind of reminded me of the Filippino dish lichon minus the fat, we ordered a fried veggie platter, delicious root vegetables with three divine dipping sauces and I had goat stew with rice and beans. Seriously phenomenal. Oh also I tried conch for the first time! It was like an ahi tuna tar tar salad. Cold sweet tangy and with a real kick in the mouth of spice at the end. LOVED it! Go for the 5 star rum when you order the tropical punch (because it isn't an option not to order at least one!!!)
(5)
Isabel J.
classic, one of my favorites in miami
(4)
Trillvia P.
I love this little spot. The waiter was very attentive and sweet, so were the men (managers? owner?) who walked around to make sure we were having a good time - forgot their names! I ordered the sour sop, and a mojito with water to down it all. How thorough! Lol, For my appetizer I got the spinach in coconut sauce and a plate of the papas fritay? It had plantains, sweet potatoes, a spicy cajun sauce and another green sauce to dip this other fried food in. It was all good. I really wish I was hungrier to have gone for more afterwards, but I'll be back. The rooms inside are very kid friendly and artsy. Lovely to be in, I sat outdoors though :)
(5)
Ha R.
Had the Conch stew. Not as spicy as I had wanted. The ginger tea is really good. Worth a visit.
(3)
Andrew B.
Great food! The service was wonderful - we took our recommended foods to go, fried goat, coconut shrimp, fried plantains, beans and rice--- the woman in-charge rushed the order and spent 10ish minutes chatting while it was prepared. If I lived in Miami I'd return here often!
(4)
Adam O.
I love this place. Although it is almost always super loud and packed with people or closed for a month long vacation, I really like it. The brightly colored and "fun" flags and murals often depicting something grisly taking place in the graveyard are pretty much awesome, and really are works of serious art. In fact the whole ambiance here is pretty good. Hipsters, haitians, aging world-travelers, jazz musicians, kind of tropical bohemian that isn't too pretentious, but is fun to look at. If your table isn't ready when you get there (call ahead) you can sit at the bar and try one of many delicious caribbean drink specialties while you wait, which are all very delicious. The food is consistently good. I've had the Ox Tail stew, Goat Curry, Fish, Conch, Legim, etc., and they are all good. I think most of it comes with the spicy haitian-style cabbage pickliz, which is cool and hot at the same time. This is definitely one good place to get away from the cuban sensibility about spices (or lack thereof). Things are hot, and they taste good. The menu seems to change seasonally, and there are sometimes some great specials. Also, for an entertaining meal on the beach, you will pay about $10-15 per entree which is unheard of and totally radical. I take out of town guests here all the time.
(5)
Dan F.
Take this review with a grain of salt, I didn't actually eat dinner here, I only sat at the bar and had mojitos. But seriously, one of the best Mojitos on planet earth. The haitian rum really packs a kick without tasting strong. Drink these with caution. The service was good, the interior charming and again, best mojitos in Miami. Well worth a stop if just for a Mojito.
(5)
Jennifer N.
Tap Tap, located on 5th St. in South Beach, is an unexpected, inexpensive, Haitian restaurant that serves really good food. The moment you walk in, you're struck by the vibrant colors on the wall, the murals and works of art, and the staff. You feel like you're in Haiti, if this is how Haiti is supposedly like. It is lively and fun. We started the meal off with a huge bowl of Bouyon, which consisted of beef, boniata, malanga, potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dumplings in a clear broth. The soup was homey and soothing. Quite tasty for a soup. For the entrees, I ordered the Oxtails stewed in tomatoes and my friend ordered the Crab stewed with Eggplant and Tomatoes. Hands down, my dish was the best that night. The oxtails were so tender and succulent, and full of flavor. Served with a side of dirty rice and Tostones, I couldn't have been happier. So much good food, how could I complain! My friends dish was decent but not fantastic. The dish was mostly crab shells hiding the little meat it had. There was a jumble of flavors, complicating the simplicity of the way the dish should've been. I guess you just can't have it all can ya? We were too full to have dessert, so we opted to end it there. Definitely a place to revisit again. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Mcduff G.
Not authentic Haitian food. Was very dissapointed because it is advertising as a Haitian restaurant. I am Haitian and this is def not Haitian food.
(2)
Rick K.
Just arrived in Miami and this was the first place I went. It was a Sunday afternoon and I was the only one there. I ordered a mojito drink that didn't have mint (its called something different but I can't recall the name) and the coconut shrimp with the rice and beans. Everything was incredible. The coconut sauce was unlike anything I had tried before, and when you douse their amazing homemade hot sauce all over it, you are talking some incredible flavors. The drink was tangy, sweet, fresh and strong (although small). All in all I think this place is great. I considered giving it 4 stars because it is a bit expensive (the coconut shrimp was $16, the drink $7 -- lunch menu) but really it blew me away so 5 it is.
(5)
Bruce R.
After you are done gawking at the half clothed beautiful people on the beach, head on over to Tap Tap for some great Haitian cuisine. This place was AWESOME. Great Happy Hour and great food and ambiance. Our server was superb! Must eat at if you are in Miami.
(4)
john m.
What a cool place! The atmosphere was very cool. You eat in painted chairs surrounded by murals of Haitian life. We started with the fried plate. I had the whole fried yellow tail snapper. All very well prepared. Good friendly service. Set in the middle of the Art Deco South Beach this is an ethnic find. Creole food is such a wonderful treat.
(4)
Matt R.
this was our first time having haitian food and it was a good experience. we tried the malanga fritters, spicy marinated conch, avocado and tomato salad, and the shrimp in coconut sauce. it was all extremely good and tasted even better with a mojito.
(4)
Emilia P.
I expected better! I had been here once before and while the food was good the service was poor yet, I decided to give them a second chance. Yes the food is good, I will not take that from them, the place is also very cute but the service well, is poor and this time, enough for me not to comeback. It took them 50 minutes to serve us the appetizers (it was only 3 of us and the place was empty) after waiting over an hour the waiter came back to tell us that they didn't have one of the dishes we requested so we waited some more. The entire time we were there, nobody came to ask how we where let alone to refill our glasses. As I said, the food was good once we got it, the place is cute and tastefully decorated on the other hand, the prices where not cheap. After the entire meal all I was left with was...why did we wait?. next time I will walk out from any place that makes me wait 1 to 2 hrs for a meal unless the food is to die for, but here? sorry but not worth it.
(2)
Katrina C.
okay, so not being haitian and not having eaten in little haiti, i cannot vouch for authenticity, but i LOVE this place. i passed by it many times before realizing it was there, it's kind of a hole in the wall but once you are inside, you can't believe you were missing it. the ambience is fantastic, particularly on weekends when they have live music. the murals on the walls are gorgeous. portions are huge, while i rarely got too adventurous (i think the most i can boast about is trying someone else's fried goat) everything i tried was deelish. there was a drink there that i cannot remember the name of for the life of me, but if you like ridiculously sour things, it's got your name on it. it's basically rum and fresh lime juice. we took almost all of our out-of-town visitors there and it was always appreciated.
(5)
Joseluis A.
finally, after years of hearing good things about tap tap... i finally checked in today for lunch. i sat by the bar and ordered a guinness cause they have it on tap ... tap. so, to be honest, my beer was not cold, they musta have just changed kegs, so i had no other choice but to chug it. oh, the sacrifice... the menu looks good but also sorta pricey, two digit numbers all over the place. i ended up getting the goat stew which i compare to clives cafe, that lovely jamaican place on north miami avenue and 28th street. this is the deal, tap tap has better quality goat. lean, less fatty, flavorful .. very meaty chunks. came with rice and beans. a small portion of that and ONE, a SINGLE piece of plantain. for $15? thats a little bit too much in my book. although i liked my meal, i dont think i would just come back here for kicks and giggles .. i rather go to little haiti and find something similar but at 1/2 the price.
(3)
Nicole M.
pretty good prices and great flavors. and it's so nice to be somewhere colorful and unique and a bit rustic (quirky in a word) which south beach prides itself on getting away from. only small problem is that things aren't exactly what you'd imagine from the description sometimes. i ordered some sort of stewed chicken but it was really more like roasted chicken that was placed into stew before serving (yes, there's a difference). they definitely have the best fried yucca in town though, good for any "fries" connoseur... you know who you are. i would go back just for that. Also try the face-burning clear hot sauce that's on the table (that my friend requested additional jalapenos for) and a haitian after dinner drink called crema which tastes like super creamy spiked horchata.
(4)
Michael Y.
Very cool restaurant. Great art work throughout. Really enjoyed the goat stew and the fish dish that was recommended was delicious.
(5)
Sabrina M.
Assuming you didn't know much about Haitian food, or you've never had it before, Tap Tap is a great place to start. But when you go have a meal in Little Haiti, you quickly realize that what you had at Tap Tap was "Haitian lite."
(3)
Wona C.
cool colorful Haitian decor welcomes you and i was very excited to try Haitian as an island food lover. but overall, this place didn't do much for me. i ordered their authentic fried pork dish(griyo), they overcooked and I didn't like my dried out pork. but regardless of my food quality, i think it is worth the visit if you want to experience new culture & food.
(3)
Sabrina B.
This is the worse excuse for a Haitian restaurant if there ever was one. As a Haitian myself, I grew up eating a lot of the foods on their menu, and let me tell you, some of their entrees are simply not edible. The chef uses so much salt and drowns the food in so much sauce that you can barely identify what you're eating. If you're in Miami and want authentic Haitian, go to Little Haiti, this place is not worth your time and will be VERY disappointing! The decor is interesting and the appetizers are at least edible, but there are FAR better choices in Miami than this place. Save yourself the stomach ache and walk on by, you'll be so glad that you did!!!
(1)
Irene W.
I was looking for a dinner place that could accommodate a party of 10, and I chanced upon this place on Yelp. None of us had ever tried Haitian food before, so we really didn't know what to expect. We were not disappointed though - it was delicious and not overly expensive! Including alcohol we spent around $40 a person. I'd definitely come back the next time I'm in Miami. We decided to go family style and order a bunch of dishes to share - the stewed goat, spinach in coconut sauce, shrimp in coconut sauce, oxtail, fried pork chunks, grilled chicken, and a steamed whole fish. The general consensus among our group was that the goat, shrimp, spinach and fried pork were the best, but everything was very flavorful. The coconut sauce was incredibly good - it's the consistency of a thai curry, only with other spices in lieu of curry...so good in fact that we all just wanted to drink the sauce. The goat and the pork were cooked just right and nicely moist, with great flavor. Apparently they're also known for their cocktails, and while I didn't try any of it, my friends LOVED the mojitos and other cocktails on offer. The colorful decor adds to the character of the place, and the service was just about right - not overbearing, but just enough to get what we needed. The server also made some great recommendations on what to order.
(5)
Gretchen T.
A real treat for a California kid to try Haitian food. We opted for take out but the restaurant is very festive and has a little bar area where the cool server offered to make us a fresh mojito while we waited. My favorite dishes were the coconut and spinach, and the prawns. We skipped the goat and other more creative dishes but I would try them next time. Note: the prices are cheap but the portions are also small, so order away!
(4)
Mel M.
The food's ok, but the people are nice and the atmosphere is amazing. Love just sitting there looking at the stuff on the walls. I've been there on live music nights and it's a lot of fun, but given this is a renovated house and the spaces are narrow, it's LOUD. But it's still the first place I try to talk my friends into going whenever I'm in for a visit.
(4)
Carolyn T.
Friday night's dinner was at Tap-Tap. I probably made a mistake by trying to taste too many dishes and sufficed by ordering all of their appetizers; a pumpkin soup which was redolent with mostly large chunks of cabbage and smaller bites of pumpkin but was overall WAY too salty and a platter of goat bits served with a red sauce that was (happily) not too spicy. Then there were the two platters of fried vegetables... One was a sampler platter which included three vegetables and two sauces; the same red goat sauce and a green salsa verde. The other was a duplicate plate of one of the same vegetables. Meaning? When I placed my order, it would have been nice if my server told me that I was ordering the same thing as it was made apparent that I was ordering this way to get a lot of tastes... To their credit, they WERE slammed and my solo meal at the bar took over two hours.
(2)
Derkins R.
amazing. if you're in miami, this is a must. went with a group of 9 and got to try a lot of different dishes. they were all so delicious! we need one of these in nyc.
(5)
Liza H.
A bright and cheery place. Vibrant fresh tasting food made with primo produce. Grouper in spicy lime/cabbage sauce, Tap tap salad and Goat were very good. Fun Caribbean color scheme with Haitian metal work, paintings, voodoo flags and a late model truck dolled up like a Tap tap give a quirky and fun vibe.
(4)
Gourmet G.
With its festive wall murals, brightly painted tabletops, and rotating art, the decor here is as colorful as the jitney buses seen around Haiti, from where the menu draws its inspiration. The pumpkin soup, fried Haitian pork, and shrimp in a spicy Creole sauce were as delicious as I remember them being in Port-au-Prince. Live - and lively - native music adds to the fun in this cramped, noisy restaurant.
(4)
Bebe L.
This place is totally overrated. I just ate there last week during my visit to Miami. Seeked out this place mainly because of such good reviews on yelp. I wonder what people ordered that they loved so much. I had the shrimp in coconut sauce, but I couldn't taste any trace of coconut. It tasted like salty, flavorless tomato sauce to me. My boyfriend agreed that it was really bad. I asked the waitress if the dish was really "shrimp in coconut sauce" and she said that it is. Yeah right. My boyfriend had the grilled chicken and that was decent, escpecially when dipping in the green sauce. The avocado salad was good, just nothing I'd want to come back for. That being said, the decor was very nice and colorful. There was a 1-person solo keyboard player/singer and he was pretty good.
(2)
Juhani P.
The place looks FUN - very Caribbian - food was good and portions were big. That 'cole slaw' thing was really hot. Way too hot. Watch out for that. Otherwise, the service wasn't that great but if you are not in a hurry, the balcony on is nice place to chill out and watch for Ferraris and Rolls-Royces cruise by.
(4)
bridget e.
when you get on board the metaphoric tap tap conveyance, you are transported to a magical tropical realm. upon entering, gone are the notions of pink stucco, sun scorched asphalt, gleaming, pedicured, massaged like kobe beef, sleek delorean riders. an impossible riot of color, murals adorn the edifice. scenes unfold, stories painted in scarlet hibiscus, orange african tulip blossom, lavender jacaranda, mustard spotted orchid, emerald fern tree green, and cobalt sky blue. vivid matriarchs and smiling children, a veritable hustle and bustle of life. we were led into our own room whereupon our cranky matriarch complained about the cold. the server, wisely assessed the situation and suggested i follow him to find a warmer spot. none was found, but he cleverly opened a window, and after struggling valiantly, managed to open another. grandma unlucky was satisfied. the food was excellent. i was leery of ordering krihish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce), because experiences with this in lesser eateries invariably materialized as cloying and sickeningly sweet. fortunately this was not the case here, the shrimp in coconut sauce was tender, flavorful and fabulous. we ordered griyo (pork), spinach in coconut sauce, snapper with a spicy scotch bonnet sauce. everything was truly delicious with the exception, as noted by maria, of the rice and beans. sadly, they were out of cabrito (goat) my mojito was excellent and made with my favorite rum, barbancourt. as new york yelper's know, you don't just go with any motoconcho, or tap tap. BABAY! p.s. they have parking!
(5)
Drew G.
This place is good. I had one of the fish specialities which was pretty underflavored. My friend had the goat stew and that was really great! Lots of good flavors. Wish the fish had been similar! Other than that, nice staff and great ambience.
(3)
Affifa A.
Great place to have a nice time with friends. The ambiance, the live music really brings out the place. The waiters and bartenders are great.
(5)
Paul N.
Food ok; waited an hour after they forgot my partners dinner; same thing fr couple next to us:-/
(2)
Mike M.
Had a great lunch here yesterday. Cool spot to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful Miami air. First time trying Haitian food and glad I did, the shrimp creole and fried goat chunks were great. Definitely would like to come back and try some more stuff and another Mojito or Guinness.
(4)
Joey V.
I had a great time here. I loved the goat tidbits appetizer and the Griyo was outstanding. delicious sides and mojitos as well
(5)
Marc D.
a hidden gem in South Beach. best mojito in town, get the whole fish in the sauce for an amazing and very flavorful meal. the quality of the meals far outweighs the pricelist :-)
(5)
Erica G.
Oh my god, this mojito changed my life! Ok, not my life, but at that moment, it made me so happy- there were bits of lime floating in it, and fresh mint with just the right amount of sugar cane. The shrimp in coconut sauce with red beans and rice was also amazing- I wanted to slurp my broth like soup, but I chose the more sophisticated method of adding it to my rice and beans. The flavors were amazing. I had to talk my friend into dining here, trying to explain that authentic cuisine is so much better than the tourist trap she wanted to go to- glad I won that argument!
(5)
Angela M.
Had acra, lamei and kabrit as suggested by my girlfriend. They were all delicious! My friend is Hatian and she agrees! Nice atmosphere. Will come back when in Miami.
(5)
Saiheng S.
I love the color and the goat soupï¼ Semilar to Mongolianï¼ you have to try this.love itï¼ and the ginger soup is good too. spicy. I love the free breadï¼ï¼ kkkkkkkkkk
(4)
Abir H.
I would give this place 0 stars, except the foot was actually delicious. The service is rude and non-existent. After a great day on Miami Beach, I headed to Tap Tap on the recommendation of one of my best friends who used to live in Miami. He said I had to go eat here. After ordering a bottle of wine and our food, the waiter was no where to be seen. Finally 30 minutes later her comes by and says our food will take a little longer- which was fine, and he'll bring us more water. Here's where it gets bad, after bringing us our dishes, I again asked for more water (I usually like to drink a lot of water with dinner- especially when drinking wine). At this point I'd been there for an hour, and all 3 of our glasses were empty for at least 45 minutes. I asked him again for water, and he just walked away. Finally maybe 15 minutes after finishing our meal I got the attention of another female waiter who did bring us water maybe 15 minutes after that. While the food was good and we wanted desert, we weren't going to sit there any longer so we asked for the check. Unfortunately we had too. After asking for our check, we waited a solid 30 minutes...and still didn't get our check. Finally having to leave, I just walked up and found the waiter asking him to give me the check. He didn't even say sorry once and worse gave me an attitude for having approached him about it. So I said to him you could at least apologize to me, the customer who's paying a $100+ bill at the restaurant...and he just walked away. So I spoke to an assistant manager who offered us 3 free drinks if we came back again (which is never happening). I just said I simply wanted any apology. The assistant manager gets the waiter and he looks at me and says "I apologized to you twice I'm not apologizing again." And that was that. Never going back there. Absolutely worst service experience I've ever had...and I live in New York...
(1)
Aubrey S.
Saw this place on Trippin Out with Allie and Georgia on the Food Network. We've never tried Haitian food, so thought we would check it out. I think the mojitos won an award, but they were pretty basic mojitos in my opinion. The water was infused with fruit and was really delicious. I got goat stew and my husband got braised beef and the food was really good. The decor/art/furniture was really cool. One star off for similar complaint as other reviewers...the service is just meh. We stood around the hostess stand for a while before someone came out. One person even saw us and walked away. Service was a little slow but nothing to keep me from coming back there.
(4)
Candice C.
The only reason it didn't get 5 out of 5 is because of the lack of air conditioning however it is the best food I have had in South Beach in the 3 times that I've been there. Everyday is a new specialty rice and bean that is used which is nice for the person that goes there often but I really with I could've gotten the black rice that I'd been thinking about for weeks lol. Anywho the service was good, the food was excellent. I am not Haitian, but I know good food when I taste it. The interior art as well as the exterior gives you a feel for the culture. I loved it and recommend it and hope the business grows and expands to new places.
(4)
Shirley Z.
Just not my thing I guess. :( After yelping/bothering every cab driver we had in SoBe. We finally ended up at this super down to earth restaurant that everyone's been raving about. Me and my boyfriend made it a goal of ours to hit up all the best reviewed dives/holes in the wall/ funky restaurants, and tap tap was unfortunately a miss for us. Pros: * Employees were super friendly and helpful with everything. * Best mojito I had in miami. * Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) was fried perfectly! The quality of the fish was fresh, tender and just perfectly cooked. * Love the mural and the use of all decors. It felt very sincere & authentic. * Spicy pickled cabbage was BOMB-DIGGITY! Cons: * Coming from the south, I am very spoiled by all the amazing fried food. Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creol dipping sauce) from Tap Tap was not my BFF. I was expecting the meat to be fried with a coat of batter, tender+juicy, and the dipping sauce to be more of a thicker/creamier texture. Boy was I wrong. It was the complete opposite. * Grito (fried pork/most popular dish) was cooked the same exact way as the Taso Kabrit. Not my cup of tea. *Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) although was fried perfectly. It lacked a bit of seasoning in my opinion. We so badly wanted to love the food but unfortunately it was not a win for us. Service & Authenticity: 4.5 stars food & taste: 3 stars...sorry
(3)
Hakim W.
We made a reservation. Showed up and stood there for 15 minutes or more waiting to be seated. Staff bustled passed us and not one acknowledged us. Even if you are under staffed you can briefly acknowledge the customer. Poor customer service doesn't leave a good impression.
(1)
Stan C.
In connection with the 9/5/2013 one star reveiw, I was at Tap Tap the night all this went down (Sunday Sept 1), and the idiot (as evidenced by his spelling and grammar skills) who wrote this review is an embarrassment. My companion and I were dining in the front room, when we heard a commotion towards the back. We looked up to see 2 ratchet girls and the reviewer yelling at the staff about the amount of their bill. They appeared drunk. This shouting went on to varying degrees for about ten minutes, at which time other staff stopped what they were doing in order to try and resolve the situation. These kids rejected all of the staff's offers of contrition and ultimately demanded that their server come out and apologize to them (for what, no one is sure of). The server offered up an apology, but that was not enough - the reviewer berated the server like a schoolyard bully. To the delight of the many other diners at Tap Tap, the reviewer finally left. In case there was any doubt as to how the others in the restaurant felt about the reviewer's tantrum, as he was leaving a fine looking local told him she hopes to never see him at Tap Tap again. Everyone else applauded and thanked the reviewer for making their dining experience so unpleasant, albeit temporarily unpleasant. Good luck in Queens, Abir. Try Atlantic City next Labor Day weekend - it's more your style.
(5)
Taline C.
I was super excited to try this Haitian Restaurant for the first time; to put it mildly the experience and the food was subpar at best. The restaurant location is great although parking is non existing; we enter only to have to wait for 10 minutes before the hostess comes to greet us. When she finally arrives she tells us that the wait would be 15 minutes before we could be seated, not because there are no tables but because they have no food ready...what?! At this point we are ready to go to the Cuban spot I always go to when I'm in town but they are closed:( We wait for 20 minutes and finally are given a table. The table is not clean and there is a puddle of water left; takes 10 minutes before we can catch anyone attention to clean up the mess. When the waitress finally arrives she informs us that over half of the menu is not available. We are limited to a beef dish, legume, fish dishes and a conch dish. They have run out of everything including RICE!!! This is sacrilegious, what Haitian restaurant worth a grain of salt runs out of rice on a holiday weekend. We finally order and get the food to realize its lukewarm. By this time my goal is to eat and leave because we are beyond disappointed. This place may have been on diners, drive ins and dives but they must have gotten their act together because they new Guy was coming. I love to support my Haitian businesses and culture but I will not come back to this place again; I can go home and get better food from my mom!
(2)
O E.
I feel that this is just another restaurant that Guy Fieri and his show ruined. I was sat by the bar for and early dinner. I wanted to order the chicken stew but they ran out of it ...at 5pm? The staff recommended the grilled chicken, so I ordered that. It took about 30 minutes for me to get this. Meanwhile, the waitress apologized for the delay and served me some fried goat, which was decent if its your taste... So 30 minutes later my chicken arrives with rice and fried plantains. The chicken breast was overcooked, dry, and flavorless. The chicken thigh was raw, and only cooked on the outside. This was the worst grilled chicken I have ever tasted. I would recommend going to pollo tropical instead. The rice was very good. Once the server saw the the chicken was raw, she comped the meal. But still I would never go back.
(1)
Charles L.
Service sucked. Griot was very good. Very small portions considering the price you pay for cheap Caribbean food. I can get twice the food for 5 dollars cheaper in a North Miami Haitian restaurant that is just as good.
(3)
David S.
This is a great place for Haitian food. I come here every time I go to Miami. The stewed goat is especially good! And the restaurant is covered in Haitian murals.
(4)
K D.
The bartender's special cocktails are amazing, the food was scrumptious and the live music was good too. Ive been in Miami for the past few days, soaking up the sun while the Northeast is cold, a little quiet and just a little bleak after the holiday sparkle has been packed away for next year. While here, I have been trying to find some food and drink that is both creative and tasty while being authentic (or as authentic as Miami can dish up given how new places appear for a year and vanish without a trace the next and also Miami is not exactly known for locally sourced, good-tasting and creative foods...just saying). So we started off at the Broken Shaker - a favorite place of mine. Still great cocktails, creative and semi-affordable with a fun poolside scene. I was totally impressed with the food we had...awesome takes on Haitian classics such as codfish fritters - good with lots of fresh herbs and spicy veggies alongside. An off-duty bartender told me that if I preferred a more authentic atmosphere with actual Haitian cooks and even moire affordable tropical inspired cocktails then we should make our way to Tap Tap. On our way south, we stopped by the new Rum Line over at Loews...enjoyed another round of awesome cocktails and a cool breezy atmosphere and great conversation. Didn't order up any nibbles here as when we mentioned we were headed to Tap Tap some friendly bar patrons overheard us and re-raved to us about it...but advised that we go there mid-week so that we could experience the cocktails as made by the newer bartender who is making some of the best cocktails on the beach. That sealed the deal. It was Thursday. We went to Tap Tap, our last stop for the evening. When we sat at the bar, we were presented with a small taste of the barman's special cocktail of the night and Wow... it was FANTASTIC. I ordered one of those and was dazzled by his special drink with ginger and coconut water and a bunch of other flavors (did I taste banana?) My friend was hoping for an equally inspired cocktail made with gin (mind you - this bar is hardly a "bar" as it has only a few bottle of rum and maybe a couple of other options on an otherwise minimalist back bar) and so Gary, our friendly and professional bartender, inquired whether he preferred "sweet/fruity, tart, boozy or balanced?" To which my friend replied "balanced". He instantly whipped up a gin cocktail with guava and lime and a few other ingredients that blew us away. Absolutely delicious and inspired. Mmmmmmm! We feasted on an assorted appetizer platter of various fried goodies, whole fish and rice (how can plain white rice taste so good?) and a salad with lambi (chonch) and a watercress dressing and hot spicy cabage. Fabulous. To our left was a woman visiting from England, who was equally wowed by the special libations (she had 3), and who generously shared her food selections with us, and we shared ours with her...and a great evening was had by all.
(5)
Jennifer W.
A must try restaurant in Miami Beach! It is definitely the best! I Like the coconut sauce so much! It is sooooo good! And the cornmeal with black beans is also very special and I love it so much. I came to this restaurant at noon and there was not much people in there but you will probably expect more people in dinner time. So just come earlier if you don't want to wait in line!
(5)
S C.
STAY AWAY!! This place doesn't represent authentic good Haitian food at all. Had a reservation at 8pm didn't get seated till 20 mins later. After being seated was told they ran out of rice and beans, fish, shrimp, pork etc...after waiting an entire hour of nothing to drink and no food and no sign of our waiter I asked for my food to go leaving the rest of my party to wait. Surprisingly that only took 5 min to arrive. The food tasted BLAND not good at all. My party said they waited an additional 30 min after I left for there food which was also flavorless. Tip was included which the waiter would of never gotten from me since he basically forgot about us. Oh and no parking at all I had to park my car in a very dark public parking lot down the street and walk through some crackheads to get to it. Please save yourself the stress and money.
(1)
Jessie L.
I love this place. This is THE place for great quality Haitian food. I tried this place back in 2009 with my boyfriend and a few friends, we took out some food and brought it back to my friend's condo on the beach. I didn't think it was all that great then. I got the griot (pork chunks) with pikliz (spicy vegetables) and sweet plantains. The griot was very good quality meat with hardly any fat and very succulent but the pikliz were terrible! They didn't taste good at all. And we all know that you can't have griot without good pikliz on top. The sweet plantains were also very good. Now, last month, my boyfriend and I decided to give this place another try. This time I ordered the poule nan sos (free-range chicken). This was AMAZING. It comes with a half of a chicken that they cook in it's own juices, rice & beans which were VERY flavorful, and green plantains. I normally get the green plantains when I eat Haitian food, but this time I substituted it for the fried sweet potatoes. I gave the pikliz on the table another try and they have also greatly improved to perfection. This dish was so flavorful that you didn't even need to add the pikliz. My boyfriend ordered the griot again and said that it was excellent. I'll definitely be back here soon!
(5)
Kaneesha P.
Yesterday evening, I went to Tap Tap with my partner and two of our close friends. Three members of our group are Jamaican American, so we wanted to experience the some of the best Caribbean food Miami Beach has to offer. We were not disappointed. First, the interior of the restaurant is striking. The walls and tables display colorful scenes and landscapes, making this also a site of public art. I'd like to learn more about the artist or artists. I was unsure about what I would be able to order, as I have a severe dairy allergy and am recently gluten free. (Jamaican food does not normally rely on cream or butter.) When I shared my concerns with the server, he was receptive, advised me on what could be adapted, and spoke to the chef about my order. We waited 20-25 minutes for our food, but the wait was likely due to my dietary restrictions. While we waited, I had a glass of their refreshing limeade. I didn't try the bread and butter, but it smelled incredible and my friends seemed to really enjoy the texture and flavor. Ultimately, I ordered the goat stew, which comes with mixed rice and beans and fried plantains. I loved it! The goat was tender and well-seasoned, but not overly salty, and the rice was satisfying. The plantains were good, though they were more starchy than the over-ripe Jamaican preparation to which I'm accustomed. The prices are higher than I'm used to paying for Caribbean fare, but it was worth every penny.
(5)
Eric K.
Great, charming, little SoBe spot... not too far out of the way / nice reprieve from the busier areas. Staff was super cool... We sat near the bar so drinks came extra quick - Good $8 mojitos are a real bargain.. We split a cpl sides (awesome spinach) and the whole poached fish which was really amazing.. Done in what must hv been homemade fish stock w lime juice and herbs. Very nicely done / large portion.... Similar to the steamed whole steamed fish at SriPraPhai or other good Thai places, but better. All about the broth.. French influence in full force w this dish. The whole meal w a cpl rounds was less than $60. The ambience was really cute too - simple furniture / layout but lots of fascinating custom mural work everywhere and some excellent live music on Saturday night. Tap Tap was pretty much my first experience at a real Haitian restaurant and I'll be back / will try to seek out something comparable here in NYC next time I'm in the mood for unique, cheap sea food, but I'm not holding my breath that I'll find anything here as good. Thumbs up.
(4)
Rodd P.
Nice restaurant with outdoor sitting, service is great food is amazing, if you are in south beach or anywhere in south Florida you must stop here , it'll remind you of Haïti
(5)
Steve T.
We ate here on 6/5/2014 at their outdoor space and mostly enjoyed the experience. The hostess, waitress, and male food runner were very pleasant, attentive and helpful but the female food runner was surly and somewhat rude. When a customer thanks you for the food you've just delivered a blank look is not the correct response. Everything was very quite prepared and extremely flavorful. I ordered the goat and while it was very good thought it could have used a little more cooking time as some of it was fairly difficult to eat. The only other real negative was the very long wait we had to get our check. There was another table outside waiting for their bill as well and in the end we both ended up having to go inside to request it at the bar. This was at 10:45 and while they had been very busy earlier in the evening things had quieted considerably by then.
(4)
Cristina W.
This is the perfect restaurant if you just want to chill out w/a group of friends and eat great food. I love their live music and chill ambiance. Plus, the food is also excellent. We always order the plantains, that are not overly fried or greasy. Oh, and don't forget their art murals and artifacts.. This is somewhere I'd definitely bring some touristy friends, who want a taste of what Miami is really like.
(5)
Kristi K.
Menu Choices: Wide-range of selections from the Tap Tap salad to Legumes to Fish to Goat. Food: Yes Lawd! If you know me you know I have an affinity for goat. Every time I see that on the menu at a Caribbean restaurant it is my "when in doubt" meal. They didn't have the stewed goat that I had my last visit so I had the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creole dipping sauce). I was going to save this as a "tip" BUT by fried they don't mean "southern fried". You are not going to get a crispy layer, so if that's what you are looking for you might be disappointed. It was definitely a homemade taste, which I can appreciate. Is is the height of culinary mastery? Not so much. Service: I wasn't fall awed by the service, but we really didn't give him much to do. The orders were taken well, and came out promptly. That's good in my book. Environment: I can go on and on about the environment. From the outside you have no idea about the rich vibrant world you are going to embark on. From the painted chairs, to the beautiful wall murals (that I could have stared at all day), it is a great space. The band was great and definitely made you swear you are on the short of Port-au-Prince. What to Wear: Whatever your heart desires but you can really leave the body cons in the closet (it's not that kind of party) Overall: Strong 4. Would I go again?: It is definitely on my Miami recommendations for friends, because the locals already know about it. A couple of tips: 1. There is a live band on Thursday that definitely heightens the whole experience. 2. They are known for their Mojitos.... kinda sweet but does that dang thing.
(4)
Valerie C.
In South Beach, you HAVE to try this. The Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Beef and okra) was plate-lickable. I normally don't finish beans & rice, but nearly licked that bowl too. Brought some take out back to my husband who was skeptical about Haitian food. One bite, his eyes bulged out as he said "we're going back". Star demerit for the prices, a bit more than expected but I may need to spend more time in SB to realize most everything costs a bit more here. My husband didn't seem to think it was expensive so there you have it. Ambience is cool, every square inch is hand painted. Staff is friendly amd attentive.
(4)
Collin C.
Overpriced! Lousy $9 rum punch. Watched servers use left behind used napkins and half drank ice water to wipe tables down for next guest. Food was just ok. If this represents Haitian food well, than I'm never going to Haiti. Our waiter though was very pleasant.
(2)
Brian C.
We stopped in based on a New Times recommendation, as this place recently won the "Best Mojito" award. How could we not stop in for a mojito while in Miami? The mojito fully deserved the award and was by far the best mojito I've ever had. I wish we were hungry then, because the food we saw looked and smelled delicious. The staff was very friendly and the ambiance was awesome. Cool place.
(5)
Rene R.
Great customer service but they took forever to bring our food! 2 hours of our trip wasted!!! Not good when it is your first time to Miami!
(3)
Nathan E.
I love this restaurant. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best in the world. It's definitely one of my favorites. First, the menu. Despite the huge Haitian population in Miami, there aren't a lot of Haitian restaurants. And this is the best one. You're getting something here that you're not going to get anywhere else outside of Haiti. Start with the pumpkin soup. Try the Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) as your main. The coconut-cremed spinach is my favorite side dish. And a natif is a great cocktail, and I bet you'll never find it at another restaurant. But all the dishes are good, so if you're with company, get a bunch of stuff and share. Secondly, the decor. The taptap parked on Fifth Street in front of the restaurant establishes the Haitian ambiance. (If you don't know what a taptap is, ask the owner - he loves any excuse to talk about Haitian culture!) The walls of the restaurant are all hand-painted murals, mostly depicting Haitian Iwa (Again, ask if you don't know!) I love the room with the pair of facing Erzulies (Danto and Freda), and also the painting of the happy village in the music room. All the chairs, tables and everything else is hand-painted too with decorative patterns of lively colors. Not only is every corner of this restaurant interesting to look at, it's distinctly non-trendy and non-corporate. There's really nothing else like it on South Beach. Next, the live music. It's free live music! How often do you see that on South Beach. The band is great, the singers are great. It's a mixture of French jazz and popular Haitian folk music. Often the whole thing turns into a big sing-along. And the prices are damn cheap for what you're getting. Ok, the draw-backs: (1) It's hard to get a decent table on a weekend night, especially if you want to sit in the "music room" (2) the layout of the place is kinda funky for live music. Let me explain: The place comprises a series of small rooms with only a few tables in each. If you're sitting in the "music room" then expect that you won't be able to have a conversation while the band is playing because it's so loud in there, and expect that the room is so cramped that you're probably going to have an instrumentalist leaning on your table for balance - if not playing directly over your head. On the other hand, if you sit any place else besides the "music room," then you won't be able to see the band at all. You can hear them through the thin walls, but that's it. I always try to reserve the "music room" when I go to Tap Tap. I love the music, and live music is more interesting to me than dinner conversation. Besides there's always a chance to talk during breaks and before and after they go on. It's like a free concert with great food. I love it. It makes me want to plan a trip to Haiti.
(5)
Max S.
Such a unique place. Don't get to come here as often as I'd like but its always on my mind! Great Ambiance! Their is ART all over the walls! Great food! and sometimes they have live music.
(4)
Jason J.
The love the look and feel of this restaurant. The service was awesome and the waitress was very informative. The location isn't that great because they don't have a parking lot.
(4)
Jessica J.
We stumbled upon Tap Tap after realizing that Joe's Take away closed for the season and I'm so glad we did! We ate on a Thursday night and they had an awesome band playing in the back. I loved all the colorful murals and our server was great. He warned us on spice levels of dishes, suggested complimenting sides etc. For an app we ordered the conch ceviche and it was so good we ordered another! For our meal I had the shrimp in coconut sauce spicy and my husband got the grouper. Both were delicious! We had the upside down pineapple rum cake for dessert and while the flavors were there it was oddly crumbly texture for a cake. I would try another option. We will be back!
(4)
Brian G.
Tap Tap has 5 food and 3 service all be it friendly, but who cares, it is unique, has music, brightly colored murals, all over the walls as well as, smaller more private rooms etc. the food is fantastic. the goat, conch, chicken, fish, drinks etc etc. it is a great place to celebrate or just go for dinner. when there is music, it can get loud. they have a small bar in front, 2 tables outside and an upstairs for big events. so there is no need to travel to little Haiti!! the prices are also reasonable for South Beach.
(4)
Ashley N.
Never had Haitian food before but after trying tap tap I LOVE IT!! Had the pork!! Just amazing and perfect amount of juiciness ! A must try. Mojito was good as well.
(5)
Feyi B.
I would come back to Miami just for this place. First time having Haitian food and consider me SOLD! There arent many international food places that are non-hispanic, so when i was feigning some caribbean food, this was the closest i could find. The place is really colorful, nice live band playing, super friendly staff and food to make you SLAP your mom! (not really slap her, but you get me. notice i didnt say slap MY mom). I had oxtails, coconut spinach, fritters and this concoction thats like an oatmeal mixed with beans or something. Everything was to die for. The ONLY reason i didnt give this place 5*'s is because they kept running out of stuff, which was annoying. I wanted goat, but they ran out. I wanted fried plantains, but they ran out. I wanted bread, but they ran out... I mean..... Only thing i wasnt a big fan of was the fritters, maybe if the sauce was different.... idk. a lil tangier than i wld've liked.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Christopher D.
Visited for dinner last night. The lady who seated us was really unpleasant, but our waiter was fine. We each ordered something different - I had the goat, my wife had the fried pork entree, and our friend had the grouper. All three were good, but not great. Portion sizes were a little small when considering the price ($19 for the goat; $15 for the pork). The dishes that weren't served as stews were in desperate need of a sauce. Overall, it was good but I probably wouldn't go back. I think if you came here with a higher budget you could've had a better experience than we did. However, ordering a single entree and nothing else is probably not enough to fill you. The place was pretty popular, even at 9:30 PM at night, and seemed to be a local hangout, so I'm sure there's something here worth visiting for. Our visit was just fairly unremarkable.
(3)HA F.
I haven't been to this place in years because I moved out of FL, but I can say that when I was there this place is EXCELLENT and I'm STILL thinking about it...lol... Its very difficult to find authentic Haitian food. Most places generalize Caribbean food all in one, but Haitian food has its own FLARE and this place has it down pact! I use to go there just about every Friday for dinner. I would have the king fish with rice and beans (together) and ginger tea. I've had the stewed chicken and well just about everyting on the menu... all I can say is GO THERE if you are in Miami, when I take a trip down again.. that's where I will be eating the first day. The food is special About the decor... very pretty, beautiful murals and decorative tables.
(5)Lola P.
I ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce. Pretty tasty, delicious sauce. When it comes to shrimp I guess I like my tails off since it makes it easier to eat. I dislike having to take the tails off myself. One tail for decoration is ok, but not in all of them. I wish they had the option of sides for their dishes like many restaurants do. The shrimp came with some rice (ok) and sweet fried plantains (not a fan of ripe plaintains so I can't comment). Very nice, colorful, fun decor. Bright colors everywhere. Parking is an inconveniece of its own. I had to drive around the block several times to find a metered spots...Oh South Beach.
(4)Steve L.
Great spot. My wife had the coconut shrimp, which she liked, but we both preferred the grilled goat I ordered. I just wish it had come with rice instead of the dry, overcooked corn on the cob. Also really enjoyed the Natif cocktail, a kind of rough-hewn proto-daiquiri that went down all too easily.
(4)Kevin M.
Great meal, had the Griyo, loved it. The pineapple upside down cake was excellent. I took my in-laws here and they really enjoyed it despite initial trepidation (they aren't very adventurous).
(5)Nithasha Y.
So happy we went here. The place is very welcoming and service is great. Food is DELICIOUS!! As Indians we thought we could handle any amount of spice, So made the mistake of asking them to make our food extra hot. BIG MISTAKE!! Couldn't handle it. Just stick to what's on the menu and you'll love what you eat. Very flavorful, meat cooked just right. We ordered, Spaghetti with shrimps, shrimps with coconut milk, beef stew and goat stew. Can't decide what I loved more. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Apurne G.
After surviving many years on the beach, Tap Tap may be considered a Miami Beach institution. The food is always good, sometimes awesome; and the service is usually grudgingly and pleasantly mediocre. As long as one is prepared to expect a little attitude and a sometimes long wait for attention, one can enjoy some very nice food. The conch and the legim are often stand out dishes- though none are as good as in our Haitian friends kitchens. Management has really pulled it together in recent years and the overall experience is better than ever. Not to mention their true underlying raision d'être of supporting democracy and freedom in Haiti.
(4)F. P.
I came here a month ago, waiting eagerly for my first Haitian dining experience (had heard this place was featured on The Food Network with Guy Fieri). Managed to get an early dinner reservation so there was no wait at all. And the crowds had not come yet. The entire restaurant gives us a very festive feel, with its bright colors and decorative murals. Ordered dishes that I basically had never tried before: For for appetizer, we ordered the Lanbi Pike Nan JI Sitwon (spicy marinated conch) - this was really good, had a nice spicy kick. The texture was interesting - like ceviche, chewy but with a little "crunch" as well. Definitely memorable and quite yummy. The entrees were all right. We had: - Pwason Gwosel (steamed whole yellowtail snapper served with scotch bonnet-lime sauce with rice and beans) - the snapper was tender (almost too tender as it seemed "mushy" at times) - Griyo (light, fried marinated "kurbuta" pork chunks) - just ok Sides: Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) - very good; definitely a must-order Manyok Fri (fried yucca) - nice crisy texture on the outside but the inside was a bit dry and bland. Aside from the conch, what I liked the best were the drinks, actually. We started with the Haitian mojito (w fresh mint, lime juice, raw sugar and Barbancourt rhum), which was very refreshing and clearly well-made. Then we turned to some beers we had never tried before - Tropical Mango Pale Ale (Virgin Islands) - Prestige Lager (Haiti) - Tusker Lager (Kenya) Definitely worth a trip, especially if like me, this is your first Haitian experience. Think this is the type of place that would be great to go with a bunch of friends.
(3)Jenn C.
The food here is excellent! It is also on the healthy side of haitian cooking as you don't have to get your fish fried. The atmophere is just great, you can walk around and just stare at the art work. and it's on South beach! which brings a bit of haitian flair to the area.....ok to the poster to said to go to overtown or liberty city to get haitian food, that is not an option for many people.
(5)Moe J.
Hati - always forgotten as the land that told the French to go screw themselves because we aint going to be slaves for you no more! Three cheers for the anti-colonial rebellion which pre-dated our Civil War! There cuisine was simply a must try. This was my first time to try Hatian food. I wanted to make the trek to Cafe Creole but being car-less and with limited time - I took my local Hatian bell-captain's word that this was a good spot. I arrived for lunch around 1 p.m. on a Monday and the place was nearly empty. I started with the Pumpkin Soup which was light and a good start to the meal and a very reasonable five dollars. For my main course, I ordered the snapper in lime sauce - I had seen the snapper on No Reservations and was excited to try. It was good but I just think I was not in a fish mood. It could have used a bit more spice to crank up the heat a bit. Also, the portions are large so you can share easily here. I had a couple bites of the rice and beans that came with the fish - there were pretty tasty for what they are.
(3)Philip V.
I got take out from this restaurant -- the boiled goat was phenomenal. This restaurant is pretty well known (I've spoken to Hatian cab drivers in Philly who said it's one of the best Hatian restaurants that they've been to in the states). I'll certainly go back if I'm ever back in Miami.
(5)Kareem J.
Every time I come here it is excellent. I love the waitress, she always treats me well. I love the ambience and the food is delicious. I hope they always stay true to themselves because that's what makes coming here special
(5)Petrine J.
Good food, friendly service, nice and relaxed atmosphere.. I was a bit disappointed with the plantain, since it was dry and flavourless, but the goat was so tender a juicy! Goat is highly recommended!
(4)David B.
Decor's awesome, food's fine, if a bit overpriced for what it is: beans & rice, platanos, chicken & sauce...Problem for us, at least today, was the service. If you don't want to wait tables, get another job; but don't take it out on the customers. All of this would be within the realm of the familiar if not for the fact that the bill comes with gratuity already determined for you to the tune of 18%. I suppose we had the option of getting into a spat with the already surly wait staff. Not coming back.
(2)Jose A.
Some items are tasty ... Don't know if I would go back . Have been there several times . Cats are around in the dinning room don't feel too good about that .
(3)Huong L.
This place is so good that we had to go twice within a week during our vacation. I absolutely love the cabbage slaw that they have on each table. The grouper in lime saw is AMAZING. Everything about that fish is perfect. I ordered it for both trips there. The stewed okra side was also delicious. The service was top notch. Everyone was friendly. The place felt like a neighborhood kind of place. If you're in South Beach, make a trip. It's worth it.
(5)Brit J.
I've never been disappointed every experience has been amazing....The staff is awesome the foods awesome the ambience is amazing I can't tell you one bad thing a bout thus place
(5)Kristi D.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I was super excited to visit this place on a recent trip to Miami. I live in Atlanta and there aren't any Haitian restaurants that I have been able to visit. As a haitian , I often miss the traditional food I grew up eating, so visiting Tap Tap was a must for me. We arrived and was told that there will be about a 30 minute wait ( it was a Thursday night). We agreed and took a seat to the side and listened to the live band. A table opened in front of us and another waiter came and motioned for us to sit. The woman ( who turned out to be our waiter) who took our name down came and said we could not sit there ( umm ok ..) so we returned back to our seats on the side. Literally 30 seconds later she came back and said we may now sit at that table ( offered no apology for the confusion). We ordered and waited about 20 mins for the food to arrive. My friend starts eating his rice, reaches down for his chicken and the bone is cold. He tells the waiter that the meat is cold, and she responds with "ok, I didn't make it", what would you like me to do?" ( RUDE !!) . She takes the plate back and brings it out in a few minutes. I noticed that it wasn't a fresh plate but they reheated the meat in some form ( probably the microwave, or poured hot sauce over it). My friend gets a bad vibe from the waiter and decides that he is not going to eat the meat ( but didn't mention it to anyone but me). He notices that staff from the kitchen and other waiters are now coming out and looking at him ( about 4 people) , almost as if they were waiting for him to take a bite. Now he is super uncomfortable, and Im even more embarrassed because Im haitian and they are not representing us well. The waiter passes by and says to him " if you don't eat the chicken its going to get cold again" that was the last straw for my friend and words were exchanged. Tap Tap took the dish off the bill , we paid and then left. My food however was decent, but because of the service I wouldn't think twice about coming here again.
(2)Matt B.
I had the goat stew and it was okay. A little spicy so that made it interesting but not out-of-this-world. GF had the fish, which was mostly crispy. We ordered mojitos which were okay.
(3)Joshua D.
Food and drinks are amazing here. Very authentic Creole (spicy) Haitian food. The stewed anything is off the chart. BONUS - the prices are pretty reasonable for 5th St South Beach, and there's parking - what?? That said, I have once walked out because the servers seemed to have some miscommunication over who was waiting on us because no one ever did. :S
(4)Beagle M.
Since it was reviewed on the Food Network today, June 21, 2015. I can't wait to try the food when I'm down there in September . I love fish. The yellow fish entree that was made during the show had an amazingly complicated marinade and was poached in a sauce that included a chile. The chef said that he doesnt open the chile. That's where the heat comes from. " We leave that up to the customer. If they want the spicy..." YUM!
(5)Bryn H.
Who would have guessed a self-professed Gringa from Texas would fall in love with Haitian food? Well I did, and I gladly bring anybody to Tap Tap. The restaurant is decorated with brightly colored murals - both on the walls and the tables - that depict life in Haiti. I've had just about everything on the menu and it's all good. But I must recommend the legim (stewed vegetables) with shrimp, the ox tail stew (they have that sometimes instead of the goat stew), and the white rice and bean sauce. Deelish! They used to have regular live music, and sometimes they still do. If you want to catch a more festive evening feel, call ahead to see if they'll have anybody performing.
(4)Mohini R.
Ambiance, service, and food: all excellent. Get the rhum, goat, plantains, and anise tea :)
(5)Adeline S.
I wouldn't consider Tap Tap to be authentic Haitian cuisine. Granted, there are an array of options on the menu, but I found that it lacked the robust and spicy flavor normally found in our dishes (I'm Haitian American).
(1)Nick A.
This place is super authentic, with vibrant Haitian art on the walls. We went here right before closing time, so it was almost totally empty. They were also unfortunately out of the goat so we didn't get to try it. I did get to have the oxtail which was absolutely incredible. Even the cornmeal mixed with bean paste was great. Their cocktails were really good too. I often find mojitos too sweet, but the one I got here had a nice tart finish. I would recommend this place to anybody who is visiting South Beach and wants to try something different and authentic.
(4)J. L.
Never tried Haitian food before? Tap Tap is a good place to start. I've tried the Tap Tap salad (good mix of veggies). stewed goat (really savory and flavorful but kind of hard to eat around the bone, given the texture), coconut milk spinach (my FAVORITE dish on the menu!!!), lime grouper (my SECOND favorite dish!), and the grilled conch (also quite yummy; good texture, and wonderful flavor). The yucca and various fried goodies are ad additional must to each meal. Note: beware of the CRAZY spicy pickled cabbage stuff! WOoooo! Hot. Cool off that tongue with some of their delicious cocktails! The service was great---very friendly and attentive, even though we stayed way past closing before. This place is also good for groups. I love the bright colors, music and vibrant vibe. Awesome.
(4)Christine P.
Finally got around to stopping in at Tap Tap... after driving past it for years, and reading about their "Best Mojito" award. Thursday afternoon lunch with a big group after a day on the beach... the mojitos were good, just very strong... and my 2nd round ended up being a different drink. Ordered the Griyo (fried pork)... very similar to cuban food... came with rice and beans. There's also a chicken stew on the menu, goat, you name it! Never tried Haitian food, and I was pleasantly surprised. :) Make sure to order the appetizer sampler... can't remember what exactly was in it... but very good. Good place for groups... there's so much going on at this place that I'm definitely going back... colors all over the place - the walls, the chairs, the tables... the music was good, the service was great... they were very attentive! One of those places that reminds me how lucky I am to live in such a culturally diverse place as Miami.
(3)Raj S.
Awesome cocktails, delicious food and great service...what's not to love? I had the yellow tail snapper, grilled with lemon butter sauce on the side...rice & beans and a spinach dish side. Perfect! It's a bit off the touristy area which may or may not be what you're looking for.
(5)Edmund G.
Went here today for dinner. We found it by browsing yelp and wanted to try something different. The food was outstanding and the staff was friendly and prompt. The Moheitos were the best I ever had and the prices were fair. I will be back on my next visit to Miami.
(5)Scott S.
My wife had the shrimp creole and loved it. Service was very good. I went out on a ledge and had the goat stew. Bad move, 80% fat, favor was weird, squirrel like. Thought I was on Beverly Hillbillies eaten granny's road kill.
(3)Michelle S.
I was on vacation in Miami with my besties in July and Tap Tap was recommended to us by the bartender at the hotel. Best decision yet! I've never had Haitian food, but regardless....the food was delicious!! Diamond in the rough! I had the grilled conch and it was so good! I'm Chinese from San Francisco.....I know how good conch can be, and this was goooood. Different than the way I'm used to it being prepared...who knew simply grilling it could bring out so much?! My friends had the stewed shrimp and the grilled chicken. We like to share and I can say both dishes were really really good. Loved the tomato-based sauce that came with the shrimp...tasted very yummy over my white rice. The green sauce for the grilled chicken was "delish" as my friend would say. We were here late at night so the ambience was nice and chill, a nice break from the south beach bustle. So satisfied after this! Definitely an authentic place with great service...all the staff were so nice and helpful with food/drink choices. I will definitely be coming back to this place if I come back to Miami!
(5)French S.
Tap Tap is a Miami staple. A cool and relaxing island restaurant to go to when you want to be on Miami Beach but not have to deal with all the crappy parts of Miami Beach. Don't go here when you are in a rush, instead relax and enjoy your time. All the staff is really friendly, they are people..not like the zombies you find in many South Beach restaurants. A bartender by the name of Nancy makes dining at Tap Tap a delight. I love the grilled conch with an amazing green dressing. Love the lime-ade, mojitos, and the sorbets are delicious!
(5)Nicole B.
I saw Tap Tap on Triple D and wanted to try it out. The flavors are there and the food is good. The prices are high and the portions are small. I left still wanting more food. The service was decent but they add the tip to the bill which was high. I will not go back because of the prices and small portions.
(2)Jim P.
Read about the monitors and saw they served goat, I just had to stop as part of my South Beach visit. The monitor was really good. The service was a bit off. Considering it was 5:30 on a Sat, it wasn't super busy, so the gaps in service were puzzling. The goat was great, others had the stewed chicken - also quite good, and the pasta in creole sauce - great flavor. I would definitely go back, but I would make sure the staff is aware that I expect a little more care.
(4)Melody A.
This place is super cool. I'd never had Haitian food before, so I can only judge this meal, but it was great! It was simple but great! I had the Shrimp with Creole sauce which was very flavorful. The staff was friendly and the decor is great! The whole restaurant is painted with murals by the artist who lives upstairs. I ended up buying a print of one of his paintings, although I would have LOVED one of the paintings but couldn't afford it :(
(5)Edwin C.
This is my spot! Great food and very cozy place to chill at! Highly recommended!!
(5)Kaiser A.
Good food, humble service. They also had a band on Saturdays which gave a beautiful experience of Haitian culture. A must try spot if visiting south beach
(5)Jen H.
Disclaimer: only my first time having Haitian food. With that said, I really liked this place. We had the goat stew and oxtail stew (off the menu) and they were both very flavorful. Only slight complaint I have is that it was a bit too salty and it could have been a bit more spicy. The mixed rice and beans that came with the stews were delicious! We also ordered the spicy conch salad- also delicious! It tasted really chewy and the salad accompanying it was fresh! The mattanga fritters were also very good- I highly recommend it. The dipping sauce that comes with the fritters work really well together. Drinks there are also very good- we had the mojitos (apparently award winning), rum punch (bunch of tropical juices blended together with rum). Waitress was very nice and helpful. Service is a bit slow so make sure not to go there really hungry or else you might get hangry waiting.
(4)Tamara L.
I had been meaning to come here for dinner for a while and when a friend of mine was in from out of town, I finally made it over. So glad I did. My friend Gary is the manager there and I had stopped by once before on my way home from work to say hello. He took me on a tour. As someone mentioned, it looks small from the outside, but wait till you walk in. There are rooms everywhere. Local and Haitian artists have painted murals on the walls. Everything is painted and unique, from the walls to the tables to the chairs. I was glad to have had the opportunity for the personal tour before coming back for dinner. My friend and I ordered two of their fish dishes, which we shared. Of course I wound up liking his better. I also had the spinach in coconut sauce/milk for my side. That alone was enough to bring me back. Gary had a couple of their (now officially award winning) mojitos delivered to us. A must have if you are dining in Miami. Generally on weekends they have live music also. It's a definite must visit if you're visiting, or even if you live here. It's a nice change from Sushi and Cuban food. Unique flavors and items. A great island/Caribbean flavor to spice things up.
(4)V. A.
One of my favorite spots to take out-of-towners. Authentic, fresh, and breaks up the monotony of the vaguely Mediterranean restaurants that line Lincoln Rd & Ocean Dr. I am in love with the Malanga fritters and the Fish in Lime Sauce. The Coconut Spinach is also very tasty. The fritters are served with the most delicious watercress-lime sauce. I like it so much I always ask for extra & use it on the tostones and rice and everything else. Make sure you come on a night with live Haitian music!
(4)Jonathan W.
I've driven or walked past TAP TAP a million times. Heck, it's right after the bridge before hitting China Grill. One day, I got curious, made a dinner date with a friend and went inside with an open mind. I was in love the second I sat down. Finally, there was a restaurant in SOBE where the clientele was local. There were no annoying children or packs of tourists. The patrons that night either walked or biked over from their micro loft on Meridian, Jefferson or Michigan. The decor was fun, colorful and Caribbean.The huge murals on the walls added a nice touch. First I ordered a Prestige beer and the "Taso Kabrit." This appetizer is basically fried all-natural goat tidbits served with spicy Creole dipping sauce. Usually goat isn't all that appetizing. However, the meat was tender and the sauce accompanied it well. I then ate the "Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulen." This entree is stewed beef and okra served with cornmeal. At the first bite, it was quickly evident that TAP TAP cared about the quality of their ingredients. Every bite both warmed my mouth and stomach. Afterward, my handsome waiter brought the bill which came out to around twenty bucks. Not bad for a beer, an appetizer and an entree. In a nutshell, at TAP TAP, you can expect a colorful ambiance, a local flavor, a handsome waiter and some seriously flavorful food.
(3)Tamara F.
Authentic Haitian food we had never tried before. My guy got the stewed chicken and loved it. I had fish and it was great. We found on Yelp and were not disappointed, although because of Carnival they had run out of goat and some immature young guests made a scene which was unfortunate. The atmosphere was lively and we sat by the bar. Staff were great. Will definitely return on my next visit to South Beach.
(4)Jenny J.
Because of Tap Tap, I am such a fan of conch now! It's delicious! You should go with a group so you can try everything. Also, since it takes them forever and a day to get you your food, going with a group is more entertaining. The decorations and music kept us amused for a really long time. Check their performance schedule before you go - I believe they have live music on Thurs/Sat but I'm not sure. We got the conch (of course), fried yucca (DELISH!), a fried patter with plantains, sweet potato, etc. (ehh), goat (wayyy too goaty- don't get this if you don't absolutely love lamb/goat/gamey meat), lime grouper (yum! wish we got two!), spinach in coconut milk (yumm) and a bunch of other stuff. Then we finished up with some soursop gelato for dessert. This was our first time trying Haitian food, so I don't know how authentic it is, but it was definitely delicious. Definitely a good place to go if you've never tried Haitian.
(4)Tony A.
Noticing a bunch of reviews complaining of bad service, I have never had this problem. Though I am Haitian-American, so maybe I get some love as a countryman.
(4)Roya M.
Came to the restaurant with family, Great food, made me remember my grandmother's cooking. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. Flavorful, authentic dishes, service was good. Great restaurant! We will be back.
(4)Jen J.
This place has beautiful decors: whimsical floral lights and huge murals on all the doors and walls. (I almost wanted to take a picture of the women's bathroom wall!) The + and the average: Mojito was fantastic! It was not too sweet and had just the perfect amount of alcohol. The conch salad was chewy, tasty, and actually spicy the way I like it! The main dishes were mostly average. The boyfriend ordered Shrimp in Coconut Sauce, which I sampled and thought the shrimp was a bit overcooked and the special sauce tasted alot like watered down marinara. I had the pork chop, which was just slightly overcooked, but nonetheless flavorful. The portion of my dish was fairly big. The -: The dishes were pricey. Both our entries were above $15. An automatic 18% tip was added to our check. Why?! It was just a party of two. The waitress was very attentive. Nonetheless, the automatic tip was inappropriate. We were here on vacation and enjoyed the beautiful restaurant with live music. But if I were to return to the area, I will probably not re-visit it.
(3)Kevin B.
I was in Miami for my first time and wanted to experience local cuisine. I had my mind set on Cuban food but a family friend suggested Tap Tap instead. I had never tried Hatian so being adventurous, I gave it a shot and was not disappointed. We had a couple of appetizers including the Spicy Marinaded Conch. My expectations for it were medicore but I couldn't get enough. Visually it looked like a slaw but the taste was great. There was a good amount of burn but it was very flavorful. Conch, like many sea foods, doesn't taste like much. But if you're looking for something new and like seafood and a little burn, try that out. I didn't try the pumpkin soup but the people at the table who tried it had only glowing comments about it. Their drinks were great too. I tried two or three rum based drinks enjoying all of them. I went from a sweet passion fruit beverage to a sour rum beverage. Loved both. For my main course I tried a fish recipe that was good. Nothing bad to say about it. However, my girlfriend and I had rave reviews about their rice on the side. The rice was marinaded and perfectly cooked. We both commented how much we loved it. Their restaurant is dark and a bit loud but feels appropriate as a dive. Our waiter was very kind and knowledgeable about their entire menu. When we asked why they were out of lamb, he said it may have been out of season but was a little confused like we were. He answered my questions about the different types of drinks I wanted and addressed concerns about the food that I had prior to ordering. I could have talked more about the food but it's a place worth checking out for the adventurous eater.
(5)Sherah B.
Delicious! I went to this place on a short trip to Miami this past May and it was awesome! It's kind of hidden-meaning not on the strip in South Beach, but not too bad of a walk. Watch out for Miami drivers though-they are nuts and don't watch for pedestrians. The food is very authentic and yummy-I especially loved the desserts-a traditional Haitian cake and a coconut mousse-YUM! It was also very cute having the owner's son (who is like 10) pour our waters and bring us our bread. Nice family place! Would love to go again next time I'm in Miami!
(4)Lauren S.
Where have you been all my life! this place is so unique I honestly forgot I was in Miami, a must have is the Rum Punch..... dying to have one as I type, the menu gives the food no justice, it might sound blah but it taste and looks AMAZING i can't begin to explain how great the food is. One thing that is a must is the Mayi Moulen, it could absolutely just end you train of thinking, because it's mouth watering.
(5)Vivian Y.
So while we were in Miami for UMF, during one of our many cab rides, I got into a conversation with our cabbie. Of course, after the exchange of where you froms and what do you dos, we found out he was from Haiti. Big shocker there. Anyway, so this super awesome cabbie did say the best Haitian food in town was Tap Tap. Sounded legit, so we tried it out. Service was good. Food was good. I ordered the conch chowder, and if you've ever had conch chowder in Key West and want the same thing.. don't order this one. It was totally different. Not saying it was bad, but it was very different. Haitian food is very thick and spicy.. not hot like Tapatio, but with lots of spice. It's not for me, but the other people seemed to love it. They had pretty large portions so ladies, I wouldn't get a whole entree. Any place with Guinness on tap.. well, that's a major thumbs up in my book. Oh, and if you're into mojitos, apparently theirs is one of the best. ADVISORY: Parking is awful. You think you can escape the humidity in the restaurant? Think again.
(3)Alex g.
Went on a Saturday night around 11:00 PM. Indoors was pretty busy and loud. Outdoors was empty but the tables weren't cleared. We went in and asked to be seated. The waiter grabbed menus and was walking us to a table. When we asked if we could sit outside, he gave us the menus and told us to go ahead. The bartender was grumpy when she took our order for drinks, but when she returned she was surprisingly chipper. Maybe it was because we ordered Red Stripe beer? We waited a few minutes after we decided for a waiter to come out and take our order. When I said something out loud, a gentleman sitting on a chair in the corner asked if we were ready. I said, "Yes." He offered to take our order. When I asked if he's our waiter and he said, "No." Between him and the waiters and bartender we were really confused. We ordered the Saturday special which consists of meatballs with rice and red beans, accompanied by fried plantains. The food came out pretty quickly and it was very, very good. I never had Haitian food before and was pleasantly surprised. It reminds me of Domincan, Puerto Rican and Cuban food with a Creole twist. Don't expect white glove service. Be patient and have fun. You'll enjoy your meal and the time there.
(4)Darin C.
I had never had Haitian food before going to Tap Tap. Sadly, I still haven't had Haitian food. I arrived about 30 minutes before closing on a Sunday. I sat at the bar and asked for a menu. I asked about a couple of the dishes only to find out the they were sold out of almost everything. Why would I give it 4 out of 5 stars you ask? A few reasons. First, I like the idea that they don't over order their food, so it has to be fresh. Second, the bartender, whose name I didn't catch was very friendly. Probably in a good mood since she was off soon and it was her birthday. She sent us over to another place right around the corner which was nice. And lastly, she gave me a free beer, which was opened for another guest but not served. Free beer...that is worth an extra star any day.
(4)Roger D.
We liked it because of the ambiance, the originality and the eats. We really liked the spinach in coconut cream. If we lived in the area, we would be regulars for sure.
(4)Mark R.
Found on Yelp, and it did not disappoint. Family friendly, low key, quick and effective service and very tasty food. I had the 1/2 chicken and my wife the shrimp with coconut. Both were delicious. The best was that our 18 month old son could not stop eating the Spinach - the cook did something right with it...
(4)Anthony D.
First time eating haitian food and first time trying both Malanga & Conch! Excellent! The malanga fritter reminded me of a firm hush puppies but what made it even better is the sauce they giver you. A green semi spicy, bit citrus type sauce that taste good on everything. The conch reminded me a bit like shrimp/lobster but a tad tougher and chewy, still very good. Only mark downs was that my gf's grilled chicken was a bit undercooked, we had to throw it in the microwave a bit longer.
(4)William B.
took a long weekend vacation with the family to Miami Beach, and found TapTap through Yelp; Yelper definitely came through on this one! Outstanding. I'm a huge fan of unique, ethnic foods, and this definitely fits that bill. Had the Taso Kabrit (goat tidbit) app. great flavor and crispy. Griyo (lightly fried berkshire pork). tender & fatty inside, crispy outside; spicy dippin sauce. Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye (shrimp in creole & coconut sauce). a little skimpy on the shrimp, but with the sauce over white rice was very flavorful. Features organic, all-natural, & free-range ingredients. Would definitely make the effort to go here if i ever get back to Miami Beach.
(5)Lauren C.
i wanted to give this place 5 stars because going there felt mildly adventurous considering Miami's lack of adventurous culinary choices. Unfortunately, Tap-Tap didn't let me love them as much as I wanted to. Reasons why I wanted to love Tap-Tap: (1) the name! (2) The atmosphere was perfect. It was non-pretentious, colorful, and felt authentic (in that culturally objectifying not-really-authentic, but still kind of fun way) (3) It was my first time trying Haitian food and the menu looked amazing (4) I wanted to convince my girlfriend that my hometown offered quality food besides cuban. Reasons why I couldn't love Tap-Tap: (1) (the main reason) I ordered a whole yellowtail and got a red snapper. When I asked the waiter and the manager about it they tried to convince me that these fish are interchangeable. Having grown up eating seafood on the regular I am well aware that the market price for yellowtail is significantly higher than that for red snapper. The fish was still delicious, but I was unable to wash down that that strong taste of rip-off. (2) The appetizers were so-so. The malanga fritters were good but the dipping sauce didn't pop. The avocado salad was too basic, and they served it with honey mustard dressing (?!). I wanted to order the conch but when I asked the waiter what he thought he said it was good but kind of chewy and not too fresh (double-?!). (3) My drink was watered down. The mojito is a drink that should leave you feeling tipsy after 1 round, not remind you of childhood summer lemonade with too much melted ice. To top it off they tried charging me $1 extra for an upgraded rum when I didn't ask for it and certainly didn't receive it. Shadesters. (4) 18% Gratuity was included on the bill for a party of 2. Tacky-Tacky.
(3)Briana J.
try anything with Conch. Rad food and wonderful atmosphere. It is not a Large place but they can accommodate to larger parties because they have big tables. The service wasn't as bad as everyone says it is great they only have one server because it is a small venue.
(5)Sophia S.
I went here on a visit to Miami after two different locals recommended it to me. My group, which included a wheelchair and a 15 month old, was taken care of excellently. We ordered the spicy marinated chonch appetizer which was, for me, the standout of the evening. It was almost like a ceviche, with a citrusy and definitely spicy sauce. mmmmmm... For entrees, we ordered the creole shrimp (excellent), haitian meatballs (which were the special, crispy on the outside and extremely flavorful), poached grouper (it was a whole fish, so be ready to deal with bones, but was fresh and tasty), and the stewed beef (the meat was tender and flavorful, but the broth needed a little oomph. a dash of hot sauce was enough for me to be totally content). All in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)Lori Taylor R.
I heard about this place on the Travel Channel and wanted to check it out. My girlfriends and I had never experienced Haitian Cuisine and decided this would be the vacation to do so. The restaurant looks really small from the outside, but don't let that fool you. There is a tiny porch on the front and a small bar area right inside. We must have caught the bar tender on an off night - as everyone else working in the restaurant was extremely friendly. The atmosphere is wonderfully vibrant! Large brightly colored murals cover every inch of the walls(even in the bathroom). Two of us ordered the grilled conch and the others ordered the coconut shrimp stew. Both dishes were very flavorful! The conch has a similar texture to that of calamari and was flavored with some intense chili - it really gives the dish a great flavor as some pieces are powerful and others a little more mild. The black rice was by far all of our favorites. We all raved over this uniquely flavored rice. Our waitress was very friendly and happy to offer suggestions. We also enjoyed the live music! It's a great place to venture to - and get away from all the South Beach Club style dining.
(5)Sarah S.
Sometimes it is real hard to find good food in Miami. However, I really enjoyed this place. Great drinks and the food was so good. I will definitely go back when I'm in the mood for great Haitian cuisine.
(4)Ainsworth G.
I had the same experience. Horrible, horrible, horrible wait time and I didn't even get what I ordered. They ran out of what I ordered.. 35 minutes later... Who does that!!!!!!! This place has failed off. It use to be good. Not anymore. Needs new management. Your better off going to a hole-in-the wall Hatian restaurant for your food. At least you get what you order I've been reading the other reviews and it seems like I am not the only one with this experience. Not good.
(1)Joel D.
The BEST Restaurant I have EVER dined in! First time was the Fish... Then last week , The goat.. Not to mention the exquisite herring salad.... I would eat there everyday if i could.... ALL Three meals!
(5)Farida A.
My first experience with Haitian food... I was a little apprehensive since I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed my creole pasta, and my friend enjoyed his fish dish. I tried some of his rice, and it was pretty good too. Did not love the limeade (way too sour) but that was the only thing I didn't enjoy. The art on the walls, chairs, tabletops, etc. will give you endless things to look at and talk about. I went on the Thursday night and there was an amazing live band playing. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting South Beach.
(4)N N.
Very, very casual, borderline dive atmosphere. Great service, not pushy w good recommendations. Food is great ans inexpensive. Try the Natif.
(4)Megan L.
Tap Tap would be #2 (after Puerto Sagua) on my list of Miami Beach food recommendations. I've never had Haitian food so the flavors were lighter and more refreshing than I expected-- a lot of citrus and some unexpected spiciness. We had the malanga fritters and marinated conch to start with, but the standouts were the shrimp in coconut sauce and the pan-seared yellowtail snapper. The waiter also mentioned the griyo (pork chunks) but we didn't get to try it, and the restaurant was out of goat that day. The decor inside was very bright and colorful with beautiful murals on the walls and tabletops. Very casual, good for a post-beach meal.
(4)Waybs L.
I was visiting from Boston and Haitian food in Miami just sounded bomb.com . I got an order of rice and beans with griyo (fried pork) and was too hungry to mess around! They seemed a lil short staffed bc service was slow but everyone was on the move! Three of us attempted to share Cabrit but it was way too small.. so i dropped out of the race! After waiting for what seemed like a day.. my entree finally arrived and I was stunned to find a haitian restaurant who embodies portion control! If ur an east coaster..don't expect the heap of rice or plenty pieces of griyo. I got three hunks of meat (fat and all), a petite service of rice and ONE banann peze! lol... yes 1 Food wasn't bad but I can't rave about it.. With a few bites of my rice I questioned if the cook was actually from Haiti or not. I feel like I enjoyed the environment, cocktails, cremas and the pineapple cake a lot more! Cool art painted on all the walls!
(3)Ray P.
Definitely a great dive to check out. Tried their beef and chicken dishes and were not disappointed. If you've never had Haitian food before, you can check out the other reviews on Yelp to give you some help or ask the serving staff there who were more than helpful with suggestions.
(4)Tracy L.
I missed this place as soon as I left South Beach! Flavorful food, friendly staff, energizing decor, delicious coffee... Prices are on par with just about everything in Miami. Not cheap ;).
(4)Stephanie L.
Nice for some parts but on the overall not so great. I went to Tap Tap for the first time last week and was not impressed. True, I loved the building, the colorful paintings on the walls, the warm atmosphere and live music but... the service was lame. We waited 45mn for our food and when it came it was disappointing. My grilled conch was very good but the rice was dry and tasteless. My friends had different dishes and they were very disappointed and barely ate anything. Not really a good introduction to Haitian cuisine. Now I can't tell if this was just a one time mistake for them but I don't think I will come back any time soon.
(3)Brent H.
Working in Miami has given my coworkers and I the opportunity to try some food not available at home. I was excited to hear about Haitian food, as I've never had it. Tap Tap was a second night in a row of excellent food. Cool little building, small but nice front dining patio, full bar, quaint dinning room. The whole place is colorful and cool murals. even the tables have great paintings on them. The service was great. Our waitress was super nice, accommodating, and just plain made us feel at home. We asked for recommendations and she didn't disappoint. Our group split the fried goat tid bits and the conch ceviche for appetizers. Totally good. The goat was so crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Was sort of like lamb. It was seasoned well, and came with a great sauce to dip it in. The Conch was spicy and fresh. A light counter point to the fried goat. For our dinner we shared three entrees. We ordered stewed goat, fried fish and fried pork. The sides included rice and beans, white rice with a bean sauce, and fried plantains. The pork was again the hero of the show. I'm not wasting my time describing it, just order it. The goat was super tender. the stew sauce was great and we all tried to spoon as much extra onto our plates till it was gone. I could have drank a cup of it. I will say if you are freaked out by meat that has some fat to it, the goat may not be your thing. If you just ignore the fatty bits and dive in, you get an awesome mix of chew and soft buttery flavor. Don't be afraid, just eat it. The fish was a whole fried fish. The skin was light and crispy, and the flesh was soft and flaky. There was nothing left. nothing. maybe some rice. we opted to stuff ourselves a little more and shared the banana fritters. Not super awesome, but semi sweet crispy/soft, sort of like fried banana bread batter. I wish there was a place like this where I live. Dear Haitians, please come to California. Love BL
(5)Deborah D.
i really wish i could give this place more stars because i wanted to like it so much but it just didn't live up to my expectations. it was good, but it didn't blow my mind or anything like some of the other reviews were suggesting. i ordered take out of the stew chicken and a side of the spinach in coconut cream. my main was average but the spinach side was a standout. can't comment on their wait service because i ordered it to go but the gentleman who took my order was friendly and my food was ready in less than 15 minutes. i would still try this place again but order something different.
(3)Kate L.
I went to Tap Tap on a Tuesday evening around 6. The restaurant was fairly empty when I arrived, and I was able to get a table on the front porch and enjoy the ocean breeze. There was a happy hour from 5-7 pm and the mojitos (a must) were half off, $3.50 for a wonderful drink. My waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and gave wonderful suggestions. For an appetizer, I had the malanga fritters with the watercress dipping sauce. Absolutely FABULOUS. I had to force myself to stop eating them and save room for dinner. For my entree, I ordered the poached whole red snapper in lime sauce. Also, absolutely incredible. The prices are also extremely reasonable. The appetizer was $7 and my entree was $19 (and it was the most expensive one on the menu). I always make a point to have dinner one night at Tap Tap when I am traveling to Miami! I just got back home and already can't wait for my next trip.
(5)kath r.
Of all the restaurants I ate at during my Miami visit, this one was the only one I'd return to. Offering a chill vibe, great conversation and warm smiles, this is one of the few places that made me feel welcome. The front/bar area belies the space...it's HUGE! There seemed to be rooms sprouting off of each arm of the hallway and it wasn't until I walked back to the washroom did I discover just how full the place was. Whilst it was relatively empty when I initially sat at the bar, the restaurant fills quickly and people waiting in the front were chatty and engaging over drinks. I'm not up on my Haitain cuisine, so I can't speak to the authenticity of the dishes. However, my tastes buds were extremely happy to be chowing on the stewed goat. I was expecting it to be like the goat curry's I've eaten (bits of bone w uber tender/uber chewy meat, kind of diced up), turns out this dish features a half dozen goat cutlets in a flavourful stew. It wasn't spicy but it sure was tasty and did the trick - the trick being the base to soaking up the Mango Ales and Mojitos I consumed. The accompanying rice and beans was a decent portion and as per usual, I fell for the plantains, which weren't too greasy. So, whilst the food was good and I'd def go back for it, what I really LOVED about Tap Tap was the vibe and the people (both behind the bar and at it). I met some really great people at the bar: big shout outs to Maya the Professor, Gustavo the hot Colombian, Gary the Owner, Lucy the bartender and Steve - for justice!!!! If you're in the hood and looking for a bite to eat, a bevvy and new friends, I'd def recommend Tap Tap.
(4)James R.
Loaded with atmos, nice people, and good tunes, Tap Tap is let down ever so slightly by the food. The oxtail was a pale imitation of what you can get from a Jamaican place: the flavor was derived mostly from a salty broth and lacked allspice or thyme or any other spice/herb. Plantain fritters were a little heavy. Nice bread though, and the cocktails were tasty.
(3)Aman S.
I have had haitian food before and have been to Haiti. This is average at best. Not impressed. Service was fast and good.
(2)Kendra C.
This was a nice little surprise. Wanting to experience some of the cultural cuisine, we stopped here. We ordered some akra for an appetizer. Akra is some sort of fritter that reminds me of a long hush puppy. There were strong flavors that I would have to get used to. Nice to experience but I wouldn't have it again. I had the fried pork with beans and rice: excellent. My husband had the beef with cornmeal that looked and tasted like grits. The beef was full of flavor and very tender. A friend had the creole shrimp that apparently tasted really good. We had a glass of passion fruit that was quite refreshing. The decor was very colorful and scenic. I actually liked it. True to other reviews, it took a while to get our food. It was well worth the wait though. If you're in South Beach, give Tap Tap a try.
(4)Lomée G.
OK, are your ready? cause it's gonna be funny... ! We went to this restaurant TONIGHT, so my review is not something I remember from a restaurant I tried a long time ago!!!!! First of all, when we arrived in the restaurant with my parents, we were not especially welcomed, the server gave us our table and threw miserably the menu (only 2 and we were 4) above. Then, we sat on our table, so as I said, we only had 2 menus for 4, we choose our drinks, and we order our entrees. We waited for 15 minutes to have our drinks, then we waited another 20 minutes to have our entrees. we ordered 2 rice and beef, and 2 shrimp coconut. We had 2 shrimp coconut and 2 beef with cornmeal. When I told the server that we ordered Rice he was almost upset... come on guy, you made a mistake, not me!!! I'm gonna pass the fact that our entrees were not super good, because it's almost not important !! as we were waiting for our entrees, we ate all the bread that the server gave us. So when we received our meals, we ask for more bread... so we meant to eat this bread with our meals... but guess what... we had the time to finish everything before the bread has arrived!!! Ok, we were already disappointed about the service and actually about everything... but the worst is coming... We ordered some dessert. I have to tell you that you should avoid the coconut Ice cream which is the worst I ever tried... I think this Ice cream was only water with white food coloring in it !!! Our dessert were not wonderful but... it was ok... ( exept the coconut ice cream of course). Oh I forgot that it was really noisy, we were not even able to talk to each others. (even the server had some problems to take our orders) Are you still there ? cause the best is right now !! After our dessert we ask for the check... Ok, we are 4, the check is what it is... but... they charge automatically 18% gratuity... WTF?????? We had the worst service ever and they charge 18% !!! Are you kidding???? Ok so I told the server that we wanted to choose the tips. Point 1 : this it totally/ absolutely LEGAL! Point 2: This is totally/ absolutely NORMAL. Point 3 : THIS IS OUR MONEY, I ASSUME WE CAN DO WHAT WE WANT WITH OUR MONEY ESPECIALLY IF WE HAD.... THE WORST SERVICE EVER!!!!!! I swear you would have wanted to see the face of the server when I told him that I wanted to choose his tip!!! So he took my mom's card. You have to know that we are European... but we live here. So when he came back with the receipt, where my mom had to sign, he told us... " euh... ok... well, in america, you have to know that you must put 15% tips at least" So... as I was already really upset I looked at him and I told him... " Ok We know, we live here thank you !!!" So we put 15% Tips, and we're not even forced to... but whatever. And to finish the night... the guy didn't even say goodbye, I think he thought that it wasn't necessary... Please don't tell me that kind of service worth 4 stars... I won't believe you !! That is really too bad because, the atmosphere is nice, all those colors, the table are really beautiful, it's seems to be so authentic, painted murals, wood painted chairs... But that's not enough...
(1)Guesly P.
Authentic Haitian food. Restaurant could use remodeling because its in south beach. Price wasn't too bad
(4)Colleen L.
Tap Tap hooray! What a great little find right off 5th street. It's kind of a divey location but it wouldn't feel right any other way. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce, but it was kind of disappointing. We think they used the wrong sauce (there's a red option, too) because there was not one bit of coconut flavor in the meal, but when we asked the waitress she said 'Oh there's just a little bit.' Hmm. It was still good, but not quite what we expected. The service was friendly, the atmosphere bright (we sat outside) and the mojitos were great. The waitress was very easy to chat with about the food and didn't make us feel too gringasa. Would love to try the goat.
(4)Lance P.
Food is great and well seasoned. The pork chunks were really good. Fresh warm bread comes before the meal and is good as well. The menu is very small and the food isn't cheap. SA PA SEY
(4)Janelle F.
The meaning of the name of this place was the topic of conversation for a good 10 minutes. In case anyone else is wondering-- I looked it up and the definition is: tap-tap n. a truck or van used as an independently operated taxi. However, I'm going to stick to my original suggested definition of tap-tap: n. thing I like to do in my spare time; a clapping noise. This place has been a South Beach tourist hotspot for quite some time but I never had any interest in trying it until a friend scheduled a group dinner there last Friday. What a pleasant surprise it turned out to be! The menu can be a bit intimidating at first because everything is in Creole (with tiny English descriptions). I also had a preconceived notion that the food was going to be spicy--but it was far from that. For starters, we kicked it off with the Taso Kabrit which are fried goat tidbits with a watercress dipping sauce. This dish has a stark resemblance to latin "chicharrones," except it is all meat and no fat...SIMPLY DELICIOUS - I will definitely not share this next time! For the main course, my best friend and I shared the Krihish Kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and the Griyo (pork chunks). They were each served with a side of Dirir Kole which is basically mixed rice and beans. The griyo was my favorite. It was ridiculously tender and very flavorful. It went very well with the rice, which was also tasty. The shrimp dish was also good, but not my favorite. Other notable dishes at the table were the Pwason Gwosel (whole fish), the Legin (Stewed veggies) and Akra (malanga fritters) appetizer. As for libations- I was smiling as soon as I learned they had a full bar. The drinks were very reasonably priced ($8 for top shelf vodka). They're apparently notorious for their mojitos but I wasn't in the mood so I didn't try them. Some people in our group did and slurped them down quick, so they're on my list of things to try the next time I go. To top off the delicious food, we had great and surprisingly quick service (for a party of 10). I am looking forward to going back and bringing more friends!
(5)Senorita V.
I have never had Haitian food before, visiting from CA and yelp (and you all) did the job again. you must try the pumpkin soup (a little too cold for my taste -- hence the 4 stars) but still delicious. AND THE CONCH SALAD WAS A LITTLE SPICY BUT PERFECT!
(4)T. B.
Very colorful, Haitian style over-decorated (not in a bad way) restaurant with a good atmosphere, very good authentic Haitian food and good unpretentious and honest service at a great price. One of the best restaurants overall in Miami.
(4)Nicole G.
What the heck is up with East Coast service with a side of attitude!?! I LOVE the west coast, I LOVE the west coast! Maybe I should just stay here! As you can tell we had some pretty horrible service at Tap Tap! Maybe they're sick of seeing annoying tourists... I don't know!!! The girl serving us came to us 3 times total! once to get our drink order, once to take our order, and once to deliver her automatic 18% gratuity check! We tried to reduce it to under 15% and they still charged me the full 18% gratuity! She so did not deserve it! The one person that probably did deserve it was the chef because the food was really good! I had the as-seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Whole poached yellowtail fish. Ordered it grilled! I devoured the thing! Only the head and bones were left! No doggy bag for me! The breaded Akra was yummy especially with the water crest dipping sauce! Yummy flavors! The decor is lovely also. Refurbished tables and chairs painted bright colors. Beautiful Haitian murals. Definitely eye candy! Food = Great, Service = you suck!
(2)Jul B.
an authentic Haitian delight! As you enter, you are greeted with a tap tap out front. The color, the detail.. I was speechless. The bar scene feels very islandy - the entire space is colorful, festive. I admire the owner's ability to make it a visual masterpiece. The food was good. I had the red snapper and rice & beans. I also had a haitian rum mojito. I definitely recommend Tap Tap if you are in the South Beach area :)
(4)Susan R.
We only got appetizer but they were all good. They included conch ceviche, stewed okra and goat tidbits. The stewed okra was the best. And definitely get the begneys for dessert. Colorful, Hatian decor.
(4)Lara W.
Between the Food Network and Yelp community, we decided to drive an hour out of our way for Tap Tap for a very late lunch/early dinner on a Friday around 4. The place was pretty empty but service was friendly and accommodating to our wanting to change seats. I'm Haitian-bred, American born, so I've had more than my fair share of griyo. My husband tho, can't get enough, so we ordered some. Best decision. This is the best griyo I've ever had. Ideal - crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. I've also only ever had mediocre akra (fritters) so Tap Tap's were a welcome surprise. Definitely coming back on our next visit to South Florida!
(5)Cassandra M.
must. try. the. kremas. MUST! apparently, their kremas , which is similar to (if not) a rum cream or coquito (with minimal coconut and nutmeg) is delivered by some lady that makes batches of that creamy goodness at home. they are known to run out of it, so if youre lucky, order a glass or five.
(4)Hsin P.
Service was likely the biggest downfall tonight: we were seated in a section with a large party that kept our waiter's hands full and attention somewhat diverted. (I will give him the benefit of the doubt, especially because I may have been a bit disappointed that we weren't served by the cuter waiter who seated us.) While I wanted to try the Haitian Prestige beer, I opted for a Bass on draft, which was great with the meal. We were served piping hot and crusty French bread rolls with butter. What a great surprise, after a couple of dinners with tasteless, microwave-reheated "pan cubano" rolls at various Cuban joints around town. Having had a lot of deep fried appys over the past few days, we opted to split the salad zaboka ak tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions and house dressing). The tomatoes were ripe and flavorful, and the salad had a huge wedge of avocado in the center. The house dressing could have done with a bit more acid and salt, and the salad itself might have incorporated something crunchy (e.g., radish, fennel) that would still have been appropriate for Haitian/Caribbean cuisine. For our mains, we had kribish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and poul nan sos (stewed natural free range chicken) with zepina nan sos kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) as a side. It was a mistake on our part ordering two dishes with the same coconut sauce, but it was tasty and reminiscent of a very mild Thai curry. The coconut sauces were a tad on the salty side, though. The chicken was nicely stewed, flavorful yet not cooked so long as to lose all texture falling off the bone. Both entrees were served with rice mixed with beans, which was terrific for eating with the gravies from the shrimp and chicken dishes. Bello Special Pepper Sauce from the D.R. was the house hot sauce at the table. The ingredients sounded tasty (scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, papaya, onions, vinegar, salt, and spices), and did indeed work with the food we ordered. Not being familiar with Haitian cuisine, I had assumed it would be spicier than it turned out to be--the Bello, along with the pickled (and spiced) cabbage and carrots also served at the table, allowed me to kick the flavors of our food up a notch. The dessert list looked appealing, but after waiting nearly 40 minutes for our entrees, we were ready to call it a night. Given my qualified review of the wait service, we were a bit taken aback to see gratuity already included on our bill--maybe there was a disclaimer on the menu, or the POS was still set to include it because of the large party before us?
(3)sean k.
I went to Tap Tap because Guy Fieri told me to, and he was right! The whole-snapper dish was amazing, I've never tasted a sauce with SO much flavor. And, the fish is deceiving because it appears small, but has so much flavorful meat. The fried pork dish was great, as well. Went great with the onions the dish was served with.
(4)Elisa L.
Love the food and the atmosphere. The murals are beautiful and full of life. The owner is warm and friendly. He was very welcoming and sweet. Love the food and the mojitos. The haitian cake and the cinnamon was amazing.
(4)Ashley S.
Great authentic haitian food, festive atmosphere... and great Mojito's. What more do you need? Don't let the outside of this place scare you away, its great and a local favorite.
(5)S C.
I saw this place on a re-run of Dines, Drive Ins and Dives. Enjoyed watching the method that they cooked and decided to give it a go. My family went on a random Monday evening and it was quite busy which to me spoke mounds. 1) Loved the decor! 2) Drinks could use a little more flavor. There were some selections, but the mojito was nothing like it sounded in the menu 3) Akra was delicious; Spaghetti, and Snapper were great! I loved the sauce with the Snapper, had just enough flavor of heat from pepper and tasted very fresh! 4) Rice: I have dined at many Haitian restaurants...the rice was something to be desired. Very regular, not much flavor. I know rice is tricky, but I really was hoping for better rice. All in all I would return again!
(4)Kelsey G.
Tap Tap, you made my mini vacation that much better. No, I can't pronounce most of what I ate but it didn't matter because I was too busy constantly eating my way through each dish we shared to try to speak. The legim was some of the best I've had and I'm pretty sure we ordered about 4 appetizers without hesitation. Can't forget the alcoholic beverages: fresh juices and rum can't be beat.
(4)Scott V.
If you haven't tried Haitian food (and I hadn't), then you're truly missing out. This is seriously good food. And the decor is incredible. You have to see the huge murals on the walls, with as much color as the food had flavor. I came here with a large group of people, and I was blown away. First, they had two iced teas - ginger and cinnamon. How awesome is that? I had this beef stew thing, which reminded me of a sauerbraten, only with a bit of spice. Really tender beef cubes in a velvety intensely flavored sauce. Lip smackin' good. To end it all, the mango sorbet came in little metal cappuccino cups. It was also intensely flavored, and a great small dessert to a very filling mirror.
(5)todd b.
For those who don't know, it's sorta haitian food. I don't care though, I love it. I stick mainly to the fish out of dietary considerations, but also because I don't like stewed stuff. The goat is a shank and is less of a stew than stewed. Again I'm not a big creolle stewed sauce fan so don't take my word on that stuff. Their fried fish, blackened fish, and grilled fish are stellar though. Get the spicy scotch bonnet lime sauce. If you can take some heat, it is beyond worth it. It keeps me coming back. Go with friends and get the plat fritay, a combo of their fried items + watercress sweet sauce & sour scotch bonnet sauce. My favorite dish is grilled conch, but you have to love conch. It's pricey, but it's the beach and its Miami. Not Chez Bebe prices but it's way healthier. Their happy hour is a real deal. 1/2 off their barbancourt drinks! Not the 5 star rum though. They now have their own parking lot hidden in the alley. First come, first serve.
(4)Farheen Q.
WONDERFUL restaurant, best food in miami. Authentic decor and food, you'll feel a part of the haitian culture here. We had the special that night, spiny lobster, and a spicy shrimp sauce both with rice and beans. Everything was absolutely delicious. I wouldn't miss this place if I were you! If I ever go back to Miami, this place will be at the top of my list.
(5)Leon C.
When that first bite of sweet, beautiful plaintian hit my palette, I almost wept with happiness. I had returned home, to this Haitain paradise of yumminess. Being a Caribbean lad I truly get excited about eating anything remotely linked to my countrymen's food. The restaurant is decked out as if it were a regular haunt on the Islands. The menu is super authentic with fish dishes, goat curry and fabulous Griyo pork. I could go on about the food, the yukka, the cocktails... wow, Wow, WOW! This though would make this an exceptionally long review and that just ain't my style. Simply rest assured, not only will you be entertained by the live music, wowed by the incredible authentic Haitian food, and made to feel welcome by the staff, this place will not incinerate your wallet with inflated prices. Tap Tap, although my breathe resembled that of a rabid cat after my meal, I would come back to you again, again and again.
(4)Bernardo A.
I was debating whether or not I should review this place. After all, I've been there only once and I am a sucker for novelty. That said, I'll admit that this review might be influenced by the fact that I had a great time. The service was great. Not a place for wall flowers or for pushy princesses with overgrown senses of entitlement. The place is a bit chaotic and that's part of the charm. NOT a place to go if you are in a hurry, or want quiet, or are a picky eater. As far as authenticity: Who knows? I've never had Haitian food before. However, I've had Caribbean food thousands of times, and this place has some of the tastiest seasoning I've ever tried. The mayi moulen, the zepina nan sos kokoye, and the malanga croquettes were great. The vinegar, cabbage and scotchbonnet hot sauce is amazing! I bet it's great on scrambled eggs. I tried the kabrit as an appetizer and it was a bit dry. So was the roasted chicken my partner ordered. On the other hand, the grilled fish in scotchbonnet and lime sauce I ordered was sublime. The fish was cooked perfectly. Flaky and moist. After dinner, the owner (I think she's the owner) came out to sit with us for a few minutes. She is quiet, speaks in short sentences, and is just a very sweet woman. I rocked on my rocking chair and she nursed her glass of white wine. I really enjoyed just sitting next to her...it was a vibe thing. She told me more than once that she loved the diversity of her customers. And she was right. What a great mix of people. There was a bit of a show going on that night. A celebration of death and sex (renewal, rebirth), so there were performers at hand. No X-rated performances. Again, I'm not sure how "authentic" the whole thing was; but I don't care. The clientele, the owner and the atmosphere were authentic enough for me. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside on the porch for our meal. The dining rooms looked a bit small and when the place got packed to standing-room only, I'm sure I would have had an attack of claustrophobia.
(4)Adam P.
Unique, enjoyable, pleasant. Disappointing they haven't had goat though each time I go. One of the better pieces of grouper. A completely different feel to the standard South Beach establisments. Head here if you're ready for a change of scene in every sense.
(4)Brian F.
Great food and very friendly staff
(4)Dalton D.
Tap Tap is a vibrant and fun restaurant that happens to serve exceedingly delicious food. My plate, which I can't remember the name of, was a beef stew with a side of creamy grits. I was stupefied as to how amazing the food tasted, it was a minor miracle I didn't order a second plate to take home. So while I will champion the flavor, I must caveat this review by saying the service was slow. Nothing wrong with slower than expected service, just a heads up to anyone interested in a quick meal. There's also a full service bar at the front of the restaurant full of locals socializing with the friendly staff. All in all, a much appreciated experience at Tap Tap.
(5)Saterah M.
I love Tap Tap! I stopped in Miami after leaving the Bahamas and was having withdrawals from the native food already. Tap Tap to the rescue. We grabbed a table outside, ordered the stewed chicken with beans and rice mixed, extra plantain (tostones style), and a mango beer! DELICIOUS! The flavors were balanced, the gravy when applied to the rice was hum-out-loud good, and the beer made me want to lay in a hammock afterward! It was a great Haitian food experience :)
(5)Edmund L.
We found this place in the Fodor's Florida guide. When we walked into this place, we were amazed by the vibrant colors of the murals throughout the entire restaurant, and I couldn't resist taking pics of the place while waiting for our food. With reggae music playing, it made us feel like being in Haiti. We shared akra as an appetizer. It is a root veggie, and it was prepared as fritters and tasted quite like corn meal. For entrée, I had shrimp with kokoye sauce, which is a mix of creole and coconut sauce, and I quite enjoyed the dish. One disappointment was that other dishes we originally wanted to order were all sold out. My wife tried to order kabrit nan sos, goat stew. Because the kitchen almost ran out of the pot and the remaining portion was only enough to fill up half a bowl, they made it on the house to let us try. It was a great dish to dip bread to truly taste the sauce. Another disappointment was that with a party of four they automatically charged us with a 18% of gratuity on the check.
(3)Alejandro S.
I love this place!!!!! I can't express this enough. I usually go there and sit on the bar. I take advantage of their 3 star mojitos during happy hour for 6$. A steal compared to how ridiculously expensive other places are. Definitely the best mojito in Miami. The service is constantly great too!
(5)Rathore V.
We got the grilled chicken, spinach in coconut sauce, and the rum cake. I don't remember what we got for an appetizer. Everything was excellent and different from other Caribbean food. The rum cake was the best we had since we had the cakes in Jamaica. Try it for the food, ambiance and the friendly, attentive service.
(4)Heather L.
Would recommend: - conch dishes - tapas that come with the cilantro dressing (it was really good) - curry Would not recommend the spaghetti - they said it would be spicy but it wasn't really spicy at all - maybe for people who don't eat spicy it would be? *shrugs* Great service and awesome drinks - I enjoyed the mojito.
(4)Asha F.
Love Tap Tap. Have traveled to Miami twice in the last three months and Tap Tap has always been one of the first places on my list to visit. The ambiance is great. Very homey and chill... The artwork inside is beautiful and really speaks to the culture. The staff on the other hand are very similar to your family...very slow to meet your needs. But once they are met, you will be very satisfied. Even the water initially brought over to the table is water with a twist...grapefruit water with mint.. Simply amazing. My favorite meal has to be the griot- fried pork. The meat is very tender and served with an amazing spicy sauce. Another great meal is the pwo djen djen-stewed chicken and mushrooms (sp?) and the stew chicken is amazing too. Tap tap is a hit!
(4)Janet G.
We waited a really, really long time for a table. As the front barroom filled up with people, I got hungrier and hungrier (and increasingly nervous that the lack of sign-in sheet would mean we'd get seated last even though we'd arrived first). Turns out there was a sign-in sheet no one pointed out to us. Alas. Once led to our table, the experience changed completely. Turns out they were just super backed-up, and once we had a table we got a kind, attentive waitress who was really patient and helpful with us as we ordered our first Haitian meal. I had the vegetable ("legim"?) dish with beef, the traditional way it's served. I'd expected the veggies to be steamed separately, but they were combined into a sort of thick, stew-like mush that sounds kind of gross now that I write it. But it was so, so delicious! My boyfriend ordered the griyo, another traditional dish, and adored it. We told the waitress it was my birthday, and she presented us with a fat, complimentary slice of Haitian cake. (Like traditional American birthday cake, but more dense due to the corn meal and less sickly sweet.) I feel like the first 30 minutes of waiting for the table had absolutely nothing to do with the 1.5 hours we had of this amazing food and service. I wish I could go back this moment!
(5)Dan R.
Got the herring with habanero-lime sauce and shrimp with coconut sauce...absolutely amazing food experience. Both dishes were out of this world, and I wish we had room for dessert. Will definitely come back if we are ever traveling through Miami again.
(5)Dana S.
I found Tap Tap on Yelp and decided to give it a try while I was in Miami Beach over New Years. Boy, am I glad that I did! The food, service and ambience at Tap Tap are fantastic. Our waiter was so polite and cheerful, he also made some great suggestions. After reading about the shrimp, I knew my friend and I had to try it. All of the other reviewers are correct, It was absolutely divine! We also tried the akra, a creamy tomato/spinach dish our waiter recommended and I had a glass of chardonnay. You are also served complimentary bread. Everything was great and my bill came to $22 with tax and tip. Not bad for the outstanding food and a glass of wine. Only downside? Parking is difficult (but that's true pretty much everywhere in South Beach). Bottom line: Great West Indian food in South Beach at a reasonable price.
(5)Daniel M.
I was on vacation in Miami and my friend from there had suggested we try this place out - and I'm glad she did! I went at about 9PM by myself, since the friend I was with didn't want to walk that far away from our hotel (haha). The guy who greeted me was extremely nice, and probably since I was by myself he gave me a tour of the restaurant and let me choose wherever I wanted to sit (I chose outside, since it was a nice night). As a vegetarian, I was afraid there wouldn't be much for me to order - but there was. I ordered the spinach in coconut sauce (a MUST order, as I know other Yelpers have suggested), the plate of fried deliciousness (I think it was fried yucca, plantains and something else) and rice and beans (didn't ask if this was vegetarian, so maybe it isn't...) Everything was delicious, and I cleaned all 3 plates like the heifer that I am (hey, I was on vacation mode!). I even ate the basket of yummy warm bread they brought as an appetizer. The ambiance of the place was really cool, too, with colorful murals on the wall. I'd definitely recommend this place, and if I'm ever back in Miami I'd go again.
(5)Andre G.
Very Tasty spot, go with a big appetite. The place is decorated in vibrant way depicting farms, trees of bounty and of course livestock. I ate the goat, my brother ate the cow and and my sister ate the fish. All were amazing but all we very different Okra came in a beautiful broth, the cornmeal dish was amazing and flavorful and the rice was amazing. The drinks were a little pricy but tasty.
(4)Arif M.
Live music, good cocktails, an intimate setting, and most importantly, great food. Started off with a fresh mint mojito made with Haitian rum and cane sugar. Definitely refreshing after a long day at the beach. They were out of the charcoal grilled goat so I settled for the beef, okra and cornmeal plate. What I had was incredibly simple but I loved it. It had just the right amount of spicyness and the cornmeal worked perfectly with the beef. I tried my friend's stewed conch. It was my first time trying conch cooked like that and I was pleasantly surprised. We finished the night with a round of the 15year Haitian rum, served neat of course. Service was slightly slow but I was in no rush to leave after a meal like that.
(4)Ericstevenc T.
Great Haitan food check out the Malanga fritters & creole shrimp and of course goat meat and mojitos
(5)Vanessa H.
The colorful paintings adorning every wall make you feel as if you're in a mural. Started off with Haitian rum cocktails. Had the anchovy spaghetti, savory goodness, and the grilled snapper. Our friends ordered the stewed goat, tender and delicious. For the sides try to the greens in coconut milk and the beans and cornmeal (reminiscent ofpolenta).
(4)Justin E.
Great experience on South Beach. My wife and I were looking for authentic Caribbean food and trying to avoid the touristy atmosphere present throughout a lot of Miami Beach, and we weren't disappointed. Cool atmosphere. Extremely helpful waiter, went above and beyond, and we were glad we went with all his recommendations. Also, it was relatively well-priced for the area. The one disappointment was they were out of goat, so we didn't get to try any of these dishes. The drinks were great - Mojito was one of the best I've had, and my wife enjoyed the rum punch. The melanga fritters are a must try. For entrees we had shrimp in coconut sauce and fried pork chunks, which I thought were especially good. Tried the banana cake at the recommendation of the waiter and it was awesome. We had a great time and thought the food had more flavor than some of the other Cuban places we tried on South Beach. Great drinks and not ridiculously priced.
(4)Brien W.
We were there on a sunday and they were out of a lot of things, like half the menu. The place has some really interesting and erotic art on the walls and tables, pretty funny. Food is ok, not a lot of flavor in anything but was fresh and appealing. The place is a little dirty and run down, could use a good cleaning.
(3)Jimmy V.
The food was great, the decor is awesome but the customer service was unprofessional and they were understaffed. The worse Mojito I have ever had they had to make it twice and even then it sucked. The only thing they had going for them was the food which was awesome.
(1)Fabian A.
They serve some great mojitos. Food is awesome!
(4)Jessica P.
The food here is fantastic! I've literally had every dish on the menu (including the goat) and absolutely loved it! Be sure to try the Cornmeal beans side dish. Not only is the food great but the atmosphere is always fun and lively. Perfect place to come with friends and family!
(5)Ryan R.
We came here from all the hype, but this place is overrated. The food wasn't amazing, but alright and overpriced. The place itself has a nice vibe.
(3)Marty P.
Five of us went last night. We made reservations and we got a private room for dining. The decor is fantastic and the food is exceptional. Best fish I've ever had. Snapper with a scotch bonnet lime sauce. We had two picky eaters with us and both were won over. Great service. Great cocktails. I had come here about 8 yrs ago with my wife. I remembered it fondly and I'm glad I returned. Also, is a HUGE improvement on the quality of the food relative to anyplace on Ocean Dr. Good value.
(5)Augusto N.
we followed the bad advise of one of those tourism channels on tv knowing that probably there might be some money exchange involved in their neutral opinion. the yelp reviews weren't that bad, we just came for mohitos and there were two two schools on the subject, either water down or very strong so what the heck. unfortunately we landed the first one so after paying for state tax, resort tax and an already included gratitude it felt like paying for a very very expensive lemonade. we thought of telling the bar tenderness that not much of their famous rum was savored with the drink but while she seemed to be a very nice gal she didn't show much interest in our overall experience then we opted to skip the whole discussion.
(2)Wen B.
this restaurant was really cute inside, the service was not too good but if you like seafood this is the place to go. My friend had the red snapper and said it was amazing, i had the chicken and it was extremely dry so if you go to this place definitely get the seafood. the mojito was really good as well.
(4)Peter S.
Great atmoshpere, great Hatian food, Live music, different, fun, not expensive for SoBe
(4)Brinda M.
Awesome mojitos! Ricardo, our bartender made perfect drink suggestions and made the amazing mojitos I have had in a long time.
(5)Amy G.
Friendly & casual place. Great ginger tea and goat dishes. Parking is mostly on the street with quarter meters :(
(4)Katy B.
Mojitos: 5 stars Service: 1 star Food: 1-3 stars depending on dish Murals: 4 stars Tap Tap has the potential to be a really great place, but the waiter we had switched from sweet to super abrasive like flipping a switch multiple times. Abrasive as in I have never experienced such blatantly rude service in my life. The food also seems like a good start, but could stand to be prepared with a little more care. Tough meat, and lack of flavor seemed to be common themes among a few of the plates our table ordered. The worst case of tough meat was the pork chunks which my boyfriend ordered - he said they were so chewy he was afraid he was going to hurt his teeth. The vegetarian stew I had was mushy and not memorable. It wasn't that it was bad, it was just really not special. Given the amount of attitude our group was given, I'll mash up my own vegetables thankyouverymuch. But damn... that mojito was the best I've ever had. I'm going to be seeking out some Barbencourt rhum back in Chicago for sure.
(2)Aaron V.
We dined recently at Tap Tap...our first foray into Haitian cuisine. I've waited a few days to digest the hot mess this place is....it's difficult to be objective on the food while you bask in the vibe.... We made reservations earlier in the day for 9 pm. When we arrived (8:45), there didn't seem to be a hostess, only servers running frantically about. We flagged one down who told us we'd have to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes. No problem, we could just have a drink. we ordered a couple of mojitos, quite possibly the best any of us have ever had. There had been an older woman sitting at the bar sipping wine, almost in some sort of trance. She sort of snapped together and asked us if we had been helped, to which we replied that we had. She smiled. Come to find out later, she is apparently one of the owners. While waiting, I was chatting with one of my friends how nice the breeze was...and we both noticed a vacant table on the front porch. We asked one of the passing servers if we could dine there..."sure, why not" was the response. We were seated after the table was cleaned. It took a bit of time, bit our waitress finally came and took our drink order, a little more time for our drinks to arrive, and more time for her to come back to take our orders. We all ordered some sort of appetizer - malanga fritters, pumpkin soup...all very good. Again, it took some time for them to arrive to our table. More waiting, then our main courses showed up. Two in our party ordered the fish - yellowtail snapper? One was fried, the other in some sort of sauce. The reason I added the question mark is no one at our table had heard of that fish, and they did have a minor complaint that the meat was a little more difficult to remove from the bone. The one with the sauce raved about it. My other friend had the grilled chicken with cornmeal and beans. I had the stewed chicken with the cornmeal and beans also. My friend said his grilled chicken was good, but a few pieces were a little overcooked. Even though mine was "stewed", I'm convinced mine was grilled also, then dunked in a bland creole sauce. Some of my chicken was overcooked and tough (dark meat, go figure). We both agreed that the cornmeal and beans were excellent. I had also ordered the okra, which came in more creole sauce. I love okra, but the creole sauce added nothing...more bland. After finishing our mains, and more waiting, we were asked if we wanted dessert. We went for it. Sweet potato pie, banana fritters, and coconut sorbet. The sorbet was excellent, but banana fritters were, well, eh. Then there was that pie. We all tasted it, and it was completely nasty. It tasted nothing like any sort of sweet potato pie we'd ever had, and the texture was strange. It went uneaten. Later on, we finally got our check. I point out the slowness of service throughout the evening because I would normally be really pissed off. However, we found out that it was one of the last nights of Fet Gede, a Haitian festival of the dead. There were a number of people showing up for the live band and other assorted activities...chants, parades, blessings, etc. It was loads of fun and the vibe was just right....so no worries. However, I need to visit on a more "normal" evening to re-review. Will I be pissed at slow service for mediocre food, or will I chill to the mood?
(3)Jerri Z.
Do not recommend. Disappointed. Looked forward to trying Tap Tap, but the so so reviews hit the nail on the head. Slow, disinterested staff and kitchen. Found the snapper to be fresh, but very bland pepper sauce. Beans and rice not very good. plantains rock hard. Would never go back and would tell others to try someplace else. Closest parking in the public garage 3 blocks away.
(2)Aileen F.
One of the first spots I ate at while in South Beach and the food was amazing. After a day of exploring South Beach, my boyfriend and I decided to eat here since we never had Haitian food. In addition, this was one of the places I had on my "things to eat" from doing my research on yelp and through my handy dandy Fodor's book. We ate around lunch time and the restaurant was super quite with a hostess in the front who sat us in the front. Not only were the menus interesting to look at with the different types of food, but the restaurant it self had a lot of art work. The place was very colorful and full of Haitian art. I enjoyed the front artwork with my glass of rum punch which was delicious. The name slips my mind, but it was blended with fresh fruits and had a wonderful sweet taste, I couldn't taste the alcohol and maybe that's why I liked it so much. For lunch, we enjoyed the Kribish Kokoye (shrimp in the coconut sauce) and pan-seared Pwason Gwosel (yellow tail with lime sauce). We enjoyed these entrees with mixed rice and beans. The 2nd dish I mentioned was highly recommended by the hostess and it was very delicious. So flavorful and it was my favorite out of the two. The fish was very fresh, the meat fell right off the bone. And the sauce...coconut with a lime taste. I also enjoyed the condiments - a spicy Haitian sauce. Cabbage, carrots, red spices all soaked in vinegar, a perfect sauce for the fish. I would definitely come during lunch time because its less busy. At night, I hear it gets very busy. This restaurant is off fifth street and very hard to miss during the day, but at night the illuminating sign is easier to spot on the busy street. Parking is found several steps away BEHIND the restaurant and its free. Gratuity is already included on the check so don't worry about leaving tip, unless your that generous lol. Decent price for good Haitian food! a MUST to go to while in South Beach!
(4)Vanessa S.
The goat stew was delicious! The bignets for dessert were also great. We sat on the porch and enjoyed the experience.
(4)Miranda P.
I've never had Haitian food before but I was up for an adventure. I ordered the fruit punch to drink which had guava, mango, passion fruit, and a couple other delicious juices. I know it sounds like an odd combination but the coconut spinach was so good and the tap tap salad was good. I discovered I don't like mango as much as I thought. The décor is very colorful and I imagine it's exactly what it would be like in haiti. The service was good too. Now onto the dessert. My parents ordered the pineapple cake which was decent with a consistency between bread pudding and fruitcake. I ordered and devoured this coconut thingie. it was so sweet, light and fluffy like a coconut cloud. Yummers!
(4)Jay R.
Incredible food, awesome ambiance. The spaghetti creole and grouper were delicious, and the whole interior is coveted in murals which are fun to look at. Only damper would be the service, which was painfully slow the night I went.
(3)Tanya E.
I celebrated my 31st birthday here in 2009 and although I can not remember what I had, I do remember it was hella good. So was my drink. My company and I had a ball and if I'm ever in Miami again this will be a definite stop. Must fill up on good stuff before heading to Wet Willie's.
(5)Brain S.
A coworker and I stopped by Tap Tap while we were visiting south beach on a work trip. We were seated at 9pm, ordered two rum punches and decided on charcoal cooked 1/2 chicken (18$) and spicy conch salad. The server (the guy with the dreads) never returned with the drinks to take our order. 30 minutes later I walked to the bar to ask about the drinks, and found our missing waiter watching a basketball game at the bar. My buddy flagged another waiter down so we could get our orders in, but he dismissed us. Our server finally approaches, and without apology, asks if we've decided yet.. Long story short--dinner took 1:45 when we needed to get back to hotel to pack, and it cost $96 dollars with Gratuity included.... Tips stands for To Insure Prompt Service... I am NOT a complainer, and the food here IS good. But I'll not be returning. BTW Tap Tap, I work on a FOOD NETWORK show....
(1)matt p.
This place was great. The goat, the grouper, the whole red snapper, and the pork dish rounded out our entrees. You have to ask for the green watercress sauce - I ended up dipping everything in that...yum! two bummers - they were out of the pineapple dessert and no music the night we went. Guess we'll have to back later in the week for some dessert and tunes
(4)Jennifer F.
The food was good. Not the best Haitian food I've ever had, but the goat stew was tasty. I'd been told the grilled goat was excellent, and the waiter pushed it big time. I ordered it, but they were out. It was only about 7 pm on a weeknight, seemed early for them to be out of one of their signature dishes. But it happens, and that's not why they get a mere 2 stars. Expect to be charged more for each item than the price listed on the menu. My dining companion ordered the grouper, but was served (and charged for) the more expensive snapper (which the waiter was also pushing, must have had too much of it back in the kitchen). We were charged an extra dollar for each of our drinks, and for some reason my $15 entree on the menu was $18 on the bill. We didn't do any substitutions or special orders, they just charged us more. In the end, it's not the price itself, it's the sense of being ripped off. Like many restaurants in Miami Beach, tip was already included in the total, so we couldn't just take the difference out of the tip (my usual tactic when a server tries to rip me off). Print new menus if you need to raise the prices, but don't just surprise your patrons with an unexpected bill. That maneuver changed Tap Tap from a place I would recommend to friends to a place I would recommend my friends stay away from. There are plenty of other great places to eat within 3 blocks, and plenty of better Haitian restaurants, so why support the con artists at Tap Tap?
(2)Marcos R.
This city slicker can't vouch for it's authenticity, but it sure tastes good! Great little spot on the fringes of the South Beach hot spots. When I was there there was a little 3 piece band playing some Haitian/Afrobeat music. I would definitely go there again.
(4)Dennis W.
Tap Tap came highly recommended. We arrived after Art Basel on a Sunday. The place was packed, the small bar/waiting room was elbow to elbow with a very laid back friendly crowd. Every conceivable place, the floor, ceiling, walls, tables and chairs are painted with scenes, murals or words in colorful paint. Very interesting. The staff greeted us, wrote down our name, "ten minute wait no problem" Mohitos were ordered which were excellent. Forty five minutes later after inquiring about the wait list, we were seated in the very back room which was half full of diners. The other diners had one waiter, we had a darling Haitian waitress who had just us. (ominous sign) She promptly came, and advised us to get the Shrimp in Coconut milk, the whole- fish Red Snapper which came with beans and rice, we also ordered the excellent Tap Tap salad with mango, watercress, tomato and a basil based dressing. We ate the salad then waited a L O N G time for the entrees. Finally...the entrees came, the shrimp dish was excellent and the coconut sauce with red bell peppers was incredible, but the medium size shrimp were only six in number. The whole fish (head on) snapper was cooked artfully but not the easiest to eat due to the bones. It was excellent. We traded bites and used some of the coconut sauce on the snapper. Tasty. Then another long wait, and wait. Finally the waitress showed and recited the desert menu. For desert we ordered Haitian cake, along with coconut sorbet; the cake came first, it was good but dry, and needed the sorbet, yet the sorbet came a good seven minutes later. The . The sorbet by itself was refreshing but did have much flavor. Then another wait for the check. The whole thing came to $92, food, drinks, tax and the added 18% tip. The problem with the mandatory added tip is there is no incentive to excel, certainly no reason to hustle. We might go back, and try something else and hope to get another waiter. We got there at 7:30, left after 10:00, the place was mostly empty by then. Other reviews mention the slow service, it really was the worst we have experienced in a long time.
(3)Forrest D.
As far as I know we don't have any haitian food in LA, although we probably do. This was my first experience and I loved it when I ate here about 20 years ago, and never forgot the place. When we visited with friends, we had to come and it didn't disappoint. I read some reviews here that call this Hiatian lite and it may be but that doesn't diminish the tastiness of the food. Sometimes authenticity is only good to those who grow up on it. For example, my wife is Chinese and she and her family love some restaurants that serve traditional chinese food that truth be told isn't very good. I don't mean because I don't like traditional food, I mean sometimes food changes for the better when it changes and the original is comfort food for those that grew up on it but noone else. So while this may not be truly authentic Hiatian food, it is really tasty and be aware, quite hot if you order certain dishes. In fact one of the spiciest dishes I ever had came from here, although I don't remember what it was. The goat and fish dishes are very good, and I love the shrimp. Service is always extremely slow here but the rooms are all delightfully painted with fantastical murals and designs. For those who didn't enjoy, it's always a good idea to read the reviews most restaurants post as they usually tell what's good. That's the first thing I do when we try a new place, as well as looking up reviews and it rarely leads us astray. All in all I'm looking forward to trying some truly authentic Hiatian food to see how it compares. In the meantime... Food - A- Ambience - A+ Service - B- Value - A-
(5)Rob C.
2.5 stars for food sorry, this place is overrated. No one can deny that the restaurant is interesting however; it's like a miami institution. colorful mural artwork adorn the walls, great energy and music fill the air. ambiance may create a memorable experience but it didn't help with the food for me. caveat, i was full and only sampled appetizers... nice soursop juice (same as guanabana) had the pumpkin soup -- tasted like a can based broth fritay appetizer plate -- items either too dry or just fried mush (green cilantro sauce was ok) okra stew -- bland, all the flavors were not as bold as i thought they would be i'd go to little haiti for haitian food...but for the "experience," like most everything on sobe, you should come here.
(3)Diana N.
Tap Tap is really off the beaten path. I spoke with the restaurant manager and he told me that the restaurant has been around for over 15 years! It's pretty traditional Haitian food and if you don't know what to get, you should ask the waitress for recommendations. Prices are good, service is pretty consistent.
(4)Andrew P.
Excellent simple Hatian cuisine. The best mojitos in Miami made with hatian rum. Get the whole fish.
(4)Pavel D.
Best haitian food I have ever had. Much better than any of NYC's offerings
(5)dayna c.
I loved this restaurant. I might be biased because I am highly persuaded by bright colors, but our experience was great. We were on vacation and I was looking for restaurants with vegetarian options. Although they were out of a lot of things, it was late and I'm guessing they had been busy, all I wanted was the spinach dish. It was sooooo good. I can't even begin to explain it, like I would fly back to Miami yummy. Seriously.
(5)Ernesto L.
Great hole in the wall place with some really good food. I went on yelp to find a great bite without walking around in the heat. Read the reviews and thought we'd try it out. Amazing! Try the fresh squeezed limeade. I had the chicken with rice, beans, and plantains. Very good! Will definitely go back next time I'm in town.
(5)Eric S.
Really cool atmosphere, fun bar, interesting (in a good way) food. I'm a flatlander who was down in Miami for work, and decided to try the first Haitian meal of my life. I tried the kingfish with coconut sauce, which was delicious. Staff were extremely friendly.
(4)Charlie U.
Yearning for a semi-authentic dining experience? Try Tap Tap with its great Haitian dishes served in a ramshackle setting complete with colorful murals and sleepy looking guys sitting on the front porch. The food never fails. Especially good fish preparation. Relax and enjoy the slow service. You'll start to believe you've been magically transported out of South Beach and landed in Port-au-Prince.
(4)Patricia d.
Incredibly delicious food, that makes you feel like you're eating at your Aunt's house - especially if you're Filipino. Okay, give or take a few ingredients...lime instead of kalamansi...and butter instead of vegetable oil (I'm guessing that's the French influence on Haiti)... Menu Drinks - hubby had the mojito...DE-LISH! I had the Sitronad, which is basically lime-aid...also yummy! Our server gave a warning that it might be too sour, but I make my own kalamansi juice and try not to use too much sugar, so for me - it was perfect. Appetizer - we had the Akra (Malanga fritters)...good. A little too bread-y for my preference, but we still ate it all. The sauce that came with it was amazing!!! We were hoping for more heat, and found it in the jar of pickled something-or-others on the table...but honestly, it wasn't that hot. Main Course - I had the whole fish in lime sauce...uh, I pretty much finished it all. I would only recommend this if you're used to dealing with the fish bones, otherwise, get the fish fillet in the same sauce. My hubby had the Griyo, which is a pork dish. He also finished his meal - I mean almost licked the plate clean. Dessert - we had the Blan Mange. Completely yummy coconut dessert, kind of like jello in consistency and they serve it with mango slices. If you're Filipino, you'll think it tastes like Maja Blanca...it also kind of looks like it, minus the toasted coconut sprinkles on top. If you live in Miami, I hope you're eating here at least twice a month. If you're visiting Miami, save your appetite for a big meal here!! You will LOVE it!!
(4)Leslie W.
Good service and solid good food. The grouper was excellent. So many locals streaming through these doors, you can't go wrong with a local fave.
(4)Ryan K.
Wow, as if Miami couldn't be any better! Talk about awsesome food! Never had Haitian food before. It was amazing. Absalutely amazing! The service was great. the restaurant was clean. Good recommendations from the server. I'll make it a point to visit this restaurant every time I come back to Miami! And hopefully I'll be back SOON!
(5)Asher B.
This place is full of character and characters. The mojitos lived up to the hype and the stewed goat just melted. I came back several times during my South Beach stay. Delicious and highly recommended!!! Stay for the band if you can, it is worth it and maybe you will get hungry enough to eat more of the wonderful food too. Seriously what more are you looking for?
(5)E. Y.
We went there a few days ago because it was recommended on Diners, drive in &dives show on food network. It was a disappointment. First of all the service was slow. We waited about 20min to get some bread and then about 50 min to get our food. I can understand if it was crowded but it was not. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce..the sauce was good. Also had the pork chunks dish and the free range chicken...both were okay... Not that flavorful. The plantains were tasteless and dry..needed sugar on them. We had to go out to the car to put more coins for parking because service was so slow. There was also no close parking. Last thing was that the 18% gratuity was automatically tacked onto the bill..which I would not have complained about if the service given was good, but it was so slow, they did not deserve the tip!! I would not go back again.
(1)Cristy M.
Long story short: I didn't know I was on a "date" until half-way through dinner. Oops. My bad. In the end, it didn't work out for the guy. For me, on the other hand, it totally did. Tap Tap is a great little Haitian restaurant that you've probably driven by a million times if you've ever come off the MacCarthur Causeway to go to Miami Beach, namely South Beach. I've had a Haitian close friend for over a decade and it had never occurred to me to ask her what Haitian cuisine was because, for whatever reason, it hadn't dawned on me that there WAS a Haitain cuisine. Big mistake. Apparently, not only is there Haitian food, but there is Haitian-style food, and this place is the only place that I've ever been to where I've eaten it. For that, I can't give much of a foodie kind of review. Instead, I'm going to stick with the ambiance of the place and how generally enjoyable just eating there is. It's been a while since I've been to Tap Tap but, I'm not gonna lie, I always want to go. This might have been perhaps the best place a guy had ever taken me to dine on a date and that's saying a lot. Being there is almost like being at someone's residence. It's comfy and quaint and really personal. It's not showy or hip or any of the stuff that places like this fall at the risk of being. Instead, it's just a great place to have a bite and chat while you eat. Good for every one. Damn, now I wanna go back. Date or no date. Considering the last guy, I might as well go with friends. Note: At the time, I was a strict ova-lacto vegetarian and was able to find a selection from which to order.
(3)Jull Y.
Food is pretty good. But not feeling the included tip on the bill... So one star off.
(3)Sabrina Anna C.
This is such an intereting little place! The artwork and general vibe/set up is very Caribbean and tropical. It always has a fun crowd, good music and excellent cocktails! Great place on a Thursday or Friday night. There's the live band The food is exquisite, with interesting selctions. Their seafood is always fresh and a great way to go with your meal selection! I enjoy the seafood, the plantain dishes, and the Conch (classic!). The first time I came here was in 2005. Love it! This place is excellent for anyone from locals to tourists! Just a great time, fun spot, and excellent meal! :)
(4)IGOR B.
Are you in Miami? Do you wanna try something different and very local? Go! Nothing fancy but real Haitian food. Everything is fresh and the venue is very Hiati style. Haitian paints on the walls, haitian music, good MOJTO and not expensive at all! Colors colors colors and friendly ppl! Try it!
(4)Maria C.
I think this place is pretty good. I had some sort of white fish which was just so very tender and soft. Simple. Yet good. Did not eat the rice or beans. They were dry. We had some deep fried sweet potatoes and plantains for appetizers. Nice and crispy. I also remember this green sauce being very tasty. We sat right in front of the band. The whole place had a mellow but somewhat sad overtone, though, despite the colorful walls and great character of the place. The owner was SUPER nice. Drinks are cheap. Good stuff.
(4)Amy S.
Adorable atmosphere, with colorful painted chairs and beautiful murals around the restaurant. The music was also great. Definitely gets points for being a clean, attractive, relaxing restaurant. Service was friendly, though slow. We arrived mid-afternoon and were among maybe five patrons, but still waited a while to place our order and get our check. Though we were a party of three, our gratuity was added automatically, which is something that bugs me. I typically tip much more than the suggested gratuity, but this always deters me. I've found it more typical in southern Florida than anywhere else in the country, so maybe I'm just missing something. The food quality was excellent; the shrimp in creole sauce was fresh, with the best texture and flavor I've had. My brother enjoyed his pork as well. The rum punch I ordered was nothing special, especially at the price. On food and atmosphere alone, I'd give five stars. Service, drinks, and price considered; I would say Tap Tap is a nice place, I would definitely give it another chance on that shrimp alone.
(3)Mike S.
I've been here a few times and the food is nothing to yelp about. The conch salad tasted "off" and gave me some heaves. The pork dish I saw on Triple D was a little overcooked, dry, and stringy. The coconut shrimp has a hint of aluminum, maybe they could use better cookware. The grouper was overcooked as well. The food may have been good in the past but the management needs to focus on fresher food and better quality control.
(2)Del M.
Stepping into this place which is right in the middle of the hectic and posh life of Miami Beach is like walking into another world. From the decoration to the friendly staff to the amazing smells emanating from the kitchen you are transported into another dimension. I learned about this place from Triple D's on the Food Network and it was worth the trip. I had the Snapper which was exquisite, along amazing drinks and a unique desserts. I have not been back in a while, but I am looking forward to the day I return.
(4)Tiffany A.
Why didn't i try this place sooner?? It's around the corner from my apartment... I met a friend for dinner there last week and I felt like I was reminded of one of my favorite bars in SF... (little baobab which is a senegalese bar/restaurant)...The decor was great... bright, colorful, just like being on the islands.. The food here at tap tap however was EXCELLENT.... i ordered the shrimp in coconut sausce triple YUMMMMM and the conch salad appetizer... they say it's spicy but I grew up on mexican food so it didn't faze me... my friend added that the conch was reasonably priced and joked 'did they smuggle it in from Haiti to get it so cheap?' lol... I didn't try the mojito but i need to... i'm only taking a star off because it was a bit hot in there.... it would have been nice to be a bit more comfy while i ate, that's all but all in all I loved it here and definitely recommend it to folks who are in Miami as a 'must do'.... The icing on the cake was the friends I made at the bar.... (where you can have a great time if your flying solo)... there were actually 2 single diners seated there who i chatted with while i waited for my friends.. we even created our own 'click' of iphone users... too funny!!! I love that this place attracts cool people!!! Must return next week.. must return!
(4)Tony T.
Came for a late dinner and they ran out of a few things including goat. Tried the melange fritters which were lightly fried. The watercress sauce that came with the fritters was both spicy and sour and it was a nice mix. Had the conch that came in a salad. The conch salad was fresh, spicy, sour and chewy. For dinner had the shrimp in creole sauce, which was tomato based. The shrimp were well seasoned and cooked perfectly. Also tried the chicken stew. The chicken was tender but a little dry and the stew was very good. The fried fish was great. It was fried nicely on the outside but was tender on the inside. The sauce that came with the fish was sour and spicy. Also tried the griyot and the pork was well cooked and not too dry. The dish also had onions and red bell peppers. The mixed rice and beans were good but the rice was a little dry. It was the best place I tried on my Miami trip. The decor is colorful and the paintings on the wall were cool to look at as we ate. The service was fine and they had a Kenyan beer (Tusker) which was pretty good.
(4)Deb L.
This was the first time I'd ever tried Haitian food. A friend and I shared two entrees- *shrimp with coconut sauce *stewed conch We asked the waiter what "conch" was, to which he answered "a type of shellfish." As we both love shellfish, we decided to give it a try. It was so tender, soft, and chewy. After looking it up on wikipedia, conch is actually a saltwater snail : ) The entrees came with a side of rice and beans and a piece of plaintain. There was a spicy coleslaw-like side dish on all the tables (super spicy) that went well with the bread that was served.
(4)Miriam F.
Definitely a must try restaurant!! Haitian food is not for everyone though... but I was a fan! For appetizers we had the fried platter, malanga fritters, and the conch! All of it was amazing... I cant pick a favorite... it was all good!! My recommendation for dinner is the shrimp in coconut sauce (note: this is not your average coconut sauce.. it is very sweet!) and the grilled goat dish. Also, the pork chops were very good. When you order any of the seafood, please not they will not take of tails or heads... but it is very fresh and delicious! Prices were ok... about $20 a entree. For drinks, it is imperative that you have a Mojito, the rum is amazing and very smooth. (However, I am not a rum expert). Enjoy!
(4)Olle P.
I'd seen the place on the check please show and we tried it for lunch on a very quiet Saturday. We ordered conch and mango watercress salad for starters and for mains shrimp in creole sauce and the goat stew. The food took way to long to arrive, especially considering that the place was nearly empty. Fortunately their mojitos are good and that amde the wait more bearable. Except for the shrimps the food was pretty bland and boring. I really can't recommend the place for the food, which is sad because the place has a cool Caribbean vibe and could be so much more. Maybe I'll come back on a busy evening just for a drink and hopefully some music, but I will have eaten my dinner before I arrive.
(2)Rick P.
Food and service were great. Portions were perfect. I had the stewed conch and corn meal, and m wife had stewed beef Kalalu and rice and peas. The Haitian Mojito was great. I would have preferred the Kremas but they were out, they were also out of beignet. Disappointed about that but I would definitely go back. Wish that a Haitian Restaurant this good in L.A.
(4)Pachuco K.
What a joke this place is. Yes the food is good --but not all the foods on the menu are authentic Haitian recipes. The first time I went with some family members, some of us ordered the griot, (fried pork chunks) they came back with pork chunks in sauce !!!!!!!!! We left without touching the food. They figured they would change the recipes to FIT the AMERICAN taste buds.!!!!!!!!!! Not surprising since the owners are NOT HAITIANS. I went back many years later and they now serve Fried pork chunks ( I guess too many complaints from real Haitians). But I still think most of their food and taste are spiced down, and they also serve other things on the menu not usually found on the island. But, then again it is on Miami Beach, -------tourist heaven..............
(1)Sharon S.
What a great Haitian ethnic opportunity for me at Tap Tap. The place is very island-ly colorful and very much relaxing. The food is outstanding! I would have to say that I have never been disappointed in any of the culinary delights I have sampled. The watercress sauce is out of this world tasty! I would love to have a recipe for this so when I make akra it will be more enjoyable. The staff are very personable and pleasant beings from the management on down. Just remember that the parking is a few steps down the alley from the actual restaurant.
(5)JoAnn D.
Tap Tap was recommended to me by coworkers and it did not disappoint! My entire group of 6 had never tried Haitian food and we are all hooked! I had the stewed beef with okra with rice and beans and malanga fritters. The stewed beef was amazinf but the malanga fritters were definitely my favorite. Soooo delicious! We went for lunch due to scheduling but this place is probably best for dinner.
(4)Eric B.
Let me start by saying, there is no valet or lot parking available here. That means you have to try to find street parking nearby. That's not always easy, especially on the weekends. However, I encourage you to please do whatever you need to do, just make sure you get to Tap Tap! It is definitely worth the effort. Besides, the walk to the restaurant will allow you to justify dessert. And, you must have dessert! The service here is very personable. Guilo (I hope I spelled it correctly) was our server. Not only did he take the time to explain the menu and make recommendations, he took the time to learn our names. That made us feel like we were guests in his home. Nice touch. The food was amazing. While we had eaten Haitian food before, this was head and shoulders above anything we had before. We tried the Plat Fritay and 4 different dishes and all were spectacular. The griyo was the stand out dish. We had 3desserts and we were glad we chose to splurge. My sweetheart said the pineapple upside down cake reminded her of her aunt's. That is a high honor. To sum it all up, Tap Tap is top notch.
(5)Johane M.
Came here with my husband for our anniversary. This restaurant is in a great location but parking is a bit hard to find. The decor in the place is sooooo...Haitian-bold colors, lively, and beautiful. The drinks and food were delicious at a reasonable price. Our waitress was slow but professional and friendly. I will definitely be back and recommend it for a nice dinner out with friends or a date!!!
(4)Sandra A.
No Parking! It took forever to get my food. Staff was friendly, however they did not warn their customers that there was a chance of getting TOWED. There is only alley parking (which is still not legal) and the only parking lot is a private one. The food itself is mediocre ....not very authentic (I am Haitian). My car was towed and as I made calls to find out where my car was, another customers car was towed. When I went back inside, the staff basically stated that the towing fee should be about $150. Why not warn your customers AHEAD of time. $280 later......I will not go there again. There are cheaper Haitian restaurants with actually awesome food in Miami.
(1)Jeff J.
Tap Tap is my go-to restaurant every time I am in Miami. The menu is unique (Haitian) and everything is wonderful. The conch ceviche is excellent. And the stewed chicken and conch creole are standouts. The restaurant is colorful and lively and absolutely worth a visit.
(5)Rachel L.
Absolutely amazing. The stewed chicken and cornmeal was crazy good. We also loved the herring spaghetti. The best mohito I have ever had!! Glad I had it, BC it was quite a nice allow burn from the chicken. We are Totally coming back when in Miami again.
(5)Jennifer O.
You have to try the stewed goat. This is my first Haitian restaurant that I have ever tried, but the goat stew is so good! Another option we tried was the is grouper in lime sauce - it was so flavorful! The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. Our bartender (Monica) was so cool, talkative, and explained everything to us. Parking is the biggest issue here. We parked in the parking garage about 4 blocks from the restaurant as there is no on-site parking.
(4)Lauren O.
Omg goat stew and pumpkin soup are what I dream about .. Now that I'm thinking about it I wanna go tonight ..,
(5)Steve S.
It takes you "right to the island." From drinks to dessert all of our senses were pleasantly transported (although patron loudness was a bit much). Great little find!
(4)Larry R.
We ate here after visiting South Beach. Saw a recommendation on Diners Drive Ins and Dives App. I lived in Haiti off and on as a child. Grew up on haitian cuisine. This restaraunt reminded me so much of the food I ate 25 years ago. I love the creole sauce with goat. Definitely will be coming back when I'm nearby again.
(5)Francisco T.
I had this place bookmarked for over 2 years. I was really excited about this place, but I was let down. I touched down from NYC and headed straight to TapTap. I was there around 3pm, the place was practically empty. I walked in and met with hostess who sat us down at a outdoor table as per request. 15 minutes later of siting outside in the scorching heat, and crack heads walking up to us, I requested to change our table. We set inside inside hoping for some AC, but it was hot as balls in there. We waited about 30 minutes before the waiter acknowledged us, she took our order at which time I ordered a appetizer that never arrived. I ordered the Oxtail, which was delicious but only included 3 peices of oxtail and considering its mostly bone it was practically nothing. I was left hungry. The check included the appetizer that I never received and TIP INCLUDED. I'm very generous but theres nothing more annoying than Gratuity included. I was still going to leave a tip but the waiter didn't even bring us water while waiting all that time I like to have that choice. I wish I would of had a difference experience here. I was so hyped that I texted my Haitian friends a picture of the menu when I got there, after leaving I thought to myself: I hope they dont ask me about it.
(2)Jlin L.
It was alright.
(3)Marie-Alice D.
Decor reminded me of Haiti, service avg. I ordered the oxtail, and didn't like the sauce it came with. It wasn't seasoned enough, asked to have gyros instead, same issue. My family is Haitian and my expectations were too high,. I was visiting MIA, and expected more, I was definitely disappointed by the food. The food is definitely made for tourists.
(2)Jose M.
We start with Evans, which is amazing at what he does... We then go to the menu, which is well explained and so full of amazing plates!! The mojitos are good, freshly made, and the Akra, the goat, the shrimp in coconut broth are amazing!!! Also, best pumpkin soup I ever had!! Truly authentic island food!!!
(5)Kevin C.
Best Haitian food in Miami! Most expensive Haitian food in Miami! This place is not that expensive but I guess it's more indicative of the fact that there are few if any expensive Haitian restaurants in Miami. Dishes are between $14-22, which isn't bad because what you get is absolutely delicious. The first time I came I had the goat stew and the second time I came I had the fresh fish. Both were cooked with incredibly flavorful unique sauces, curry based for the fish. The entire restaurant is brightly decorated with murals depicting various daily activities of Haiti from riding a bus to harvesting crops. I highly recommend this restaurant if you want some authentic delicious food. Also another client, kindly recommended coming for live music on Thursdays.
(5)Unyime E.
Simply outstanding restaurant. Best mojitos I had while in Miami Beach (without paying the average $17 in the area). The goat stew (kabrit nan sos) was something to sing about. Each bite was packed with bold and complex flavors that I'm still thinking about two weeks after the fact. The accompanying rice was perfectly prepared and deserves as much appreciation as the stew. I should also mention that the spicy marinated conch (lanbi pike nan ji sitwon) was equally as tasty with a very strong citrus acidity. It really activated your taste buds for the main entrée. Service was exemplary. I cannot wait to visit this place again during my next trip to Miami. Great value for the money. A must-stop if you're in the area.
(5)Lesley W.
I had heard they had the "Best Mojito," and I was excited to try a completely new cuisine! I wasn't sure what to expect, but the decor was beautiful. They had gorgeous murals and art covering almost every inch of the walls. It really made you feel like you were stepping into a different world. Back to that mojito. It was good, but extremely sweet. I have a major sweet tooth and this was pushing it. I had the shrimp with coconut sauce and rice. Before I get to the shrimp.....THAT RICE. This is the best rice I have ever eaten in my entire life. Sounds weird, but it was that phenomenal to me. How do you make rice that delicious? In similar fashion, the shrimp with coconut sauce was super rich and amazing. It had a good combination of spices too. I'm not even sure you are supposed to eat all the coconut sauce (calorie alert) but I put it on my already favorite rice in the world and pretty much died. Delicious! The reason this isn't 5 star is the service. It took us a while to get each part of the meal, especially drinks and waters. They seemed overwhelmed and lacked some professionalism.
(4)Lingbo J.
Very good food. The salad that came with the pork was the best I have ever had. I didn't know what the dressing was but it was amazing. I really loved the vibrant color of the restaurant. Fit right in to the art deco district.
(5)Randall T.
Large Haitian community in Miami. This is one of their hangouts. Creole food was very good. Loved the murals on the wall. It's a bit out of the way for South Beachers, but worth it.
(4)Jessie H.
I got the iced coffee and Shrimp Coconut. The coconut sauce is BOMB. My only complaint is that there isn't enough shrimp. Service is friendly. There's not alot of spaces outside , probably like 2-3 tables so that kind of sucks.
(4)Michelle P.
I usually don't like Haitian restaurants because I've been spoiled by my mothers good cooking :-) but I really enjoyed the food here. Everything tasted fresh and the portions were perfect.
(5)Pierre D.
Best Haitian food I've had in a long time.
(5)Minty M.
Consistently good Haitian food in South Beach. Great dirty mojitos, beans with cornmeal, shrimp in coconut milk. Fun atmosphere although it could use a facelift. Service typically great although kitchen can get backed up on busy nights.
(4)Nadine R.
Being Haitian I did not think I would be this impressed with a Haitian restaurant. Everything we had was great. Actually I'm still eating but had to write this. The Fritay platter is amazing especially with the goat. My friend had a whole fried fish which was spectacular. I got the griot with rice and plaintain and it was quite tasty. The icing on the cake is the great sauces you receive. The watercress sauce and to malice we're my favorite.
(5)Joe T.
Lovvvved the legim (stewed vegetables)! I wish I could make that myself. :-) So much better than I would imagine stewed vegetables could taste! Cool decorations on the wall. LIVE MUSIC! Great pasta, too!
(3)Swatee G.
Loved the ambiance here! I have never been to the caribbean, but it totally felt like I was there! The huge murals on the walls are awesome! Had the half chicken, which was good, the sides were yummy. My rum punch was not yum at all :( too bitter for me..! Service was good, the patrons seems to be locals. It was a good experience! :) Oh the corn on the cob.. excellent! :p
(4)Jane R.
Came here for my first meal in Miami. So glad that we all went despite what felt like a very long walk. It's not super close to Ocean Drive. It's a large restaurant with so many different rooms - all different colors with murals on the wall and multicolored tables and chairs. Of course I ended up getting pork chunks with rice and beans (or called Griyo). Individual pork chunks were not as big as I expected. The rice and beans were red rice with black beans mixed in. Overall it was a delicious dish. My friend ordered the Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (or the stewed beef and okra with a side of cornmeal). It was amazing! I love pork but I wish I got this dish. The cornmeal with the beef stew complimented each other perfectly. When we came here on a Saturday night, we were seated promptly and there was live music going on in the back dining room. I'd would definitely return to try out the rest of the menu.
(4)Melody T.
Its pretty good! Heard a lot about this place! Stopped in and its of Miami's low key food spots
(3)Trey S.
Went here a week ago, and I still can't get over how awful this place was. Arrived right as they opened last Saturday afternoon and was able to be seated immediately. A nice young lady came right over to our table and took our drink orders. Even more impressive, she went behind the bar and made the drinks as well. The problem came in the amount of time it took us to get our food. It appeared that even though they were technically open, they really weren't ready to begin serving patrons warm, good-tasting meals in a timely fashion. After about 25min of waiting, our server came over and said they didn't have the spaghetti ready for the dish my nephew ordered. It took WELL OVER 45min for our food to finally arrive. The second problem came in the taste of our food. In a word, BLAND. I ordered the shrimp dish, with rice. I mean it was warm and tasted homemade. Does that make it good?? Not in my book. ...Nope, I won't be back..
(1)Wen K.
Might just be this one encounter but nonetheless it was terrible. Server who we found out was apparently "new" messed up our order (maybe because she thought she was a boss and didn't bother writing it down?) and food took over an hour to come out, wrong. She forgot one person's order completely. Took forget just to get us water. Food itself was okay. Implemented an automatic 18% gratuity.
(2)Mimi M.
Don't go there if you're vegan. I'm used to not being able to eat most of the menu at places however there's usually something you can put together. Not here. The waitress thought the rice and beans had butter in it but she nor the cooks could confirm this. In fact, no one seemed to know for sure making me wonder where the food comes from. Even the plantains are cooked in the goat meat grease and they can't think of a way to not cook them in it. The waitress told me "their food is flavorful because it's made with butter." I didn't have the strength to argue with her about the unsolicited and ridiculous comment. When I went before I was vegan, the food was decent. Nothing too exceptional. You can get much cheaper at Latino/Jamaican restaurants -- it's all the same food (ox tail, whole fish, rice and beans) why pay more?
(2)kyle g.
This is for "online ordering" only. The online ordering is available at 11:00am, my order was done at 11:04am. Any reasonable person would expect an order relatively soon. It is now 12:48pm, and I called to inquire about wtf is my order, as its been over an hour and 40 minutes. Guy answers the phone and says there are no managers there yet, but to call back at 2:30pm to inquire about my order. I already paid. Are you fucking kidding me? 1:55pm. Its almost been 3 hours, still no word from this place. Clearly will never order from them online again.
(1)Lisa B.
I hate the fact the restaurant is located on South Beach, however, their food has yet to disappoint. I had tried a shrimp pasta that reminded me of my mother's cooking and an oxtail dish that was good. (My opinion: Jamaicans can kill an oxtail dish. Period. And I'm not Jamaican.) I would recommend this restaurant for good Haitian food.
(4)Maeve M.
The food was quite good and the atmosphere was better. They were really busy when we went but still gave us plenty of attention. We ordered a plate of fried things and it was unremarkable (although good--but show me fried carbs that aren't). But the beef stew I ordered! I can't stop thinking about it. It came with a side of split peas and a sided of cornmeal and the mix went so well together.
(4)Cat L.
Thank you for having us for lunch Tap Tap! The food: Appetizer -Akra (Malanga Fritters) Crispy deep fried Malanga Fritters served hot and fresh with a watercress dipping sauce. Made my tongue dance! Entrees -Griyo (Fried Pork Chunks) Delicious tender Fried Pork Chunks topped with onions and red bellpeppers -Pwason Neg (Grouper in lime sauce) Grilled tender and flaky Grouper topped with thick buttery slices of avocado. -Beef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Stewed Beef and Okra served with Cornmeal) Tender Stewed Beef with creamy Cornmeal was just the perfect pairing. All of the entrees above were served with sides of Diri Kole (mixed rice and beans) and Banann Peze (fried plantains). We also ordered a side of Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (Spinach in Coconut Sauce) Spinach mixed with a rich and creamy coconut sauce, also delicious drizzed over your Diri Kole! Beverages -Our lovely server had given each of us a refreshing glass of iced grapefruit water with slices of lime. It was so delicious. -Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian Coffee) Being the Coffeeholic that I am I decided to order one. It was served in a very tiny ceramic red coffee cup and saucer with a side of brown sugar for sweetness. The server had told us that there was a method of making this small yet very strong coffee inwhich insured the fresh taste. The coffee had a punch to it which I did not mind one bit :). The Service Our server was a sweetheart. She was very welcoming, warm and was very helpful to answering our questions about the menu items. Gosh, I wish I remembered her name. I must say our overall experience was above average, from the very wholesome decor of the rocking chair in the front to the colorful paintings on the wall, tables and chairs that made us feel as if we were dining outside someone's home in Haiti, to our delicious Haitian meal served by our lovely server. We left with smiles and very happy belly's. Till we meet again, Tap Tap. ;)
(5)Russell H.
great food, portions could be a little bigger, ask for extra everything...bread, pickled salsa service good atmosphere varies, too bright! could be great, if they let there hair out, more music... park on street by walgreens, 25 cents per 10 minutes
(4)Cindy E.
Cool spot in miami ! Authentic Haitian food delicious:) ! The mojitos are a must ! Loved the art work thru out the whole restaurant
(5)L H.
Goat stew and whole steamed snapper were delicious and the staff was super friendly and helpful. If you're not sure what to order, you can count on them to lead you in the right direction. As a general rule, I've found that prices in restaurants in Miami are ridiculous- but at least the food and service at Tap Tap were good enough that I didn't feel robbed.
(4)Adam Y.
Another great experience at Tap Tap. Food amazing, atmosphere so cool and service is just right. Ask to order your dishes spicy, this will add the little bit of kick the dishes need to take it to the next level. Tap Tap spicy is like a mild to medium spicy at most other places. The entire building is painted to reflect the culture of Haiti from the ceilings to the floor plus all the tables and chairs in between, the entire place is one giant piece of art. Once you get used to looking at all the art in the different rooms, get ready for some really good food. Start off with a specialty cocktail, the drinks are good and strong, then try the pumpkin soup, or my favorite, but you will have to eat with your hands if you want to get the authentic experience, the free range chicken and finally try some of the coconut shrimp.
(4)K K.
Want some Haitian food??? Don't come here. Go have some good Cuban food instead. Service was very slow and below average for a empty restaurant. They add on extra charges probably expecting ppl to not look on the bill. They also charge you more on the bill then what's on the menu. Food was decent at best. Love trying new places, but this was a disappointment.
(1)Vicky V.
I have never had Haitian food, but while taking a cab from the airport we ask the native which place was the best. He highly recommended. Great food, nice service and I Love the wall art. Do visit! It's worth it.
(4)Jordan N.
I guess this place is good for tourists. And the Reggae vibe. But as far as food goes, it still pales to the real thing I can get in Little Haiti and for less. The mojito ($9) is good but you can't compare it with the other mojitos around town - simply because it's different. The stew chicken ($12) was good and the shrimp in coconut sauce ($16) was surprisingly unimpressive. The portions were not very big except for the sides. They played live music that was fun and the crowd seem to enjoy dancing to it. This place is good for the tourists that would like to sample and get an idea of what Haitian food is about without leaving South Beach. As for the locals, hit the road and go up on Miami's NE or NW 2nd Avenue for the real deal.
(3)Zephiel M.
This was my second time going to Tap Tap. My first experience was pretty good. I ordered the Poul Boukanen (grilled chicken) my first time and it was pretty good. My second visit to this restaurant was just spectacular. I went with a group of friends in which together we tried the Pwason Gwosel (while fried fish), Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye ( shrimp in creole sauce), and the Griyo (fries pork chunks). Eat dish was served with a side of rice and beans along with one piece of fried plantains. The fried pork chunks were absolutely succulent. Along with the sauce provided, it was simply delicious and it was cooked just right so that the exterior was just crunchy enough without sacrificing the juiciness of the interior. The shrimp was also very good, albeit nothing too special. The sauce provides just the right amount of subtle flavoring to the shrimp. As for the fish. The fish (market priced) was an astonishing $25. It was definitely overpriced considering I can get a larger fish at La Carreta for under $20. That being said, it was a very delicious fried fish. It was cooked just right so that the fish meat acquired that almost fluffy look and texture. The seasoning and the breeding were also quite delicious and quite unique if I might add. Overall it was damn good. As for the rice and beans, they were quite delicious as well. They contained a subtle flavoring that allowed one to not have to focus all their attention to the spices but rather that allowed one to dedicate more attention to the texture and natural flavors of the rice and beans. It was delicious. The fried plantain was pretty generic and I could find better fried plantains elsewhere. As for the environment, well the actual restaurant is quite beautiful. A variety of flavors of art adorn the walls of Tap Tap. It is undoubtedly one of the most colorful restaurants you can come across full of murals, knitted portraits, sculptures, and paintings full of depictions of Haitan culture. Tap Tap is a great restaurant and one that is highly recommended. Just watch out for those prices.
(5)Jency M.
Real cool spot In miami.. Went there with my haitian friend, and tried lots of good food..everything we had was awesome, and tasty!
(4)Sam G.
Food was good, but would have been better if served hot instead of barely lukewarm. Service was horrible. I have grown to very much dislike the Miami Beach custom of adding the tip to the check. In this case a 5% tip would have been generous.
(2)Isabelle G.
Such an eclectic place filled with character that you would never know from the outside! I've never had Haitian food and now I think I've been a bit spoiled! We ordered the mojitos and they didn't disappoint, so refreshing and cooling. We ordered the akra for appetizer which was fabulous, the amazing dipping sauce, I wish they sold it by the gallon! I will be going back on a Saturday to enjoy the live music, looks to be an awesome spot for a Saturday night!
(5)Janice R.
We tried this restaurant based on 4 star Yelp reviews. I disagree. We went on a Tuesday night around 7:15 PM. The restaurant was mostly empty. At least three of the dishes we wanted were not available--no fish, no shrimp. Really?? We ordered the beef stew, grilled conch, and pork. I can't say I was impressed by any of them. The conch had a good flavor, but was tough. The pork also had a good flavor, but seemed overcooked and dry. The beef was bland. The only dish I liked a lot was the the malanga appetizer with dip. Even the plantains, which I was excited about, were overcooked and hard to eat. The recommended Mojito with loads of fresh mint leaves was delicious. My husband and son ordered these and I kept sneaking sips of theirs. I ordered one of the fruity drinks, which was half the size (a small Martini glass perhaps?) and I couldn't taste any alcohol. It was very sweet and overpriced at $10. I agree with the slow service and servers basically ignoring us for about 15-20 minutes despite passing us many times. No one greeted us or said be back in a minute. Once a server did come, he was delightful, writing down our names and making recommendations. The paintings on the wall are great and very interesting and colorful. But I would not return.
(2)Parry B.
YOU MUST EAT THE CABRIT (GOAT STEW)! This was my first restaurant during my first time visit to Miami on the first day of my trip :) Saw the review on Yelp and decided to come here. I liked the food so much that I went here again on the last day of my Miami visit. DECOR: The interior of Tap Tap is very average and doesn't have any lavish interior. It is simple and sticks to it's traditional Haitian ambience. It is clean! FOOD: DO NOT TRY THE MOJITO and HAITIAN COLA! I have seen lot of people recommending the Haitian Mojito however, I do not recommend it. The Mojito costs $8 per glass and doesn't taste as good as its price. Also, the Haitian Cola tastes like DayQuil cough syrup. And, it was not a Cola. It was some fruit cocktail. We ordered the Cabrit (Haitian Goat Stew) which is served with fried plantains and rice and beans. The restaurant did not have beans so the Goat Stew was served with rice and peas. The dish was very very tasty and finger licking good. One dish is enough for two adults if you order a side of rice and beans with it. For desserts, the waitress recommended her favorite, the Sweet Potato Pudding Cake. That was tasty too. Infact, it was unusual with the flavor of ginger, grated coconut and scotch bonnet peppers in a sweet cake. Bread and butter is served complimentary. SERVICE: The waitresses are very friendly and they recommend you their popular items. The food was served within 15-20 minutes from the time ordered. Lunch menu is served round the clock. I went at 5.30 pm and had lunch there. If you go at peak lunch/ dinner hours, the quality of food served is better. PRICE: Not a pricey restaurant. Mojito was expensive $8 per glass, goat stew was $17 and Haitian Cola was $3. Our total was $30 without tips. MY ONLY DISAPPOINTMENT WAS THAT I FOUND A HAIR IN THE GOAT STEW! This happened during my second visit at Tap Tap. I don't expect much on their standards since it is not a STAR rated restaurant. This place is like Dives!
(4)Carl A.
Dined at Tap Tap last night. Food was great and our server Gary was really nice and friendly. Will definitely be going back!
(4)Marc D.
a hidden gem in South Beach. best mojito in town, get the whole fish in the sauce for an amazing and very flavorful meal. the quality of the meals far outweighs the pricelist :-)
(5)Erica G.
Oh my god, this mojito changed my life! Ok, not my life, but at that moment, it made me so happy- there were bits of lime floating in it, and fresh mint with just the right amount of sugar cane. The shrimp in coconut sauce with red beans and rice was also amazing- I wanted to slurp my broth like soup, but I chose the more sophisticated method of adding it to my rice and beans. The flavors were amazing. I had to talk my friend into dining here, trying to explain that authentic cuisine is so much better than the tourist trap she wanted to go to- glad I won that argument!
(5)Angela M.
Had acra, lamei and kabrit as suggested by my girlfriend. They were all delicious! My friend is Hatian and she agrees! Nice atmosphere. Will come back when in Miami.
(5)Saiheng S.
I love the color and the goat soupï¼ Semilar to Mongolianï¼ you have to try this.love itï¼ and the ginger soup is good too. spicy. I love the free breadï¼ï¼ kkkkkkkkkk
(4)Abir H.
I would give this place 0 stars, except the foot was actually delicious. The service is rude and non-existent. After a great day on Miami Beach, I headed to Tap Tap on the recommendation of one of my best friends who used to live in Miami. He said I had to go eat here. After ordering a bottle of wine and our food, the waiter was no where to be seen. Finally 30 minutes later her comes by and says our food will take a little longer- which was fine, and he'll bring us more water. Here's where it gets bad, after bringing us our dishes, I again asked for more water (I usually like to drink a lot of water with dinner- especially when drinking wine). At this point I'd been there for an hour, and all 3 of our glasses were empty for at least 45 minutes. I asked him again for water, and he just walked away. Finally maybe 15 minutes after finishing our meal I got the attention of another female waiter who did bring us water maybe 15 minutes after that. While the food was good and we wanted desert, we weren't going to sit there any longer so we asked for the check. Unfortunately we had too. After asking for our check, we waited a solid 30 minutes...and still didn't get our check. Finally having to leave, I just walked up and found the waiter asking him to give me the check. He didn't even say sorry once and worse gave me an attitude for having approached him about it. So I said to him you could at least apologize to me, the customer who's paying a $100+ bill at the restaurant...and he just walked away. So I spoke to an assistant manager who offered us 3 free drinks if we came back again (which is never happening). I just said I simply wanted any apology. The assistant manager gets the waiter and he looks at me and says "I apologized to you twice I'm not apologizing again." And that was that. Never going back there. Absolutely worst service experience I've ever had...and I live in New York...
(1)Aubrey S.
Saw this place on Trippin Out with Allie and Georgia on the Food Network. We've never tried Haitian food, so thought we would check it out. I think the mojitos won an award, but they were pretty basic mojitos in my opinion. The water was infused with fruit and was really delicious. I got goat stew and my husband got braised beef and the food was really good. The decor/art/furniture was really cool. One star off for similar complaint as other reviewers...the service is just meh. We stood around the hostess stand for a while before someone came out. One person even saw us and walked away. Service was a little slow but nothing to keep me from coming back there.
(4)Candice C.
The only reason it didn't get 5 out of 5 is because of the lack of air conditioning however it is the best food I have had in South Beach in the 3 times that I've been there. Everyday is a new specialty rice and bean that is used which is nice for the person that goes there often but I really with I could've gotten the black rice that I'd been thinking about for weeks lol. Anywho the service was good, the food was excellent. I am not Haitian, but I know good food when I taste it. The interior art as well as the exterior gives you a feel for the culture. I loved it and recommend it and hope the business grows and expands to new places.
(4)Shirley Z.
Just not my thing I guess. :( After yelping/bothering every cab driver we had in SoBe. We finally ended up at this super down to earth restaurant that everyone's been raving about. Me and my boyfriend made it a goal of ours to hit up all the best reviewed dives/holes in the wall/ funky restaurants, and tap tap was unfortunately a miss for us. Pros: * Employees were super friendly and helpful with everything. * Best mojito I had in miami. * Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) was fried perfectly! The quality of the fish was fresh, tender and just perfectly cooked. * Love the mural and the use of all decors. It felt very sincere & authentic. * Spicy pickled cabbage was BOMB-DIGGITY! Cons: * Coming from the south, I am very spoiled by all the amazing fried food. Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creol dipping sauce) from Tap Tap was not my BFF. I was expecting the meat to be fried with a coat of batter, tender+juicy, and the dipping sauce to be more of a thicker/creamier texture. Boy was I wrong. It was the complete opposite. * Grito (fried pork/most popular dish) was cooked the same exact way as the Taso Kabrit. Not my cup of tea. *Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) although was fried perfectly. It lacked a bit of seasoning in my opinion. We so badly wanted to love the food but unfortunately it was not a win for us. Service & Authenticity: 4.5 stars food & taste: 3 stars...sorry
(3)Hakim W.
We made a reservation. Showed up and stood there for 15 minutes or more waiting to be seated. Staff bustled passed us and not one acknowledged us. Even if you are under staffed you can briefly acknowledge the customer. Poor customer service doesn't leave a good impression.
(1)Stan C.
In connection with the 9/5/2013 one star reveiw, I was at Tap Tap the night all this went down (Sunday Sept 1), and the idiot (as evidenced by his spelling and grammar skills) who wrote this review is an embarrassment. My companion and I were dining in the front room, when we heard a commotion towards the back. We looked up to see 2 ratchet girls and the reviewer yelling at the staff about the amount of their bill. They appeared drunk. This shouting went on to varying degrees for about ten minutes, at which time other staff stopped what they were doing in order to try and resolve the situation. These kids rejected all of the staff's offers of contrition and ultimately demanded that their server come out and apologize to them (for what, no one is sure of). The server offered up an apology, but that was not enough - the reviewer berated the server like a schoolyard bully. To the delight of the many other diners at Tap Tap, the reviewer finally left. In case there was any doubt as to how the others in the restaurant felt about the reviewer's tantrum, as he was leaving a fine looking local told him she hopes to never see him at Tap Tap again. Everyone else applauded and thanked the reviewer for making their dining experience so unpleasant, albeit temporarily unpleasant. Good luck in Queens, Abir. Try Atlantic City next Labor Day weekend - it's more your style.
(5)Taline C.
I was super excited to try this Haitian Restaurant for the first time; to put it mildly the experience and the food was subpar at best. The restaurant location is great although parking is non existing; we enter only to have to wait for 10 minutes before the hostess comes to greet us. When she finally arrives she tells us that the wait would be 15 minutes before we could be seated, not because there are no tables but because they have no food ready...what?! At this point we are ready to go to the Cuban spot I always go to when I'm in town but they are closed:( We wait for 20 minutes and finally are given a table. The table is not clean and there is a puddle of water left; takes 10 minutes before we can catch anyone attention to clean up the mess. When the waitress finally arrives she informs us that over half of the menu is not available. We are limited to a beef dish, legume, fish dishes and a conch dish. They have run out of everything including RICE!!! This is sacrilegious, what Haitian restaurant worth a grain of salt runs out of rice on a holiday weekend. We finally order and get the food to realize its lukewarm. By this time my goal is to eat and leave because we are beyond disappointed. This place may have been on diners, drive ins and dives but they must have gotten their act together because they new Guy was coming. I love to support my Haitian businesses and culture but I will not come back to this place again; I can go home and get better food from my mom!
(2)O E.
I feel that this is just another restaurant that Guy Fieri and his show ruined. I was sat by the bar for and early dinner. I wanted to order the chicken stew but they ran out of it ...at 5pm? The staff recommended the grilled chicken, so I ordered that. It took about 30 minutes for me to get this. Meanwhile, the waitress apologized for the delay and served me some fried goat, which was decent if its your taste... So 30 minutes later my chicken arrives with rice and fried plantains. The chicken breast was overcooked, dry, and flavorless. The chicken thigh was raw, and only cooked on the outside. This was the worst grilled chicken I have ever tasted. I would recommend going to pollo tropical instead. The rice was very good. Once the server saw the the chicken was raw, she comped the meal. But still I would never go back.
(1)Charles L.
Service sucked. Griot was very good. Very small portions considering the price you pay for cheap Caribbean food. I can get twice the food for 5 dollars cheaper in a North Miami Haitian restaurant that is just as good.
(3)David S.
This is a great place for Haitian food. I come here every time I go to Miami. The stewed goat is especially good! And the restaurant is covered in Haitian murals.
(4)K D.
The bartender's special cocktails are amazing, the food was scrumptious and the live music was good too. Ive been in Miami for the past few days, soaking up the sun while the Northeast is cold, a little quiet and just a little bleak after the holiday sparkle has been packed away for next year. While here, I have been trying to find some food and drink that is both creative and tasty while being authentic (or as authentic as Miami can dish up given how new places appear for a year and vanish without a trace the next and also Miami is not exactly known for locally sourced, good-tasting and creative foods...just saying). So we started off at the Broken Shaker - a favorite place of mine. Still great cocktails, creative and semi-affordable with a fun poolside scene. I was totally impressed with the food we had...awesome takes on Haitian classics such as codfish fritters - good with lots of fresh herbs and spicy veggies alongside. An off-duty bartender told me that if I preferred a more authentic atmosphere with actual Haitian cooks and even moire affordable tropical inspired cocktails then we should make our way to Tap Tap. On our way south, we stopped by the new Rum Line over at Loews...enjoyed another round of awesome cocktails and a cool breezy atmosphere and great conversation. Didn't order up any nibbles here as when we mentioned we were headed to Tap Tap some friendly bar patrons overheard us and re-raved to us about it...but advised that we go there mid-week so that we could experience the cocktails as made by the newer bartender who is making some of the best cocktails on the beach. That sealed the deal. It was Thursday. We went to Tap Tap, our last stop for the evening. When we sat at the bar, we were presented with a small taste of the barman's special cocktail of the night and Wow... it was FANTASTIC. I ordered one of those and was dazzled by his special drink with ginger and coconut water and a bunch of other flavors (did I taste banana?) My friend was hoping for an equally inspired cocktail made with gin (mind you - this bar is hardly a "bar" as it has only a few bottle of rum and maybe a couple of other options on an otherwise minimalist back bar) and so Gary, our friendly and professional bartender, inquired whether he preferred "sweet/fruity, tart, boozy or balanced?" To which my friend replied "balanced". He instantly whipped up a gin cocktail with guava and lime and a few other ingredients that blew us away. Absolutely delicious and inspired. Mmmmmmm! We feasted on an assorted appetizer platter of various fried goodies, whole fish and rice (how can plain white rice taste so good?) and a salad with lambi (chonch) and a watercress dressing and hot spicy cabage. Fabulous. To our left was a woman visiting from England, who was equally wowed by the special libations (she had 3), and who generously shared her food selections with us, and we shared ours with her...and a great evening was had by all.
(5)Jennifer W.
A must try restaurant in Miami Beach! It is definitely the best! I Like the coconut sauce so much! It is sooooo good! And the cornmeal with black beans is also very special and I love it so much. I came to this restaurant at noon and there was not much people in there but you will probably expect more people in dinner time. So just come earlier if you don't want to wait in line!
(5)S C.
STAY AWAY!! This place doesn't represent authentic good Haitian food at all. Had a reservation at 8pm didn't get seated till 20 mins later. After being seated was told they ran out of rice and beans, fish, shrimp, pork etc...after waiting an entire hour of nothing to drink and no food and no sign of our waiter I asked for my food to go leaving the rest of my party to wait. Surprisingly that only took 5 min to arrive. The food tasted BLAND not good at all. My party said they waited an additional 30 min after I left for there food which was also flavorless. Tip was included which the waiter would of never gotten from me since he basically forgot about us. Oh and no parking at all I had to park my car in a very dark public parking lot down the street and walk through some crackheads to get to it. Please save yourself the stress and money.
(1)Jessie L.
I love this place. This is THE place for great quality Haitian food. I tried this place back in 2009 with my boyfriend and a few friends, we took out some food and brought it back to my friend's condo on the beach. I didn't think it was all that great then. I got the griot (pork chunks) with pikliz (spicy vegetables) and sweet plantains. The griot was very good quality meat with hardly any fat and very succulent but the pikliz were terrible! They didn't taste good at all. And we all know that you can't have griot without good pikliz on top. The sweet plantains were also very good. Now, last month, my boyfriend and I decided to give this place another try. This time I ordered the poule nan sos (free-range chicken). This was AMAZING. It comes with a half of a chicken that they cook in it's own juices, rice & beans which were VERY flavorful, and green plantains. I normally get the green plantains when I eat Haitian food, but this time I substituted it for the fried sweet potatoes. I gave the pikliz on the table another try and they have also greatly improved to perfection. This dish was so flavorful that you didn't even need to add the pikliz. My boyfriend ordered the griot again and said that it was excellent. I'll definitely be back here soon!
(5)Kaneesha P.
Yesterday evening, I went to Tap Tap with my partner and two of our close friends. Three members of our group are Jamaican American, so we wanted to experience the some of the best Caribbean food Miami Beach has to offer. We were not disappointed. First, the interior of the restaurant is striking. The walls and tables display colorful scenes and landscapes, making this also a site of public art. I'd like to learn more about the artist or artists. I was unsure about what I would be able to order, as I have a severe dairy allergy and am recently gluten free. (Jamaican food does not normally rely on cream or butter.) When I shared my concerns with the server, he was receptive, advised me on what could be adapted, and spoke to the chef about my order. We waited 20-25 minutes for our food, but the wait was likely due to my dietary restrictions. While we waited, I had a glass of their refreshing limeade. I didn't try the bread and butter, but it smelled incredible and my friends seemed to really enjoy the texture and flavor. Ultimately, I ordered the goat stew, which comes with mixed rice and beans and fried plantains. I loved it! The goat was tender and well-seasoned, but not overly salty, and the rice was satisfying. The plantains were good, though they were more starchy than the over-ripe Jamaican preparation to which I'm accustomed. The prices are higher than I'm used to paying for Caribbean fare, but it was worth every penny.
(5)Eric K.
Great, charming, little SoBe spot... not too far out of the way / nice reprieve from the busier areas. Staff was super cool... We sat near the bar so drinks came extra quick - Good $8 mojitos are a real bargain.. We split a cpl sides (awesome spinach) and the whole poached fish which was really amazing.. Done in what must hv been homemade fish stock w lime juice and herbs. Very nicely done / large portion.... Similar to the steamed whole steamed fish at SriPraPhai or other good Thai places, but better. All about the broth.. French influence in full force w this dish. The whole meal w a cpl rounds was less than $60. The ambience was really cute too - simple furniture / layout but lots of fascinating custom mural work everywhere and some excellent live music on Saturday night. Tap Tap was pretty much my first experience at a real Haitian restaurant and I'll be back / will try to seek out something comparable here in NYC next time I'm in the mood for unique, cheap sea food, but I'm not holding my breath that I'll find anything here as good. Thumbs up.
(4)Rodd P.
Nice restaurant with outdoor sitting, service is great food is amazing, if you are in south beach or anywhere in south Florida you must stop here , it'll remind you of Haïti
(5)Steve T.
We ate here on 6/5/2014 at their outdoor space and mostly enjoyed the experience. The hostess, waitress, and male food runner were very pleasant, attentive and helpful but the female food runner was surly and somewhat rude. When a customer thanks you for the food you've just delivered a blank look is not the correct response. Everything was very quite prepared and extremely flavorful. I ordered the goat and while it was very good thought it could have used a little more cooking time as some of it was fairly difficult to eat. The only other real negative was the very long wait we had to get our check. There was another table outside waiting for their bill as well and in the end we both ended up having to go inside to request it at the bar. This was at 10:45 and while they had been very busy earlier in the evening things had quieted considerably by then.
(4)Cristina W.
This is the perfect restaurant if you just want to chill out w/a group of friends and eat great food. I love their live music and chill ambiance. Plus, the food is also excellent. We always order the plantains, that are not overly fried or greasy. Oh, and don't forget their art murals and artifacts.. This is somewhere I'd definitely bring some touristy friends, who want a taste of what Miami is really like.
(5)Kristi K.
Menu Choices: Wide-range of selections from the Tap Tap salad to Legumes to Fish to Goat. Food: Yes Lawd! If you know me you know I have an affinity for goat. Every time I see that on the menu at a Caribbean restaurant it is my "when in doubt" meal. They didn't have the stewed goat that I had my last visit so I had the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creole dipping sauce). I was going to save this as a "tip" BUT by fried they don't mean "southern fried". You are not going to get a crispy layer, so if that's what you are looking for you might be disappointed. It was definitely a homemade taste, which I can appreciate. Is is the height of culinary mastery? Not so much. Service: I wasn't fall awed by the service, but we really didn't give him much to do. The orders were taken well, and came out promptly. That's good in my book. Environment: I can go on and on about the environment. From the outside you have no idea about the rich vibrant world you are going to embark on. From the painted chairs, to the beautiful wall murals (that I could have stared at all day), it is a great space. The band was great and definitely made you swear you are on the short of Port-au-Prince. What to Wear: Whatever your heart desires but you can really leave the body cons in the closet (it's not that kind of party) Overall: Strong 4. Would I go again?: It is definitely on my Miami recommendations for friends, because the locals already know about it. A couple of tips: 1. There is a live band on Thursday that definitely heightens the whole experience. 2. They are known for their Mojitos.... kinda sweet but does that dang thing.
(4)Valerie C.
In South Beach, you HAVE to try this. The Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Beef and okra) was plate-lickable. I normally don't finish beans & rice, but nearly licked that bowl too. Brought some take out back to my husband who was skeptical about Haitian food. One bite, his eyes bulged out as he said "we're going back". Star demerit for the prices, a bit more than expected but I may need to spend more time in SB to realize most everything costs a bit more here. My husband didn't seem to think it was expensive so there you have it. Ambience is cool, every square inch is hand painted. Staff is friendly amd attentive.
(4)Collin C.
Overpriced! Lousy $9 rum punch. Watched servers use left behind used napkins and half drank ice water to wipe tables down for next guest. Food was just ok. If this represents Haitian food well, than I'm never going to Haiti. Our waiter though was very pleasant.
(2)Brian C.
We stopped in based on a New Times recommendation, as this place recently won the "Best Mojito" award. How could we not stop in for a mojito while in Miami? The mojito fully deserved the award and was by far the best mojito I've ever had. I wish we were hungry then, because the food we saw looked and smelled delicious. The staff was very friendly and the ambiance was awesome. Cool place.
(5)Rene R.
Great customer service but they took forever to bring our food! 2 hours of our trip wasted!!! Not good when it is your first time to Miami!
(3)Nathan E.
I love this restaurant. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best in the world. It's definitely one of my favorites. First, the menu. Despite the huge Haitian population in Miami, there aren't a lot of Haitian restaurants. And this is the best one. You're getting something here that you're not going to get anywhere else outside of Haiti. Start with the pumpkin soup. Try the Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) as your main. The coconut-cremed spinach is my favorite side dish. And a natif is a great cocktail, and I bet you'll never find it at another restaurant. But all the dishes are good, so if you're with company, get a bunch of stuff and share. Secondly, the decor. The taptap parked on Fifth Street in front of the restaurant establishes the Haitian ambiance. (If you don't know what a taptap is, ask the owner - he loves any excuse to talk about Haitian culture!) The walls of the restaurant are all hand-painted murals, mostly depicting Haitian Iwa (Again, ask if you don't know!) I love the room with the pair of facing Erzulies (Danto and Freda), and also the painting of the happy village in the music room. All the chairs, tables and everything else is hand-painted too with decorative patterns of lively colors. Not only is every corner of this restaurant interesting to look at, it's distinctly non-trendy and non-corporate. There's really nothing else like it on South Beach. Next, the live music. It's free live music! How often do you see that on South Beach. The band is great, the singers are great. It's a mixture of French jazz and popular Haitian folk music. Often the whole thing turns into a big sing-along. And the prices are damn cheap for what you're getting. Ok, the draw-backs: (1) It's hard to get a decent table on a weekend night, especially if you want to sit in the "music room" (2) the layout of the place is kinda funky for live music. Let me explain: The place comprises a series of small rooms with only a few tables in each. If you're sitting in the "music room" then expect that you won't be able to have a conversation while the band is playing because it's so loud in there, and expect that the room is so cramped that you're probably going to have an instrumentalist leaning on your table for balance - if not playing directly over your head. On the other hand, if you sit any place else besides the "music room," then you won't be able to see the band at all. You can hear them through the thin walls, but that's it. I always try to reserve the "music room" when I go to Tap Tap. I love the music, and live music is more interesting to me than dinner conversation. Besides there's always a chance to talk during breaks and before and after they go on. It's like a free concert with great food. I love it. It makes me want to plan a trip to Haiti.
(5)Max S.
Such a unique place. Don't get to come here as often as I'd like but its always on my mind! Great Ambiance! Their is ART all over the walls! Great food! and sometimes they have live music.
(4)Jason J.
The love the look and feel of this restaurant. The service was awesome and the waitress was very informative. The location isn't that great because they don't have a parking lot.
(4)Jessica J.
We stumbled upon Tap Tap after realizing that Joe's Take away closed for the season and I'm so glad we did! We ate on a Thursday night and they had an awesome band playing in the back. I loved all the colorful murals and our server was great. He warned us on spice levels of dishes, suggested complimenting sides etc. For an app we ordered the conch ceviche and it was so good we ordered another! For our meal I had the shrimp in coconut sauce spicy and my husband got the grouper. Both were delicious! We had the upside down pineapple rum cake for dessert and while the flavors were there it was oddly crumbly texture for a cake. I would try another option. We will be back!
(4)Brian G.
Tap Tap has 5 food and 3 service all be it friendly, but who cares, it is unique, has music, brightly colored murals, all over the walls as well as, smaller more private rooms etc. the food is fantastic. the goat, conch, chicken, fish, drinks etc etc. it is a great place to celebrate or just go for dinner. when there is music, it can get loud. they have a small bar in front, 2 tables outside and an upstairs for big events. so there is no need to travel to little Haiti!! the prices are also reasonable for South Beach.
(4)Ashley N.
Never had Haitian food before but after trying tap tap I LOVE IT!! Had the pork!! Just amazing and perfect amount of juiciness ! A must try. Mojito was good as well.
(5)Feyi B.
I would come back to Miami just for this place. First time having Haitian food and consider me SOLD! There arent many international food places that are non-hispanic, so when i was feigning some caribbean food, this was the closest i could find. The place is really colorful, nice live band playing, super friendly staff and food to make you SLAP your mom! (not really slap her, but you get me. notice i didnt say slap MY mom). I had oxtails, coconut spinach, fritters and this concoction thats like an oatmeal mixed with beans or something. Everything was to die for. The ONLY reason i didnt give this place 5*'s is because they kept running out of stuff, which was annoying. I wanted goat, but they ran out. I wanted fried plantains, but they ran out. I wanted bread, but they ran out... I mean..... Only thing i wasnt a big fan of was the fritters, maybe if the sauce was different.... idk. a lil tangier than i wld've liked.
(4)Arleen L.
There's no better advice than a local's suggestion and we were fortunate enough to get the inside scoop from our awesome Haitian driver! I had the shrimp dish in coconut sauce, while my girlfriend got the grouper in a delicious traditional sauce. We're so glad we stopped by before heading to the airport!
(4)Cece U.
I was in Miami for a conference and one of the guys in my group said a rather large female taxi driver had recommended Tap Tap for good Haitian food. He says whenever in a new city he always asks larger people for food recommendations and it never steers him wrong. I am not very impressed by his theory (esp since I am rather skinny and feel that I give good food recs)... but he's known for being crass and politically incorrect so I try not to let these things bother me anymore. Anyway, the taxi driver said it was the best place to eat in Miami beach so we decided to give it a try one evening. The food was amazing. I had the goat stew and I think I smiled throughout the entire meal. The portions are substantial. My goat stew came with plantain and rice. I also ordered a mango smoothie which was super refreshing. I wish I had known at the time that they had such good mojitos, but my colleague had one and said he enjoyed it very much. We did try the malanga appetizers. They were good but nothing to write home about in my opinion. Overall an excellent experience. I can't wait to come back and try the mojitos!
(5)Erik W.
Now been there twice. Food is delicious. Get anything conch if you can! The service is a little spotty, but both times we went at slightly off hours, so I'm willing to forgive.
(4)Athena K.
So, let's just preface this by saying that I'm comparing this to all the other Haitian places out there and not to your standard South Beach restaurant. Yes, the food is decent. I had some chicken that was really good. The rice with beqn sauce is good, so are the plantains. The juice is decent. But my kabrit was super dry. Overall this food is really bland. Considering it's Haitian I'd expect spice, more thyme, more Creole seasoning. It's almost like it got moved down a notch or two to accomodate American palates. All in all, it's not horrible, but if you just went to a hole in the wall in Little Haiti you'd get a better meal for half the price.
(2)Deborah P.
Went back for a late dinner. Waiter was very pleasant with recommendations. Our vegetarian was pleased with his stewed veggies and black rice. The appetizer platter was good along with excellent Soley cocktails. My grouper was excellent and the stewed goat was also tasty. The grilled chicken was a little salty but otherwise tasty. Great spot with lots of ambiance and good eating.
(4)Pauli L.
Was in Miami last week and researched couple of places to eat before I left so what site did I go to first? Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, of course. This restaurant was on the show so I Yelped it, had good reviews, decided to check it out, My friend and I ordered the spicy Conch (pronounced, Conk) ceviche style as an appy, which turned out to be surprisingly tasty (surprising because neither of us have tried conch before) and it wasn't too spicy unless you are very sensitive to spice then it will be spicy. For the main meal, my friend ordered the Shrimp in coconut sauce which was oh so good and very big shrimps too! I ordered the stewed vegetable dish, a bit heavy on the salt but also did not disappoint! Both these dished came with rice and beans and plantain fritters. My friend got her beans on the side and white rice and I got mine mixed in, which was way better than getting them separately. The plantain fritters were a bit on the dry side and bland too so not impressed with that. Overall service was very friendly and prompt! Bon Apetite!
(4)Monica S.
At some point during my South Beach stroll, I wandered into this nook and cranny Caribbean hut. Something about the colorful interior reminded me of my favorite Mexican bar in Philly, Cantina. With it's charming mishmash decor, the vibrancy that surrounds you makes you feel instantly at home, instantly welcome, and altogether like you're on vacation. Bright, tropical colors, wide grins from that staff, and the frequent busboy who operates with a bounce in his step (atypical for South Beach). If you listen closely, that's the sound of the best mojito being muddled and shaken. Whether it's a seat within the outdoor front porch or indoors within one of the many seemingly separate rooms, there just isn't a bad spot in the house where island energy is palpable. On a lucky night, a live band might be playing in the backroom with sounds from native Haiti. You won't find any electro lounge music here, everything is strictly authentic. Down to the menu, you'll see goat stew, shrimp in creole or coconut sauce (with the coconut sauce was my favorite), conch, fried plantains and more. This would be a great spot to bring a date, specifically when it's so vastly different from everything else on South Beach. If Gary's there, be sure to chat him up. He's the dapper GM with a smile for miles.
(4)Kritchel I.
If you want any of their specialty food (oxtail, goat, or conch), I suggest to call ahead. When we went at 3pm, they didn't haven't any of these food items. Disappointing! So instead, we ordered the the legim, the shrimp in coconut sauce, and the griyo. These dishes were delicious, the only reason for my 3 stars. The service was also disappointing. The server was nice but it seemed like she was the only one for the whole restaurant (the server forgot to get one of our dishes and the spoon we asked for never came).
(3)A. A.
The goat was really yum! Reminded me of goat I enjoyed when visiting family in Nigeria. And the mojito was amazing, too.
(4)Chris C.
I enjoyed this place while in South Beach.There were four of us so I had the opportunity to try the oxtail, (which is not on the menu), the chicken stew, and the grilled chicken. I enjoyed all ,but the Chicken stew stood out the best. The only complaints I have where the parking and how they just added on my check their tip amont of 18%.I gave it to her but found that kind of interesting.Oh I must add that the mojitos are very good.
(4)Carlos Q.
I had the griyo and my wife had the stewed chicken. Both were so so. The mojito was weak and too limey. The rice and beans were dry and not very good. All in all for the price there are better places in Miami to eat. The service was fair. The dessert a slice of sweet potatoe pie was awful it tasted like wet sand. We took one bite and left it the server never asked if there was something wrong with it she just took it away. I wouldn't come back here.
(1)Juan Pablo G.
I have been here 3 times and I have to say the 3 times have been the same experience. The food is delicious, I don't have any complaints about this, actually it is good to try something different from what you have in the area. But the problem comes when you talk about service. There was just 1 person handling 3 tables, but she wasn't able to take care of them. We spent over half an hour trying to get the check, half an hour trying to get something else the worst thing we had to get up twice like for example get a knife and a fork. Also for lunch, if you arrive early (before 1pm), there are dishes that are not ready/available yet.
(2)Stan B.
Over my vacation stay I went to some really amazing restaurants with beautiful views and amazing ambiance. However, my favorite restaurant was Tap Tap. The food was delicious (I had oxtail), Alcoholic drinks were well mixed and tasty. The water was flavored with various refreshing flavors. Bread came warm with garlic butter. Overall it was an enjoyable experience and I would recommend Tap Tap to anyone.
(5)Richard R.
We saw this place on Drive Ins, Diners and Dives. Chef was wearing a Boss T-Shirt which is always welcoming to us New Jerseyians. Tap Tap is a bit of hike from the touristy part of Ocean Drive but we hoofed it out. Colorful murals, friendly staff and this place is pretty big. Menu is not that large but everything looked good so hard to make a choice, They also have daily specials. Fruit punch was very good and they have Premier Haitian beer. We had the poached yellow tail which was fantastic, had a little heat. We also had the grilled chicken that was also really good and the avocado and tomato salad. The dressing on this was also very good. Our check for 3 people, one beer, 2 fruit drinks and the above was about $65.00 without aps or dessert so it can get a little pricey. Nice place and would go back again.
(4)Food C.
this place is pretty cool. pros: live music, good food, nice servers, good mojitos mojitos: they were good. it was said they have one of the best mojitos in south beach. i think the mojito was good. it was well mixed because you didn't taste any sugar granules. i wouldn't say the mojito was very strong. it was sweet. everyone's level of what "strong" is different. they were good. not the best i ever had, not the worse. above average but not stellar. food: it was really tasty. tasted homemade like someone made it in their kitchen versus massed produced. it was really good. band: nice mix of live music. liked them a lot. wasn't very crowded during the time i went there. seemed empty and sparse. with all the positive reviews i had thought it was going to be more lively. the band played to a practically empty house. hopefully they have more busy days. ambiance is very casual a lot of art on the wall and various painting. cleanliness: things seemed ok but rustic. maybe that was the look they were going for. it was kind of one of those places where you dont want to look around and inspect too much because you may not want to eat. so i just focused on the food and kept my eyes on the plate and my ears on the band.
(4)Sharon W.
I want to love this place because the interior is so cool, the staff is friendly and I do like the drinks. But! The food is just OK and it is expensive for very small portions. It seems to be lacking zest and flavor. I'm always excited to eat here and then I'm always disappointed.
(3)Zarina R.
4/21/12 - I have seen this restaurant for years and have always wondered what it was like to eat there. Finally this past Saturday, I had the opportunity to try it out. We got there around 10 at night. and sat at the bar waiting for our table. We waited about 10 minutes for a table while sipping on mojitos. The mojitos were made just right -- not too sweet or tart. We started with the Malanga Fritters and Spicy Conch Salad. The salad definitely had a kick to it. I don't know how may glasses of water I drank that night. For dinner we had the Shrimp in coconut sauce and Oxtail. The service was slow and at times my water cup was empty. There was no one around to refill it. They also had a band playing and people dancing. The atmosphere was quite lively but the music was so loud, that my friend who was sitting across from me could not hear a word I was saying.
(3)Matthew A.
Awesome
(4)Christopher M.
Still awesome food! Was disappointed it was so cold inside. Bartender was slow despite few customers. Though she was nice. Or bill for two, paying in cash, cane with an automatic gratuity of 20%. That shouldn't happen.
(4)Rajagopalan R.
Very Good options for vegetarians!! Very hospitable staff ..
(4)Alexandra A.
This is one of SoBe's 'diamonds in the rough.' Somewhat off the beaten track, it clearly has a cache of regulars which attests to its longevity, consistency and ease of welcome. There are no airs here and that, for me, is a breath of...well, fresh air. In general, I would say it's a far cry from SoBe trendier eateries which seemed to define SoBe and all of its chicness. Hence, this is precisely why it's a gem. Too be honest, I'm not a huge fan of Haitian food (no offense intended) but I am woman enough to admit that my preconceived notions were quickly dashed. And I'm looking forward to visiting it again. I loved the casual ambiance that pays authentic homage to the colorful nature of Haitian roots and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. The restaurant brings to mind an eclectic family-oriented home in Haiti - railroad style. Vivid colors abound everywhere, effortlessly whisking you away to a tropical paradise far from the conscious glamour well-known to SoBe. The compelling Carib/Haitian art is not only everywhere, it's a wonderful touch because it's smart and well-thought out. Not kitschy in the least. The painted tables were absolutely stunning. I loved the mojitos while my guests drank beer. The food was exotic and appetizing and coming from a diversely different Carib culture (Jamaican on my mother's side), this was a particular treat.. I (along with one guest) began with an appetizer called Akra (malanga fritters) which is a root vegetable similar to yucca. Wonderful. The other guest opted for Salad Zaboka Ak Tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions, house dressing.) As our collective utensils were scraping the plate in search of more and more, I'd have to say that was a winner. We then segued to (1) Kribish Nan Sos Kokoye (Shrimp in coconut sauce) - Did I love it? Well, put it this way, I didn't hate it. But by no means is this a reflection of Tap Tap. Frankly, it's more a testament to my own pickiness (a flaw from childhood) and my even odder aversion to soupy-like dishes. This came atop Diri Blan Ak Sos Pwa (a bed of white rice with beans sauce). Overall, it was filling, flavorful and decent. On the other hand: (2) Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) ordered by the third guest evidently was a big hit. There wasn't so much as a crumb left on the plate. Suffice it to say, we were too full for desert but settled with Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian coffee) which was a dream. Prices were reasonable. Wait time was about 15 minutes during which we whiled away the time, catching up and sipping cocktails. The staff is attentive, friendly and informative, yet not intrusive. And there's no pressure to get you out. The only downside: it would've been nice to be treated to some Haitian music (Kompa is a favorite of mine.) Overall, it's a nice place to kick back and relax, particularly if you're with people who are relaxed and adept at scintillating conversation.
(4)TK T.
While this place was recommended by some locals as well as a friend from NYC I was not too impressed with either food or service. Food did not have any distinguishing flavors (we had goat curry and shrimp dish as well as ceviche app). Service was beyond slow. I really enjoyed bright art decorations. Extremely casual.
(3)Nikki R.
I would love to comment on ABIR H from NY's review below. I had the pleasure of witnessing ABIR and his two female friends argue w the waiter and mngr at the hostess stand. Not only does ABIR fail to mention that both he and his friends were SCREAMING "I want my apology now.." At the waiter, but one of his girlfriends would storm in and out the front door saying profanities each time she passed my table. He also seems to forget that he and his whiny friends were verbally abusing the staff in front of about 15 patrons dining in the front entrance. ( It was very busy do to Labor Day weekend) However the most important response to their obnoxious behavior ABIR conveniently left out was when they finally headed to the exit muttering profanities for all to hear, all the patrons dining along side me collectivly addressed them, " you're ruining our dining experience", "I've been listening to your insults and apology demands for 20 mins" , " just leave and never come back" There was applause when he exited the door muttering "F this place. " It's obnoxious people like ABIR and his rude friends that give Miami tourists a bad name. Shame on you ABIR for you one sided and hypocritical review of one of the best local spots. Stay in NYC. I pray to never see you and your disgusting behavior in Miami again.
(5)Robert B.
This place is the best. I must come here any time in Miami. This is my fifth or sixth time here. I have never had a less than great experience. The wait staff is always friendly and accommodating. If you need an explanation about a dish; no problem. The goat tidbits are amazing! I won't share. The fried snapper and the oxtail (have to ask for it) are just plain incredible. There are plenty of fancy places to eat in Miami and fancy this really is not. Have had good good at fancy places in Miami. Have always had great food here. By the way, you have to have the spicy cabbage on the table. Awesome!
(5)Peter H.
We have been to Tap Tap many times. The food is delicious, the drinks can be good. Look for the goat meat appetizers and the whole fish options for dinner. Good for kids, too. The rum punch is delicious.
(4)Dominic T.
Was curious about Haitian food so visited here with some friends. It was amazing, reasonably priced and the waitress was very helpful in suggesting dishes. The entire restaurant is painted in Haitian style, even the floors and ceilings, and the live music set a great mood. I would visit this place again and again!
(5)Jason A.
Excellent. Very slow (as molasses ) service , but the good is top notch and special. I love the stewed conch , the steed beef is supposed to be great. Also, the Haitian coffee is a must.
(5)Sarah G.
the food tase good, the design of the restaurant make you feel Haitian , we couldnt finish the food and we packed, even next day we reheat the food, still taste good. But the add 18% tips on your bill. :-(
(4)Johnny T.
Sooner or later, you have to do it. You have to go to Tap Tap. There's only so long a person can resist the brightly colored murals adorning the facade of the building. Like a moth to a flame, I tell you. I've never been to Haiti, so I can't vouch for whether the food is authentic or tourist-driven but I *can* tell you that it's good. It's very good. Start off with some malanga fritters that come with a spicy green sauce. Is it garlic? Cilantro? Magic? I dunno. All I know is that sewer rat probably would have tasted good if enough of that sauce was drizzled over it. It's very important to order a simple appetizer... because service is slow and my bread, meal and drink all came out at once and after waiting a considerable amount of time. The restaurant wasn't busy and my waiter didn't seem that concerned with making sure I was fed, fat and happy. I don't think it's a personal thing; I just think nonchalant service is the norm here (and with auto-gratuity it doesn't have to be anything but nonchalant). So, if you don't want to sit at a sticky table with nothing more than water and your thoughts, order something quick and easy from the kitchen. Your bread basket won't see you until the main event. I finished my fritters, drank some water, looked around at the walls, exchanged side-eyes with a waitress (I think it's an island greeting), and waited... for a while. I called a friend. I leaned back. I continued to wait. Finally, my bread, drink and meal came out all at once. I would have had an attitude about it but the meal was just.too.good. Bread is bread (except when it isn't and is served with herb butter... but here, bread is bread), so no big whoop. To drink I ordered a natif -- which is lime, rum and sugar. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this. The drink was served in a small water glass and was pretty weak. I didn't even get the pop of fresh lime one would think would be the signature element of the beverage. I wouldn't order it again. So, what do all of these negatives tell you? It tells you that my meal was off the hook slamming. I ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and game over. Done. This meal will make you forget about the triflingness you just encountered. Large, succulent shrimp, slathered in a sweet red coconut curry and paired with a mound of rice is good. Add to that, red beans and tostones and, well, you're not going to know what you did to deserve food like this. I am a firm believer of tasting everything separately at first and then mashing it altogether. After I satisfied my curiosity that everything was made well, I combined the food and flavor to create a Haitian food version of Captain Planet. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. Each bite was better than the last. Despite my best efforts, I inhaled my food. I wanted to savor it. I wanted the flavors to linger on my tongue... but I scarfed it down. And I'd do it all over again. That isht was good!
(4)Karla S.
I'd like to give Tap Tap 4 stars based on the atmosphere alone. The colorful walls adorned with Haitian art are absolutely enchanting. You really see how vibrant this culture is with the restaurant's decor. It's lively and beautiful. However, as lovely as the restaurant looked, I was there for the food. I ordered the Haitian mojito which was less than memorable. To start off we ordered the conch salad (which was ok, but tasted like a really rubbery overcooked ceviche with celery bits). My entree was the grouper in lime sauce, which came with fried platains (just like Cuban tostones) and rice and beans. The fish was cooked quite well and the flavors were mild and pleasant. However, for an $20 dish, this was just average. The service was attentive, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food was simple but good. I just don't think I'll be a regular any time soon. I'd recommend to try it out once, maybe when they have live music just for the experience alone.
(3)Katrina S.
It was the end of a beautiful day on Miami Beach. My girlfriends were trying to figure out where we wanted to get dinner that evening, so I whipped out my handy-dandy Snap Guide for Miami... budgettravel.com/bt-srv/… . I scanned through the list of potential eats, and my eyes could not move past - Haitian! - goat stewed! - live Haitian music Thurs and Sat! The day in question was indeed a Thursday so I was able to convince my companions that we must go to Tap Tap! Bonus... Tap Tap was walking distance from the beach! It was still pretty early so we were some of the first diners to arrive. Since we were still in our beach wear, we opted to sit out on the front porch to enjoy the rest of the warm day. Our server was as sweet as could be and answered all our questions about the Haitian dishes that were new to us. All the food was delicious... I especially loved the spinach in coconut sauce. Mmm, great combination. Don't forget to try one of their juices!!!! I am a soursop fanatic and I almost jumped out of my chair when I saw they served fresh soursop! My cohorts were hesitant at first, but when I passed my glass around the table to offer tastes, a new order went in for 4 more soursops! Yep, they are that good! I wish I could have tried more dishes, stayed longer to enjoy the live music, and basically just enjoyed the comforting atmosphere, but this was a short trip to Miami Beach and the night was about to get started. Reluctantly I left my empty glasses and dishes, but the next time I find myself in South Beach, Tap Tap will be at the top of my list of sights to see, to experience, and to get my grub on!
(5)Luke W.
This place is a diamond in the rough. Miami Beach is full of template-cut art-deco bars and restaurants offering food at premium prices, and here is this incredible restaurant offering authentic cuisine from a country not known for its cuisine at very reasonable prices, along with wonderful murals of pastoral Haitian life covering practically every surface and live Haitian music on the weekends. This place is so good, it was the only restaurant I would ever go to because nothing else in Miami Beach can even come close.
(5)AshleyMarie O.
YUMMMYYYYYYYY Mango Salad, Coco Shrimp, whole fish xoxoxxxx yummmm Mojitos are killer
(4)Marcus K.
I agree with my friend who reviewed this place 4 years ago -- overrated. While the decor gives off an appropriate island vibe, the floors and tables were simply dirty (I especially despise it when my forearms stick to the tabletop). That pretty much ruined the meal for me. Then the food came out (VERY SLOWLY), and was pretty much underwhelmed by the flavors. Had the fried appetizer, which was fairly unremarkable, unseasoned for the most part, and with the exception of the green sauce, lacked any flavor. There was one sauce that tasted like roasted pork drippings, which unfortunately tasted too much like week-old left-overs. Then had the coconut shrimp, which was really not that good. But the kicker was that the shrimp were NOT de-veined. That's just simply unacceptable. AND, it's pricy. Don't really feel like forking over a decent wad of cash, for mediocre food, and walking through a slightly shady part of SoBe to do it. My recommendation is not to Tap Tap it.
(2)Erik R.
Let me start out by saying that the food here is VERY good and tasty! We had the whole fish and the half chicken and they were both very good, the chicken in particular. However, each of the dishes were described by the waitress as being enough for two people, yet with our party of three, we had to order extra rice and the amount then was only just enough. The cilantro-garlic sauce was out of this world. Judged on the food quality alone, this would be a solid 5-star. However, this is where the negatives start to pile up. First off, it was quite on the pricey side and even though the service was almost non-existing (only got water refilled once, after a long wait and requests), we also had to wait for our food for quite a long time (~45 mins after being seated). Not to mention that our waitress was quite unfriendly the few times she actually made it to our table. In addition, the place is somewhat decorated with homeless people that seem to be hanging out at the place. We had outdoor seating (there are only two tables there) and there were two - apparently homeless - people sitting at chairs right next to our table and they were not told to leave by the staff. It didn't bother me too much and I actually ended up having some interesting conversations with them, but it might bother some that don't want to be bothered while eating out in a restaurant that is not cheap. They also had some odd 'booze-the-tourist' thingy going on at the bar right inside where they would semi-grab customers, put them on a bar-stool with the back against the bar then pour liquor down their throats until their mouths would overflow. Made me think of a cheap, very-sketchy Cancun experience I had years back and not something I expected from a rather expensive (and VERY nicely decorated by the way) restaurant. Furthermore, when the bill arrived, they had already added an 18% tip, which I was not happy about. Granted, I always tip, and very rarely less than at least 15%, but I reserve the right to tip according to the level of service and this was NOT worth an 18% tip as described above. There was another line for ADDITIONAL tipping and out of principle, I added a negative 3% tip to form a total of a 15% tip (I would say, the service we got from this waitress was more like a 5% tip though) and updated the total accordingly. Again, we are talking less than $2 difference, but it's the principle that matters to me. Well, when I checked my credit card statement, they had still charged me the full amount (including 18% tip), which was NOT what I signed the check for. So, while the food was tasty, the overall impression was just not great at all.
(2)Melissa C.
This place has really tasty food. I've never had haitian food before so when this joint popped up in our yelp search for top places to eat in the area, i was excited. The building looks like an office building of some sort from the outside but inside it's colorful and fun! Lot's of decorations and pretty wall murals on the inside. We were seated right away and ordered the goat tidbits and conch for appetizers. For our main courses we shared stewed goat, the whole fried fish, and the pork. All were really good. The conch salad had a spicy kick which was really good and the salad tasted really fresh. The goat in both the appetizer and the stew were delicious...very tasty and super tender. The fish was crispy on the outside and flavorful all around. I would definitely recommend this spot if you are in the area. The service is very friendly...but a little slow, but the food makes up for it so just come here when ur not in a hurry.
(4)Kelly S.
The bartender was the friendliest bartender ever - even though we were only having iced tea and some lunch. The food was nicely seasoned/spiced. I had a shrimp dish that was just divine. Will definately go back if I'm back in the area.
(4)Maria K.
I must say, I'm thoroughly disappointed when it comes to restaurants in South Florida. While it's easy to find restaurants that look trendy, chic, and are full of beautiful people, it's hard to find places with substance. Which is why I was in for a real surprise when I went to Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant. First off, the atmosphere is nice. It feels authentic. The decor is very much inspired by the colors and designs of Haiti. Second (and most important) the food was phenomenal. The menu is small (a good sign that they abide by the quality over quantity principle) and you can tell all the ingredients were top notch. Definitely no cutting corners. I went there two times (within a week) and both times ordered the diri kole (mixed beans and rice), banann peze (fried plantains), kribish nan sos kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce). For dessert, we shared the benyen (banana fritters w/ sprinkled sugar), blan mange (traditional coconut dessert), and pen patat (sweet potato pie.) Deeeeelicious. Lastly, the cocktails were excellent too! If you are ever in South Beach, you have got to try this place. It's unpretentious and the real deal!
(5)Diva A.
Absolutely love this place!!! The food is great as well as the atmosphere...i will definitely go there again
(5)Raquel S.
What really brought me to Tap Tap is the Food Network special that featured them, plus I'm Haitian so I was really eager to go. I really appreciated that they kept the menu true to our culture, but was a little disappointed with the taste. Don't get me wrong, the food was ok, but I've had better at other authentic Haitian restaurants for cheaper. I ordered the grilled lumbi which wasn't bad. Their Kabrit en sauce was not too good though. The pieces were too large and had huge bones in it. The rice and red beans were official though...very good! Fritay was just ok. We ordered their famous poached snapper in sauce to go, so I hope it lives up to its rep. Wasn't too big on their drinks either... Love the Haitian decor and ambiance...you literally feel like you're in Haiti when you walk through their doors...they get points for that. Not going to rush back for seconds, but will not stay away either...The chef was very nice also.
(3)Kent H.
Little bit of a wait, but it was well worth it. First comes the shrimp in coconut sauce, the coconut sauce was phenomenal. I found myself dipping everything in this sauce. The rice, that came with the shrimp had a great spice taste. Soaked the rice as well. Had the grouper in lime sauce, good, but nothing too special. The tropical rhum punch, very fruity, didn't taste much of the rum at all, this was a positive.
(4)Jamila N.
The food here is absolutely delicious. Hands down. Flavorful, fresh, well made. The service is good, no doubt. Attentive and friendly. The decor is gorgeous, with Haitian images painted on the walls, chairs, doors, even the bathroom stalls. The location is pretty cool, and if you eat outside, it's great. I have to take away a star because of their tendency to run out of things...essential things...like rice, towards the end of the night. This is Haitian food. Even at the end, you GOTTA have rice! Oh, try the fish and the spaghetti with shrimp (share it as an appetizer). More fantastic than you'd imagine.
(4)Gina N.
Yay for haitian food in Miami! Loved the decor and ambiance of this place. Given all the raves on yelp, we had to check it out. Even better, it was just a few blocks for our hotel. The only disappointment was there are actually no more live bands playing here. But that didn't stop us from enjoying our delicious dinner. Service was a bit slow, but expected on a busy saturday nite. We tried the malanga fritters & the grilled conch. Both very unique and distinct flavors, but oh so tasty. Us gals scarfed down our food, and our plates were wiped clean! Either we were super starving or the food was just that good! I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone visiting miami and wants to try authentic haitian cuisine!
(4)C D.
MY ALL TIME FAVORITE RESTAURANT. I wish I could eat here everyday. The downside, they don't always have everything on the menu in stock.
(5)Octavia Y.
Soooo, I read a few reviews about Tap Tap before going and without a doubt, they were mixed so I thought it was worth a try. Boy was I wrong!!!! I got the shrimp creole, another friend got the whole fish, and another got the stew chicken.... First off, OUR FOOD CAME OUT COLD, all except the fish. Next, my shrimp Creole came out tasting and looking like a warmed shrimp cocktail, it was gross! I told the waiter and she told me "yea, sometimes it comes out really tomatoey and sometimes not". She was so nonchalant. I should have listened to my haitian friend that said the place was no good! It was a waste of our money. We went a few minutes after it opened... To add insult to injury, I went to the bathroom before we left only to be greeted with NO TOLIET PAPER!!! I had to wipe myself with paper towel ! I would NEVER recommend this place to ANYONE. Get off the beach and get up to North Miami and check out Chef Creole ! The food is amaze and the cost is even better.
(1)Nik J.
Overall, Tap Tap is a winner in my book. The food and drinks are authentic and good. The service can be a bit slow, but this is Miami Beach, so you can't expect things to move at the speed of light. The decor is vibrant and something really different from the contemporary look that most restaurants on the beach have. They really went authentic with the murals and colorful walls all over the restaurant. As far as the food, we got the goat tidbits and conch ceviche appetizers. They were both solid dishes but I would recommend sticking with the goat because it was tender and flavorful and something different. For entrees, we got the half grilled chicken, goat stew, shrimp in coconut sauce and the snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. The chicken was some of the best I have EVER had. It tasted like it had been marinated for days and was super tender and full of flavor. It came with a green chutney type sauce for dipping which was amazing as well. The goat stew was pretty good, but didn't knock my socks off. The shrimp in coconut sauce was outstanding.. a must have. The only negative thing I had to say about the place is that you have to be careful if you don't like spicy food. I asked the waitress if the snapper I was ordering was spicy and she said it was mild. When it came, it was blazing hot and got my sinuses working overtime. I don't know if the cook just went overboard on the hot peppers that night or what, but it was HOT. I was also disappointed about the fact that they were out of the grilled goat entree that has gotten rave reviews. Supposedly they sell out of it within a day or two of receiving it, so you should call beforehand to see if they have it before going there. Now most importantly the drinks are outstanding. Probably the best rum punch I have had that I can remember. The mojitos are also good, but the rum punch is a must have. The Haitian Pretige beer is also good.. kind of similar to a Red Stripe. Bottom line if you go there: get the half chicken, try some kind of goat dish and drink the rum punch.
(4)Nicky L.
The food here was delicious. Service is quick and friendly. You feel like you are transported into a home in the Caribbean with the authentic decor and creative murals. I would definitely return. A lot of people mentioned having the best mojito here but thats the one thing i wasn't to thrilled about. It was just ok. While in miami i look for Mojito perfection.. just saying..
(4)Chu Z.
Went on a friday night. Very crowded. The food was quite good but the service was definitely not that satisfying. It took me and my gf over 30 mins (which was supposed to be 10 mins) to wait for table and more than 20 mins for our dishes. During this time the waiter never came up and talked to us. Ordered their malanga fritters (amazing sauce), shrimps in coconut sauce (over cooked shrimps), fried birkshire pork chunks (yummy!), signature mojito and tropical rum punch. Food was really good, but the portion was not generous. Drink was really good too, quite strong and a little pricey ($8 each). We ended up paying over $30 each. However did not feel full. Nice deco with relaxing and joyous atmosphere, tropical theme and haitian painting were impressing as well. If only the service was better.
(3)Michael N.
Great service. Great food. Had a party of 12 there Saturday night and they were extremely attentive and everything was superlative. I had been to Tap Tap a few years ago and loved it and was pleased that over the years nothing had slipped. What I love most about it is it's an escape from the South Beach thumping dance music vibe and generic food of Ocean and Collins and easy walking distance from the hotels. I highly suggest it.
(5)Beth L.
South Beach is full of overpriced, hyped up scene-y restaurants that promise the best but don't deliver much more than attitude and mediocre food designed to fleece tourists and locals alike. Tap Tap is the antithesis of this -- unpretentious, down to earth, delicious food and decent sized portions. I had been meaning to try this place for years, but just never got around to it until a few days ago when a friend suggested it to celebrate the birthday for another friend. I wish I could remember the dishes we ordered and shared that night, but truthfully either my brain shorted out while I was shoveling all of that delicious food into my mouth, or I had one too many Haitian mojitos.
(4)M. J. D.
Haiti. It's just as relaxed as you can get. So calling Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant authentic, is spot on. When we first arrived, the door was still locked. There were a lot of signs on the door, but nothing with the hours on it. After a minute or two, someone came to the door and asked what we wanted. Um, it's a restaurant at lunchtime, so I'm thinking food? He says they will be open in maybe 30 minutes. I wasn't starved, and we had rented a couple of Decobikes, so we just toured up and down South Beach and returned to Tap Tap. You see, the guy just seemed so pleasant about not being open yet, that it gave us both a good vibe. No hurry, laid back. It's why I go on vacation. Inside, it feels like a Caribbean bar. Multi-colored everything, wooden stools at the bar that couldn't have cost more than $3. We sat at the stools. No worry, my brother mon, it wont fail you. Hot and tired from our ride, the waitress treated us like friends. Water came swiftly, and we were treated quite well, despite our claim that because we were so tired, we were only going to split an appetizer, and have a couple of beers. The waitress, who also carried a certain air about her, like she was the proprietor, suggested a Haitian beer when we mentioned we were looking for something authentic. Being thirsty, I decided to play my beer safe and stuck with a familiar Jamaican beer. Also at her recommendation for authentic Haitian we ordered the Conch Salad. Prepared with scotch bonnet peppers, they managed to do something I never thought possible. They carried the flavor of the scotch bonnet pepper, without the eye tearing heat. Sure, it had some spice, but it was very pleasant. It was like the peppers were also laid-back. We were satisfied after the salad, but wanted to try a dessert too. Again, we allowed the server to make a recommendation, and we were not disappointed with the Gato Zannanna (Pineapples + Rum getting down in a cake). Now, quite full and re-hydrated, it was back to the beach to relax off all of our extra calories.
(4)Dee B.
Good traditional Haitian food with some Dominican flavor. Loved it!
(4)Lily A.
I have to give this place kudos for convincing me to bump up my former rating one more star solely for the service and the down-to-earth and honest owner. And we didn't even eat here this time around! We wanted to because I remembered how savory everything was, but Yelp fooled us; the restaurant opens at 2 pm, NOT 12 pm. (We did tell the owner that, and he said he will be submitting for those changes) But because we had a cruise to catch, we had no clue what to do with our rumbling tummies now that our eating plans were shot. He instead told us we must try this other restaurant a few blocks away that he absolutely loves.. and we actually ended up loving it too (refer to my last review on Fratelli La Bufala). The owner then told us that the next time we stopped by to ask for him and he'll treat us to mojitos. Ohh I remember how much I loved those fresh mojitos, almost as much as the delish stews, beans, and rice. I know I'll have to make another trip to Miami soon!
(5)Jeff O.
Loved it! Tap Tap refers to the little passenger truck outside the door. A truly unique experience for the adventurous. You'll be very glad you graced this establishment with your presence. Bring your family, bring some friends, this place is relaxed and full of life. The big, bright and gorgeous murals will whisk you away to the Caribbean. They're on island time mon, so don't come in expecting a fast food experience. It wasn't particularly slow, mind you. Just right for made-to-order grub. We loved the malanga fritters, and the watecress dipping sauce was jaw-dropping good! I tried the chicken and beef stews. Both were rich and fresh. The bean/rice mix recommended by our server was so-so, but worked well with the stews. Plaintains were fine, not hard like one lady below said. Limeade was our drink of choice. It went well with everything. This place has been here for decades. I hope to return in two months.
(5)Mike D.
Outstanding. If you're looking to get out off the main drag and away from the over priced tourist traps of the Miami Beach strip this is your place. It's authentic Haitian food at it's best. The grilled chicken is amazing and the snapper fish dish (which is offered poached on the menu but I ordered it grilled which is more common in Haiti and the way I suggest you have it) is amazing if you like fish. Great mojitos and when my wife and I were there they had a live band playing Compa music (the music of Haiti) which was really cool. Pricing is easily half of the cost of the main drag and it's a great place to just chill and have a great meal. Ill be back next time I'm in town.
(5)Romy G.
5 stars for food and prices 4 on service every dish is amazingly delicious the goat, chicken creole, spinach, pumpkin soup, fish , salad etc etc you name it goooood home cooking style, love it!!!!
(4)Robik V.
Aside from the dicks on the wall the place is nice the food is a bit pricey for what you get but it's decent and hardy oh yeah their was a green thing in my room mates water
(3)Lis K.
I have only been to Tap Tap for their mojitos...AMAZING! Fresh and all natural. I have yet to try the food, but when I do, I'll be back to review it. :)
(5)Tania G.
what happens when friends unite for another friend's birthday? CHAOS! thankfully, we were seated far from 'normal' customers b/c we were pretty noisy... anywho...the food was great! i had the shrimp in coconut sauce and i loved it! the sauce was just right-- not too sweet. the malanga fritters were so good and so was the watercress sauce! who would have thought?! my one complaint is that the food took VERY long to arrive...nearly an hour to be exact! parking is available in the back, so don't panic.
(4)Tom L.
The food here is amazing. The snapper with Scotch bonnet pepper sauce was outstanding. Everyone must try it, as soon as possible. We ate way too much because it was that good. The fried pork, the rice, the plantains, the fish, the pickles..I could go on and on. Food is bursting with flavor. Service is fun and friendly, the place has amazing murals on the walls and they had- hands down- the best mojitos in miami. Yes I said the best mojitos!
(5)Elizabeth D.
Had a large birthday dinner here and was very excited to try Haitian fare. They placed our large group in the back area. It got very loud because we were in a very echo-ey, contained space. Regardless, Tap Tap has some fantastic alcoholic beverages to distract from this fact. In particular, the Rum Punch was destructively good. Unfortunately, the food left much to be desired. Maybe it's because I grew up with Latin food, but Caribbean fare is not much different, hence, less exciting. Nothing truly stood out to us. Go if: You're looking for a uniquely different cultural experience and home-cooked style food. If I come back, it'll be by the bar area, overlooking the streets of South Beach, sipping on a delicious Rum Punch and having some fried pork bits. I'll leave dinner to a place with a little more kick.
(3)Sheenon O.
the shrimp in coconut sauce is awesome and the whole fried snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. There is this amazing spicy pickled cabbage that I can't get enough of. Super causal and live music on the weekends. also they have the best Mojitos in town and if you get in early enough you can catch their happy hour. I think it is from 5-7 but dont quote me on that one.
(3)Dannie M.
GO! Visiting Miami? Want to have a great dinner experience? Then try taptap. Great food (try the goat or shrimp with coconut) and fantastic live band on the weekend. The place is full of friendly servers (very hard to find in miami). Also fantastic beverages!
(5)Sasha B.
Good food, good service, reasonably priced. Something out of the ordinary. Not something I could find in NYC.
(4)Patrick K.
Simply amazing. The food. The restaurant. The story. The vibe. The thing about Haitian-style food that I find so wonderful (as with Cuban food) is the simplicity in it all; much more 'spice' than typical Cuban/Central American food (in my humble). When you are in Tap Tap, you almost feel like you are in a different world, a different time. The stunningly beautfiul murals speak to you (and that's not the mojitos). Since we are all new to this cuisine, we dabbled in many different items: the rice with black bean sauce (shazam!), fried plantains, red snapper, and the slap-yo-mama-and-sister flank stank. This was one of those meals, since the food is new to us, where every bite is new and exciting (and of course, helps that it was good). Casual and fun, if this place closes, Miami Beach would lose part of it's soul. Clearly a place for locals and tourists willing to step off of the sometimes awful Ocean drive, you will not be dissapointed. Next visit, this will be the first place I visit.
(5)Michelle D.
I have been coming to Miami Beach from time to time over 18 years. I have noticed this quaint looking spot but never decided to try it until this time around. I am pleased w my decision. Personally I get bored with average food done "different" ways. I was fresh off a boat ride and starving for a real meal. By real I mean one that was authentic and really seasoned and throw in a dash of real culture. Tap Tap had that look to me so I went for it. Upon entering I was greeted by a lively crowd and perhaps the owner or GM and a feast of art for the eyes. I was seated immediately and tended to almost instantly. There was so many choices (all looked great) I could not decide so I ordered and appetizer that had a variety of items. The food and sauces were so freakin' good. I wanted more but was so full I had to leave w my left overs. I am leaving soon to go back home and I am seriously considering returning for dinner before I leave. The price was very reasonable, the service was great and atmosphere very welcoming and clean. Oh, great art for purchase was also available.
(4)Meredith M.
This restaurant has the BEST service, the BEST food, and the BEST live music. All wins for me. I had the coconut shrimp and it was so amazing I am drooling thinking about it now. The sauce was amazing and my friends stole as much as they could to put on their rice. The plantains were of the drier variety, not like the sweet sautéed version. My friends had the lime fish (a little bland) and the pork (very nice and tender). We really enjoyed the casual vibe and excellent food and service. I would definitely return if I'm ever in Miami again.
(5)Maria A.
Shrimp in Coconut Sauce is by far the winner! Start off with a simple appetizer and save room for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Easily the best dish of the night and the sauce is oh so perfect for dipping your bread into. The red beans and rice were lacking that gallo pinto goodness I've come to know and love but was still a nice side dish. The service here is good but a tad slow. I'd come back for the coconut sauce and stick around for some music
(3)Scott L.
A concise review: 1. Arrive around 12:45 and the lights are off, chairs are up and a hatian man is asking what time they open. 2. I call the number and they say 1pm, 10-15 more minutes, they are running late. 3. Who opens at 1pm?? 4. I said "that's very carribean" the hatian man said, laughing, "very unorganized" 5. We sat outside and they brought tables to us around 1:05pm. 6. Good and hot French baguettes with euro butter arrives, 1:15pm. 6. I order coffee, I receive a little espresso around 1:30pm. 4 other people show up. 7. My creole spaghetti w shrimp arrives at 1:45, the hatian guy was already done - he ordered fritters and soup. 8. Spaghetti was good w flavor and with old school canned veg-al veggies of beans, corn and carrots. Shrimp were big and fresh. I lived on a carribean island once so this tasted true - nothing fancy. 9. 1:50 - hatian guy leaves. Waiting for the check 10. 1:55 done with food - ate it all - trying to flag down waitress for check. 11. 1:56pm I wonder what the hatian guy is doing now. I'm waiting to go lay out. Waiter walks by me - I don't get his attention. 12. 1:59 - I start eating the shrimp tails I discarded earlier , because I'm bored, and respond to some FB posts. 13. 2:01 pm - music turns on. The new table of Asian girls order 14. 2:02 - I tell the waiter I'm ready to pay, he takes my plate. 15. 2:07 Got check - she didn't charge for coffee - I wait for change. The inside area is pretty full. 16. 2:10 she tells me she has to get change w a smile. 17. 2:12 - thought bubble "I've been here 1 hoir and 30 minutes." 18. 2:13 change arrives! 19. 2:14 I'm outtie 5000
(4)Susan C.
I just went to Tap Tap for my second visit and it was as delicious as the first. Last time around, I went with my husband and had the goat stew which was extremely flavorful and delicious. It was my first time ever trying goat and I was pleasantly surprised. This time, I was going to order the goat again, but was very disappointed to learn that they didn't have any. I guess their shipment didn't come in, but this restaurant does not have a huge menu and at least 3-4 items have goat in them. Luckily, the dish I did order totally made up for it. We brought my parents and three of us all ordered the Sunday special, which was a vegetarian stew that had shrimp and blue crab in it. It came with rice and beans, and it was so delicious that I did not want to stop eating it. Like the goat last time, the stew was incredibly flavorful. However, the pieces of crab came in the shell. I don't mind cracking my own crab per se, but it was incredibly messy to eat as the pieces were mixed in with the rest of the stew. My Dad got the regular grouper with lime sauce menu item which he absolutely loved. Tap Tap may look like a hole in the wall, but it is definitely worth your time.
(4)Donna C.
This cute little place has phenomenal food and great atmosphere! The food, oh my, was definitely the highlight. My first time having Haitian food and it did not disappoint. The Griyot was cooked to perfection. The Kabrit Nan Sos (goat stew) was so delicious. Get the white rice and bean sauce as your side instead of the one mixed together... you won't regret it. Top it all off with the Blan Mange (traditional coconut dessert)! Damn this place is awesome. Would return in a heart beat!
(5)Ling H.
My friends and I have never tried Haitian food and I am so glad I saw this on Food Network and we were able to try this place out! Everyone here was SO nice and very helpful in suggesting from the menu. Taso kabrit- Goat tidbits came with a spicy red dipping sauce. This was pretty good. Salad Chktay- salad with herring, which was a little too salty for me. My first time having herring and I'm not too big of a fan. We also had another salad that came with marinaded conch on top, which was also okay. I would pass on salad unless you require something green on the side. Pwason Gwosel- Pan-seared Yellowtail snapper with a lime sauce. This was a crowd favorite! Definitely get this! The fish was not at all fishy and the lime sauce with this dish was amazing! Lanbi Nan Sos- Stewed conch. This is what I saw on Food Network and was disappointed. It wasn't that spicy and borderline fishy. There were also a couple other things we got that I cannot remember, but the staff will most certainly help with any questions. Definitely a place I would come back to to try again!
(4)Jasmine L.
I have to agree with another reviewer proclaiming this place as average at best. The first problem with this food is that it's overpriced for what you get. This is typical Haitian/Caribbean/West Indian food. You can get a box meal of this to go at your local island restaurant for $5. You get bird sized portions at this place compared to what you really get and are paying for. Secondly the food is bland and dry. I see there are raves about the spices but I guess anything after salt and pepper is "spicy" to some perspectives. You want REAL spicy, authentic, Caribbean food?? Take 10 minutes to cross the bridge into Overtown, Liberty City, etc. This place is a pricey bland knockoff designed to maximize its profits while conning the average man. AKA South Beach
(2)Andrew K.
I too went to Tap Tap after Guy Fieri made a visit here. That guy has a ridiculous ability to get me out of the house and into a restaurant. This was my first run-in with Haitian food so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect flavor wise, but boy oh boy was I pleased. I went strictly to try the whole steamed snapper dish, which ended up being great. The fish is steamed in some sort of lemon butter broth and covered with peppers. The aroma reminded me somewhat of a picatta dish. I'd say two people could share one snapper and an appetizer and be satisfied. The service was a little slow, but hey, it's South Beach. All in all, I really enjoyed this unique dining experience and will absolutely return.
(4)Merri L.
This was all of ours first Hatian restaurant. This place looks smaller, but there are a few different rooms. All of the walls, including the bathrooms, are covered with beautiful murals. They have such yummy juice, which sounds funny to praise in a restaurant, but it was really good. I had the grouper in lime sauce with avocado and loved it, so fresh tasting. We tried a bunch of different sides and appetizers, and my favorite was actually a potato thing, even though normally i'm not big on potatoes. Very tasty! I remember seeing some desserts that I wanted to try, but we had to get going to get ready for the night and didn't get a chance. Try them out for me!
(4)Miriam W.
Given my dining companions, it was near impossible for me not to have a terrific time at Tap Tap. If you go, I'd steer you strongly toward the fried pork chunks. One bite of this dish incited serious food envy in me. Another standout was the shrimp in coconut sauce. Thankfully Maria didn't mind me dipping liberally into her dish (if you opt for the shrimp make sure to ask for additional bread to sop up its savory sauce.) My grouper, on the other hand, was disappointing.
(3)Tara L.
I love conch. Hot conch. Thick conch. Juicy conch. Spicy conch...just give me the conch. However, I must say, the spicy conch appetizer at Tap Tap was a bit too spicy for me. In fact, it pretty much burned off all of my taste buds upon my first aggressive spoonful of minced onions, peppers, lime and conch. At first I thought that maybe I just had some pansy little anti-spicy taste buds, but after passing it around the table, everyone agreed that this dish packed quite a fiery punch! The herring and avocado salad that I ordered was superb! After sampling everyone at the table's dishes, the consensus was that the two favorite entrees of the evening were the coconut curry shrimp and the pork entree. The mojitos were apparently voted best in Miami and I can understand why. They were delicious, well mixed and not too sweet. Presentation was wonderful as well. I also adored the colorfulness of the restaurant. Painted with vibrant colors, the restaurant is adorned with murals and character paintings. I felt as though I was in a different country for the hour or so that I was there. Overall, I really enjoyed Tap Tap. I've eaten Haitian food before at a family friend's home and I felt as though the dishes here were not too far off.
(4)Shenika T.
This is such a beautiful place ... on the inside. I kept driving by here and I wasn't sure if I should go in b/c the outside isn't really inviting. The outside of the restaurant is very dark. I didn't know where to park here, so I almost didn't go. Anyhow upon walking up to the restaurant, I know I made a good decision. The paintings inside are so beautiful. It didn't feel like I was on South Beach. We ordered the fried goat tips for appetizer and man o man, that was delicious. I even loved the dipping sauce and dipped my bread in it to soften it. For dinner we ordered the goat stew and grilled yellow-tail snapper. The goat was so tender and the fish was moist and flavorful. We also ordered a Haitian mojito and a Haitian fruit punch for drinks. The food was as good as it gets, but overpriced. I know it's South Beach, but Haitian food is not expensive to prepare. I would recommend this place if you are in the area and want to try something new, but as for me I'm looking for more authentic Haitian food.
(3)Jay W.
Hmm... I think I must have caught Tap Tap on a bad day or ordered the wrong stuff. We dropped by for a light lunch consisting of griyo and conch salad but were a little disappointed with the results. The griyo (fried Berkshire pork) was fried to a crisp and the cuts we got were mainly fat and no meat. The meat that was in the griyo unfortunately was dried beyond belief. They do use real Berkshire pork here, but it seems like such a waste to overcook it like this. The portion size was also disappointing though since there were just 3 little cubes of pork with our order. The conch salad though, was perfect. The conch wasn't chewy or rubbery like what you would expect. It was prepared ceviche style, so it was nice and refreshing from the Miami heat. My only complaint was that I wish they gave me more!
(3)Michelle W.
4 stars for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Shrimp were the perfect texture, fresh and the sauce was just delicious. The drinks we ordered were also quite good (had a large variety between the 8 of us!). My dining companions were also pleased with their food choices. 2 stars for the service. The service was ridiculously slow. We were there for a birthday (had reservations) but everything was painfully slow. The restaurant wasn't that busy and we were there almost 4 hours....frequently awaiting drink refills....if you needed something it was difficult to get the servers attention and when you had it there was always a chance that they wouldn't remember what you asked for anyways. yummy food (4) + service sucked (2) = 3 stars
(3)n l.
actually, about a 4.7 because it was a really hot that day :( I came here on a Tuesday afternoon so it was not too busy. I had a spageti kreyol with kribish (shrimp) and a hatian mojito. The spageti kreyol was delicious!!! A little spicy, but nothing most can't handle. The staff was kind and the walls were painted with colorful murals. I would come here again if I lived in Miami. Not too expensive.
(5)Stricky T.
First impressions last, tap tap made an impression. Just like most of the reviews, I tried the grilled conch, the spinach in coconut sauce. I really liked the food and have go back someday. Grand food
(5)Chrichelle M.
Another Yelp hit. We're visiting and have flown blind based on Yelp recommendations and haven't been steered wrong yet. The service was distant which is why it wasn't five stars
(4)Carla B.
This place popped my Haitian cuisine cherry. :-) Pleasant, different experience. Colorful place, very authentic, nice servers, good prices and the food is good.
(3)Nikki B.
One of the best meals I've ever had. Ever. Impeccable service. Fun decor. Highly recommend.
(5)Kenny S.
Great food and Ambiance! Very authentic and more!
(4)Christian B.
The appetizer platter is at must have if you are new to haitian food. The beef stew and the whole fried fish are definite good choice entrees. The Haitian mojito rocks and the virgin papaya shake
(4)Molly M.
Amazing. The food was carefully prepared. The drinks were also wonderful. A great band showed up, and eventually my friend and I were having drinks with the owner and some of the other guests on the porch. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
(5)laquisha v.
Eaten takeout from here once. Conch Creole, ceviche and ginger tea are excellent. Goat was a mix of tough and tender, so I wasn't crazy about it.
(4)Karen L.
Legit. Everything I ate here was solid and a great experience for my first time trying Haitian food. Friendly service and lots of a food. Highly recommended if you ever get the chance! Just ask the waiter/waitress for what they recommend, that's what we did.
(4)Andrea W.
I had never heard of Tap Tap or even knew what haitian food tasted like. When I walked in I felt this great energy starting with the walls bright and colorful like your childhood coloring books. We were seated immediately despite not everyone in our party being there. We started off with goat tidbits that I was super hesitant because the thought of eating goat didn't seem rappetizing but I was told I wouldn't be disappointed and i was not they looked like chicharron but tasted like oxtail! Delicious! Then we also tried shrimp in coconut cream sauce and the griyo which is pork chunks both were good but the show stealer for the night was definitely the goat. I also got to sample the vegetable stew and that is something I must order next time I go. The service there was great which is always wonderful to compliment a great meal.
(5)Christine P.
What a great find this place is. I came here one first date and it was a perfect choice. The ambiance is very welcoming & casual. The restaurant is decorated with lots of colors and textures on the walls and very cool art to boot. I found myself paying more attention to the intricately beaded mural behind me than to my company. But the art ended up making for good conversation pieces. This was my first time having Haitian cuisine and I didn't know what to expect. They offered a few specials, but were out of the ones we were interested in. I ended up ordering the pumpkin soup and the avocado salad, both were fresh & very good. We also ordered drinks from the bar, it was a blend of rum & mango. Kudos to the bartender on a fantastic drink. I will definitely be back and next time I'll bring a bigger appetite.
(4)Lia T.
Really, really good food. Great service. I had a shrimp and rice dish and it was saucy and delish. My friend had a shrimp and spaghetti dish that I wanted to eat too. The folk art on the walls is engaging and the lighting is creative. The music was recorded but good. The only ding was the sweet potato pie. It was a leaden cube of flavorlessness. Get the passionfruit gelato. Dreamy. The night we were there the whole front bar was full of people watching the town hall presidential debates. Everyone was quiet and respectful. Nice.
(4)Jenny Q.
Great haitian food beware that service is sometimes slow.
(4)Mika G.
Walked in and was greeted by I think the owner. The place was very colorful inside and out. We started with the akra (malanga fritters). Malanga is a starchy root. The fritters were yummy. I ordered the griyo (marinated pork chunks) and my coworker ordered the shrimp creole; spicy. My pork was good and I loved the vinegar dipping sauce. My coworker took a bite of her shrimp and refused to eat anymore. She said it was too shrimpy. I took a bite to try it. No it's not spoiled. The flavor was that great seafood flavor like you get with cioppino. I guess she didnt know what to expect when she ordered creole. So I ate a couple of the shrimp so it wouldnt look like she hated it. She ate some of my pork chunks. We traded dishes a couple times when we went out. I took the leftovers back to my hotel for breakfast the next day. It was a good breakfast. I liked this place. The food was great.
(4)Maxfactor C.
I fell in love with this place as soon as i walked thru the door. The colors are amazing! There are murals on the floors,, walls, tables and ceilings. The bartender was great. Fresh mint mojitos! She mixed it in some stone bowl and it was amazing. This place looks like a little house with many rooms. As for the food I had the grilled lime grouper which was delicious. i had to come back again before I left miami so I came back the next night and had the shrimp in some coconut sauce with rice. It was great as well! This time there was a live band! I had the best time there and I will never forget tap-tap and the prices were reasonable which is so refreshing for S.Beach. I'll be back!!!
(5)Liz T.
the food's tasty. there's bright murals all over the walls, it's always loud & fun, and pretty much all the previous reviews were spot on... but the reason i love this place is the Tap Tap Band. i believe they play on thursday and saturday nights. get there early to get a spot. some nights there will be only 1 or 2 band members and 10 the next time they play. but regardless they're always jamming out with everyone dancing and singing along. the main guy in the band (forgetting his name) is just the coolest guy ever. great guitarist and great singer... but the most interesting part about him is that he used to be the mayor of Port-Au-Prince. how bad ass. that's reason enough for me to go.
(4)Dani B.
Changed from 4 to 2 stars. Good has gotten much worse. Service has always been slow as molasses. A shame bc used to be one of my favorites.
(2)Bonnie n.
pass... no need to go unless you want to have a long ass meal. i went for lunch, and because i had previously read yelp reviews i knew it was gonna be a bit of a wait.. i just didn't know how long it was gonna be. the restaurant was empty, except us and one other table. the fritters came out quickly so i was hopeful... however the main course came out nearly 45 min after we ate our fritters.. and the grilled corn came out after our main course was done and we had paid the bill... malanga fritters were ok.. a little too greasy. couldn't get pass eating more than 2. coconut shrimp had good flavor, nothing special though. there were only 4 shrimp. so not really filling.. i guess if you add the rice and beans you would get full. fried whole snapper, was large. the waitress recommended it pan fried, i think it may have tasted better deep fried. the sauce was good, still nothing special. charcoal grilled corn.. plain.. nothing but plain grilled corn.. i got a virgin mojito because i had to drive... it was too sweet
(3)Mae V.
This place was excellent! I got the snapper and it was fluffy and fresh. Beware, they give you the entire fish with the head still attached. I'm asian so I'm used to it, but the people sitting next to us were horrified. Haha they just stared at me while I devoured my fish. My sister got the shrimp in coconut sauce which was divine. The servers are very warm and friendly.
(5)Jake W.
Crazy awesome voodoo decor and great food
(5)Dan B.
Tap Tap is more than a restaurant. It's a showcase of the art and culture of a country who is, more often than not, considered a paradigm for the pinnacle of urban blight. The media will get an infinite amount of cracks at you to show you the extent of the poverty and suffering that goes on in Haiti, but representations of the beautiful side to the country are a dime a dozen. Does Tap Tap need to be located in Little Haiti to convince me of it's authenticity? Absolutely not. Even in "trendy" South Beach where style comes before tradition, Tap Tap convinces you from the moment you walk in that this is a true expression of artistic and religious Haiti and not a transient "cool place to be" that'll be replaced with an eclectic tapas bar. The menu is simple, but you can be assured that the dishes you select will be done right. I had the breathtaking privilege to try my first malanga fritter. Malanga is a root and they deep fry it, serve it on a bed of lettuce, and give you watercress dipping sauce, which is amazing. They also start you off with some of the hottest, freshest, and most delicious bread you can ask for. For any part of your meal, you can try the Haitian version of cole slaw, which actually serves more as a topping, as it's juicy with scotch bonnet peppers, something that you inevitably will find in most Caribbean foods. With exotic dishes such as conch in Creole sauce and stewed goat, it was hard to choose. I ended up going with the fried pork chunks, which I don't regret at all. The pork was deceivingly soft, juicy, full of flavor, and was accompanied with rice and beans, a plantain, and a garlicky/spicy dipping sauce. The meal was fabulous. I also tried some shrimp in creole sauce, which kind of reminded me of the Thai version of shrimp curry, with subtle differences. For your beverage, I highly recommend getting the Soley, which is a mix of Barbancourt Rum and Passion Fruit Juice. For $1 more, you can substitute 3 star rum for 5 star rum. The mixed beverages are delicious and tropical. For dessert, I tried the coconut pudding--a light dessert whose taste will be widely praised, yet whose texture will not be for everybody.
(5)D S.
We ate there tonight and it was great. There was no waiting and the food was delicious. If I had one thing to improve it would be to make the drinks larger or less expensive. The shrimp with coconut sauce,red snapper and grilled chicken was perfect!
(5)Peter C.
I started describing the heavenliness that is shrimp in coconut sauce to a friend, only to find out that he's a vegetarian since birth, hence has no idea what shrimps taste like. Thank goodness he is not blind, so I can still take him to Tap Tap and enjoy the visual feast of the wildly colorful mural. He's also not deaf, so the upbeat music will be fun for him, too. Oh, I am sure the gorgeous mojito is vegetarian, and the laid back, party atmosphere can be therapeutic in a way that does not violate his religious practice. However, if he were to venture into carnivorism once and forfeit his chance at eternal joy, the shrimp dish is probably worth it.
(4)Luis M.
Tap Tap is amazing. I saw it on the Food Network and though man that looks good. So I went with my wife and we had a great time. The food was awesome the service was great.
(5)Dee K.
My experience at Tap Tap was mixed. I have been anxious to try this place for years and now that I finally had a partner in crime who was as adventurous as me it was the perfect opportunity to make it happen. After tasting the food, I realized Haitian food is not as adventurous as i thought. It parallels the satisfying flavors of Latin and Thai food, which are more like staples in my flavor preference. what was adventurous was to pay that kind of money for that kind of service. The prices at Tap Tap are not THAT bad, unless you want to try new things. Everything added up pretty fast and the portions were a tad small. 4 of us tried a range of dishes from the whole red snapper to the pork chunks to the shrimp in coconut sauce to the spaghetti/shrimp special of the day. The snapper had bones and was really hard for the person to eat b/c he spent most of his time picking the fish off the bones. Pork was good and served with a clear spicy dipping sauce (onions and scotch bonnet pepper?) and was served with rice and beans (gallo pinto). Most of the dishes were served with gallo pinto and a couple fried plantains. The coconut sauce shrimp was very similar to a Thai coconut red curry sauce. The shrimp and spaghetti special was recommended to me by the server and I decided to take her advice. It was a grilled spiced shrimp tossed into a basic spaghetti with a lime/scotch bonnet sauce. We also shared the appetizer that came with a combo of fried okra, fried sweet potato and fried plantain- which we dipped in the green watercress sauce (flavors of this sauce are a MUST TRY). I also took fellow YELPers advice and ordered the spinach in coconut sauce- which was delish! The table had soursop, passionfruit and mango juices and I had a mojito. The mojito was nice- a perfect combo of flavors, but very simple. We sat outside on the front porch, which was very laid back. The inside of the restaurant was very colorful and even had a band playing in one of its rooms- nice vibes. All the walls (even the restrooms) are very colorful and bright. The service was verrrrrrry slow. Parking is a HUGE PAIN IN THE A$$. We dropped off half of our party to wait for a table and they were seated before we found parking. Our bill automatically included gratuity and probably came out to about $35.00 per person split equally 4 ways. The food was nice and everything else was ok - i think with some tweaking of the prices and attention to detail on the service this place could reach a higher standard. Nevertheless, I would come back to try additional items...
(3)Jen L.
Dining at Tap Tap extended our Caribbean culinary adventure after our cruise. We had the Creole Spaghetti with Herring and Stewed Goat. Both dishes were superb! The pasta dish had a good balance of flavors. I love that it has some spice but it wasn't hot. The stewed goat with the white rice and beans was tender and flavorful and the taste was made perfect with a squeeze of lime. The restaurant's ambiance is festive and colorful. The waitstaff is also knowledgable about the menu and offered good recommendations. The restaurant's patrons are a combination of locals and tourists. It is a good place to dine at when in South Beach.
(5)Agnes F.
went to tap tap for lunch the other day, no wait as i got there around noon started with a cocktail with rum, triple sec and something else (its orange in color) and its very tasty had the goat bits for appetizers, i love the deep fried goat meat with a dipping sauce that is full of flavor opted for stewed conch for entree, with a side of the polenta with red beans and coconut spinach on hind sight, plain rice would have been better as i can enjoy the stewed conch sauce even more but i really can't complain the conch was very tender and the coconut spinach was as good as everyone says here at the end, i was too stuffed to have any dessert love the beautiful murals and the friendly service, this was my first experience with Haitian food so i can't say if its authentic or not, but i enjoyed everything and look forward to going back there again
(3)Madeleine O.
Now this was my first experience with Haitian food. It may be possible this is not the best but for me this is my #1 for food. I could go without eating anything else. Haitian food is like a magical mix of the light sweet tang of Vietnamese plus the warm kick of Indian and the zest of Cuban with mystery deliciousness thrown in! The waitstaff is extremely friendly as are the patrons. I like the art, great colors. I'd probably want to sit on the deck next time and I would suggest newbies do so. The goat tidbits were delicious. Kind of reminded me of the Filippino dish lichon minus the fat, we ordered a fried veggie platter, delicious root vegetables with three divine dipping sauces and I had goat stew with rice and beans. Seriously phenomenal. Oh also I tried conch for the first time! It was like an ahi tuna tar tar salad. Cold sweet tangy and with a real kick in the mouth of spice at the end. LOVED it! Go for the 5 star rum when you order the tropical punch (because it isn't an option not to order at least one!!!)
(5)Isabel J.
classic, one of my favorites in miami
(4)Trillvia P.
I love this little spot. The waiter was very attentive and sweet, so were the men (managers? owner?) who walked around to make sure we were having a good time - forgot their names! I ordered the sour sop, and a mojito with water to down it all. How thorough! Lol, For my appetizer I got the spinach in coconut sauce and a plate of the papas fritay? It had plantains, sweet potatoes, a spicy cajun sauce and another green sauce to dip this other fried food in. It was all good. I really wish I was hungrier to have gone for more afterwards, but I'll be back. The rooms inside are very kid friendly and artsy. Lovely to be in, I sat outdoors though :)
(5)Ha R.
Had the Conch stew. Not as spicy as I had wanted. The ginger tea is really good. Worth a visit.
(3)Andrew B.
Great food! The service was wonderful - we took our recommended foods to go, fried goat, coconut shrimp, fried plantains, beans and rice--- the woman in-charge rushed the order and spent 10ish minutes chatting while it was prepared. If I lived in Miami I'd return here often!
(4)Adam O.
I love this place. Although it is almost always super loud and packed with people or closed for a month long vacation, I really like it. The brightly colored and "fun" flags and murals often depicting something grisly taking place in the graveyard are pretty much awesome, and really are works of serious art. In fact the whole ambiance here is pretty good. Hipsters, haitians, aging world-travelers, jazz musicians, kind of tropical bohemian that isn't too pretentious, but is fun to look at. If your table isn't ready when you get there (call ahead) you can sit at the bar and try one of many delicious caribbean drink specialties while you wait, which are all very delicious. The food is consistently good. I've had the Ox Tail stew, Goat Curry, Fish, Conch, Legim, etc., and they are all good. I think most of it comes with the spicy haitian-style cabbage pickliz, which is cool and hot at the same time. This is definitely one good place to get away from the cuban sensibility about spices (or lack thereof). Things are hot, and they taste good. The menu seems to change seasonally, and there are sometimes some great specials. Also, for an entertaining meal on the beach, you will pay about $10-15 per entree which is unheard of and totally radical. I take out of town guests here all the time.
(5)Dan F.
Take this review with a grain of salt, I didn't actually eat dinner here, I only sat at the bar and had mojitos. But seriously, one of the best Mojitos on planet earth. The haitian rum really packs a kick without tasting strong. Drink these with caution. The service was good, the interior charming and again, best mojitos in Miami. Well worth a stop if just for a Mojito.
(5)Jennifer N.
Tap Tap, located on 5th St. in South Beach, is an unexpected, inexpensive, Haitian restaurant that serves really good food. The moment you walk in, you're struck by the vibrant colors on the wall, the murals and works of art, and the staff. You feel like you're in Haiti, if this is how Haiti is supposedly like. It is lively and fun. We started the meal off with a huge bowl of Bouyon, which consisted of beef, boniata, malanga, potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dumplings in a clear broth. The soup was homey and soothing. Quite tasty for a soup. For the entrees, I ordered the Oxtails stewed in tomatoes and my friend ordered the Crab stewed with Eggplant and Tomatoes. Hands down, my dish was the best that night. The oxtails were so tender and succulent, and full of flavor. Served with a side of dirty rice and Tostones, I couldn't have been happier. So much good food, how could I complain! My friends dish was decent but not fantastic. The dish was mostly crab shells hiding the little meat it had. There was a jumble of flavors, complicating the simplicity of the way the dish should've been. I guess you just can't have it all can ya? We were too full to have dessert, so we opted to end it there. Definitely a place to revisit again. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Mcduff G.
Not authentic Haitian food. Was very dissapointed because it is advertising as a Haitian restaurant. I am Haitian and this is def not Haitian food.
(2)Rick K.
Just arrived in Miami and this was the first place I went. It was a Sunday afternoon and I was the only one there. I ordered a mojito drink that didn't have mint (its called something different but I can't recall the name) and the coconut shrimp with the rice and beans. Everything was incredible. The coconut sauce was unlike anything I had tried before, and when you douse their amazing homemade hot sauce all over it, you are talking some incredible flavors. The drink was tangy, sweet, fresh and strong (although small). All in all I think this place is great. I considered giving it 4 stars because it is a bit expensive (the coconut shrimp was $16, the drink $7 -- lunch menu) but really it blew me away so 5 it is.
(5)Bruce R.
After you are done gawking at the half clothed beautiful people on the beach, head on over to Tap Tap for some great Haitian cuisine. This place was AWESOME. Great Happy Hour and great food and ambiance. Our server was superb! Must eat at if you are in Miami.
(4)john m.
What a cool place! The atmosphere was very cool. You eat in painted chairs surrounded by murals of Haitian life. We started with the fried plate. I had the whole fried yellow tail snapper. All very well prepared. Good friendly service. Set in the middle of the Art Deco South Beach this is an ethnic find. Creole food is such a wonderful treat.
(4)bridget e.
when you get on board the metaphoric tap tap conveyance, you are transported to a magical tropical realm. upon entering, gone are the notions of pink stucco, sun scorched asphalt, gleaming, pedicured, massaged like kobe beef, sleek delorean riders. an impossible riot of color, murals adorn the edifice. scenes unfold, stories painted in scarlet hibiscus, orange african tulip blossom, lavender jacaranda, mustard spotted orchid, emerald fern tree green, and cobalt sky blue. vivid matriarchs and smiling children, a veritable hustle and bustle of life. we were led into our own room whereupon our cranky matriarch complained about the cold. the server, wisely assessed the situation and suggested i follow him to find a warmer spot. none was found, but he cleverly opened a window, and after struggling valiantly, managed to open another. grandma unlucky was satisfied. the food was excellent. i was leery of ordering krihish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce), because experiences with this in lesser eateries invariably materialized as cloying and sickeningly sweet. fortunately this was not the case here, the shrimp in coconut sauce was tender, flavorful and fabulous. we ordered griyo (pork), spinach in coconut sauce, snapper with a spicy scotch bonnet sauce. everything was truly delicious with the exception, as noted by maria, of the rice and beans. sadly, they were out of cabrito (goat) my mojito was excellent and made with my favorite rum, barbancourt. as new york yelper's know, you don't just go with any motoconcho, or tap tap. BABAY! p.s. they have parking!
(5)Drew G.
This place is good. I had one of the fish specialities which was pretty underflavored. My friend had the goat stew and that was really great! Lots of good flavors. Wish the fish had been similar! Other than that, nice staff and great ambience.
(3)Affifa A.
Great place to have a nice time with friends. The ambiance, the live music really brings out the place. The waiters and bartenders are great.
(5)Paul N.
Food ok; waited an hour after they forgot my partners dinner; same thing fr couple next to us:-/
(2)Mike M.
Had a great lunch here yesterday. Cool spot to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful Miami air. First time trying Haitian food and glad I did, the shrimp creole and fried goat chunks were great. Definitely would like to come back and try some more stuff and another Mojito or Guinness.
(4)Joey V.
I had a great time here. I loved the goat tidbits appetizer and the Griyo was outstanding. delicious sides and mojitos as well
(5)Matt R.
this was our first time having haitian food and it was a good experience. we tried the malanga fritters, spicy marinated conch, avocado and tomato salad, and the shrimp in coconut sauce. it was all extremely good and tasted even better with a mojito.
(4)Emilia P.
I expected better! I had been here once before and while the food was good the service was poor yet, I decided to give them a second chance. Yes the food is good, I will not take that from them, the place is also very cute but the service well, is poor and this time, enough for me not to comeback. It took them 50 minutes to serve us the appetizers (it was only 3 of us and the place was empty) after waiting over an hour the waiter came back to tell us that they didn't have one of the dishes we requested so we waited some more. The entire time we were there, nobody came to ask how we where let alone to refill our glasses. As I said, the food was good once we got it, the place is cute and tastefully decorated on the other hand, the prices where not cheap. After the entire meal all I was left with was...why did we wait?. next time I will walk out from any place that makes me wait 1 to 2 hrs for a meal unless the food is to die for, but here? sorry but not worth it.
(2)Katrina C.
okay, so not being haitian and not having eaten in little haiti, i cannot vouch for authenticity, but i LOVE this place. i passed by it many times before realizing it was there, it's kind of a hole in the wall but once you are inside, you can't believe you were missing it. the ambience is fantastic, particularly on weekends when they have live music. the murals on the walls are gorgeous. portions are huge, while i rarely got too adventurous (i think the most i can boast about is trying someone else's fried goat) everything i tried was deelish. there was a drink there that i cannot remember the name of for the life of me, but if you like ridiculously sour things, it's got your name on it. it's basically rum and fresh lime juice. we took almost all of our out-of-town visitors there and it was always appreciated.
(5)Joseluis A.
finally, after years of hearing good things about tap tap... i finally checked in today for lunch. i sat by the bar and ordered a guinness cause they have it on tap ... tap. so, to be honest, my beer was not cold, they musta have just changed kegs, so i had no other choice but to chug it. oh, the sacrifice... the menu looks good but also sorta pricey, two digit numbers all over the place. i ended up getting the goat stew which i compare to clives cafe, that lovely jamaican place on north miami avenue and 28th street. this is the deal, tap tap has better quality goat. lean, less fatty, flavorful .. very meaty chunks. came with rice and beans. a small portion of that and ONE, a SINGLE piece of plantain. for $15? thats a little bit too much in my book. although i liked my meal, i dont think i would just come back here for kicks and giggles .. i rather go to little haiti and find something similar but at 1/2 the price.
(3)Nicole M.
pretty good prices and great flavors. and it's so nice to be somewhere colorful and unique and a bit rustic (quirky in a word) which south beach prides itself on getting away from. only small problem is that things aren't exactly what you'd imagine from the description sometimes. i ordered some sort of stewed chicken but it was really more like roasted chicken that was placed into stew before serving (yes, there's a difference). they definitely have the best fried yucca in town though, good for any "fries" connoseur... you know who you are. i would go back just for that. Also try the face-burning clear hot sauce that's on the table (that my friend requested additional jalapenos for) and a haitian after dinner drink called crema which tastes like super creamy spiked horchata.
(4)Michael Y.
Very cool restaurant. Great art work throughout. Really enjoyed the goat stew and the fish dish that was recommended was delicious.
(5)Sabrina M.
Assuming you didn't know much about Haitian food, or you've never had it before, Tap Tap is a great place to start. But when you go have a meal in Little Haiti, you quickly realize that what you had at Tap Tap was "Haitian lite."
(3)Wona C.
cool colorful Haitian decor welcomes you and i was very excited to try Haitian as an island food lover. but overall, this place didn't do much for me. i ordered their authentic fried pork dish(griyo), they overcooked and I didn't like my dried out pork. but regardless of my food quality, i think it is worth the visit if you want to experience new culture & food.
(3)Sabrina B.
This is the worse excuse for a Haitian restaurant if there ever was one. As a Haitian myself, I grew up eating a lot of the foods on their menu, and let me tell you, some of their entrees are simply not edible. The chef uses so much salt and drowns the food in so much sauce that you can barely identify what you're eating. If you're in Miami and want authentic Haitian, go to Little Haiti, this place is not worth your time and will be VERY disappointing! The decor is interesting and the appetizers are at least edible, but there are FAR better choices in Miami than this place. Save yourself the stomach ache and walk on by, you'll be so glad that you did!!!
(1)Irene W.
I was looking for a dinner place that could accommodate a party of 10, and I chanced upon this place on Yelp. None of us had ever tried Haitian food before, so we really didn't know what to expect. We were not disappointed though - it was delicious and not overly expensive! Including alcohol we spent around $40 a person. I'd definitely come back the next time I'm in Miami. We decided to go family style and order a bunch of dishes to share - the stewed goat, spinach in coconut sauce, shrimp in coconut sauce, oxtail, fried pork chunks, grilled chicken, and a steamed whole fish. The general consensus among our group was that the goat, shrimp, spinach and fried pork were the best, but everything was very flavorful. The coconut sauce was incredibly good - it's the consistency of a thai curry, only with other spices in lieu of curry...so good in fact that we all just wanted to drink the sauce. The goat and the pork were cooked just right and nicely moist, with great flavor. Apparently they're also known for their cocktails, and while I didn't try any of it, my friends LOVED the mojitos and other cocktails on offer. The colorful decor adds to the character of the place, and the service was just about right - not overbearing, but just enough to get what we needed. The server also made some great recommendations on what to order.
(5)Gretchen T.
A real treat for a California kid to try Haitian food. We opted for take out but the restaurant is very festive and has a little bar area where the cool server offered to make us a fresh mojito while we waited. My favorite dishes were the coconut and spinach, and the prawns. We skipped the goat and other more creative dishes but I would try them next time. Note: the prices are cheap but the portions are also small, so order away!
(4)Mel M.
The food's ok, but the people are nice and the atmosphere is amazing. Love just sitting there looking at the stuff on the walls. I've been there on live music nights and it's a lot of fun, but given this is a renovated house and the spaces are narrow, it's LOUD. But it's still the first place I try to talk my friends into going whenever I'm in for a visit.
(4)Carolyn T.
Friday night's dinner was at Tap-Tap. I probably made a mistake by trying to taste too many dishes and sufficed by ordering all of their appetizers; a pumpkin soup which was redolent with mostly large chunks of cabbage and smaller bites of pumpkin but was overall WAY too salty and a platter of goat bits served with a red sauce that was (happily) not too spicy. Then there were the two platters of fried vegetables... One was a sampler platter which included three vegetables and two sauces; the same red goat sauce and a green salsa verde. The other was a duplicate plate of one of the same vegetables. Meaning? When I placed my order, it would have been nice if my server told me that I was ordering the same thing as it was made apparent that I was ordering this way to get a lot of tastes... To their credit, they WERE slammed and my solo meal at the bar took over two hours.
(2)Derkins R.
amazing. if you're in miami, this is a must. went with a group of 9 and got to try a lot of different dishes. they were all so delicious! we need one of these in nyc.
(5)Liza H.
A bright and cheery place. Vibrant fresh tasting food made with primo produce. Grouper in spicy lime/cabbage sauce, Tap tap salad and Goat were very good. Fun Caribbean color scheme with Haitian metal work, paintings, voodoo flags and a late model truck dolled up like a Tap tap give a quirky and fun vibe.
(4)Gourmet G.
With its festive wall murals, brightly painted tabletops, and rotating art, the decor here is as colorful as the jitney buses seen around Haiti, from where the menu draws its inspiration. The pumpkin soup, fried Haitian pork, and shrimp in a spicy Creole sauce were as delicious as I remember them being in Port-au-Prince. Live - and lively - native music adds to the fun in this cramped, noisy restaurant.
(4)Bebe L.
This place is totally overrated. I just ate there last week during my visit to Miami. Seeked out this place mainly because of such good reviews on yelp. I wonder what people ordered that they loved so much. I had the shrimp in coconut sauce, but I couldn't taste any trace of coconut. It tasted like salty, flavorless tomato sauce to me. My boyfriend agreed that it was really bad. I asked the waitress if the dish was really "shrimp in coconut sauce" and she said that it is. Yeah right. My boyfriend had the grilled chicken and that was decent, escpecially when dipping in the green sauce. The avocado salad was good, just nothing I'd want to come back for. That being said, the decor was very nice and colorful. There was a 1-person solo keyboard player/singer and he was pretty good.
(2)Juhani P.
The place looks FUN - very Caribbian - food was good and portions were big. That 'cole slaw' thing was really hot. Way too hot. Watch out for that. Otherwise, the service wasn't that great but if you are not in a hurry, the balcony on is nice place to chill out and watch for Ferraris and Rolls-Royces cruise by.
(4)Neusom P.
Great food and great people. Highly recommend if you are in south beach . I ordered the pork chunks with rice, beans, and plantains. Everything was perfectly cooked and you really can't beat the price compared to other restaurants in south beach.
(5)Ashley M.
Where did these people eat?!? All I can say is BLAND, BLAND, BLAND! I had the lime grouper with avocado, rice and beans, & fried plantain. Let's just say I was thankful for the avocado on my plate. I was extremely unimpressed and would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. The art on the walls are nice but that's about it. I'd you look closely you'll see that it's rather dirty. The service was decent. Not great and not bad. Just go somewhere else.
(1)Lynette D.
Do not visit They do not have parking I purchase parking after the employees said use the machines. Their service was slow. The parking went over by 19 minutes & my car was towed costing me &$259.00. The city of Miami beach needs to address visitors bringing tourism dollars being fleeced because their is limited parking & a rest with no parking tells customers to park and pay & you pay & get taken for $259.00. No matter how the food tastes it is not worth going to be taken advantage of because they do not have parking! Stay away
(1)Cassie G.
How awesome is it that one of the most highly reviewed spots in South Beach is Haitian? This is why I love Miami. Tap Tap was my first Haitian food experience and definitely a great spot for first timers. We stopped by for lunch on a weekday and the place was pretty empty. The waitress wasn't too welcoming but, alas, you're still in South Beach. To start, we ordered the akra, malanga fritters with watercress dipping sauce. I've never had malanga cooked like this and did enjoy it, with the sauce being the star of the dish. It provided a needed flavor and freshness to the fritters. I would also encourage spicy fiends to grab the scotch bonnet condiment on the table to kick it up a bit. For my main course, I ordered the much lauded kribish kekoye, shrimp in coconut sauce. I see why this is one of the most popular dishes! I essentially dumped it over the rice and didn't leave one speck on the plate. The shrimp were plump, sauce very flavorful and rice cooked perfectly. With one Haitian food experience under my belt, I'm feeling a little more confident to venture to Little Haiti for a taste of some more.
(4)Colleen B.
Thank you, Yelp! No way I would have ventured in here without the resounding echoes of Yelpers. So delicious. My very first time having Haitian food and it was a delight. Headed in right at lunchtime and were seated immediately. Don't expect much in the service area for lunch as they weren't extremely attentive but the staff was kind and served us some delicious food so I wasn't mad. The murals are so very bright and vibrant, they make the decor very engaging. We started with the Akra: Malanga fritters with avocado and watercress dipping sauce. When I say I could have bathed in that sauce, I am not joking. I put my finger in the dish and scooped out the very end of this sauce after asking my dining companions if they minded. It was everything I have ever wanted to accompany me on a dish; refreshing, flavorful with a hint of sweetness and a kick of bitter. I even used it on my main dish and I hope to the sauce gods that I can recreate this sauce of beauty. My main dish, I went for the Kribish Kreyol o Kokoye -- the Shrimp in Coconut Sauce. I always get thrown off when restaurants serve the shrimp with their tails still on but I assume it's to show their freshness, which I appreciate. It was delicious. The coconut sauce was lovely and rich and the shrimp were plump and cooked to perfection. A pleasant first Haitian food experience!
(4)Blue A.
It took me about 30 years before I tried Haitian food. What was I waiting for? I will say the cuisine is typical of what you'd expect from a Caribbean restaurant. Rice. Beans. Roots. Meat in sauces. Tropical flavors. The layout of the restaurant is interesting. There's a couple of tables and a bar area when you walk in - that's where the hostess greeted us. Then through a little doorway there's another room with plenty of seats. We sat back there - and there was only one other table while we were there. That room is brightly colored - and once again, very tropical! I'd been having a hankering for some oxtail for months. So when I saw it on the menu I was excited and nervous - excited to get oxtail, nervous it would taste drastically different from what I am used to (Cuban style). Of course the spices were pretty different - but this was equally delicious! The dish came with some rice and beans mixed together (moro) and all around a filling dish. The table also got some fried malanga! Growing up my mom always made me malanga soup when I was sick. I don't think I have ever seen malanga available at a restaurant before. These are basically like yuca fries and the came with a watercress and avocado sauce that was really good. Overall it was great. Of course the main things wrong here are pretty much par for most of Miami - parking can be very tricky and service could be a little more attentive. However the food makes up for that.
(4)Judy C.
I got the lime fish based on other Yelp reviews. It was good. This fish was a tad dry, but the sauce on it made up for the dryness. Also, I wanted it with rice, but they didn't have rice left, so I got it with Yucca fries. The Yucca fries are ok. Those were a bit dry for me too. This is more like Caribbean food. The coconut pudding was the highlight of my meal. It was creamy and sweet and duper yummy!
(4)Derrick K.
Nice Haitian spot in South Beach. The restaurant is easy to miss if you are not looking for it, but once you step inside it is colorful and you feel like you are in the owner's home. My wife and I had the goat stew and the fried fish. We had a lot of fried fish on our stay in Miami and theirs was up to par. Make sure to get extra pickled salsa with the fried fish because it is so good.
(4)Chris S.
This was my first experience with Haitian food and Tap Tap made a good impression. Haitian cuisine is very similar to the food of their surrounding Caribbean neighbors but with their own unique flavor. Tap Tap is very pleasant to look at, lots of nice bright colors and larger than it appears from the outside. Furniture is designed to remind you of the no thrills vibe of many Caribbean nations. Very simple chairs and tables. Service was good, hostesses was warm and welcoming. Waiter was also very good and attentive. Food was good, I had the Griyo, pork chunks, portion size was generous and pork was cooked well and remained moist which is difficult with the way the chunks were cut. Accompanying rice was prepared well and was an excellent compliant to the main protein. Excellent overall presentation and flavor profile. Tap Tap is a must visit if you like the vibe of Caribbean food and are in the Miami area. Short walk from the beach and worth your time.
(4)Antonio B.
Authentic for sure, loved it. I had the griot, but we also had the stewed goat and stewed chicken. The art work and furniture are unique, colorful and pretty.
(5)Elizabeth Y.
Definitely a gem in south beach. Reasonably priced. Had to check this place out after seeing it being featured in food network's diners drive ins and dives. Highly recommend their malanga fritters. It's some sort of root but not as dense as yuca. Served with watercress sauce that reminds me of a healthy fresh green juice. Main courses: ox tail stew (not on the menu but request and waitress will see if the chef can cook it up) really tender. Also recommend the coconut shrimp. As for drinks you can try their krema which is made in house (rum and milk). Or you can try their Haitian mojito or their natif which is more tart and strong. I would not recommend their cake however. It was really dry, maybe bc we had the last piece and it tasted as though it had been sitting for awhile.
(4)Mandy R.
1) Sunnie is amazing and adorable 2) The mojitos are the best I've ever had 3) This better be on your list while in town
(5)Sandy P.
Awesome authentic Haitian food. Definitely a must if you're in south beach! The drinks were amazing as well and the restaurant decor is absolutely gorgeous.
(5)Landy S.
We went to Tap Tap after recommendations from fellow yelpers and a friend, to try some good ol' haitian food. The food was good, but not extraordinary. We tried the stewed chicken dish with rice and plaintain, and the "fried" platter. The service was also good and timely. We recommend this restaurant.
(3)Angie P.
Wasn't real authentic Haitian food, just okay. Server was nice and art work was amazing!
(3)Samantha S.
While on vacation in Miami I was craving lambi (conch), Haitian style. After doing a bit of researching and forgoing another spot because of their lack of seating, me and my girlfriend settled on Tap Tap and we were both glad we did. I ordered the lambi and it came with rice and beans and plantain and my girlfriend had the griot (fried pork chunks) which came with the same sides. There's nothing to say except the food was tasty. We also finished all the pikliz (pickled, spicy cabbage) that they sat on the table. I guess my only gripe is that service is slow and that may be why my rice was a little cold? Besides that, amazing food, definitely hit the spot.
(4)Greg S.
Tap Tap was a great find in South Beach. Despite the protestations of our Cuban cab driver ("Haitian food? Oh my god! Ugh!"), I was more than pleased with the meal that we had here. It's a fairly small space, but the staff is friendly and we had no problem getting a table on a Sunday night. The decor is fantastic. Large, Rivera-esque murals of Haitian scenes on the walls and beautifully painted tables (ours had a mermaid). Definitely set a high bar, but luckily the food was just as good. Having little experience with Haitian cuisine, we asked for recommendations and ended up going with an appetizer of fried plantains, malanga, and sweet potato; stewed beef with okra, cornmeal, and white beans; and shrimp with a coconut sauce. Honestly, the recommendations couldn't have been better. Despite being fried and somewhat heavy, the plantains and malanga came with a watercress dipping sauce that I would have eaten by the bowlful. Absolutely delicious, and definitely necessary to lighten things up a bit. The entrees were also great. The beef and okra stew was rich, flavorful, and thick. Our waiter advised adding the white beans to the cornmeal--tasty, but so dense that I couldn't eat more than 1/3 of it. The shrimp reminded me of a Thai curry, but less sweet and with a more pronounced coconut flavor, which is a good thing in my book. If you're in or around South Beach, Tap Tap is worth your time. I'll probably end up returning here the next time I'm in Miami.
(4)John Z.
Very good for tasty Haitian food. Appetizers are very good, creamy spinach side is a must, grilled conch could be a bit softer, but chicken was the bomb - nice spices and nicely cooked. The restaurant makes you feel as if you are on vacation on an island. The place is simple, a bit run down, but colorful and authentic. It is a must for every tourist on South Beach.
(4)Jonathan P.
Wow not sure where the ratings come from. I had the griyo and legim and the mais molune. The griyo with rice and beans was good. My wife's mais was horrible. Some of the art work was interesting but there's a lot of gede themed (diety of Sex, mischief, and death) stuff. Left a weird vibe. Food took a year and a day to come out.
(2)Andrew K.
3.5 stars, rounding down. Went here due to outstanding recommendations. Ambiance was dingy. Service was friendly. The food was pretty good, kind of like Cuban. Expectations were high due to status on Eater 38 essential and seeing it on tv. Didn't deliver. Watercress salad dressing and non-greasy fries yams/plantains, were highlights. The grouper had no flavor at all. The shrimp with coconut sauce was not mind-boggling. The griot was ok.
(3)Juliana L.
Shrimp in kreyol sauce... heaven on a plate. My first Haitian food experience, and it couldn't have been nicer. The decor is bright and beautiful, outdoor seating is lovely, staff is relaxed and attentive. A few blocks' walk from the beach and totally worth it. Tastes like food made from the heart!
(5)Peter C.
Back to old Haiti after 5 years. This place is a gem., a utopia amongst the culinary riffraff of ocean avenue. Here I sit with with a beautifully mind-altering rhum (yea, rhum) punch, in a room amazingly painted with Haitian art. My dish was lime infused grouper perfectly cooked and wonderfully cruelly spicy. Momma K (mojito Momma for this trip) had Mohitos, pumpkin soup and salad. She still shivers with delight when she thinks of it. Our friends, ox tail and goat soups, a bit bony but good none the less. And ao the night progressed. We sat around a lovely painted table and talked of life. This, in my humble opinion is what dining out is about; a forum to share with friends and family good times, good drinks and good food. This is my Haitian refuge from the storm. You are a fool if you miss this.
(5)Maevs D.
plat fritay 'lan te gou anpil eh lanbi Nan saus te pli gou. Mwen te fashe emplarye yo pa'te ayesyen! Men manje yan bon eh geyen anpil atizay ayisyen Nan restoran. Li bel eh gen bel ambyans Nan mitan south beach.
(4)A H.
Nice art! We didn't love the food or service and wish we'd went somewhere else for my wife's 37th but I would go back for beers and possibly apps at the bar. The food was carb heavy and typical Caribbean island fare but fun enough. Locals like it and I can see why. Do not go for romantic dinner........don't worry I made up for it the next day (wife happy again)! I thought the Kenyan beer was fun (Tusker). Shame it wasn't draught but that's cool.
(3)Kevin G.
Service was bad Waiting for EVER ! Food was undercooked for most of the dishes Sides arrived with the dessert Really OVERpriced
(1)Leesa F.
I was visiting Miami and my friend wanted to try this place so I decided to give it a shot after checking out the menu. We were absolutely starving by the time we got there and ordered an app, malanga fritters, and the grouper and oxtail for our entrees. For drinks, my friend had the rum punch and I had the Haitian mojito. The mojito was delicious, I definitely recommend it! For the appetizer, the actual food part was just ok but the sauce is where it's at! I would recommend just ordering the sauce and using it to dip the delicious fresh bread (with an amazing butter!) or use it to put on your entree if you get fish or chicken. The grouper was just ok but my friend's oxtail was very good. I dipped my plantains in the sauce and it was heavenly. Overall, this place was good. It's not a quick meal, it was very slow and I'm pretty sure our waiter forgot about us a few times. Their outside seating is only 3 tables so the chance of sitting outside is slim. If I lived in Miami, I would probably be back and order just the appetizer sauce and the oxtail. Enjoy!
(3)Chanel G.
This place is AMAZING! If you are tired of the over priced places on Ocean Dr walk a few blocks to Tap Tap. The art and decor takes you to the island of Haiti immediately. Our waitress Karen was so hospitable her level of service was top notch! Ok to the food....we started with fruit punch and rum punch....punch is made in house and delish....then the plat fritay (excuse spelling) ADD THE GOAT...you will thank me. Main course was the shrimp in coconut with rice and beans!!! It was heaven!!! Also try the spinach in coconut! If your in Miami GO HERE!!! I will def be back!!! Also they should bottle and sell their watercress sauce....Id put it on everything!!!
(5)Jules B.
I grew up in Miami and lived here for 23 years and I always saw this place but never tried. I changed that on this trip. Went with my cousin who also had never tried it and we both enjoyed it very much. We shared the appetizer platter and it was all really good. The dipping sauces really made that dish and the goat "tidbits" were really tasty. Not sure what "tidbits" are really but regardless they were good. I had the beef stew with cornmeal and I really liked that dish. The cornmeal is basically grits and it had great flavor with the black bean sauce on top. The stew was really tender and didn't even require a knife. My cousin had the shrimp and it was cooked well and had great flavor as well. My only complaint with the food is it needed more spice. I was expecting a lot of spice and it was just jot there really. I live in California now so I really like my spicy food. The drinks were also good as well. I had the Haitian Mojito and it was really good. I'm sure there might be better Haitian food in the heart of Little Haiti but if you rather stick to beach area then try this.
(4)Jenny H.
Everything here is delicious!!! Authentic Haitian. My favorites are their spinach in coconut milk...and surprisingly, their spaghetti! Try anything and everything and you'll be pleasantly surprised I'm sure.
(4)Ilker U.
It's a casual atmosphere but yet the prices are not. We had a lunch for 2 and the bill was over $40. Conch was little chewy but the sautéed spinach was delicious.
(4)Renata F.
Saw this restaurant on the cooking channel and fell in love with their drink menu. Came here with my best friend and ate the most delicious Haitian meal ever. I could taste everything in the dish! I will definitely come back. The food is great and so is the service and those drinks are not shabby either.
(5)Brad N.
Great ambience, atmosphere and service. We brought a party of 8 and they took great care of us. The Griyo was very good and several of my party enjoyed the grouper. One of the best Mojitos in Miami - worth the upgrade to the 5 star rhum!
(4)Kashif K.
This place was recommended by a taxi driver who was Haitian, and I had expressed some curiosity about Haitian cuisine. Hmmm... I love talking to taxi drivers in Miami! I have now been here for lunch and dinner a number of times, and have always enjoyed my meal. Tap Tap is a means of public transportation (like a mini bus) in Haiti, and this restaurant has an ornate model of a Tap Tap parked right in front of it. The interior of the restaurant is similarly adorned in the traditional island fashion of Haiti, and exudes a very relaxed vibe, such that the bustle of South Beach seems thousands of miles away, once you're inside this restaurant. My favorite appetizer is the Taso Kabrit (chunks of goat meat, fried crisp, served with a dipping sauce). I've had the grilled grouper filet in lime sauce and the grilled whole yellowtail snapper, and the yellowtail snapper is my personal preference. The stewed oxtail is pretty tasty too.
(4)Vanessa R.
Came here for lunch on a Sunday. Slow service. Ordered spicy conch for appetizer which was good. Had griot for main entree and hubby had oxtail. Food was served cold but the flavor was there, would've been excellent if it was served right off the stove. Was expecting mixed rice and beans but was served white rice with white beans on the side? Food is good but disappointed by the service.
(3)Adriana O.
Visited during our Florida vacation , Sunday night 8/14 and we enjoyed the experience! South beach area prices and 18% tip included in check FYI. Enjoyed trying Haitian food for our first time! Forgot to take pics but we had two appetizers between 3 of us (malanga with watercress sauce and the other was a fried pork with another amazing sauce ) * forgot what it was called but the sauce was green and amazzzing ! I had the shrimp dinner with coconut sauce (other option is Creole). It was very good but it didn't taste much like coconut flavors or anything special, mostly the taste of tomato sauce with peppers. Although the shrimp was large and good . Each dinner plate comes with rice and beans and fried plantains. My boyfriend had the goat stew which was fantastic!!! Highly recommended. Our friend had the fried pork which he enjoyed as well. All in all it was a great experience but 4 stars for the pricing ,my somewhat bland entree and the service wasn't thoroughly present. Our waitress was super nice and helpful but we hardly saw her unfortunately. I will definitely try Haitian food again though.
(4)Jess C.
To complete my culinary adventures in Miami, I made sure I had some Haitian cuisine before I left. I had their goat stew ($18), which I came with a relatively small portion of goat and large portion of rice. I wanted to share my dish, but because there was such limited portion of goat pieces (2-3), it is difficult to share. Even though the eatery is filled with beautiful, colorful depictions of Haitian life and culture, I thought the lighting made the place a bit dark and gloomy during dinnertime. We were having an early dinner, and even though we were the only one in the restaurant, it took awhile to get our food & drinks refilled.
(3)Basshector J.
From start to finish this place was bad. After asking to speak with a manager I was informed she "stepped out." Our waitress asked if we were asking about our food taking long. How did she not realize it was her service we had a problem with? Since it was going so poorly? I am a server myself and it was deplorable. Servers can give a bare minimum of service with a greet, order, check back at the table once after their first bite, and then refill beverages. You can get a 20% tip out of that. You don't even have to smile. It took what felt like 10 minutes for us to be acknowledged. No introduction or greet, no "Welcome to Tap Tap." We didn't feel very welcomed after a while. Another 10 minutes to get water. When our Malinga appetizer was dropped we had no plates on the table. We had to ask after several minutes. When my friend's salad hit the table they just walked away before we could ask for silverware. My friend then had to go get silverware for the table himself (we're all restaurant industry so it was an educated guess where to find it). Once our food came out she never once checked to see if we were OK. Every server knows that is the most crucial point to be at the table to know if they need anything, if something isn't good, etc. I noticed the meat portion on my plate was half the size it was in the pictures here on Yelp. I also didn't get the sauce that it's supposed to come with but rather some oily bland orange dip. My friend's chicken was good, the fried plantain was good. She did not come to refill water for anyone unless she was asked to. Twice we sat there with empty glasses. And when we asked for more water she brought 2-3 empty glasses to us which was weird. I don't know if they are understaffed or if they are still training their staff but there should be more servers if they cannot handle their tables. I hate writing this but to save this place the staff needs to know this. I would have rather expressed this in person but the manager was not there and I wasn't going to complain to my waitress because she was dealing with other people. It's not all her fault, you cannot leave one server for an entire restaurant and one food runner. I don't know if there is a better and bigger staff for dinner. I would have comped something for such bad service. An apology would be cool. People are forgiving, if you show them even an ounce of fucks given, they usually will accept that. The first bill they printed out was wrong and didn't have an automatic gratuity. After they fixed it they added an 18% gratuity for a table of 4 people. This is not okay. No one there wanted to tip that for the service we just received and it almost made sense out of our entire experience. They add an automatic 18% gratuity there so why should they care about the service they give? No wonder. They're gonna get a nearly perfect tip if they give horrible service anyway. The tip is up to us unless we are a large party. After I asked for them to take it off they told me it was basically just a suggestion even though it was added into my grand total. There are tip suggestions at the bottom of the receipt for 15% 18% 20% already if I really need a "suggestion." This is taking advantage of people who are too polite and just wanna get out of there at that point. I spoked to two other tables there while they were standing around at the bar looking for help and they were both annoyed. They as well said it was horrible service. One guy had been there for 2 hours, he said. The place wasn't packed, it was at a steady pace of people in and out with about half to just under half the place being full. They didn't even know how to separate 2 items off a bill for a separate check. Please don't take this to heart or as hate. We got nothing but love but I feel as a business you need to hear these types of things to progress and continue.
(1)Crystine W.
Tap Tap was bookmarked before our flight even landed in Miami. Our adventures led us further away than the restaurant itself, so we didn't get to plan it into our days in Miami although we stayed a block down from the restaurant. Delight came when our food tour guide brought us to Tap Tap to sample their mojitos (voted best in SoBe at least 3 years running) and the Malangas, fried root vegetable. Tap Tap's mojito is true to its reputation and it truly is top-notch. That fresh-squeezed lime juice really packs a special punch into the beverage. We also sampled some of their Malanga Fritters (vegetarian, fried root of some type) that is served alongside some watercress dipping sauce. I wish they sold that sauce because it goes so well with probably everything. The restaurant itself is also very special. We learned that all of the tables and chairs are furniture pieces up for sale so they are constantly changing. Also, all of the art is done either by a Haitian artist who lives in Miami, or from an artist in Haiti. There is even a specific Haitian artist who randomly makes stops into the restaurant to add more to his art mural. Fancy? No. But uber cool? Hell yeah!
(4)Becka N.
I'm so happy we stumbled upon this art mecca! This place is awesome, literally slathered in art. Sharon, our bartender, explained that when the restaurant first opened, they hired a slew of local artists and gave each one a room as their canvas. Wow! Beautiful, just beautiful, from floor to ceiling. There are intimate private rooms if you're looking to throw a dinner party, outdoor seating and plenty of space at the friendly bar. If Sharon is manning the bar, you're guaranteed a tasty cocktail, local insider tips and fantastic service! No kidding! My friend asked if they have tea. They don't but whipped up a yummy spice tea with star anise right on the spot to accommodate us. We didn't eat but after checking out the menu, I'm definitely coming back to try a few dishes. Can't wait!
(5)Gym S.
I recently visited Tap Tap while visiting Miami again. It was delightful. The quality of the Haitian food was great and presentation was well executed. What's more, they have amazing cocktails and happy hour too boot! While it's not my first time enjoying Haitian cuisine, I did enjoy Tap Tap's refinement its art, and its storied 20 year history on Miami Beach. I spend most of my time enjoying food and drinks at the bar, where I hung with Miami Beach locals and felt like I fit right in. Mind you, this was a Monday night, so quite by Tap Tap and Miami Beach standards. But overall it was a great. I ended up staying an extra hour and a half talking Miami Beach history and trading points about the fine points about cuisine. If you're in Miami and want to try a fine rendition of Haitian cuisine- like griyot, oxtail, other stews and conch ceviche- try Tap Tap. I felt like I came out of the restaurant a better person.
(5)Jess H.
Good food, reasonably priced in Miami. Make the trek up from the beach to enjoy top of the line Haitian food. It's worth it.
(4)David K.
What I had: goat stew (18 dollars) first item on the menu. Comes with a healthy portion of flavoured rice and a fried plantation piece (potato) Haitian Cola. Opinion: 4 stars? Sounds about right, maybe slightly lower. Food portions are great, they give you bread for an appetiser and service is generally polite. The goat stew was ok, not the best goat dish I've had but it was a good cultural experience. Very flavoursome and tangy and has a little spice in it if that's your style. The Haitian Cola is a 20oz serving just like a soda pop with a unique taste. Try it if you want a soda :) I came here to try some different food from different parts of the world and it's nice place to try. Good for kids, good for a drink and has desserts too!
(4)Lisa N.
Great food and experience! Started with the combination plate of fried plantains and veggies - so good! None of the spices are spicy but have a great flavor! Moved onto the bef (beef)and pork dishes. Rice and beans were perfectly cooked and the meats were tender and juicy. Mild spices used - and fills you up fast (don't let the pictures confuse you, you get a lot of food. Ended with pineapple upside down and sweet potato pie - both highly recommend!!! Amazing place and such friendly staff.
(5)Pamela P.
When I came here to visit I initially wrote a very sarcastic review because I could not believe what I experienced. The owner was completely inebriated and extremely rude and I thought I would give her a pass and maybe it was an isolated incident. I made the decision to change my completely SARCASTIC good review to an objective one after just skewering someone else on bad customer service. Fair is fair and credible is credible. I was feeling a little under the weather and my favorite Colombian place on the beach runs out of the best soups ever by the time I get home (about 4 or 5) for good reason, they are phenomenal! So I need some healing home cooked food. Next best thing is a hearty stew. So I remember the Haitian restaurant on 5th Street from Food Network, it was really good that last time I went with Mom and Sis, and Haitians like to cook spicy which I love. I get to Tap Tap and YAY! They have 2 kinds of stews... chicken and goat. I walk in to the quaint little and I was about to sit by myself at a table by the window when a lady sitting at the bar protested and asked that I sit at the bar next to her. I thought that was really nice and I obliged. The bartender was very polite and helpful, out of the 2 choices he recommended the goat and I agreed. As I was waiting, I come to find out the lady next to me is actually the owner of the restaurant and she sarcastically introduced herself as "George". (She slurred George) She acted as if I had invited myself to sit with her... but I played along. She was very much into listening to some Hatian music that reminded me very much of Edith Piaf, so when I mentioned it she asked what do YOU know about Haitian culture? As if I had committed an ultimate offense. I said nothing, I am here to learn. She went back to her music for which I was thankful. Then my food came out... OMG it was heaven, just what I was looking for and it made me feel better immediately. That goat stew with the rice and beans and the Hatian version of spicy encurtido is just what I was craving and needed. I found out the entire kitchen staff is Haitian so you know you're getting authentic. As for the company, I want to thank Mrs. Kean, for making my rough day worse with her overall unpleasantness. It is very disappointing that an owner so rudely express their disdain of a customer's humble patronage. I say this because she repeatedly asked me why I was drinking her wine and eating her food? She asked as if I was pilfering her restaurant. I thought thats what restauranteurs want people to do, you sell, I buy. The bartender was nice and looked absolutely mortified at his boss' behavior, so did the rest of the staff, but they were too afraid to say anything. Overall, the unpleasantness left a bitter taste in my mouth despite the very good food. I will think twice before I support this business again.
(2)Karen D.
This place is good! I recommend it! My fiancé and I were visiting Pompano Beach and decided to try the ethnic food southern Florida has to offer. In fact, we are all kinds of ethnic food on our trip. Yum! This was a first for me- Haitian food. I have to say I was pretty impressed. My fiancé had the conch appetizer and akra. I ordered the grouper. Everything was pretty good but the akra was bomb. Service was a little slow, the fire alarm went off, the server didn't remember which table I was at when I got up to ask him a question and the bull was confusing.. So docking a star there. The place is super cute! If I lived locally, I would return.
(4)Andrea C.
A few friends recommended this place during our honeymoon in Miami. I absolutely lovedddd our meal there! I think it was one of my favorites while we were in south beach. We had the malanga(?) fritters and omg. SOO good! We also had the shrimp with coconut sauce and the pork chunks which were delicious, too. I wish they had food like this somewhere here! Soo yummyy!!
(5)Jack J.
Amazing! Completely authentic and delicious food, incredible artwork on walls, tables, chairs, etc. great live traditional music. People are clearly having a very good time in this place.
(5)Will W.
If you're looking for authentic Caribbean food at a reasonable price, this is the place to go. The food is awesome, and the place has a very laid back and friendly vibe.
(5)Snehal Rudra B.
Went to tap tap with some friends for dinner. The scene was loud, fun and and friendly. I thoroughly enjoyed the bar. I appreciated that they served Rhum Barbancourt, one of the finest rums in all of the caribbean, and all their mixed drinks are made with this very distinctive rum. I particularly enjoyed a drink that was a simple mix of rum, lots of fresh lime juice and raw sugar. It was tart, sweet, and deceptively potent. I had about three of those, along with a Prestige, and all of that made for a very fun night. My friends had the rum punch, and raved about it. Now the food. Akra was quite delicious. Taso kabrit was good, but just a tad bit dry. I had a steamed whole snapper in a lime sauce. The lime sauce was delicious. I could taste the scotch bonnet peppers that probably went into the sauce, and I love me some scotch bonnets! It was not too spicy, but extremely flavorful. The snapper was also cooked very well. However, i expected it to be fresher, considering how close we were to the ocean. One of my friends had the stew chicken,and claimed it was the best chicken of her life. Another friend had griyo and also enjoyed it. Certainly a fun experience in south beach.
(3)Cass M.
While exploring SoBe I came across this little jewel. I had the coconut shrimp with a side of coconut spinach. Brittney, the barkeep, was cute, super cool and friendly. Her rum punch will sit you down. I left satisfied and a tad tipsy. Great way to start a mini vacay!! I would give 5 stars but the spinach was drowning in coconut. I would have preferred a larger portion as well. I cleaned the plate with ease. Will return next visit!
(4)Nancy Y.
Love their whole fried yellowtail snapper! The batter was light and crispy, and the fish, served alongside a semi-spicy limey olive oil-based sauce, was fresh and delicious. Their goat (both the goat tidbits appetizer and the goat stew entree) was super tender and flavorful. The restaurant itself has colorful tables and chairs, murals on walls, and live music on some nights. Overall, it's a welcoming low-key place and definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(4)Aleena N.
Summary: Shrimp Coconut. Every time I come to Miami. This place is a MUST! Sweet and short. Customer Service: Good. Sometimes the staff appears a little irritated but worth smiling through (we all have good & bad days right) and waiting patiently for the food to sing to your palate. Pricing: Reasonable comparative to south beach and way better food! What I ordered: I don't remember the name but it's the coconut shrimp and it comes with plantains ( nom ) and rice. Food timing: Reasonable (15-20) and it's a light crowd today. But if you are super hungry they have warm bread and garlic dip! Mmmmmm! What I come back?: I do every single time I come to Miami. Also the rum is delish! I got the 8 year aged rum. Enjoyyyy! The end!
(5)Rye M.
Food is okay, i had better haitian food. Service is subpar too. Only came here coz of guy fieri. Not coming back to this place again
(1)E S.
My first experience with Haitian food and I'm sold. My husband and I ordered the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbits w/spicy creole dipping sauce), The Lanbi Nann Sos (conch creole) and Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (stewed beef and okra). The conch was awesome and was served ceviche style. The stewed beef and okra was AMAZING. The beef was incredibly tender and the sauce was perfection. The goat tidbits were really dry and hard to chew and the dipping sauce was bland. When I ordered the ginger tea, the waiter bet that I couldn't drink it in under 5 minutes and he was right. It was incredibly strong and creamy, so so so good and just what I needed to start the day. If you like ginger, do it! We came in during the afternoon and had the entire back of the restaurant to ourselves. It was super peaceful and we were surrounded with beautiful, vibrant murals. The service is slower than I think most people can deal with. You have to ask for everything including water, bread, etc. and it could take 5-10 minutes to arrive. I chalked the snails pace up to a general Miami vibe; coming from New York, you better be prepared to zen out and sip on some rum while you wait.
(4)Ann P.
Malanga fritters, grilled Turks and Caicos Conch and a crazy good pork dish that my man loved. Nice cocktails and friendly wait staff. The only reason it earned 4 stars was because it's not too clean. Dirty napkins littered the floor and the bathroom was gross.
(4)Kelly O.
Quite possibly the most overrated restaurant in miami. The food was bland and the drinks were just ok. Nothing that we had (stews, rice, conch) would tempt me to ever go back.
(1)Rachel Y.
Awesome experience! Never have I been to a more colorful restaurant. Murals painted on every possible inch including the walls, tables and chairs. Weekday lunches are slow and the juice-driven cocktails are strong, which makes for a perfect afternoon. Stewed coconut shrimp with red beans and rice are a must. The spicy conch appetizer is pretty much a diced conch ceviche with celery and onions and will be a recurring order for me. The fact that this 2 story colorfully run-down space exists still on 5th street adds to the authority and charm of TapTap.
(4)Naty K.
My oh my, I had no idea Haitian food could be so delicious! I have been missing out. This place can get crowded and unfortunately, I could not tell you about parking, I always end up parking on 5th and Alton (Shoppes at 5th) and just walking. The building looks like a large house, it's hard to miss, as it is a rather tall structure, with the sign in pink letters that says "TAP TAP" and a heart underneath. It's beautiful inside, and you will feel like you stepped out of Miami, and definitely, out of South Beach. The porch is very cozy, with a colorful rocking chair and some outdoor seating. If you're lucky, you may even catch the Tap Tap bike, chained on a post nearby, with the rainbow colors that the restaurant is famous for. The place is really chill inside, the staff is very friendly and accommodating and will make an effort to explain dishes and even show concern when you order a spicy dish. There are gorgeous murals in colorful shades on every wall, and the chairs all have their own color motifs. Very vibrant tropical shades. The tables themselves also have nice art. The food can get expensive, but I have been told everything is organic, so maybe that is to be expected. The food is delicious, very well-seasoned, perfectly spiced, and mouth-watering. I have yet to try something that was a miss, from seafood to beef, everything is tender and delicious. If you come on a Saturday, be sure to catch their live band, playing authentic Haitian music. The crowds can get interesting, from foreign tourists that are drunk and failing at dancing to the Haitian music, to business executives to Haitian natives reading the Haitian newspapers. On my most recent visit (I have been here about 3-4 times), I had the Salad Tap Tap, which is a nice alternative to the standard salad (you don't see many places using the tart watercress), and the green dressing was delicious, although I am not sure what they put in it. My main course was a stew, which was not only tender and flavorful, but plentiful. Most places serve a lot of fatty meat and bone, so you only end up with a meager portion, but not here. For dessert, a light and fluffy coconut flan hit the spot. The flavor of coconut was not overwhelming and the creamy, cool texture was great and refreshing on a warm summer evening. It is a very light dessert so if you're very full or have indigestion but want dessert, I highly recommend this. Come here at least once, if not for the ambiance and delicious fare, then for the groovy decor. You will thank me later.
(5)Sarah C.
Ate here again and once again the food/drinks blew me away! Fresh, fresh, and a few brilliant new takes on traditional food. I am a repeat for sure! Thank you again Tap Tap!
(4)Samara M.
Its unfortunate because i heard such great things and also read great reviews on this place but i was extremely disappointed. I was in Miami on vacation and my boyfriend wanted Haitian food and since i never had good haitian food so i figured why not. I looked up the restaurant on various foodie sites and this place was where we had to go. We arrived around quarter to 10 on a Sunday. We were greeted right away however we were not seated as quickly. When we were seated our waiter was nice and personable. We looked over the menu and were ready well i should say i was finally ready to eat some delicious haitian food! To my complete dismay the kitchen ran out of food!!!!! So the only thing i can base this review on is soley my experience here. I did order the "tropical rhum punch with 5 star rhum" the drink was fantastic. I wish i was able to taste the food. Honestly they should have just closed early given that they only had 3 items on the menu. So in closing not sure when I'll be back to MIAMI but when i do I'll give this place another try. Note: come before 9pm and you may have better luck
(1)Raechel S.
Having never had Haitian food before, we were excited to try this place out. Their mojitos are award winning and amazing--so dangerous, we had three by the end of dinner and were grateful we walked to the restaurant. Definitely try the goat stew and their pineapple upside down cake. Both were so tasty! Expect a colorful restaurant with homemade chairs, murals, and authentic food. The prices are totally reasonable for being in South Beach, and it's a total must try!
(5)Poka H.
Delicious!!! The waitress was very attentive and the food was delicious. Well seasoned and outstanding. Reminds me of the mother land I love it!!
(4)Althrycon H.
HAITIAN FOOD!! Griyo (fried pork chunks) with pikliz and a side of chopped Scotch Bonnet pepper... probably one of the reasons why I keep coming back to this restaurant every time I go to South Beach!! Their food is so good I sometimes wish I grew up in Haiti. Got to try their Creole conch last time I was in town; shout-out to the local chillin' at the bar for recommending the dish!! Overall, this is definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(5)Nga P.
I'm very impressed by Tap Tap. They are located in an area not so far from Ocean Drive. From the outside it doesn't look very fancy or look like it's gonna be great. But don't judge a book by its cover. Once I stepped inside, I found the decorations beautiful and colorful. The staff was very nice as well. Above all, it's the food that won 5 star for my review. Everyone get bread and onion infused butter to start. The butter is flavorful and outstanding. My boyfriend ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and he was amazed by how good it was. I tried it and agreed with him though I believe my stewed oxtail dish was the best. The oxtail was stewed to soft and the broth was so good I'm thinking about going back to the restaurant for the second night. Highly recommended restaurant overall!
(5)Samantha S.
While on vacation in Miami I was craving lambi (conch), Haitian style. After doing a bit of researching and forgoing another spot because of their lack of seating, me and my girlfriend settled on Tap Tap and we were both glad we did. I ordered the lambi and it came with rice and beans and plantain and my girlfriend had the griot (fried pork chunks) which came with the same sides. There's nothing to say except the food was tasty. We also finished all the pikliz (pickled, spicy cabbage) that they sat on the table. I guess my only gripe is that service is slow and that may be why my rice was a little cold? Besides that, amazing food, definitely hit the spot.
(4)Elizabeth Y.
Definitely a gem in south beach. Reasonably priced. Had to check this place out after seeing it being featured in food network's diners drive ins and dives. Highly recommend their malanga fritters. It's some sort of root but not as dense as yuca. Served with watercress sauce that reminds me of a healthy fresh green juice. Main courses: ox tail stew (not on the menu but request and waitress will see if the chef can cook it up) really tender. Also recommend the coconut shrimp. As for drinks you can try their krema which is made in house (rum and milk). Or you can try their Haitian mojito or their natif which is more tart and strong. I would not recommend their cake however. It was really dry, maybe bc we had the last piece and it tasted as though it had been sitting for awhile.
(4)Mandy R.
1) Sunnie is amazing and adorable 2) The mojitos are the best I've ever had 3) This better be on your list while in town
(5)Sandy P.
Awesome authentic Haitian food. Definitely a must if you're in south beach! The drinks were amazing as well and the restaurant decor is absolutely gorgeous.
(5)Landy S.
We went to Tap Tap after recommendations from fellow yelpers and a friend, to try some good ol' haitian food. The food was good, but not extraordinary. We tried the stewed chicken dish with rice and plaintain, and the "fried" platter. The service was also good and timely. We recommend this restaurant.
(3)Angie P.
Wasn't real authentic Haitian food, just okay. Server was nice and art work was amazing!
(3)Greg S.
Tap Tap was a great find in South Beach. Despite the protestations of our Cuban cab driver ("Haitian food? Oh my god! Ugh!"), I was more than pleased with the meal that we had here. It's a fairly small space, but the staff is friendly and we had no problem getting a table on a Sunday night. The decor is fantastic. Large, Rivera-esque murals of Haitian scenes on the walls and beautifully painted tables (ours had a mermaid). Definitely set a high bar, but luckily the food was just as good. Having little experience with Haitian cuisine, we asked for recommendations and ended up going with an appetizer of fried plantains, malanga, and sweet potato; stewed beef with okra, cornmeal, and white beans; and shrimp with a coconut sauce. Honestly, the recommendations couldn't have been better. Despite being fried and somewhat heavy, the plantains and malanga came with a watercress dipping sauce that I would have eaten by the bowlful. Absolutely delicious, and definitely necessary to lighten things up a bit. The entrees were also great. The beef and okra stew was rich, flavorful, and thick. Our waiter advised adding the white beans to the cornmeal--tasty, but so dense that I couldn't eat more than 1/3 of it. The shrimp reminded me of a Thai curry, but less sweet and with a more pronounced coconut flavor, which is a good thing in my book. If you're in or around South Beach, Tap Tap is worth your time. I'll probably end up returning here the next time I'm in Miami.
(4)John Z.
Very good for tasty Haitian food. Appetizers are very good, creamy spinach side is a must, grilled conch could be a bit softer, but chicken was the bomb - nice spices and nicely cooked. The restaurant makes you feel as if you are on vacation on an island. The place is simple, a bit run down, but colorful and authentic. It is a must for every tourist on South Beach.
(4)Jonathan P.
Wow not sure where the ratings come from. I had the griyo and legim and the mais molune. The griyo with rice and beans was good. My wife's mais was horrible. Some of the art work was interesting but there's a lot of gede themed (diety of Sex, mischief, and death) stuff. Left a weird vibe. Food took a year and a day to come out.
(2)Andrew K.
3.5 stars, rounding down. Went here due to outstanding recommendations. Ambiance was dingy. Service was friendly. The food was pretty good, kind of like Cuban. Expectations were high due to status on Eater 38 essential and seeing it on tv. Didn't deliver. Watercress salad dressing and non-greasy fries yams/plantains, were highlights. The grouper had no flavor at all. The shrimp with coconut sauce was not mind-boggling. The griot was ok.
(3)Juliana L.
Shrimp in kreyol sauce... heaven on a plate. My first Haitian food experience, and it couldn't have been nicer. The decor is bright and beautiful, outdoor seating is lovely, staff is relaxed and attentive. A few blocks' walk from the beach and totally worth it. Tastes like food made from the heart!
(5)Peter C.
Back to old Haiti after 5 years. This place is a gem., a utopia amongst the culinary riffraff of ocean avenue. Here I sit with with a beautifully mind-altering rhum (yea, rhum) punch, in a room amazingly painted with Haitian art. My dish was lime infused grouper perfectly cooked and wonderfully cruelly spicy. Momma K (mojito Momma for this trip) had Mohitos, pumpkin soup and salad. She still shivers with delight when she thinks of it. Our friends, ox tail and goat soups, a bit bony but good none the less. And ao the night progressed. We sat around a lovely painted table and talked of life. This, in my humble opinion is what dining out is about; a forum to share with friends and family good times, good drinks and good food. This is my Haitian refuge from the storm. You are a fool if you miss this.
(5)Maevs D.
plat fritay 'lan te gou anpil eh lanbi Nan saus te pli gou. Mwen te fashe emplarye yo pa'te ayesyen! Men manje yan bon eh geyen anpil atizay ayisyen Nan restoran. Li bel eh gen bel ambyans Nan mitan south beach.
(4)A H.
Nice art! We didn't love the food or service and wish we'd went somewhere else for my wife's 37th but I would go back for beers and possibly apps at the bar. The food was carb heavy and typical Caribbean island fare but fun enough. Locals like it and I can see why. Do not go for romantic dinner........don't worry I made up for it the next day (wife happy again)! I thought the Kenyan beer was fun (Tusker). Shame it wasn't draught but that's cool.
(3)Kevin G.
Service was bad Waiting for EVER ! Food was undercooked for most of the dishes Sides arrived with the dessert Really OVERpriced
(1)Leesa F.
I was visiting Miami and my friend wanted to try this place so I decided to give it a shot after checking out the menu. We were absolutely starving by the time we got there and ordered an app, malanga fritters, and the grouper and oxtail for our entrees. For drinks, my friend had the rum punch and I had the Haitian mojito. The mojito was delicious, I definitely recommend it! For the appetizer, the actual food part was just ok but the sauce is where it's at! I would recommend just ordering the sauce and using it to dip the delicious fresh bread (with an amazing butter!) or use it to put on your entree if you get fish or chicken. The grouper was just ok but my friend's oxtail was very good. I dipped my plantains in the sauce and it was heavenly. Overall, this place was good. It's not a quick meal, it was very slow and I'm pretty sure our waiter forgot about us a few times. Their outside seating is only 3 tables so the chance of sitting outside is slim. If I lived in Miami, I would probably be back and order just the appetizer sauce and the oxtail. Enjoy!
(3)Chanel G.
This place is AMAZING! If you are tired of the over priced places on Ocean Dr walk a few blocks to Tap Tap. The art and decor takes you to the island of Haiti immediately. Our waitress Karen was so hospitable her level of service was top notch! Ok to the food....we started with fruit punch and rum punch....punch is made in house and delish....then the plat fritay (excuse spelling) ADD THE GOAT...you will thank me. Main course was the shrimp in coconut with rice and beans!!! It was heaven!!! Also try the spinach in coconut! If your in Miami GO HERE!!! I will def be back!!! Also they should bottle and sell their watercress sauce....Id put it on everything!!!
(5)Jules B.
I grew up in Miami and lived here for 23 years and I always saw this place but never tried. I changed that on this trip. Went with my cousin who also had never tried it and we both enjoyed it very much. We shared the appetizer platter and it was all really good. The dipping sauces really made that dish and the goat "tidbits" were really tasty. Not sure what "tidbits" are really but regardless they were good. I had the beef stew with cornmeal and I really liked that dish. The cornmeal is basically grits and it had great flavor with the black bean sauce on top. The stew was really tender and didn't even require a knife. My cousin had the shrimp and it was cooked well and had great flavor as well. My only complaint with the food is it needed more spice. I was expecting a lot of spice and it was just jot there really. I live in California now so I really like my spicy food. The drinks were also good as well. I had the Haitian Mojito and it was really good. I'm sure there might be better Haitian food in the heart of Little Haiti but if you rather stick to beach area then try this.
(4)Jenny H.
Everything here is delicious!!! Authentic Haitian. My favorites are their spinach in coconut milk...and surprisingly, their spaghetti! Try anything and everything and you'll be pleasantly surprised I'm sure.
(4)Ilker U.
It's a casual atmosphere but yet the prices are not. We had a lunch for 2 and the bill was over $40. Conch was little chewy but the sautéed spinach was delicious.
(4)Renata F.
Saw this restaurant on the cooking channel and fell in love with their drink menu. Came here with my best friend and ate the most delicious Haitian meal ever. I could taste everything in the dish! I will definitely come back. The food is great and so is the service and those drinks are not shabby either.
(5)Brad N.
Great ambience, atmosphere and service. We brought a party of 8 and they took great care of us. The Griyo was very good and several of my party enjoyed the grouper. One of the best Mojitos in Miami - worth the upgrade to the 5 star rhum!
(4)Kashif K.
This place was recommended by a taxi driver who was Haitian, and I had expressed some curiosity about Haitian cuisine. Hmmm... I love talking to taxi drivers in Miami! I have now been here for lunch and dinner a number of times, and have always enjoyed my meal. Tap Tap is a means of public transportation (like a mini bus) in Haiti, and this restaurant has an ornate model of a Tap Tap parked right in front of it. The interior of the restaurant is similarly adorned in the traditional island fashion of Haiti, and exudes a very relaxed vibe, such that the bustle of South Beach seems thousands of miles away, once you're inside this restaurant. My favorite appetizer is the Taso Kabrit (chunks of goat meat, fried crisp, served with a dipping sauce). I've had the grilled grouper filet in lime sauce and the grilled whole yellowtail snapper, and the yellowtail snapper is my personal preference. The stewed oxtail is pretty tasty too.
(4)Vanessa R.
Came here for lunch on a Sunday. Slow service. Ordered spicy conch for appetizer which was good. Had griot for main entree and hubby had oxtail. Food was served cold but the flavor was there, would've been excellent if it was served right off the stove. Was expecting mixed rice and beans but was served white rice with white beans on the side? Food is good but disappointed by the service.
(3)Adriana O.
Visited during our Florida vacation , Sunday night 8/14 and we enjoyed the experience! South beach area prices and 18% tip included in check FYI. Enjoyed trying Haitian food for our first time! Forgot to take pics but we had two appetizers between 3 of us (malanga with watercress sauce and the other was a fried pork with another amazing sauce ) * forgot what it was called but the sauce was green and amazzzing ! I had the shrimp dinner with coconut sauce (other option is Creole). It was very good but it didn't taste much like coconut flavors or anything special, mostly the taste of tomato sauce with peppers. Although the shrimp was large and good . Each dinner plate comes with rice and beans and fried plantains. My boyfriend had the goat stew which was fantastic!!! Highly recommended. Our friend had the fried pork which he enjoyed as well. All in all it was a great experience but 4 stars for the pricing ,my somewhat bland entree and the service wasn't thoroughly present. Our waitress was super nice and helpful but we hardly saw her unfortunately. I will definitely try Haitian food again though.
(4)Jess C.
To complete my culinary adventures in Miami, I made sure I had some Haitian cuisine before I left. I had their goat stew ($18), which I came with a relatively small portion of goat and large portion of rice. I wanted to share my dish, but because there was such limited portion of goat pieces (2-3), it is difficult to share. Even though the eatery is filled with beautiful, colorful depictions of Haitian life and culture, I thought the lighting made the place a bit dark and gloomy during dinnertime. We were having an early dinner, and even though we were the only one in the restaurant, it took awhile to get our food & drinks refilled.
(3)Basshector J.
From start to finish this place was bad. After asking to speak with a manager I was informed she "stepped out." Our waitress asked if we were asking about our food taking long. How did she not realize it was her service we had a problem with? Since it was going so poorly? I am a server myself and it was deplorable. Servers can give a bare minimum of service with a greet, order, check back at the table once after their first bite, and then refill beverages. You can get a 20% tip out of that. You don't even have to smile. It took what felt like 10 minutes for us to be acknowledged. No introduction or greet, no "Welcome to Tap Tap." We didn't feel very welcomed after a while. Another 10 minutes to get water. When our Malinga appetizer was dropped we had no plates on the table. We had to ask after several minutes. When my friend's salad hit the table they just walked away before we could ask for silverware. My friend then had to go get silverware for the table himself (we're all restaurant industry so it was an educated guess where to find it). Once our food came out she never once checked to see if we were OK. Every server knows that is the most crucial point to be at the table to know if they need anything, if something isn't good, etc. I noticed the meat portion on my plate was half the size it was in the pictures here on Yelp. I also didn't get the sauce that it's supposed to come with but rather some oily bland orange dip. My friend's chicken was good, the fried plantain was good. She did not come to refill water for anyone unless she was asked to. Twice we sat there with empty glasses. And when we asked for more water she brought 2-3 empty glasses to us which was weird. I don't know if they are understaffed or if they are still training their staff but there should be more servers if they cannot handle their tables. I hate writing this but to save this place the staff needs to know this. I would have rather expressed this in person but the manager was not there and I wasn't going to complain to my waitress because she was dealing with other people. It's not all her fault, you cannot leave one server for an entire restaurant and one food runner. I don't know if there is a better and bigger staff for dinner. I would have comped something for such bad service. An apology would be cool. People are forgiving, if you show them even an ounce of fucks given, they usually will accept that. The first bill they printed out was wrong and didn't have an automatic gratuity. After they fixed it they added an 18% gratuity for a table of 4 people. This is not okay. No one there wanted to tip that for the service we just received and it almost made sense out of our entire experience. They add an automatic 18% gratuity there so why should they care about the service they give? No wonder. They're gonna get a nearly perfect tip if they give horrible service anyway. The tip is up to us unless we are a large party. After I asked for them to take it off they told me it was basically just a suggestion even though it was added into my grand total. There are tip suggestions at the bottom of the receipt for 15% 18% 20% already if I really need a "suggestion." This is taking advantage of people who are too polite and just wanna get out of there at that point. I spoked to two other tables there while they were standing around at the bar looking for help and they were both annoyed. They as well said it was horrible service. One guy had been there for 2 hours, he said. The place wasn't packed, it was at a steady pace of people in and out with about half to just under half the place being full. They didn't even know how to separate 2 items off a bill for a separate check. Please don't take this to heart or as hate. We got nothing but love but I feel as a business you need to hear these types of things to progress and continue.
(1)Crystine W.
Tap Tap was bookmarked before our flight even landed in Miami. Our adventures led us further away than the restaurant itself, so we didn't get to plan it into our days in Miami although we stayed a block down from the restaurant. Delight came when our food tour guide brought us to Tap Tap to sample their mojitos (voted best in SoBe at least 3 years running) and the Malangas, fried root vegetable. Tap Tap's mojito is true to its reputation and it truly is top-notch. That fresh-squeezed lime juice really packs a special punch into the beverage. We also sampled some of their Malanga Fritters (vegetarian, fried root of some type) that is served alongside some watercress dipping sauce. I wish they sold that sauce because it goes so well with probably everything. The restaurant itself is also very special. We learned that all of the tables and chairs are furniture pieces up for sale so they are constantly changing. Also, all of the art is done either by a Haitian artist who lives in Miami, or from an artist in Haiti. There is even a specific Haitian artist who randomly makes stops into the restaurant to add more to his art mural. Fancy? No. But uber cool? Hell yeah!
(4)Becka N.
I'm so happy we stumbled upon this art mecca! This place is awesome, literally slathered in art. Sharon, our bartender, explained that when the restaurant first opened, they hired a slew of local artists and gave each one a room as their canvas. Wow! Beautiful, just beautiful, from floor to ceiling. There are intimate private rooms if you're looking to throw a dinner party, outdoor seating and plenty of space at the friendly bar. If Sharon is manning the bar, you're guaranteed a tasty cocktail, local insider tips and fantastic service! No kidding! My friend asked if they have tea. They don't but whipped up a yummy spice tea with star anise right on the spot to accommodate us. We didn't eat but after checking out the menu, I'm definitely coming back to try a few dishes. Can't wait!
(5)Gym S.
I recently visited Tap Tap while visiting Miami again. It was delightful. The quality of the Haitian food was great and presentation was well executed. What's more, they have amazing cocktails and happy hour too boot! While it's not my first time enjoying Haitian cuisine, I did enjoy Tap Tap's refinement its art, and its storied 20 year history on Miami Beach. I spend most of my time enjoying food and drinks at the bar, where I hung with Miami Beach locals and felt like I fit right in. Mind you, this was a Monday night, so quite by Tap Tap and Miami Beach standards. But overall it was a great. I ended up staying an extra hour and a half talking Miami Beach history and trading points about the fine points about cuisine. If you're in Miami and want to try a fine rendition of Haitian cuisine- like griyot, oxtail, other stews and conch ceviche- try Tap Tap. I felt like I came out of the restaurant a better person.
(5)Ashley M.
Where did these people eat?!? All I can say is BLAND, BLAND, BLAND! I had the lime grouper with avocado, rice and beans, & fried plantain. Let's just say I was thankful for the avocado on my plate. I was extremely unimpressed and would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. The art on the walls are nice but that's about it. I'd you look closely you'll see that it's rather dirty. The service was decent. Not great and not bad. Just go somewhere else.
(1)Lynette D.
Do not visit They do not have parking I purchase parking after the employees said use the machines. Their service was slow. The parking went over by 19 minutes & my car was towed costing me &$259.00. The city of Miami beach needs to address visitors bringing tourism dollars being fleeced because their is limited parking & a rest with no parking tells customers to park and pay & you pay & get taken for $259.00. No matter how the food tastes it is not worth going to be taken advantage of because they do not have parking! Stay away
(1)Cassie G.
How awesome is it that one of the most highly reviewed spots in South Beach is Haitian? This is why I love Miami. Tap Tap was my first Haitian food experience and definitely a great spot for first timers. We stopped by for lunch on a weekday and the place was pretty empty. The waitress wasn't too welcoming but, alas, you're still in South Beach. To start, we ordered the akra, malanga fritters with watercress dipping sauce. I've never had malanga cooked like this and did enjoy it, with the sauce being the star of the dish. It provided a needed flavor and freshness to the fritters. I would also encourage spicy fiends to grab the scotch bonnet condiment on the table to kick it up a bit. For my main course, I ordered the much lauded kribish kekoye, shrimp in coconut sauce. I see why this is one of the most popular dishes! I essentially dumped it over the rice and didn't leave one speck on the plate. The shrimp were plump, sauce very flavorful and rice cooked perfectly. With one Haitian food experience under my belt, I'm feeling a little more confident to venture to Little Haiti for a taste of some more.
(4)Colleen B.
Thank you, Yelp! No way I would have ventured in here without the resounding echoes of Yelpers. So delicious. My very first time having Haitian food and it was a delight. Headed in right at lunchtime and were seated immediately. Don't expect much in the service area for lunch as they weren't extremely attentive but the staff was kind and served us some delicious food so I wasn't mad. The murals are so very bright and vibrant, they make the decor very engaging. We started with the Akra: Malanga fritters with avocado and watercress dipping sauce. When I say I could have bathed in that sauce, I am not joking. I put my finger in the dish and scooped out the very end of this sauce after asking my dining companions if they minded. It was everything I have ever wanted to accompany me on a dish; refreshing, flavorful with a hint of sweetness and a kick of bitter. I even used it on my main dish and I hope to the sauce gods that I can recreate this sauce of beauty. My main dish, I went for the Kribish Kreyol o Kokoye -- the Shrimp in Coconut Sauce. I always get thrown off when restaurants serve the shrimp with their tails still on but I assume it's to show their freshness, which I appreciate. It was delicious. The coconut sauce was lovely and rich and the shrimp were plump and cooked to perfection. A pleasant first Haitian food experience!
(4)Blue A.
It took me about 30 years before I tried Haitian food. What was I waiting for? I will say the cuisine is typical of what you'd expect from a Caribbean restaurant. Rice. Beans. Roots. Meat in sauces. Tropical flavors. The layout of the restaurant is interesting. There's a couple of tables and a bar area when you walk in - that's where the hostess greeted us. Then through a little doorway there's another room with plenty of seats. We sat back there - and there was only one other table while we were there. That room is brightly colored - and once again, very tropical! I'd been having a hankering for some oxtail for months. So when I saw it on the menu I was excited and nervous - excited to get oxtail, nervous it would taste drastically different from what I am used to (Cuban style). Of course the spices were pretty different - but this was equally delicious! The dish came with some rice and beans mixed together (moro) and all around a filling dish. The table also got some fried malanga! Growing up my mom always made me malanga soup when I was sick. I don't think I have ever seen malanga available at a restaurant before. These are basically like yuca fries and the came with a watercress and avocado sauce that was really good. Overall it was great. Of course the main things wrong here are pretty much par for most of Miami - parking can be very tricky and service could be a little more attentive. However the food makes up for that.
(4)Judy C.
I got the lime fish based on other Yelp reviews. It was good. This fish was a tad dry, but the sauce on it made up for the dryness. Also, I wanted it with rice, but they didn't have rice left, so I got it with Yucca fries. The Yucca fries are ok. Those were a bit dry for me too. This is more like Caribbean food. The coconut pudding was the highlight of my meal. It was creamy and sweet and duper yummy!
(4)Derrick K.
Nice Haitian spot in South Beach. The restaurant is easy to miss if you are not looking for it, but once you step inside it is colorful and you feel like you are in the owner's home. My wife and I had the goat stew and the fried fish. We had a lot of fried fish on our stay in Miami and theirs was up to par. Make sure to get extra pickled salsa with the fried fish because it is so good.
(4)Chris S.
This was my first experience with Haitian food and Tap Tap made a good impression. Haitian cuisine is very similar to the food of their surrounding Caribbean neighbors but with their own unique flavor. Tap Tap is very pleasant to look at, lots of nice bright colors and larger than it appears from the outside. Furniture is designed to remind you of the no thrills vibe of many Caribbean nations. Very simple chairs and tables. Service was good, hostesses was warm and welcoming. Waiter was also very good and attentive. Food was good, I had the Griyo, pork chunks, portion size was generous and pork was cooked well and remained moist which is difficult with the way the chunks were cut. Accompanying rice was prepared well and was an excellent compliant to the main protein. Excellent overall presentation and flavor profile. Tap Tap is a must visit if you like the vibe of Caribbean food and are in the Miami area. Short walk from the beach and worth your time.
(4)Eric B.
Let me start by saying, there is no valet or lot parking available here. That means you have to try to find street parking nearby. That's not always easy, especially on the weekends. However, I encourage you to please do whatever you need to do, just make sure you get to Tap Tap! It is definitely worth the effort. Besides, the walk to the restaurant will allow you to justify dessert. And, you must have dessert! The service here is very personable. Guilo (I hope I spelled it correctly) was our server. Not only did he take the time to explain the menu and make recommendations, he took the time to learn our names. That made us feel like we were guests in his home. Nice touch. The food was amazing. While we had eaten Haitian food before, this was head and shoulders above anything we had before. We tried the Plat Fritay and 4 different dishes and all were spectacular. The griyo was the stand out dish. We had 3desserts and we were glad we chose to splurge. My sweetheart said the pineapple upside down cake reminded her of her aunt's. That is a high honor. To sum it all up, Tap Tap is top notch.
(5)Johane M.
Came here with my husband for our anniversary. This restaurant is in a great location but parking is a bit hard to find. The decor in the place is sooooo...Haitian-bold colors, lively, and beautiful. The drinks and food were delicious at a reasonable price. Our waitress was slow but professional and friendly. I will definitely be back and recommend it for a nice dinner out with friends or a date!!!
(4)Sandra A.
No Parking! It took forever to get my food. Staff was friendly, however they did not warn their customers that there was a chance of getting TOWED. There is only alley parking (which is still not legal) and the only parking lot is a private one. The food itself is mediocre ....not very authentic (I am Haitian). My car was towed and as I made calls to find out where my car was, another customers car was towed. When I went back inside, the staff basically stated that the towing fee should be about $150. Why not warn your customers AHEAD of time. $280 later......I will not go there again. There are cheaper Haitian restaurants with actually awesome food in Miami.
(1)Kelly O.
Quite possibly the most overrated restaurant in miami. The food was bland and the drinks were just ok. Nothing that we had (stews, rice, conch) would tempt me to ever go back.
(1)Rachel Y.
Awesome experience! Never have I been to a more colorful restaurant. Murals painted on every possible inch including the walls, tables and chairs. Weekday lunches are slow and the juice-driven cocktails are strong, which makes for a perfect afternoon. Stewed coconut shrimp with red beans and rice are a must. The spicy conch appetizer is pretty much a diced conch ceviche with celery and onions and will be a recurring order for me. The fact that this 2 story colorfully run-down space exists still on 5th street adds to the authority and charm of TapTap.
(4)Kristi D.
I have very mixed feelings about this place. I was super excited to visit this place on a recent trip to Miami. I live in Atlanta and there aren't any Haitian restaurants that I have been able to visit. As a haitian , I often miss the traditional food I grew up eating, so visiting Tap Tap was a must for me. We arrived and was told that there will be about a 30 minute wait ( it was a Thursday night). We agreed and took a seat to the side and listened to the live band. A table opened in front of us and another waiter came and motioned for us to sit. The woman ( who turned out to be our waiter) who took our name down came and said we could not sit there ( umm ok ..) so we returned back to our seats on the side. Literally 30 seconds later she came back and said we may now sit at that table ( offered no apology for the confusion). We ordered and waited about 20 mins for the food to arrive. My friend starts eating his rice, reaches down for his chicken and the bone is cold. He tells the waiter that the meat is cold, and she responds with "ok, I didn't make it", what would you like me to do?" ( RUDE !!) . She takes the plate back and brings it out in a few minutes. I noticed that it wasn't a fresh plate but they reheated the meat in some form ( probably the microwave, or poured hot sauce over it). My friend gets a bad vibe from the waiter and decides that he is not going to eat the meat ( but didn't mention it to anyone but me). He notices that staff from the kitchen and other waiters are now coming out and looking at him ( about 4 people) , almost as if they were waiting for him to take a bite. Now he is super uncomfortable, and Im even more embarrassed because Im haitian and they are not representing us well. The waiter passes by and says to him " if you don't eat the chicken its going to get cold again" that was the last straw for my friend and words were exchanged. Tap Tap took the dish off the bill , we paid and then left. My food however was decent, but because of the service I wouldn't think twice about coming here again.
(2)Matt B.
I had the goat stew and it was okay. A little spicy so that made it interesting but not out-of-this-world. GF had the fish, which was mostly crispy. We ordered mojitos which were okay.
(3)Joshua D.
Food and drinks are amazing here. Very authentic Creole (spicy) Haitian food. The stewed anything is off the chart. BONUS - the prices are pretty reasonable for 5th St South Beach, and there's parking - what?? That said, I have once walked out because the servers seemed to have some miscommunication over who was waiting on us because no one ever did. :S
(4)Beagle M.
Since it was reviewed on the Food Network today, June 21, 2015. I can't wait to try the food when I'm down there in September . I love fish. The yellow fish entree that was made during the show had an amazingly complicated marinade and was poached in a sauce that included a chile. The chef said that he doesnt open the chile. That's where the heat comes from. " We leave that up to the customer. If they want the spicy..." YUM!
(5)Lauren O.
Omg goat stew and pumpkin soup are what I dream about .. Now that I'm thinking about it I wanna go tonight ..,
(5)Steve S.
It takes you "right to the island." From drinks to dessert all of our senses were pleasantly transported (although patron loudness was a bit much). Great little find!
(4)Larry R.
We ate here after visiting South Beach. Saw a recommendation on Diners Drive Ins and Dives App. I lived in Haiti off and on as a child. Grew up on haitian cuisine. This restaraunt reminded me so much of the food I ate 25 years ago. I love the creole sauce with goat. Definitely will be coming back when I'm nearby again.
(5)Jeff J.
Tap Tap is my go-to restaurant every time I am in Miami. The menu is unique (Haitian) and everything is wonderful. The conch ceviche is excellent. And the stewed chicken and conch creole are standouts. The restaurant is colorful and lively and absolutely worth a visit.
(5)Rachel L.
Absolutely amazing. The stewed chicken and cornmeal was crazy good. We also loved the herring spaghetti. The best mohito I have ever had!! Glad I had it, BC it was quite a nice allow burn from the chicken. We are Totally coming back when in Miami again.
(5)Jennifer O.
You have to try the stewed goat. This is my first Haitian restaurant that I have ever tried, but the goat stew is so good! Another option we tried was the is grouper in lime sauce - it was so flavorful! The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. Our bartender (Monica) was so cool, talkative, and explained everything to us. Parking is the biggest issue here. We parked in the parking garage about 4 blocks from the restaurant as there is no on-site parking.
(4)Francisco T.
I had this place bookmarked for over 2 years. I was really excited about this place, but I was let down. I touched down from NYC and headed straight to TapTap. I was there around 3pm, the place was practically empty. I walked in and met with hostess who sat us down at a outdoor table as per request. 15 minutes later of siting outside in the scorching heat, and crack heads walking up to us, I requested to change our table. We set inside inside hoping for some AC, but it was hot as balls in there. We waited about 30 minutes before the waiter acknowledged us, she took our order at which time I ordered a appetizer that never arrived. I ordered the Oxtail, which was delicious but only included 3 peices of oxtail and considering its mostly bone it was practically nothing. I was left hungry. The check included the appetizer that I never received and TIP INCLUDED. I'm very generous but theres nothing more annoying than Gratuity included. I was still going to leave a tip but the waiter didn't even bring us water while waiting all that time I like to have that choice. I wish I would of had a difference experience here. I was so hyped that I texted my Haitian friends a picture of the menu when I got there, after leaving I thought to myself: I hope they dont ask me about it.
(2)Jlin L.
It was alright.
(3)Marie-Alice D.
Decor reminded me of Haiti, service avg. I ordered the oxtail, and didn't like the sauce it came with. It wasn't seasoned enough, asked to have gyros instead, same issue. My family is Haitian and my expectations were too high,. I was visiting MIA, and expected more, I was definitely disappointed by the food. The food is definitely made for tourists.
(2)Jose M.
We start with Evans, which is amazing at what he does... We then go to the menu, which is well explained and so full of amazing plates!! The mojitos are good, freshly made, and the Akra, the goat, the shrimp in coconut broth are amazing!!! Also, best pumpkin soup I ever had!! Truly authentic island food!!!
(5)Kevin C.
Best Haitian food in Miami! Most expensive Haitian food in Miami! This place is not that expensive but I guess it's more indicative of the fact that there are few if any expensive Haitian restaurants in Miami. Dishes are between $14-22, which isn't bad because what you get is absolutely delicious. The first time I came I had the goat stew and the second time I came I had the fresh fish. Both were cooked with incredibly flavorful unique sauces, curry based for the fish. The entire restaurant is brightly decorated with murals depicting various daily activities of Haiti from riding a bus to harvesting crops. I highly recommend this restaurant if you want some authentic delicious food. Also another client, kindly recommended coming for live music on Thursdays.
(5)Unyime E.
Simply outstanding restaurant. Best mojitos I had while in Miami Beach (without paying the average $17 in the area). The goat stew (kabrit nan sos) was something to sing about. Each bite was packed with bold and complex flavors that I'm still thinking about two weeks after the fact. The accompanying rice was perfectly prepared and deserves as much appreciation as the stew. I should also mention that the spicy marinated conch (lanbi pike nan ji sitwon) was equally as tasty with a very strong citrus acidity. It really activated your taste buds for the main entrée. Service was exemplary. I cannot wait to visit this place again during my next trip to Miami. Great value for the money. A must-stop if you're in the area.
(5)Lesley W.
I had heard they had the "Best Mojito," and I was excited to try a completely new cuisine! I wasn't sure what to expect, but the decor was beautiful. They had gorgeous murals and art covering almost every inch of the walls. It really made you feel like you were stepping into a different world. Back to that mojito. It was good, but extremely sweet. I have a major sweet tooth and this was pushing it. I had the shrimp with coconut sauce and rice. Before I get to the shrimp.....THAT RICE. This is the best rice I have ever eaten in my entire life. Sounds weird, but it was that phenomenal to me. How do you make rice that delicious? In similar fashion, the shrimp with coconut sauce was super rich and amazing. It had a good combination of spices too. I'm not even sure you are supposed to eat all the coconut sauce (calorie alert) but I put it on my already favorite rice in the world and pretty much died. Delicious! The reason this isn't 5 star is the service. It took us a while to get each part of the meal, especially drinks and waters. They seemed overwhelmed and lacked some professionalism.
(4)Lingbo J.
Very good food. The salad that came with the pork was the best I have ever had. I didn't know what the dressing was but it was amazing. I really loved the vibrant color of the restaurant. Fit right in to the art deco district.
(5)Randall T.
Large Haitian community in Miami. This is one of their hangouts. Creole food was very good. Loved the murals on the wall. It's a bit out of the way for South Beachers, but worth it.
(4)Jessie H.
I got the iced coffee and Shrimp Coconut. The coconut sauce is BOMB. My only complaint is that there isn't enough shrimp. Service is friendly. There's not alot of spaces outside , probably like 2-3 tables so that kind of sucks.
(4)Michelle P.
I usually don't like Haitian restaurants because I've been spoiled by my mothers good cooking :-) but I really enjoyed the food here. Everything tasted fresh and the portions were perfect.
(5)Pierre D.
Best Haitian food I've had in a long time.
(5)Minty M.
Consistently good Haitian food in South Beach. Great dirty mojitos, beans with cornmeal, shrimp in coconut milk. Fun atmosphere although it could use a facelift. Service typically great although kitchen can get backed up on busy nights.
(4)Nadine R.
Being Haitian I did not think I would be this impressed with a Haitian restaurant. Everything we had was great. Actually I'm still eating but had to write this. The Fritay platter is amazing especially with the goat. My friend had a whole fried fish which was spectacular. I got the griot with rice and plaintain and it was quite tasty. The icing on the cake is the great sauces you receive. The watercress sauce and to malice we're my favorite.
(5)Joe T.
Lovvvved the legim (stewed vegetables)! I wish I could make that myself. :-) So much better than I would imagine stewed vegetables could taste! Cool decorations on the wall. LIVE MUSIC! Great pasta, too!
(3)Swatee G.
Loved the ambiance here! I have never been to the caribbean, but it totally felt like I was there! The huge murals on the walls are awesome! Had the half chicken, which was good, the sides were yummy. My rum punch was not yum at all :( too bitter for me..! Service was good, the patrons seems to be locals. It was a good experience! :) Oh the corn on the cob.. excellent! :p
(4)Jane R.
Came here for my first meal in Miami. So glad that we all went despite what felt like a very long walk. It's not super close to Ocean Drive. It's a large restaurant with so many different rooms - all different colors with murals on the wall and multicolored tables and chairs. Of course I ended up getting pork chunks with rice and beans (or called Griyo). Individual pork chunks were not as big as I expected. The rice and beans were red rice with black beans mixed in. Overall it was a delicious dish. My friend ordered the Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (or the stewed beef and okra with a side of cornmeal). It was amazing! I love pork but I wish I got this dish. The cornmeal with the beef stew complimented each other perfectly. When we came here on a Saturday night, we were seated promptly and there was live music going on in the back dining room. I'd would definitely return to try out the rest of the menu.
(4)Melody T.
Its pretty good! Heard a lot about this place! Stopped in and its of Miami's low key food spots
(3)Maeve M.
The food was quite good and the atmosphere was better. They were really busy when we went but still gave us plenty of attention. We ordered a plate of fried things and it was unremarkable (although good--but show me fried carbs that aren't). But the beef stew I ordered! I can't stop thinking about it. It came with a side of split peas and a sided of cornmeal and the mix went so well together.
(4)Trey S.
Went here a week ago, and I still can't get over how awful this place was. Arrived right as they opened last Saturday afternoon and was able to be seated immediately. A nice young lady came right over to our table and took our drink orders. Even more impressive, she went behind the bar and made the drinks as well. The problem came in the amount of time it took us to get our food. It appeared that even though they were technically open, they really weren't ready to begin serving patrons warm, good-tasting meals in a timely fashion. After about 25min of waiting, our server came over and said they didn't have the spaghetti ready for the dish my nephew ordered. It took WELL OVER 45min for our food to finally arrive. The second problem came in the taste of our food. In a word, BLAND. I ordered the shrimp dish, with rice. I mean it was warm and tasted homemade. Does that make it good?? Not in my book. ...Nope, I won't be back..
(1)Wen K.
Might just be this one encounter but nonetheless it was terrible. Server who we found out was apparently "new" messed up our order (maybe because she thought she was a boss and didn't bother writing it down?) and food took over an hour to come out, wrong. She forgot one person's order completely. Took forget just to get us water. Food itself was okay. Implemented an automatic 18% gratuity.
(2)Mimi M.
Don't go there if you're vegan. I'm used to not being able to eat most of the menu at places however there's usually something you can put together. Not here. The waitress thought the rice and beans had butter in it but she nor the cooks could confirm this. In fact, no one seemed to know for sure making me wonder where the food comes from. Even the plantains are cooked in the goat meat grease and they can't think of a way to not cook them in it. The waitress told me "their food is flavorful because it's made with butter." I didn't have the strength to argue with her about the unsolicited and ridiculous comment. When I went before I was vegan, the food was decent. Nothing too exceptional. You can get much cheaper at Latino/Jamaican restaurants -- it's all the same food (ox tail, whole fish, rice and beans) why pay more?
(2)kyle g.
This is for "online ordering" only. The online ordering is available at 11:00am, my order was done at 11:04am. Any reasonable person would expect an order relatively soon. It is now 12:48pm, and I called to inquire about wtf is my order, as its been over an hour and 40 minutes. Guy answers the phone and says there are no managers there yet, but to call back at 2:30pm to inquire about my order. I already paid. Are you fucking kidding me? 1:55pm. Its almost been 3 hours, still no word from this place. Clearly will never order from them online again.
(1)Lisa B.
I hate the fact the restaurant is located on South Beach, however, their food has yet to disappoint. I had tried a shrimp pasta that reminded me of my mother's cooking and an oxtail dish that was good. (My opinion: Jamaicans can kill an oxtail dish. Period. And I'm not Jamaican.) I would recommend this restaurant for good Haitian food.
(4)Cat L.
Thank you for having us for lunch Tap Tap! The food: Appetizer -Akra (Malanga Fritters) Crispy deep fried Malanga Fritters served hot and fresh with a watercress dipping sauce. Made my tongue dance! Entrees -Griyo (Fried Pork Chunks) Delicious tender Fried Pork Chunks topped with onions and red bellpeppers -Pwason Neg (Grouper in lime sauce) Grilled tender and flaky Grouper topped with thick buttery slices of avocado. -Beef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Stewed Beef and Okra served with Cornmeal) Tender Stewed Beef with creamy Cornmeal was just the perfect pairing. All of the entrees above were served with sides of Diri Kole (mixed rice and beans) and Banann Peze (fried plantains). We also ordered a side of Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (Spinach in Coconut Sauce) Spinach mixed with a rich and creamy coconut sauce, also delicious drizzed over your Diri Kole! Beverages -Our lovely server had given each of us a refreshing glass of iced grapefruit water with slices of lime. It was so delicious. -Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian Coffee) Being the Coffeeholic that I am I decided to order one. It was served in a very tiny ceramic red coffee cup and saucer with a side of brown sugar for sweetness. The server had told us that there was a method of making this small yet very strong coffee inwhich insured the fresh taste. The coffee had a punch to it which I did not mind one bit :). The Service Our server was a sweetheart. She was very welcoming, warm and was very helpful to answering our questions about the menu items. Gosh, I wish I remembered her name. I must say our overall experience was above average, from the very wholesome decor of the rocking chair in the front to the colorful paintings on the wall, tables and chairs that made us feel as if we were dining outside someone's home in Haiti, to our delicious Haitian meal served by our lovely server. We left with smiles and very happy belly's. Till we meet again, Tap Tap. ;)
(5)Russell H.
great food, portions could be a little bigger, ask for extra everything...bread, pickled salsa service good atmosphere varies, too bright! could be great, if they let there hair out, more music... park on street by walgreens, 25 cents per 10 minutes
(4)Cindy E.
Cool spot in miami ! Authentic Haitian food delicious:) ! The mojitos are a must ! Loved the art work thru out the whole restaurant
(5)L H.
Goat stew and whole steamed snapper were delicious and the staff was super friendly and helpful. If you're not sure what to order, you can count on them to lead you in the right direction. As a general rule, I've found that prices in restaurants in Miami are ridiculous- but at least the food and service at Tap Tap were good enough that I didn't feel robbed.
(4)Adam Y.
Another great experience at Tap Tap. Food amazing, atmosphere so cool and service is just right. Ask to order your dishes spicy, this will add the little bit of kick the dishes need to take it to the next level. Tap Tap spicy is like a mild to medium spicy at most other places. The entire building is painted to reflect the culture of Haiti from the ceilings to the floor plus all the tables and chairs in between, the entire place is one giant piece of art. Once you get used to looking at all the art in the different rooms, get ready for some really good food. Start off with a specialty cocktail, the drinks are good and strong, then try the pumpkin soup, or my favorite, but you will have to eat with your hands if you want to get the authentic experience, the free range chicken and finally try some of the coconut shrimp.
(4)K K.
Want some Haitian food??? Don't come here. Go have some good Cuban food instead. Service was very slow and below average for a empty restaurant. They add on extra charges probably expecting ppl to not look on the bill. They also charge you more on the bill then what's on the menu. Food was decent at best. Love trying new places, but this was a disappointment.
(1)Vicky V.
I have never had Haitian food, but while taking a cab from the airport we ask the native which place was the best. He highly recommended. Great food, nice service and I Love the wall art. Do visit! It's worth it.
(4)Jordan N.
I guess this place is good for tourists. And the Reggae vibe. But as far as food goes, it still pales to the real thing I can get in Little Haiti and for less. The mojito ($9) is good but you can't compare it with the other mojitos around town - simply because it's different. The stew chicken ($12) was good and the shrimp in coconut sauce ($16) was surprisingly unimpressive. The portions were not very big except for the sides. They played live music that was fun and the crowd seem to enjoy dancing to it. This place is good for the tourists that would like to sample and get an idea of what Haitian food is about without leaving South Beach. As for the locals, hit the road and go up on Miami's NE or NW 2nd Avenue for the real deal.
(3)Zephiel M.
This was my second time going to Tap Tap. My first experience was pretty good. I ordered the Poul Boukanen (grilled chicken) my first time and it was pretty good. My second visit to this restaurant was just spectacular. I went with a group of friends in which together we tried the Pwason Gwosel (while fried fish), Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye ( shrimp in creole sauce), and the Griyo (fries pork chunks). Eat dish was served with a side of rice and beans along with one piece of fried plantains. The fried pork chunks were absolutely succulent. Along with the sauce provided, it was simply delicious and it was cooked just right so that the exterior was just crunchy enough without sacrificing the juiciness of the interior. The shrimp was also very good, albeit nothing too special. The sauce provides just the right amount of subtle flavoring to the shrimp. As for the fish. The fish (market priced) was an astonishing $25. It was definitely overpriced considering I can get a larger fish at La Carreta for under $20. That being said, it was a very delicious fried fish. It was cooked just right so that the fish meat acquired that almost fluffy look and texture. The seasoning and the breeding were also quite delicious and quite unique if I might add. Overall it was damn good. As for the rice and beans, they were quite delicious as well. They contained a subtle flavoring that allowed one to not have to focus all their attention to the spices but rather that allowed one to dedicate more attention to the texture and natural flavors of the rice and beans. It was delicious. The fried plantain was pretty generic and I could find better fried plantains elsewhere. As for the environment, well the actual restaurant is quite beautiful. A variety of flavors of art adorn the walls of Tap Tap. It is undoubtedly one of the most colorful restaurants you can come across full of murals, knitted portraits, sculptures, and paintings full of depictions of Haitan culture. Tap Tap is a great restaurant and one that is highly recommended. Just watch out for those prices.
(5)Jency M.
Real cool spot In miami.. Went there with my haitian friend, and tried lots of good food..everything we had was awesome, and tasty!
(4)Althrycon H.
HAITIAN FOOD!! Griyo (fried pork chunks) with pikliz and a side of chopped Scotch Bonnet pepper... probably one of the reasons why I keep coming back to this restaurant every time I go to South Beach!! Their food is so good I sometimes wish I grew up in Haiti. Got to try their Creole conch last time I was in town; shout-out to the local chillin' at the bar for recommending the dish!! Overall, this is definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(5)Nga P.
I'm very impressed by Tap Tap. They are located in an area not so far from Ocean Drive. From the outside it doesn't look very fancy or look like it's gonna be great. But don't judge a book by its cover. Once I stepped inside, I found the decorations beautiful and colorful. The staff was very nice as well. Above all, it's the food that won 5 star for my review. Everyone get bread and onion infused butter to start. The butter is flavorful and outstanding. My boyfriend ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and he was amazed by how good it was. I tried it and agreed with him though I believe my stewed oxtail dish was the best. The oxtail was stewed to soft and the broth was so good I'm thinking about going back to the restaurant for the second night. Highly recommended restaurant overall!
(5)Christopher D.
Visited for dinner last night. The lady who seated us was really unpleasant, but our waiter was fine. We each ordered something different - I had the goat, my wife had the fried pork entree, and our friend had the grouper. All three were good, but not great. Portion sizes were a little small when considering the price ($19 for the goat; $15 for the pork). The dishes that weren't served as stews were in desperate need of a sauce. Overall, it was good but I probably wouldn't go back. I think if you came here with a higher budget you could've had a better experience than we did. However, ordering a single entree and nothing else is probably not enough to fill you. The place was pretty popular, even at 9:30 PM at night, and seemed to be a local hangout, so I'm sure there's something here worth visiting for. Our visit was just fairly unremarkable.
(3)Philip V.
I got take out from this restaurant -- the boiled goat was phenomenal. This restaurant is pretty well known (I've spoken to Hatian cab drivers in Philly who said it's one of the best Hatian restaurants that they've been to in the states). I'll certainly go back if I'm ever back in Miami.
(5)Kareem J.
Every time I come here it is excellent. I love the waitress, she always treats me well. I love the ambience and the food is delicious. I hope they always stay true to themselves because that's what makes coming here special
(5)Petrine J.
Good food, friendly service, nice and relaxed atmosphere.. I was a bit disappointed with the plantain, since it was dry and flavourless, but the goat was so tender a juicy! Goat is highly recommended!
(4)David B.
Decor's awesome, food's fine, if a bit overpriced for what it is: beans & rice, platanos, chicken & sauce...Problem for us, at least today, was the service. If you don't want to wait tables, get another job; but don't take it out on the customers. All of this would be within the realm of the familiar if not for the fact that the bill comes with gratuity already determined for you to the tune of 18%. I suppose we had the option of getting into a spat with the already surly wait staff. Not coming back.
(2)Jose A.
Some items are tasty ... Don't know if I would go back . Have been there several times . Cats are around in the dinning room don't feel too good about that .
(3)Huong L.
This place is so good that we had to go twice within a week during our vacation. I absolutely love the cabbage slaw that they have on each table. The grouper in lime saw is AMAZING. Everything about that fish is perfect. I ordered it for both trips there. The stewed okra side was also delicious. The service was top notch. Everyone was friendly. The place felt like a neighborhood kind of place. If you're in South Beach, make a trip. It's worth it.
(5)Brit J.
I've never been disappointed every experience has been amazing....The staff is awesome the foods awesome the ambience is amazing I can't tell you one bad thing a bout thus place
(5)Sam G.
Food was good, but would have been better if served hot instead of barely lukewarm. Service was horrible. I have grown to very much dislike the Miami Beach custom of adding the tip to the check. In this case a 5% tip would have been generous.
(2)Isabelle G.
Such an eclectic place filled with character that you would never know from the outside! I've never had Haitian food and now I think I've been a bit spoiled! We ordered the mojitos and they didn't disappoint, so refreshing and cooling. We ordered the akra for appetizer which was fabulous, the amazing dipping sauce, I wish they sold it by the gallon! I will be going back on a Saturday to enjoy the live music, looks to be an awesome spot for a Saturday night!
(5)Janice R.
We tried this restaurant based on 4 star Yelp reviews. I disagree. We went on a Tuesday night around 7:15 PM. The restaurant was mostly empty. At least three of the dishes we wanted were not available--no fish, no shrimp. Really?? We ordered the beef stew, grilled conch, and pork. I can't say I was impressed by any of them. The conch had a good flavor, but was tough. The pork also had a good flavor, but seemed overcooked and dry. The beef was bland. The only dish I liked a lot was the the malanga appetizer with dip. Even the plantains, which I was excited about, were overcooked and hard to eat. The recommended Mojito with loads of fresh mint leaves was delicious. My husband and son ordered these and I kept sneaking sips of theirs. I ordered one of the fruity drinks, which was half the size (a small Martini glass perhaps?) and I couldn't taste any alcohol. It was very sweet and overpriced at $10. I agree with the slow service and servers basically ignoring us for about 15-20 minutes despite passing us many times. No one greeted us or said be back in a minute. Once a server did come, he was delightful, writing down our names and making recommendations. The paintings on the wall are great and very interesting and colorful. But I would not return.
(2)Parry B.
YOU MUST EAT THE CABRIT (GOAT STEW)! This was my first restaurant during my first time visit to Miami on the first day of my trip :) Saw the review on Yelp and decided to come here. I liked the food so much that I went here again on the last day of my Miami visit. DECOR: The interior of Tap Tap is very average and doesn't have any lavish interior. It is simple and sticks to it's traditional Haitian ambience. It is clean! FOOD: DO NOT TRY THE MOJITO and HAITIAN COLA! I have seen lot of people recommending the Haitian Mojito however, I do not recommend it. The Mojito costs $8 per glass and doesn't taste as good as its price. Also, the Haitian Cola tastes like DayQuil cough syrup. And, it was not a Cola. It was some fruit cocktail. We ordered the Cabrit (Haitian Goat Stew) which is served with fried plantains and rice and beans. The restaurant did not have beans so the Goat Stew was served with rice and peas. The dish was very very tasty and finger licking good. One dish is enough for two adults if you order a side of rice and beans with it. For desserts, the waitress recommended her favorite, the Sweet Potato Pudding Cake. That was tasty too. Infact, it was unusual with the flavor of ginger, grated coconut and scotch bonnet peppers in a sweet cake. Bread and butter is served complimentary. SERVICE: The waitresses are very friendly and they recommend you their popular items. The food was served within 15-20 minutes from the time ordered. Lunch menu is served round the clock. I went at 5.30 pm and had lunch there. If you go at peak lunch/ dinner hours, the quality of food served is better. PRICE: Not a pricey restaurant. Mojito was expensive $8 per glass, goat stew was $17 and Haitian Cola was $3. Our total was $30 without tips. MY ONLY DISAPPOINTMENT WAS THAT I FOUND A HAIR IN THE GOAT STEW! This happened during my second visit at Tap Tap. I don't expect much on their standards since it is not a STAR rated restaurant. This place is like Dives!
(4)Carl A.
Dined at Tap Tap last night. Food was great and our server Gary was really nice and friendly. Will definitely be going back!
(4)Bryn H.
Who would have guessed a self-professed Gringa from Texas would fall in love with Haitian food? Well I did, and I gladly bring anybody to Tap Tap. The restaurant is decorated with brightly colored murals - both on the walls and the tables - that depict life in Haiti. I've had just about everything on the menu and it's all good. But I must recommend the legim (stewed vegetables) with shrimp, the ox tail stew (they have that sometimes instead of the goat stew), and the white rice and bean sauce. Deelish! They used to have regular live music, and sometimes they still do. If you want to catch a more festive evening feel, call ahead to see if they'll have anybody performing.
(4)Mohini R.
Ambiance, service, and food: all excellent. Get the rhum, goat, plantains, and anise tea :)
(5)Adeline S.
I wouldn't consider Tap Tap to be authentic Haitian cuisine. Granted, there are an array of options on the menu, but I found that it lacked the robust and spicy flavor normally found in our dishes (I'm Haitian American).
(1)Nick A.
This place is super authentic, with vibrant Haitian art on the walls. We went here right before closing time, so it was almost totally empty. They were also unfortunately out of the goat so we didn't get to try it. I did get to have the oxtail which was absolutely incredible. Even the cornmeal mixed with bean paste was great. Their cocktails were really good too. I often find mojitos too sweet, but the one I got here had a nice tart finish. I would recommend this place to anybody who is visiting South Beach and wants to try something different and authentic.
(4)J. L.
Never tried Haitian food before? Tap Tap is a good place to start. I've tried the Tap Tap salad (good mix of veggies). stewed goat (really savory and flavorful but kind of hard to eat around the bone, given the texture), coconut milk spinach (my FAVORITE dish on the menu!!!), lime grouper (my SECOND favorite dish!), and the grilled conch (also quite yummy; good texture, and wonderful flavor). The yucca and various fried goodies are ad additional must to each meal. Note: beware of the CRAZY spicy pickled cabbage stuff! WOoooo! Hot. Cool off that tongue with some of their delicious cocktails! The service was great---very friendly and attentive, even though we stayed way past closing before. This place is also good for groups. I love the bright colors, music and vibrant vibe. Awesome.
(4)Christine P.
Finally got around to stopping in at Tap Tap... after driving past it for years, and reading about their "Best Mojito" award. Thursday afternoon lunch with a big group after a day on the beach... the mojitos were good, just very strong... and my 2nd round ended up being a different drink. Ordered the Griyo (fried pork)... very similar to cuban food... came with rice and beans. There's also a chicken stew on the menu, goat, you name it! Never tried Haitian food, and I was pleasantly surprised. :) Make sure to order the appetizer sampler... can't remember what exactly was in it... but very good. Good place for groups... there's so much going on at this place that I'm definitely going back... colors all over the place - the walls, the chairs, the tables... the music was good, the service was great... they were very attentive! One of those places that reminds me how lucky I am to live in such a culturally diverse place as Miami.
(3)Raj S.
Awesome cocktails, delicious food and great service...what's not to love? I had the yellow tail snapper, grilled with lemon butter sauce on the side...rice & beans and a spinach dish side. Perfect! It's a bit off the touristy area which may or may not be what you're looking for.
(5)Edmund G.
Went here today for dinner. We found it by browsing yelp and wanted to try something different. The food was outstanding and the staff was friendly and prompt. The Moheitos were the best I ever had and the prices were fair. I will be back on my next visit to Miami.
(5)Scott S.
My wife had the shrimp creole and loved it. Service was very good. I went out on a ledge and had the goat stew. Bad move, 80% fat, favor was weird, squirrel like. Thought I was on Beverly Hillbillies eaten granny's road kill.
(3)Michelle S.
I was on vacation in Miami with my besties in July and Tap Tap was recommended to us by the bartender at the hotel. Best decision yet! I've never had Haitian food, but regardless....the food was delicious!! Diamond in the rough! I had the grilled conch and it was so good! I'm Chinese from San Francisco.....I know how good conch can be, and this was goooood. Different than the way I'm used to it being prepared...who knew simply grilling it could bring out so much?! My friends had the stewed shrimp and the grilled chicken. We like to share and I can say both dishes were really really good. Loved the tomato-based sauce that came with the shrimp...tasted very yummy over my white rice. The green sauce for the grilled chicken was "delish" as my friend would say. We were here late at night so the ambience was nice and chill, a nice break from the south beach bustle. So satisfied after this! Definitely an authentic place with great service...all the staff were so nice and helpful with food/drink choices. I will definitely be coming back to this place if I come back to Miami!
(5)French S.
Tap Tap is a Miami staple. A cool and relaxing island restaurant to go to when you want to be on Miami Beach but not have to deal with all the crappy parts of Miami Beach. Don't go here when you are in a rush, instead relax and enjoy your time. All the staff is really friendly, they are people..not like the zombies you find in many South Beach restaurants. A bartender by the name of Nancy makes dining at Tap Tap a delight. I love the grilled conch with an amazing green dressing. Love the lime-ade, mojitos, and the sorbets are delicious!
(5)Nicole B.
I saw Tap Tap on Triple D and wanted to try it out. The flavors are there and the food is good. The prices are high and the portions are small. I left still wanting more food. The service was decent but they add the tip to the bill which was high. I will not go back because of the prices and small portions.
(2)Jim P.
Read about the monitors and saw they served goat, I just had to stop as part of my South Beach visit. The monitor was really good. The service was a bit off. Considering it was 5:30 on a Sat, it wasn't super busy, so the gaps in service were puzzling. The goat was great, others had the stewed chicken - also quite good, and the pasta in creole sauce - great flavor. I would definitely go back, but I would make sure the staff is aware that I expect a little more care.
(4)Melody A.
This place is super cool. I'd never had Haitian food before, so I can only judge this meal, but it was great! It was simple but great! I had the Shrimp with Creole sauce which was very flavorful. The staff was friendly and the decor is great! The whole restaurant is painted with murals by the artist who lives upstairs. I ended up buying a print of one of his paintings, although I would have LOVED one of the paintings but couldn't afford it :(
(5)Edwin C.
This is my spot! Great food and very cozy place to chill at! Highly recommended!!
(5)Kaiser A.
Good food, humble service. They also had a band on Saturdays which gave a beautiful experience of Haitian culture. A must try spot if visiting south beach
(5)Jen H.
Disclaimer: only my first time having Haitian food. With that said, I really liked this place. We had the goat stew and oxtail stew (off the menu) and they were both very flavorful. Only slight complaint I have is that it was a bit too salty and it could have been a bit more spicy. The mixed rice and beans that came with the stews were delicious! We also ordered the spicy conch salad- also delicious! It tasted really chewy and the salad accompanying it was fresh! The mattanga fritters were also very good- I highly recommend it. The dipping sauce that comes with the fritters work really well together. Drinks there are also very good- we had the mojitos (apparently award winning), rum punch (bunch of tropical juices blended together with rum). Waitress was very nice and helpful. Service is a bit slow so make sure not to go there really hungry or else you might get hangry waiting.
(4)Tamara L.
I had been meaning to come here for dinner for a while and when a friend of mine was in from out of town, I finally made it over. So glad I did. My friend Gary is the manager there and I had stopped by once before on my way home from work to say hello. He took me on a tour. As someone mentioned, it looks small from the outside, but wait till you walk in. There are rooms everywhere. Local and Haitian artists have painted murals on the walls. Everything is painted and unique, from the walls to the tables to the chairs. I was glad to have had the opportunity for the personal tour before coming back for dinner. My friend and I ordered two of their fish dishes, which we shared. Of course I wound up liking his better. I also had the spinach in coconut sauce/milk for my side. That alone was enough to bring me back. Gary had a couple of their (now officially award winning) mojitos delivered to us. A must have if you are dining in Miami. Generally on weekends they have live music also. It's a definite must visit if you're visiting, or even if you live here. It's a nice change from Sushi and Cuban food. Unique flavors and items. A great island/Caribbean flavor to spice things up.
(4)V. A.
One of my favorite spots to take out-of-towners. Authentic, fresh, and breaks up the monotony of the vaguely Mediterranean restaurants that line Lincoln Rd & Ocean Dr. I am in love with the Malanga fritters and the Fish in Lime Sauce. The Coconut Spinach is also very tasty. The fritters are served with the most delicious watercress-lime sauce. I like it so much I always ask for extra & use it on the tostones and rice and everything else. Make sure you come on a night with live Haitian music!
(4)Jonathan W.
I've driven or walked past TAP TAP a million times. Heck, it's right after the bridge before hitting China Grill. One day, I got curious, made a dinner date with a friend and went inside with an open mind. I was in love the second I sat down. Finally, there was a restaurant in SOBE where the clientele was local. There were no annoying children or packs of tourists. The patrons that night either walked or biked over from their micro loft on Meridian, Jefferson or Michigan. The decor was fun, colorful and Caribbean.The huge murals on the walls added a nice touch. First I ordered a Prestige beer and the "Taso Kabrit." This appetizer is basically fried all-natural goat tidbits served with spicy Creole dipping sauce. Usually goat isn't all that appetizing. However, the meat was tender and the sauce accompanied it well. I then ate the "Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulen." This entree is stewed beef and okra served with cornmeal. At the first bite, it was quickly evident that TAP TAP cared about the quality of their ingredients. Every bite both warmed my mouth and stomach. Afterward, my handsome waiter brought the bill which came out to around twenty bucks. Not bad for a beer, an appetizer and an entree. In a nutshell, at TAP TAP, you can expect a colorful ambiance, a local flavor, a handsome waiter and some seriously flavorful food.
(3)Tamara F.
Authentic Haitian food we had never tried before. My guy got the stewed chicken and loved it. I had fish and it was great. We found on Yelp and were not disappointed, although because of Carnival they had run out of goat and some immature young guests made a scene which was unfortunate. The atmosphere was lively and we sat by the bar. Staff were great. Will definitely return on my next visit to South Beach.
(4)Jenny J.
Because of Tap Tap, I am such a fan of conch now! It's delicious! You should go with a group so you can try everything. Also, since it takes them forever and a day to get you your food, going with a group is more entertaining. The decorations and music kept us amused for a really long time. Check their performance schedule before you go - I believe they have live music on Thurs/Sat but I'm not sure. We got the conch (of course), fried yucca (DELISH!), a fried patter with plantains, sweet potato, etc. (ehh), goat (wayyy too goaty- don't get this if you don't absolutely love lamb/goat/gamey meat), lime grouper (yum! wish we got two!), spinach in coconut milk (yumm) and a bunch of other stuff. Then we finished up with some soursop gelato for dessert. This was our first time trying Haitian food, so I don't know how authentic it is, but it was definitely delicious. Definitely a good place to go if you've never tried Haitian.
(4)Tony A.
Noticing a bunch of reviews complaining of bad service, I have never had this problem. Though I am Haitian-American, so maybe I get some love as a countryman.
(4)Roya M.
Came to the restaurant with family, Great food, made me remember my grandmother's cooking. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. My husband's first Haitian meal and enjoyed it very much. Flavorful, authentic dishes, service was good. Great restaurant! We will be back.
(4)Jen J.
This place has beautiful decors: whimsical floral lights and huge murals on all the doors and walls. (I almost wanted to take a picture of the women's bathroom wall!) The + and the average: Mojito was fantastic! It was not too sweet and had just the perfect amount of alcohol. The conch salad was chewy, tasty, and actually spicy the way I like it! The main dishes were mostly average. The boyfriend ordered Shrimp in Coconut Sauce, which I sampled and thought the shrimp was a bit overcooked and the special sauce tasted alot like watered down marinara. I had the pork chop, which was just slightly overcooked, but nonetheless flavorful. The portion of my dish was fairly big. The -: The dishes were pricey. Both our entries were above $15. An automatic 18% tip was added to our check. Why?! It was just a party of two. The waitress was very attentive. Nonetheless, the automatic tip was inappropriate. We were here on vacation and enjoyed the beautiful restaurant with live music. But if I were to return to the area, I will probably not re-visit it.
(3)Kevin B.
I was in Miami for my first time and wanted to experience local cuisine. I had my mind set on Cuban food but a family friend suggested Tap Tap instead. I had never tried Hatian so being adventurous, I gave it a shot and was not disappointed. We had a couple of appetizers including the Spicy Marinaded Conch. My expectations for it were medicore but I couldn't get enough. Visually it looked like a slaw but the taste was great. There was a good amount of burn but it was very flavorful. Conch, like many sea foods, doesn't taste like much. But if you're looking for something new and like seafood and a little burn, try that out. I didn't try the pumpkin soup but the people at the table who tried it had only glowing comments about it. Their drinks were great too. I tried two or three rum based drinks enjoying all of them. I went from a sweet passion fruit beverage to a sour rum beverage. Loved both. For my main course I tried a fish recipe that was good. Nothing bad to say about it. However, my girlfriend and I had rave reviews about their rice on the side. The rice was marinaded and perfectly cooked. We both commented how much we loved it. Their restaurant is dark and a bit loud but feels appropriate as a dive. Our waiter was very kind and knowledgeable about their entire menu. When we asked why they were out of lamb, he said it may have been out of season but was a little confused like we were. He answered my questions about the different types of drinks I wanted and addressed concerns about the food that I had prior to ordering. I could have talked more about the food but it's a place worth checking out for the adventurous eater.
(5)Sherah B.
Delicious! I went to this place on a short trip to Miami this past May and it was awesome! It's kind of hidden-meaning not on the strip in South Beach, but not too bad of a walk. Watch out for Miami drivers though-they are nuts and don't watch for pedestrians. The food is very authentic and yummy-I especially loved the desserts-a traditional Haitian cake and a coconut mousse-YUM! It was also very cute having the owner's son (who is like 10) pour our waters and bring us our bread. Nice family place! Would love to go again next time I'm in Miami!
(4)Lauren S.
Where have you been all my life! this place is so unique I honestly forgot I was in Miami, a must have is the Rum Punch..... dying to have one as I type, the menu gives the food no justice, it might sound blah but it taste and looks AMAZING i can't begin to explain how great the food is. One thing that is a must is the Mayi Moulen, it could absolutely just end you train of thinking, because it's mouth watering.
(5)Vivian Y.
So while we were in Miami for UMF, during one of our many cab rides, I got into a conversation with our cabbie. Of course, after the exchange of where you froms and what do you dos, we found out he was from Haiti. Big shocker there. Anyway, so this super awesome cabbie did say the best Haitian food in town was Tap Tap. Sounded legit, so we tried it out. Service was good. Food was good. I ordered the conch chowder, and if you've ever had conch chowder in Key West and want the same thing.. don't order this one. It was totally different. Not saying it was bad, but it was very different. Haitian food is very thick and spicy.. not hot like Tapatio, but with lots of spice. It's not for me, but the other people seemed to love it. They had pretty large portions so ladies, I wouldn't get a whole entree. Any place with Guinness on tap.. well, that's a major thumbs up in my book. Oh, and if you're into mojitos, apparently theirs is one of the best. ADVISORY: Parking is awful. You think you can escape the humidity in the restaurant? Think again.
(3)Alex g.
Went on a Saturday night around 11:00 PM. Indoors was pretty busy and loud. Outdoors was empty but the tables weren't cleared. We went in and asked to be seated. The waiter grabbed menus and was walking us to a table. When we asked if we could sit outside, he gave us the menus and told us to go ahead. The bartender was grumpy when she took our order for drinks, but when she returned she was surprisingly chipper. Maybe it was because we ordered Red Stripe beer? We waited a few minutes after we decided for a waiter to come out and take our order. When I said something out loud, a gentleman sitting on a chair in the corner asked if we were ready. I said, "Yes." He offered to take our order. When I asked if he's our waiter and he said, "No." Between him and the waiters and bartender we were really confused. We ordered the Saturday special which consists of meatballs with rice and red beans, accompanied by fried plantains. The food came out pretty quickly and it was very, very good. I never had Haitian food before and was pleasantly surprised. It reminds me of Domincan, Puerto Rican and Cuban food with a Creole twist. Don't expect white glove service. Be patient and have fun. You'll enjoy your meal and the time there.
(4)Darin C.
I had never had Haitian food before going to Tap Tap. Sadly, I still haven't had Haitian food. I arrived about 30 minutes before closing on a Sunday. I sat at the bar and asked for a menu. I asked about a couple of the dishes only to find out the they were sold out of almost everything. Why would I give it 4 out of 5 stars you ask? A few reasons. First, I like the idea that they don't over order their food, so it has to be fresh. Second, the bartender, whose name I didn't catch was very friendly. Probably in a good mood since she was off soon and it was her birthday. She sent us over to another place right around the corner which was nice. And lastly, she gave me a free beer, which was opened for another guest but not served. Free beer...that is worth an extra star any day.
(4)Roger D.
We liked it because of the ambiance, the originality and the eats. We really liked the spinach in coconut cream. If we lived in the area, we would be regulars for sure.
(4)Mark R.
Found on Yelp, and it did not disappoint. Family friendly, low key, quick and effective service and very tasty food. I had the 1/2 chicken and my wife the shrimp with coconut. Both were delicious. The best was that our 18 month old son could not stop eating the Spinach - the cook did something right with it...
(4)Anthony D.
First time eating haitian food and first time trying both Malanga & Conch! Excellent! The malanga fritter reminded me of a firm hush puppies but what made it even better is the sauce they giver you. A green semi spicy, bit citrus type sauce that taste good on everything. The conch reminded me a bit like shrimp/lobster but a tad tougher and chewy, still very good. Only mark downs was that my gf's grilled chicken was a bit undercooked, we had to throw it in the microwave a bit longer.
(4)William B.
took a long weekend vacation with the family to Miami Beach, and found TapTap through Yelp; Yelper definitely came through on this one! Outstanding. I'm a huge fan of unique, ethnic foods, and this definitely fits that bill. Had the Taso Kabrit (goat tidbit) app. great flavor and crispy. Griyo (lightly fried berkshire pork). tender & fatty inside, crispy outside; spicy dippin sauce. Kribish Kreyol O Kokoye (shrimp in creole & coconut sauce). a little skimpy on the shrimp, but with the sauce over white rice was very flavorful. Features organic, all-natural, & free-range ingredients. Would definitely make the effort to go here if i ever get back to Miami Beach.
(5)Lauren C.
i wanted to give this place 5 stars because going there felt mildly adventurous considering Miami's lack of adventurous culinary choices. Unfortunately, Tap-Tap didn't let me love them as much as I wanted to. Reasons why I wanted to love Tap-Tap: (1) the name! (2) The atmosphere was perfect. It was non-pretentious, colorful, and felt authentic (in that culturally objectifying not-really-authentic, but still kind of fun way) (3) It was my first time trying Haitian food and the menu looked amazing (4) I wanted to convince my girlfriend that my hometown offered quality food besides cuban. Reasons why I couldn't love Tap-Tap: (1) (the main reason) I ordered a whole yellowtail and got a red snapper. When I asked the waiter and the manager about it they tried to convince me that these fish are interchangeable. Having grown up eating seafood on the regular I am well aware that the market price for yellowtail is significantly higher than that for red snapper. The fish was still delicious, but I was unable to wash down that that strong taste of rip-off. (2) The appetizers were so-so. The malanga fritters were good but the dipping sauce didn't pop. The avocado salad was too basic, and they served it with honey mustard dressing (?!). I wanted to order the conch but when I asked the waiter what he thought he said it was good but kind of chewy and not too fresh (double-?!). (3) My drink was watered down. The mojito is a drink that should leave you feeling tipsy after 1 round, not remind you of childhood summer lemonade with too much melted ice. To top it off they tried charging me $1 extra for an upgraded rum when I didn't ask for it and certainly didn't receive it. Shadesters. (4) 18% Gratuity was included on the bill for a party of 2. Tacky-Tacky.
(3)Briana J.
try anything with Conch. Rad food and wonderful atmosphere. It is not a Large place but they can accommodate to larger parties because they have big tables. The service wasn't as bad as everyone says it is great they only have one server because it is a small venue.
(5)Sophia S.
I went here on a visit to Miami after two different locals recommended it to me. My group, which included a wheelchair and a 15 month old, was taken care of excellently. We ordered the spicy marinated chonch appetizer which was, for me, the standout of the evening. It was almost like a ceviche, with a citrusy and definitely spicy sauce. mmmmmm... For entrees, we ordered the creole shrimp (excellent), haitian meatballs (which were the special, crispy on the outside and extremely flavorful), poached grouper (it was a whole fish, so be ready to deal with bones, but was fresh and tasty), and the stewed beef (the meat was tender and flavorful, but the broth needed a little oomph. a dash of hot sauce was enough for me to be totally content). All in all, a wonderful experience.
(5)Lori Taylor R.
I heard about this place on the Travel Channel and wanted to check it out. My girlfriends and I had never experienced Haitian Cuisine and decided this would be the vacation to do so. The restaurant looks really small from the outside, but don't let that fool you. There is a tiny porch on the front and a small bar area right inside. We must have caught the bar tender on an off night - as everyone else working in the restaurant was extremely friendly. The atmosphere is wonderfully vibrant! Large brightly colored murals cover every inch of the walls(even in the bathroom). Two of us ordered the grilled conch and the others ordered the coconut shrimp stew. Both dishes were very flavorful! The conch has a similar texture to that of calamari and was flavored with some intense chili - it really gives the dish a great flavor as some pieces are powerful and others a little more mild. The black rice was by far all of our favorites. We all raved over this uniquely flavored rice. Our waitress was very friendly and happy to offer suggestions. We also enjoyed the live music! It's a great place to venture to - and get away from all the South Beach Club style dining.
(5)Sarah S.
Sometimes it is real hard to find good food in Miami. However, I really enjoyed this place. Great drinks and the food was so good. I will definitely go back when I'm in the mood for great Haitian cuisine.
(4)Colleen L.
Tap Tap hooray! What a great little find right off 5th street. It's kind of a divey location but it wouldn't feel right any other way. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce, but it was kind of disappointing. We think they used the wrong sauce (there's a red option, too) because there was not one bit of coconut flavor in the meal, but when we asked the waitress she said 'Oh there's just a little bit.' Hmm. It was still good, but not quite what we expected. The service was friendly, the atmosphere bright (we sat outside) and the mojitos were great. The waitress was very easy to chat with about the food and didn't make us feel too gringasa. Would love to try the goat.
(4)Lance P.
Food is great and well seasoned. The pork chunks were really good. Fresh warm bread comes before the meal and is good as well. The menu is very small and the food isn't cheap. SA PA SEY
(4)Stephanie L.
Nice for some parts but on the overall not so great. I went to Tap Tap for the first time last week and was not impressed. True, I loved the building, the colorful paintings on the walls, the warm atmosphere and live music but... the service was lame. We waited 45mn for our food and when it came it was disappointing. My grilled conch was very good but the rice was dry and tasteless. My friends had different dishes and they were very disappointed and barely ate anything. Not really a good introduction to Haitian cuisine. Now I can't tell if this was just a one time mistake for them but I don't think I will come back any time soon.
(3)Kate L.
I went to Tap Tap on a Tuesday evening around 6. The restaurant was fairly empty when I arrived, and I was able to get a table on the front porch and enjoy the ocean breeze. There was a happy hour from 5-7 pm and the mojitos (a must) were half off, $3.50 for a wonderful drink. My waitress was very knowledgeable about the menu and gave wonderful suggestions. For an appetizer, I had the malanga fritters with the watercress dipping sauce. Absolutely FABULOUS. I had to force myself to stop eating them and save room for dinner. For my entree, I ordered the poached whole red snapper in lime sauce. Also, absolutely incredible. The prices are also extremely reasonable. The appetizer was $7 and my entree was $19 (and it was the most expensive one on the menu). I always make a point to have dinner one night at Tap Tap when I am traveling to Miami! I just got back home and already can't wait for my next trip.
(5)kath r.
Of all the restaurants I ate at during my Miami visit, this one was the only one I'd return to. Offering a chill vibe, great conversation and warm smiles, this is one of the few places that made me feel welcome. The front/bar area belies the space...it's HUGE! There seemed to be rooms sprouting off of each arm of the hallway and it wasn't until I walked back to the washroom did I discover just how full the place was. Whilst it was relatively empty when I initially sat at the bar, the restaurant fills quickly and people waiting in the front were chatty and engaging over drinks. I'm not up on my Haitain cuisine, so I can't speak to the authenticity of the dishes. However, my tastes buds were extremely happy to be chowing on the stewed goat. I was expecting it to be like the goat curry's I've eaten (bits of bone w uber tender/uber chewy meat, kind of diced up), turns out this dish features a half dozen goat cutlets in a flavourful stew. It wasn't spicy but it sure was tasty and did the trick - the trick being the base to soaking up the Mango Ales and Mojitos I consumed. The accompanying rice and beans was a decent portion and as per usual, I fell for the plantains, which weren't too greasy. So, whilst the food was good and I'd def go back for it, what I really LOVED about Tap Tap was the vibe and the people (both behind the bar and at it). I met some really great people at the bar: big shout outs to Maya the Professor, Gustavo the hot Colombian, Gary the Owner, Lucy the bartender and Steve - for justice!!!! If you're in the hood and looking for a bite to eat, a bevvy and new friends, I'd def recommend Tap Tap.
(4)James R.
Loaded with atmos, nice people, and good tunes, Tap Tap is let down ever so slightly by the food. The oxtail was a pale imitation of what you can get from a Jamaican place: the flavor was derived mostly from a salty broth and lacked allspice or thyme or any other spice/herb. Plantain fritters were a little heavy. Nice bread though, and the cocktails were tasty.
(3)Aman S.
I have had haitian food before and have been to Haiti. This is average at best. Not impressed. Service was fast and good.
(2)Kendra C.
This was a nice little surprise. Wanting to experience some of the cultural cuisine, we stopped here. We ordered some akra for an appetizer. Akra is some sort of fritter that reminds me of a long hush puppy. There were strong flavors that I would have to get used to. Nice to experience but I wouldn't have it again. I had the fried pork with beans and rice: excellent. My husband had the beef with cornmeal that looked and tasted like grits. The beef was full of flavor and very tender. A friend had the creole shrimp that apparently tasted really good. We had a glass of passion fruit that was quite refreshing. The decor was very colorful and scenic. I actually liked it. True to other reviews, it took a while to get our food. It was well worth the wait though. If you're in South Beach, give Tap Tap a try.
(4)Lomée G.
OK, are your ready? cause it's gonna be funny... ! We went to this restaurant TONIGHT, so my review is not something I remember from a restaurant I tried a long time ago!!!!! First of all, when we arrived in the restaurant with my parents, we were not especially welcomed, the server gave us our table and threw miserably the menu (only 2 and we were 4) above. Then, we sat on our table, so as I said, we only had 2 menus for 4, we choose our drinks, and we order our entrees. We waited for 15 minutes to have our drinks, then we waited another 20 minutes to have our entrees. we ordered 2 rice and beef, and 2 shrimp coconut. We had 2 shrimp coconut and 2 beef with cornmeal. When I told the server that we ordered Rice he was almost upset... come on guy, you made a mistake, not me!!! I'm gonna pass the fact that our entrees were not super good, because it's almost not important !! as we were waiting for our entrees, we ate all the bread that the server gave us. So when we received our meals, we ask for more bread... so we meant to eat this bread with our meals... but guess what... we had the time to finish everything before the bread has arrived!!! Ok, we were already disappointed about the service and actually about everything... but the worst is coming... We ordered some dessert. I have to tell you that you should avoid the coconut Ice cream which is the worst I ever tried... I think this Ice cream was only water with white food coloring in it !!! Our dessert were not wonderful but... it was ok... ( exept the coconut ice cream of course). Oh I forgot that it was really noisy, we were not even able to talk to each others. (even the server had some problems to take our orders) Are you still there ? cause the best is right now !! After our dessert we ask for the check... Ok, we are 4, the check is what it is... but... they charge automatically 18% gratuity... WTF?????? We had the worst service ever and they charge 18% !!! Are you kidding???? Ok so I told the server that we wanted to choose the tips. Point 1 : this it totally/ absolutely LEGAL! Point 2: This is totally/ absolutely NORMAL. Point 3 : THIS IS OUR MONEY, I ASSUME WE CAN DO WHAT WE WANT WITH OUR MONEY ESPECIALLY IF WE HAD.... THE WORST SERVICE EVER!!!!!! I swear you would have wanted to see the face of the server when I told him that I wanted to choose his tip!!! So he took my mom's card. You have to know that we are European... but we live here. So when he came back with the receipt, where my mom had to sign, he told us... " euh... ok... well, in america, you have to know that you must put 15% tips at least" So... as I was already really upset I looked at him and I told him... " Ok We know, we live here thank you !!!" So we put 15% Tips, and we're not even forced to... but whatever. And to finish the night... the guy didn't even say goodbye, I think he thought that it wasn't necessary... Please don't tell me that kind of service worth 4 stars... I won't believe you !! That is really too bad because, the atmosphere is nice, all those colors, the table are really beautiful, it's seems to be so authentic, painted murals, wood painted chairs... But that's not enough...
(1)Guesly P.
Authentic Haitian food. Restaurant could use remodeling because its in south beach. Price wasn't too bad
(4)Janelle F.
The meaning of the name of this place was the topic of conversation for a good 10 minutes. In case anyone else is wondering-- I looked it up and the definition is: tap-tap n. a truck or van used as an independently operated taxi. However, I'm going to stick to my original suggested definition of tap-tap: n. thing I like to do in my spare time; a clapping noise. This place has been a South Beach tourist hotspot for quite some time but I never had any interest in trying it until a friend scheduled a group dinner there last Friday. What a pleasant surprise it turned out to be! The menu can be a bit intimidating at first because everything is in Creole (with tiny English descriptions). I also had a preconceived notion that the food was going to be spicy--but it was far from that. For starters, we kicked it off with the Taso Kabrit which are fried goat tidbits with a watercress dipping sauce. This dish has a stark resemblance to latin "chicharrones," except it is all meat and no fat...SIMPLY DELICIOUS - I will definitely not share this next time! For the main course, my best friend and I shared the Krihish Kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and the Griyo (pork chunks). They were each served with a side of Dirir Kole which is basically mixed rice and beans. The griyo was my favorite. It was ridiculously tender and very flavorful. It went very well with the rice, which was also tasty. The shrimp dish was also good, but not my favorite. Other notable dishes at the table were the Pwason Gwosel (whole fish), the Legin (Stewed veggies) and Akra (malanga fritters) appetizer. As for libations- I was smiling as soon as I learned they had a full bar. The drinks were very reasonably priced ($8 for top shelf vodka). They're apparently notorious for their mojitos but I wasn't in the mood so I didn't try them. Some people in our group did and slurped them down quick, so they're on my list of things to try the next time I go. To top off the delicious food, we had great and surprisingly quick service (for a party of 10). I am looking forward to going back and bringing more friends!
(5)Senorita V.
I have never had Haitian food before, visiting from CA and yelp (and you all) did the job again. you must try the pumpkin soup (a little too cold for my taste -- hence the 4 stars) but still delicious. AND THE CONCH SALAD WAS A LITTLE SPICY BUT PERFECT!
(4)T. B.
Very colorful, Haitian style over-decorated (not in a bad way) restaurant with a good atmosphere, very good authentic Haitian food and good unpretentious and honest service at a great price. One of the best restaurants overall in Miami.
(4)Elisa L.
Love the food and the atmosphere. The murals are beautiful and full of life. The owner is warm and friendly. He was very welcoming and sweet. Love the food and the mojitos. The haitian cake and the cinnamon was amazing.
(4)Ashley S.
Great authentic haitian food, festive atmosphere... and great Mojito's. What more do you need? Don't let the outside of this place scare you away, its great and a local favorite.
(5)Nicole G.
What the heck is up with East Coast service with a side of attitude!?! I LOVE the west coast, I LOVE the west coast! Maybe I should just stay here! As you can tell we had some pretty horrible service at Tap Tap! Maybe they're sick of seeing annoying tourists... I don't know!!! The girl serving us came to us 3 times total! once to get our drink order, once to take our order, and once to deliver her automatic 18% gratuity check! We tried to reduce it to under 15% and they still charged me the full 18% gratuity! She so did not deserve it! The one person that probably did deserve it was the chef because the food was really good! I had the as-seen on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Whole poached yellowtail fish. Ordered it grilled! I devoured the thing! Only the head and bones were left! No doggy bag for me! The breaded Akra was yummy especially with the water crest dipping sauce! Yummy flavors! The decor is lovely also. Refurbished tables and chairs painted bright colors. Beautiful Haitian murals. Definitely eye candy! Food = Great, Service = you suck!
(2)Jul B.
an authentic Haitian delight! As you enter, you are greeted with a tap tap out front. The color, the detail.. I was speechless. The bar scene feels very islandy - the entire space is colorful, festive. I admire the owner's ability to make it a visual masterpiece. The food was good. I had the red snapper and rice & beans. I also had a haitian rum mojito. I definitely recommend Tap Tap if you are in the South Beach area :)
(4)Susan R.
We only got appetizer but they were all good. They included conch ceviche, stewed okra and goat tidbits. The stewed okra was the best. And definitely get the begneys for dessert. Colorful, Hatian decor.
(4)Lara W.
Between the Food Network and Yelp community, we decided to drive an hour out of our way for Tap Tap for a very late lunch/early dinner on a Friday around 4. The place was pretty empty but service was friendly and accommodating to our wanting to change seats. I'm Haitian-bred, American born, so I've had more than my fair share of griyo. My husband tho, can't get enough, so we ordered some. Best decision. This is the best griyo I've ever had. Ideal - crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. I've also only ever had mediocre akra (fritters) so Tap Tap's were a welcome surprise. Definitely coming back on our next visit to South Florida!
(5)Cassandra M.
must. try. the. kremas. MUST! apparently, their kremas , which is similar to (if not) a rum cream or coquito (with minimal coconut and nutmeg) is delivered by some lady that makes batches of that creamy goodness at home. they are known to run out of it, so if youre lucky, order a glass or five.
(4)Hsin P.
Service was likely the biggest downfall tonight: we were seated in a section with a large party that kept our waiter's hands full and attention somewhat diverted. (I will give him the benefit of the doubt, especially because I may have been a bit disappointed that we weren't served by the cuter waiter who seated us.) While I wanted to try the Haitian Prestige beer, I opted for a Bass on draft, which was great with the meal. We were served piping hot and crusty French bread rolls with butter. What a great surprise, after a couple of dinners with tasteless, microwave-reheated "pan cubano" rolls at various Cuban joints around town. Having had a lot of deep fried appys over the past few days, we opted to split the salad zaboka ak tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions and house dressing). The tomatoes were ripe and flavorful, and the salad had a huge wedge of avocado in the center. The house dressing could have done with a bit more acid and salt, and the salad itself might have incorporated something crunchy (e.g., radish, fennel) that would still have been appropriate for Haitian/Caribbean cuisine. For our mains, we had kribish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce) and poul nan sos (stewed natural free range chicken) with zepina nan sos kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) as a side. It was a mistake on our part ordering two dishes with the same coconut sauce, but it was tasty and reminiscent of a very mild Thai curry. The coconut sauces were a tad on the salty side, though. The chicken was nicely stewed, flavorful yet not cooked so long as to lose all texture falling off the bone. Both entrees were served with rice mixed with beans, which was terrific for eating with the gravies from the shrimp and chicken dishes. Bello Special Pepper Sauce from the D.R. was the house hot sauce at the table. The ingredients sounded tasty (scotch bonnet or habanero peppers, papaya, onions, vinegar, salt, and spices), and did indeed work with the food we ordered. Not being familiar with Haitian cuisine, I had assumed it would be spicier than it turned out to be--the Bello, along with the pickled (and spiced) cabbage and carrots also served at the table, allowed me to kick the flavors of our food up a notch. The dessert list looked appealing, but after waiting nearly 40 minutes for our entrees, we were ready to call it a night. Given my qualified review of the wait service, we were a bit taken aback to see gratuity already included on our bill--maybe there was a disclaimer on the menu, or the POS was still set to include it because of the large party before us?
(3)sean k.
I went to Tap Tap because Guy Fieri told me to, and he was right! The whole-snapper dish was amazing, I've never tasted a sauce with SO much flavor. And, the fish is deceiving because it appears small, but has so much flavorful meat. The fried pork dish was great, as well. Went great with the onions the dish was served with.
(4)S C.
I saw this place on a re-run of Dines, Drive Ins and Dives. Enjoyed watching the method that they cooked and decided to give it a go. My family went on a random Monday evening and it was quite busy which to me spoke mounds. 1) Loved the decor! 2) Drinks could use a little more flavor. There were some selections, but the mojito was nothing like it sounded in the menu 3) Akra was delicious; Spaghetti, and Snapper were great! I loved the sauce with the Snapper, had just enough flavor of heat from pepper and tasted very fresh! 4) Rice: I have dined at many Haitian restaurants...the rice was something to be desired. Very regular, not much flavor. I know rice is tricky, but I really was hoping for better rice. All in all I would return again!
(4)Kelsey G.
Tap Tap, you made my mini vacation that much better. No, I can't pronounce most of what I ate but it didn't matter because I was too busy constantly eating my way through each dish we shared to try to speak. The legim was some of the best I've had and I'm pretty sure we ordered about 4 appetizers without hesitation. Can't forget the alcoholic beverages: fresh juices and rum can't be beat.
(4)Scott V.
If you haven't tried Haitian food (and I hadn't), then you're truly missing out. This is seriously good food. And the decor is incredible. You have to see the huge murals on the walls, with as much color as the food had flavor. I came here with a large group of people, and I was blown away. First, they had two iced teas - ginger and cinnamon. How awesome is that? I had this beef stew thing, which reminded me of a sauerbraten, only with a bit of spice. Really tender beef cubes in a velvety intensely flavored sauce. Lip smackin' good. To end it all, the mango sorbet came in little metal cappuccino cups. It was also intensely flavored, and a great small dessert to a very filling mirror.
(5)todd b.
For those who don't know, it's sorta haitian food. I don't care though, I love it. I stick mainly to the fish out of dietary considerations, but also because I don't like stewed stuff. The goat is a shank and is less of a stew than stewed. Again I'm not a big creolle stewed sauce fan so don't take my word on that stuff. Their fried fish, blackened fish, and grilled fish are stellar though. Get the spicy scotch bonnet lime sauce. If you can take some heat, it is beyond worth it. It keeps me coming back. Go with friends and get the plat fritay, a combo of their fried items + watercress sweet sauce & sour scotch bonnet sauce. My favorite dish is grilled conch, but you have to love conch. It's pricey, but it's the beach and its Miami. Not Chez Bebe prices but it's way healthier. Their happy hour is a real deal. 1/2 off their barbancourt drinks! Not the 5 star rum though. They now have their own parking lot hidden in the alley. First come, first serve.
(4)Farheen Q.
WONDERFUL restaurant, best food in miami. Authentic decor and food, you'll feel a part of the haitian culture here. We had the special that night, spiny lobster, and a spicy shrimp sauce both with rice and beans. Everything was absolutely delicious. I wouldn't miss this place if I were you! If I ever go back to Miami, this place will be at the top of my list.
(5)Leon C.
When that first bite of sweet, beautiful plaintian hit my palette, I almost wept with happiness. I had returned home, to this Haitain paradise of yumminess. Being a Caribbean lad I truly get excited about eating anything remotely linked to my countrymen's food. The restaurant is decked out as if it were a regular haunt on the Islands. The menu is super authentic with fish dishes, goat curry and fabulous Griyo pork. I could go on about the food, the yukka, the cocktails... wow, Wow, WOW! This though would make this an exceptionally long review and that just ain't my style. Simply rest assured, not only will you be entertained by the live music, wowed by the incredible authentic Haitian food, and made to feel welcome by the staff, this place will not incinerate your wallet with inflated prices. Tap Tap, although my breathe resembled that of a rabid cat after my meal, I would come back to you again, again and again.
(4)Bernardo A.
I was debating whether or not I should review this place. After all, I've been there only once and I am a sucker for novelty. That said, I'll admit that this review might be influenced by the fact that I had a great time. The service was great. Not a place for wall flowers or for pushy princesses with overgrown senses of entitlement. The place is a bit chaotic and that's part of the charm. NOT a place to go if you are in a hurry, or want quiet, or are a picky eater. As far as authenticity: Who knows? I've never had Haitian food before. However, I've had Caribbean food thousands of times, and this place has some of the tastiest seasoning I've ever tried. The mayi moulen, the zepina nan sos kokoye, and the malanga croquettes were great. The vinegar, cabbage and scotchbonnet hot sauce is amazing! I bet it's great on scrambled eggs. I tried the kabrit as an appetizer and it was a bit dry. So was the roasted chicken my partner ordered. On the other hand, the grilled fish in scotchbonnet and lime sauce I ordered was sublime. The fish was cooked perfectly. Flaky and moist. After dinner, the owner (I think she's the owner) came out to sit with us for a few minutes. She is quiet, speaks in short sentences, and is just a very sweet woman. I rocked on my rocking chair and she nursed her glass of white wine. I really enjoyed just sitting next to her...it was a vibe thing. She told me more than once that she loved the diversity of her customers. And she was right. What a great mix of people. There was a bit of a show going on that night. A celebration of death and sex (renewal, rebirth), so there were performers at hand. No X-rated performances. Again, I'm not sure how "authentic" the whole thing was; but I don't care. The clientele, the owner and the atmosphere were authentic enough for me. We were lucky enough to be able to sit outside on the porch for our meal. The dining rooms looked a bit small and when the place got packed to standing-room only, I'm sure I would have had an attack of claustrophobia.
(4)Adam P.
Unique, enjoyable, pleasant. Disappointing they haven't had goat though each time I go. One of the better pieces of grouper. A completely different feel to the standard South Beach establisments. Head here if you're ready for a change of scene in every sense.
(4)Farida A.
My first experience with Haitian food... I was a little apprehensive since I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed my creole pasta, and my friend enjoyed his fish dish. I tried some of his rice, and it was pretty good too. Did not love the limeade (way too sour) but that was the only thing I didn't enjoy. The art on the walls, chairs, tabletops, etc. will give you endless things to look at and talk about. I went on the Thursday night and there was an amazing live band playing. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting South Beach.
(4)N N.
Very, very casual, borderline dive atmosphere. Great service, not pushy w good recommendations. Food is great ans inexpensive. Try the Natif.
(4)Megan L.
Tap Tap would be #2 (after Puerto Sagua) on my list of Miami Beach food recommendations. I've never had Haitian food so the flavors were lighter and more refreshing than I expected-- a lot of citrus and some unexpected spiciness. We had the malanga fritters and marinated conch to start with, but the standouts were the shrimp in coconut sauce and the pan-seared yellowtail snapper. The waiter also mentioned the griyo (pork chunks) but we didn't get to try it, and the restaurant was out of goat that day. The decor inside was very bright and colorful with beautiful murals on the walls and tabletops. Very casual, good for a post-beach meal.
(4)Waybs L.
I was visiting from Boston and Haitian food in Miami just sounded bomb.com . I got an order of rice and beans with griyo (fried pork) and was too hungry to mess around! They seemed a lil short staffed bc service was slow but everyone was on the move! Three of us attempted to share Cabrit but it was way too small.. so i dropped out of the race! After waiting for what seemed like a day.. my entree finally arrived and I was stunned to find a haitian restaurant who embodies portion control! If ur an east coaster..don't expect the heap of rice or plenty pieces of griyo. I got three hunks of meat (fat and all), a petite service of rice and ONE banann peze! lol... yes 1 Food wasn't bad but I can't rave about it.. With a few bites of my rice I questioned if the cook was actually from Haiti or not. I feel like I enjoyed the environment, cocktails, cremas and the pineapple cake a lot more! Cool art painted on all the walls!
(3)Ray P.
Definitely a great dive to check out. Tried their beef and chicken dishes and were not disappointed. If you've never had Haitian food before, you can check out the other reviews on Yelp to give you some help or ask the serving staff there who were more than helpful with suggestions.
(4)Tracy L.
I missed this place as soon as I left South Beach! Flavorful food, friendly staff, energizing decor, delicious coffee... Prices are on par with just about everything in Miami. Not cheap ;).
(4)Brent H.
Working in Miami has given my coworkers and I the opportunity to try some food not available at home. I was excited to hear about Haitian food, as I've never had it. Tap Tap was a second night in a row of excellent food. Cool little building, small but nice front dining patio, full bar, quaint dinning room. The whole place is colorful and cool murals. even the tables have great paintings on them. The service was great. Our waitress was super nice, accommodating, and just plain made us feel at home. We asked for recommendations and she didn't disappoint. Our group split the fried goat tid bits and the conch ceviche for appetizers. Totally good. The goat was so crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Was sort of like lamb. It was seasoned well, and came with a great sauce to dip it in. The Conch was spicy and fresh. A light counter point to the fried goat. For our dinner we shared three entrees. We ordered stewed goat, fried fish and fried pork. The sides included rice and beans, white rice with a bean sauce, and fried plantains. The pork was again the hero of the show. I'm not wasting my time describing it, just order it. The goat was super tender. the stew sauce was great and we all tried to spoon as much extra onto our plates till it was gone. I could have drank a cup of it. I will say if you are freaked out by meat that has some fat to it, the goat may not be your thing. If you just ignore the fatty bits and dive in, you get an awesome mix of chew and soft buttery flavor. Don't be afraid, just eat it. The fish was a whole fried fish. The skin was light and crispy, and the flesh was soft and flaky. There was nothing left. nothing. maybe some rice. we opted to stuff ourselves a little more and shared the banana fritters. Not super awesome, but semi sweet crispy/soft, sort of like fried banana bread batter. I wish there was a place like this where I live. Dear Haitians, please come to California. Love BL
(5)Deborah D.
i really wish i could give this place more stars because i wanted to like it so much but it just didn't live up to my expectations. it was good, but it didn't blow my mind or anything like some of the other reviews were suggesting. i ordered take out of the stew chicken and a side of the spinach in coconut cream. my main was average but the spinach side was a standout. can't comment on their wait service because i ordered it to go but the gentleman who took my order was friendly and my food was ready in less than 15 minutes. i would still try this place again but order something different.
(3)Jess H.
Good food, reasonably priced in Miami. Make the trek up from the beach to enjoy top of the line Haitian food. It's worth it.
(4)David K.
What I had: goat stew (18 dollars) first item on the menu. Comes with a healthy portion of flavoured rice and a fried plantation piece (potato) Haitian Cola. Opinion: 4 stars? Sounds about right, maybe slightly lower. Food portions are great, they give you bread for an appetiser and service is generally polite. The goat stew was ok, not the best goat dish I've had but it was a good cultural experience. Very flavoursome and tangy and has a little spice in it if that's your style. The Haitian Cola is a 20oz serving just like a soda pop with a unique taste. Try it if you want a soda :) I came here to try some different food from different parts of the world and it's nice place to try. Good for kids, good for a drink and has desserts too!
(4)Lisa N.
Great food and experience! Started with the combination plate of fried plantains and veggies - so good! None of the spices are spicy but have a great flavor! Moved onto the bef (beef)and pork dishes. Rice and beans were perfectly cooked and the meats were tender and juicy. Mild spices used - and fills you up fast (don't let the pictures confuse you, you get a lot of food. Ended with pineapple upside down and sweet potato pie - both highly recommend!!! Amazing place and such friendly staff.
(5)Pamela P.
When I came here to visit I initially wrote a very sarcastic review because I could not believe what I experienced. The owner was completely inebriated and extremely rude and I thought I would give her a pass and maybe it was an isolated incident. I made the decision to change my completely SARCASTIC good review to an objective one after just skewering someone else on bad customer service. Fair is fair and credible is credible. I was feeling a little under the weather and my favorite Colombian place on the beach runs out of the best soups ever by the time I get home (about 4 or 5) for good reason, they are phenomenal! So I need some healing home cooked food. Next best thing is a hearty stew. So I remember the Haitian restaurant on 5th Street from Food Network, it was really good that last time I went with Mom and Sis, and Haitians like to cook spicy which I love. I get to Tap Tap and YAY! They have 2 kinds of stews... chicken and goat. I walk in to the quaint little and I was about to sit by myself at a table by the window when a lady sitting at the bar protested and asked that I sit at the bar next to her. I thought that was really nice and I obliged. The bartender was very polite and helpful, out of the 2 choices he recommended the goat and I agreed. As I was waiting, I come to find out the lady next to me is actually the owner of the restaurant and she sarcastically introduced herself as "George". (She slurred George) She acted as if I had invited myself to sit with her... but I played along. She was very much into listening to some Hatian music that reminded me very much of Edith Piaf, so when I mentioned it she asked what do YOU know about Haitian culture? As if I had committed an ultimate offense. I said nothing, I am here to learn. She went back to her music for which I was thankful. Then my food came out... OMG it was heaven, just what I was looking for and it made me feel better immediately. That goat stew with the rice and beans and the Hatian version of spicy encurtido is just what I was craving and needed. I found out the entire kitchen staff is Haitian so you know you're getting authentic. As for the company, I want to thank Mrs. Kean, for making my rough day worse with her overall unpleasantness. It is very disappointing that an owner so rudely express their disdain of a customer's humble patronage. I say this because she repeatedly asked me why I was drinking her wine and eating her food? She asked as if I was pilfering her restaurant. I thought thats what restauranteurs want people to do, you sell, I buy. The bartender was nice and looked absolutely mortified at his boss' behavior, so did the rest of the staff, but they were too afraid to say anything. Overall, the unpleasantness left a bitter taste in my mouth despite the very good food. I will think twice before I support this business again.
(2)Karen D.
This place is good! I recommend it! My fiancé and I were visiting Pompano Beach and decided to try the ethnic food southern Florida has to offer. In fact, we are all kinds of ethnic food on our trip. Yum! This was a first for me- Haitian food. I have to say I was pretty impressed. My fiancé had the conch appetizer and akra. I ordered the grouper. Everything was pretty good but the akra was bomb. Service was a little slow, the fire alarm went off, the server didn't remember which table I was at when I got up to ask him a question and the bull was confusing.. So docking a star there. The place is super cute! If I lived locally, I would return.
(4)Andrea C.
A few friends recommended this place during our honeymoon in Miami. I absolutely lovedddd our meal there! I think it was one of my favorites while we were in south beach. We had the malanga(?) fritters and omg. SOO good! We also had the shrimp with coconut sauce and the pork chunks which were delicious, too. I wish they had food like this somewhere here! Soo yummyy!!
(5)Jack J.
Amazing! Completely authentic and delicious food, incredible artwork on walls, tables, chairs, etc. great live traditional music. People are clearly having a very good time in this place.
(5)Will W.
If you're looking for authentic Caribbean food at a reasonable price, this is the place to go. The food is awesome, and the place has a very laid back and friendly vibe.
(5)Snehal Rudra B.
Went to tap tap with some friends for dinner. The scene was loud, fun and and friendly. I thoroughly enjoyed the bar. I appreciated that they served Rhum Barbancourt, one of the finest rums in all of the caribbean, and all their mixed drinks are made with this very distinctive rum. I particularly enjoyed a drink that was a simple mix of rum, lots of fresh lime juice and raw sugar. It was tart, sweet, and deceptively potent. I had about three of those, along with a Prestige, and all of that made for a very fun night. My friends had the rum punch, and raved about it. Now the food. Akra was quite delicious. Taso kabrit was good, but just a tad bit dry. I had a steamed whole snapper in a lime sauce. The lime sauce was delicious. I could taste the scotch bonnet peppers that probably went into the sauce, and I love me some scotch bonnets! It was not too spicy, but extremely flavorful. The snapper was also cooked very well. However, i expected it to be fresher, considering how close we were to the ocean. One of my friends had the stew chicken,and claimed it was the best chicken of her life. Another friend had griyo and also enjoyed it. Certainly a fun experience in south beach.
(3)Cass M.
While exploring SoBe I came across this little jewel. I had the coconut shrimp with a side of coconut spinach. Brittney, the barkeep, was cute, super cool and friendly. Her rum punch will sit you down. I left satisfied and a tad tipsy. Great way to start a mini vacay!! I would give 5 stars but the spinach was drowning in coconut. I would have preferred a larger portion as well. I cleaned the plate with ease. Will return next visit!
(4)Nancy Y.
Love their whole fried yellowtail snapper! The batter was light and crispy, and the fish, served alongside a semi-spicy limey olive oil-based sauce, was fresh and delicious. Their goat (both the goat tidbits appetizer and the goat stew entree) was super tender and flavorful. The restaurant itself has colorful tables and chairs, murals on walls, and live music on some nights. Overall, it's a welcoming low-key place and definitely one of the better restaurants in the area.
(4)Aleena N.
Summary: Shrimp Coconut. Every time I come to Miami. This place is a MUST! Sweet and short. Customer Service: Good. Sometimes the staff appears a little irritated but worth smiling through (we all have good & bad days right) and waiting patiently for the food to sing to your palate. Pricing: Reasonable comparative to south beach and way better food! What I ordered: I don't remember the name but it's the coconut shrimp and it comes with plantains ( nom ) and rice. Food timing: Reasonable (15-20) and it's a light crowd today. But if you are super hungry they have warm bread and garlic dip! Mmmmmm! What I come back?: I do every single time I come to Miami. Also the rum is delish! I got the 8 year aged rum. Enjoyyyy! The end!
(5)Rye M.
Food is okay, i had better haitian food. Service is subpar too. Only came here coz of guy fieri. Not coming back to this place again
(1)E S.
My first experience with Haitian food and I'm sold. My husband and I ordered the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbits w/spicy creole dipping sauce), The Lanbi Nann Sos (conch creole) and Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (stewed beef and okra). The conch was awesome and was served ceviche style. The stewed beef and okra was AMAZING. The beef was incredibly tender and the sauce was perfection. The goat tidbits were really dry and hard to chew and the dipping sauce was bland. When I ordered the ginger tea, the waiter bet that I couldn't drink it in under 5 minutes and he was right. It was incredibly strong and creamy, so so so good and just what I needed to start the day. If you like ginger, do it! We came in during the afternoon and had the entire back of the restaurant to ourselves. It was super peaceful and we were surrounded with beautiful, vibrant murals. The service is slower than I think most people can deal with. You have to ask for everything including water, bread, etc. and it could take 5-10 minutes to arrive. I chalked the snails pace up to a general Miami vibe; coming from New York, you better be prepared to zen out and sip on some rum while you wait.
(4)Ann P.
Malanga fritters, grilled Turks and Caicos Conch and a crazy good pork dish that my man loved. Nice cocktails and friendly wait staff. The only reason it earned 4 stars was because it's not too clean. Dirty napkins littered the floor and the bathroom was gross.
(4)Naty K.
My oh my, I had no idea Haitian food could be so delicious! I have been missing out. This place can get crowded and unfortunately, I could not tell you about parking, I always end up parking on 5th and Alton (Shoppes at 5th) and just walking. The building looks like a large house, it's hard to miss, as it is a rather tall structure, with the sign in pink letters that says "TAP TAP" and a heart underneath. It's beautiful inside, and you will feel like you stepped out of Miami, and definitely, out of South Beach. The porch is very cozy, with a colorful rocking chair and some outdoor seating. If you're lucky, you may even catch the Tap Tap bike, chained on a post nearby, with the rainbow colors that the restaurant is famous for. The place is really chill inside, the staff is very friendly and accommodating and will make an effort to explain dishes and even show concern when you order a spicy dish. There are gorgeous murals in colorful shades on every wall, and the chairs all have their own color motifs. Very vibrant tropical shades. The tables themselves also have nice art. The food can get expensive, but I have been told everything is organic, so maybe that is to be expected. The food is delicious, very well-seasoned, perfectly spiced, and mouth-watering. I have yet to try something that was a miss, from seafood to beef, everything is tender and delicious. If you come on a Saturday, be sure to catch their live band, playing authentic Haitian music. The crowds can get interesting, from foreign tourists that are drunk and failing at dancing to the Haitian music, to business executives to Haitian natives reading the Haitian newspapers. On my most recent visit (I have been here about 3-4 times), I had the Salad Tap Tap, which is a nice alternative to the standard salad (you don't see many places using the tart watercress), and the green dressing was delicious, although I am not sure what they put in it. My main course was a stew, which was not only tender and flavorful, but plentiful. Most places serve a lot of fatty meat and bone, so you only end up with a meager portion, but not here. For dessert, a light and fluffy coconut flan hit the spot. The flavor of coconut was not overwhelming and the creamy, cool texture was great and refreshing on a warm summer evening. It is a very light dessert so if you're very full or have indigestion but want dessert, I highly recommend this. Come here at least once, if not for the ambiance and delicious fare, then for the groovy decor. You will thank me later.
(5)Sarah C.
Ate here again and once again the food/drinks blew me away! Fresh, fresh, and a few brilliant new takes on traditional food. I am a repeat for sure! Thank you again Tap Tap!
(4)Antonio B.
Authentic for sure, loved it. I had the griot, but we also had the stewed goat and stewed chicken. The art work and furniture are unique, colorful and pretty.
(5)JoAnn D.
Tap Tap was recommended to me by coworkers and it did not disappoint! My entire group of 6 had never tried Haitian food and we are all hooked! I had the stewed beef with okra with rice and beans and malanga fritters. The stewed beef was amazinf but the malanga fritters were definitely my favorite. Soooo delicious! We went for lunch due to scheduling but this place is probably best for dinner.
(4)Samara M.
Its unfortunate because i heard such great things and also read great reviews on this place but i was extremely disappointed. I was in Miami on vacation and my boyfriend wanted Haitian food and since i never had good haitian food so i figured why not. I looked up the restaurant on various foodie sites and this place was where we had to go. We arrived around quarter to 10 on a Sunday. We were greeted right away however we were not seated as quickly. When we were seated our waiter was nice and personable. We looked over the menu and were ready well i should say i was finally ready to eat some delicious haitian food! To my complete dismay the kitchen ran out of food!!!!! So the only thing i can base this review on is soley my experience here. I did order the "tropical rhum punch with 5 star rhum" the drink was fantastic. I wish i was able to taste the food. Honestly they should have just closed early given that they only had 3 items on the menu. So in closing not sure when I'll be back to MIAMI but when i do I'll give this place another try. Note: come before 9pm and you may have better luck
(1)Raechel S.
Having never had Haitian food before, we were excited to try this place out. Their mojitos are award winning and amazing--so dangerous, we had three by the end of dinner and were grateful we walked to the restaurant. Definitely try the goat stew and their pineapple upside down cake. Both were so tasty! Expect a colorful restaurant with homemade chairs, murals, and authentic food. The prices are totally reasonable for being in South Beach, and it's a total must try!
(5)Poka H.
Delicious!!! The waitress was very attentive and the food was delicious. Well seasoned and outstanding. Reminds me of the mother land I love it!!
(4)Ainsworth G.
I had the same experience. Horrible, horrible, horrible wait time and I didn't even get what I ordered. They ran out of what I ordered.. 35 minutes later... Who does that!!!!!!! This place has failed off. It use to be good. Not anymore. Needs new management. Your better off going to a hole-in-the wall Hatian restaurant for your food. At least you get what you order I've been reading the other reviews and it seems like I am not the only one with this experience. Not good.
(1)Joel D.
The BEST Restaurant I have EVER dined in! First time was the Fish... Then last week , The goat.. Not to mention the exquisite herring salad.... I would eat there everyday if i could.... ALL Three meals!
(5)Neusom P.
Great food and great people. Highly recommend if you are in south beach . I ordered the pork chunks with rice, beans, and plantains. Everything was perfectly cooked and you really can't beat the price compared to other restaurants in south beach.
(5)Arleen L.
There's no better advice than a local's suggestion and we were fortunate enough to get the inside scoop from our awesome Haitian driver! I had the shrimp dish in coconut sauce, while my girlfriend got the grouper in a delicious traditional sauce. We're so glad we stopped by before heading to the airport!
(4)Cece U.
I was in Miami for a conference and one of the guys in my group said a rather large female taxi driver had recommended Tap Tap for good Haitian food. He says whenever in a new city he always asks larger people for food recommendations and it never steers him wrong. I am not very impressed by his theory (esp since I am rather skinny and feel that I give good food recs)... but he's known for being crass and politically incorrect so I try not to let these things bother me anymore. Anyway, the taxi driver said it was the best place to eat in Miami beach so we decided to give it a try one evening. The food was amazing. I had the goat stew and I think I smiled throughout the entire meal. The portions are substantial. My goat stew came with plantain and rice. I also ordered a mango smoothie which was super refreshing. I wish I had known at the time that they had such good mojitos, but my colleague had one and said he enjoyed it very much. We did try the malanga appetizers. They were good but nothing to write home about in my opinion. Overall an excellent experience. I can't wait to come back and try the mojitos!
(5)Erik W.
Now been there twice. Food is delicious. Get anything conch if you can! The service is a little spotty, but both times we went at slightly off hours, so I'm willing to forgive.
(4)Athena K.
So, let's just preface this by saying that I'm comparing this to all the other Haitian places out there and not to your standard South Beach restaurant. Yes, the food is decent. I had some chicken that was really good. The rice with beqn sauce is good, so are the plantains. The juice is decent. But my kabrit was super dry. Overall this food is really bland. Considering it's Haitian I'd expect spice, more thyme, more Creole seasoning. It's almost like it got moved down a notch or two to accomodate American palates. All in all, it's not horrible, but if you just went to a hole in the wall in Little Haiti you'd get a better meal for half the price.
(2)Deborah P.
Went back for a late dinner. Waiter was very pleasant with recommendations. Our vegetarian was pleased with his stewed veggies and black rice. The appetizer platter was good along with excellent Soley cocktails. My grouper was excellent and the stewed goat was also tasty. The grilled chicken was a little salty but otherwise tasty. Great spot with lots of ambiance and good eating.
(4)Pauli L.
Was in Miami last week and researched couple of places to eat before I left so what site did I go to first? Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, of course. This restaurant was on the show so I Yelped it, had good reviews, decided to check it out, My friend and I ordered the spicy Conch (pronounced, Conk) ceviche style as an appy, which turned out to be surprisingly tasty (surprising because neither of us have tried conch before) and it wasn't too spicy unless you are very sensitive to spice then it will be spicy. For the main meal, my friend ordered the Shrimp in coconut sauce which was oh so good and very big shrimps too! I ordered the stewed vegetable dish, a bit heavy on the salt but also did not disappoint! Both these dished came with rice and beans and plantain fritters. My friend got her beans on the side and white rice and I got mine mixed in, which was way better than getting them separately. The plantain fritters were a bit on the dry side and bland too so not impressed with that. Overall service was very friendly and prompt! Bon Apetite!
(4)Monica S.
At some point during my South Beach stroll, I wandered into this nook and cranny Caribbean hut. Something about the colorful interior reminded me of my favorite Mexican bar in Philly, Cantina. With it's charming mishmash decor, the vibrancy that surrounds you makes you feel instantly at home, instantly welcome, and altogether like you're on vacation. Bright, tropical colors, wide grins from that staff, and the frequent busboy who operates with a bounce in his step (atypical for South Beach). If you listen closely, that's the sound of the best mojito being muddled and shaken. Whether it's a seat within the outdoor front porch or indoors within one of the many seemingly separate rooms, there just isn't a bad spot in the house where island energy is palpable. On a lucky night, a live band might be playing in the backroom with sounds from native Haiti. You won't find any electro lounge music here, everything is strictly authentic. Down to the menu, you'll see goat stew, shrimp in creole or coconut sauce (with the coconut sauce was my favorite), conch, fried plantains and more. This would be a great spot to bring a date, specifically when it's so vastly different from everything else on South Beach. If Gary's there, be sure to chat him up. He's the dapper GM with a smile for miles.
(4)Kritchel I.
If you want any of their specialty food (oxtail, goat, or conch), I suggest to call ahead. When we went at 3pm, they didn't haven't any of these food items. Disappointing! So instead, we ordered the the legim, the shrimp in coconut sauce, and the griyo. These dishes were delicious, the only reason for my 3 stars. The service was also disappointing. The server was nice but it seemed like she was the only one for the whole restaurant (the server forgot to get one of our dishes and the spoon we asked for never came).
(3)A. A.
The goat was really yum! Reminded me of goat I enjoyed when visiting family in Nigeria. And the mojito was amazing, too.
(4)Chris C.
I enjoyed this place while in South Beach.There were four of us so I had the opportunity to try the oxtail, (which is not on the menu), the chicken stew, and the grilled chicken. I enjoyed all ,but the Chicken stew stood out the best. The only complaints I have where the parking and how they just added on my check their tip amont of 18%.I gave it to her but found that kind of interesting.Oh I must add that the mojitos are very good.
(4)Carlos Q.
I had the griyo and my wife had the stewed chicken. Both were so so. The mojito was weak and too limey. The rice and beans were dry and not very good. All in all for the price there are better places in Miami to eat. The service was fair. The dessert a slice of sweet potatoe pie was awful it tasted like wet sand. We took one bite and left it the server never asked if there was something wrong with it she just took it away. I wouldn't come back here.
(1)Juan Pablo G.
I have been here 3 times and I have to say the 3 times have been the same experience. The food is delicious, I don't have any complaints about this, actually it is good to try something different from what you have in the area. But the problem comes when you talk about service. There was just 1 person handling 3 tables, but she wasn't able to take care of them. We spent over half an hour trying to get the check, half an hour trying to get something else the worst thing we had to get up twice like for example get a knife and a fork. Also for lunch, if you arrive early (before 1pm), there are dishes that are not ready/available yet.
(2)Stan B.
Over my vacation stay I went to some really amazing restaurants with beautiful views and amazing ambiance. However, my favorite restaurant was Tap Tap. The food was delicious (I had oxtail), Alcoholic drinks were well mixed and tasty. The water was flavored with various refreshing flavors. Bread came warm with garlic butter. Overall it was an enjoyable experience and I would recommend Tap Tap to anyone.
(5)Richard R.
We saw this place on Drive Ins, Diners and Dives. Chef was wearing a Boss T-Shirt which is always welcoming to us New Jerseyians. Tap Tap is a bit of hike from the touristy part of Ocean Drive but we hoofed it out. Colorful murals, friendly staff and this place is pretty big. Menu is not that large but everything looked good so hard to make a choice, They also have daily specials. Fruit punch was very good and they have Premier Haitian beer. We had the poached yellow tail which was fantastic, had a little heat. We also had the grilled chicken that was also really good and the avocado and tomato salad. The dressing on this was also very good. Our check for 3 people, one beer, 2 fruit drinks and the above was about $65.00 without aps or dessert so it can get a little pricey. Nice place and would go back again.
(4)Food C.
this place is pretty cool. pros: live music, good food, nice servers, good mojitos mojitos: they were good. it was said they have one of the best mojitos in south beach. i think the mojito was good. it was well mixed because you didn't taste any sugar granules. i wouldn't say the mojito was very strong. it was sweet. everyone's level of what "strong" is different. they were good. not the best i ever had, not the worse. above average but not stellar. food: it was really tasty. tasted homemade like someone made it in their kitchen versus massed produced. it was really good. band: nice mix of live music. liked them a lot. wasn't very crowded during the time i went there. seemed empty and sparse. with all the positive reviews i had thought it was going to be more lively. the band played to a practically empty house. hopefully they have more busy days. ambiance is very casual a lot of art on the wall and various painting. cleanliness: things seemed ok but rustic. maybe that was the look they were going for. it was kind of one of those places where you dont want to look around and inspect too much because you may not want to eat. so i just focused on the food and kept my eyes on the plate and my ears on the band.
(4)Sharon W.
I want to love this place because the interior is so cool, the staff is friendly and I do like the drinks. But! The food is just OK and it is expensive for very small portions. It seems to be lacking zest and flavor. I'm always excited to eat here and then I'm always disappointed.
(3)Zarina R.
4/21/12 - I have seen this restaurant for years and have always wondered what it was like to eat there. Finally this past Saturday, I had the opportunity to try it out. We got there around 10 at night. and sat at the bar waiting for our table. We waited about 10 minutes for a table while sipping on mojitos. The mojitos were made just right -- not too sweet or tart. We started with the Malanga Fritters and Spicy Conch Salad. The salad definitely had a kick to it. I don't know how may glasses of water I drank that night. For dinner we had the Shrimp in coconut sauce and Oxtail. The service was slow and at times my water cup was empty. There was no one around to refill it. They also had a band playing and people dancing. The atmosphere was quite lively but the music was so loud, that my friend who was sitting across from me could not hear a word I was saying.
(3)Matthew A.
Awesome
(4)Christopher M.
Still awesome food! Was disappointed it was so cold inside. Bartender was slow despite few customers. Though she was nice. Or bill for two, paying in cash, cane with an automatic gratuity of 20%. That shouldn't happen.
(4)Rajagopalan R.
Very Good options for vegetarians!! Very hospitable staff ..
(4)Alexandra A.
This is one of SoBe's 'diamonds in the rough.' Somewhat off the beaten track, it clearly has a cache of regulars which attests to its longevity, consistency and ease of welcome. There are no airs here and that, for me, is a breath of...well, fresh air. In general, I would say it's a far cry from SoBe trendier eateries which seemed to define SoBe and all of its chicness. Hence, this is precisely why it's a gem. Too be honest, I'm not a huge fan of Haitian food (no offense intended) but I am woman enough to admit that my preconceived notions were quickly dashed. And I'm looking forward to visiting it again. I loved the casual ambiance that pays authentic homage to the colorful nature of Haitian roots and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. The restaurant brings to mind an eclectic family-oriented home in Haiti - railroad style. Vivid colors abound everywhere, effortlessly whisking you away to a tropical paradise far from the conscious glamour well-known to SoBe. The compelling Carib/Haitian art is not only everywhere, it's a wonderful touch because it's smart and well-thought out. Not kitschy in the least. The painted tables were absolutely stunning. I loved the mojitos while my guests drank beer. The food was exotic and appetizing and coming from a diversely different Carib culture (Jamaican on my mother's side), this was a particular treat.. I (along with one guest) began with an appetizer called Akra (malanga fritters) which is a root vegetable similar to yucca. Wonderful. The other guest opted for Salad Zaboka Ak Tomat (avocado and tomato salad with onions, house dressing.) As our collective utensils were scraping the plate in search of more and more, I'd have to say that was a winner. We then segued to (1) Kribish Nan Sos Kokoye (Shrimp in coconut sauce) - Did I love it? Well, put it this way, I didn't hate it. But by no means is this a reflection of Tap Tap. Frankly, it's more a testament to my own pickiness (a flaw from childhood) and my even odder aversion to soupy-like dishes. This came atop Diri Blan Ak Sos Pwa (a bed of white rice with beans sauce). Overall, it was filling, flavorful and decent. On the other hand: (2) Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) ordered by the third guest evidently was a big hit. There wasn't so much as a crumb left on the plate. Suffice it to say, we were too full for desert but settled with Kaff Ayisyen (Haitian coffee) which was a dream. Prices were reasonable. Wait time was about 15 minutes during which we whiled away the time, catching up and sipping cocktails. The staff is attentive, friendly and informative, yet not intrusive. And there's no pressure to get you out. The only downside: it would've been nice to be treated to some Haitian music (Kompa is a favorite of mine.) Overall, it's a nice place to kick back and relax, particularly if you're with people who are relaxed and adept at scintillating conversation.
(4)TK T.
While this place was recommended by some locals as well as a friend from NYC I was not too impressed with either food or service. Food did not have any distinguishing flavors (we had goat curry and shrimp dish as well as ceviche app). Service was beyond slow. I really enjoyed bright art decorations. Extremely casual.
(3)Nikki R.
I would love to comment on ABIR H from NY's review below. I had the pleasure of witnessing ABIR and his two female friends argue w the waiter and mngr at the hostess stand. Not only does ABIR fail to mention that both he and his friends were SCREAMING "I want my apology now.." At the waiter, but one of his girlfriends would storm in and out the front door saying profanities each time she passed my table. He also seems to forget that he and his whiny friends were verbally abusing the staff in front of about 15 patrons dining in the front entrance. ( It was very busy do to Labor Day weekend) However the most important response to their obnoxious behavior ABIR conveniently left out was when they finally headed to the exit muttering profanities for all to hear, all the patrons dining along side me collectivly addressed them, " you're ruining our dining experience", "I've been listening to your insults and apology demands for 20 mins" , " just leave and never come back" There was applause when he exited the door muttering "F this place. " It's obnoxious people like ABIR and his rude friends that give Miami tourists a bad name. Shame on you ABIR for you one sided and hypocritical review of one of the best local spots. Stay in NYC. I pray to never see you and your disgusting behavior in Miami again.
(5)Robert B.
This place is the best. I must come here any time in Miami. This is my fifth or sixth time here. I have never had a less than great experience. The wait staff is always friendly and accommodating. If you need an explanation about a dish; no problem. The goat tidbits are amazing! I won't share. The fried snapper and the oxtail (have to ask for it) are just plain incredible. There are plenty of fancy places to eat in Miami and fancy this really is not. Have had good good at fancy places in Miami. Have always had great food here. By the way, you have to have the spicy cabbage on the table. Awesome!
(5)Peter H.
We have been to Tap Tap many times. The food is delicious, the drinks can be good. Look for the goat meat appetizers and the whole fish options for dinner. Good for kids, too. The rum punch is delicious.
(4)Dominic T.
Was curious about Haitian food so visited here with some friends. It was amazing, reasonably priced and the waitress was very helpful in suggesting dishes. The entire restaurant is painted in Haitian style, even the floors and ceilings, and the live music set a great mood. I would visit this place again and again!
(5)Jason A.
Excellent. Very slow (as molasses ) service , but the good is top notch and special. I love the stewed conch , the steed beef is supposed to be great. Also, the Haitian coffee is a must.
(5)Sarah G.
the food tase good, the design of the restaurant make you feel Haitian , we couldnt finish the food and we packed, even next day we reheat the food, still taste good. But the add 18% tips on your bill. :-(
(4)Johnny T.
Sooner or later, you have to do it. You have to go to Tap Tap. There's only so long a person can resist the brightly colored murals adorning the facade of the building. Like a moth to a flame, I tell you. I've never been to Haiti, so I can't vouch for whether the food is authentic or tourist-driven but I *can* tell you that it's good. It's very good. Start off with some malanga fritters that come with a spicy green sauce. Is it garlic? Cilantro? Magic? I dunno. All I know is that sewer rat probably would have tasted good if enough of that sauce was drizzled over it. It's very important to order a simple appetizer... because service is slow and my bread, meal and drink all came out at once and after waiting a considerable amount of time. The restaurant wasn't busy and my waiter didn't seem that concerned with making sure I was fed, fat and happy. I don't think it's a personal thing; I just think nonchalant service is the norm here (and with auto-gratuity it doesn't have to be anything but nonchalant). So, if you don't want to sit at a sticky table with nothing more than water and your thoughts, order something quick and easy from the kitchen. Your bread basket won't see you until the main event. I finished my fritters, drank some water, looked around at the walls, exchanged side-eyes with a waitress (I think it's an island greeting), and waited... for a while. I called a friend. I leaned back. I continued to wait. Finally, my bread, drink and meal came out all at once. I would have had an attitude about it but the meal was just.too.good. Bread is bread (except when it isn't and is served with herb butter... but here, bread is bread), so no big whoop. To drink I ordered a natif -- which is lime, rum and sugar. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this. The drink was served in a small water glass and was pretty weak. I didn't even get the pop of fresh lime one would think would be the signature element of the beverage. I wouldn't order it again. So, what do all of these negatives tell you? It tells you that my meal was off the hook slamming. I ordered the shrimp with coconut sauce and game over. Done. This meal will make you forget about the triflingness you just encountered. Large, succulent shrimp, slathered in a sweet red coconut curry and paired with a mound of rice is good. Add to that, red beans and tostones and, well, you're not going to know what you did to deserve food like this. I am a firm believer of tasting everything separately at first and then mashing it altogether. After I satisfied my curiosity that everything was made well, I combined the food and flavor to create a Haitian food version of Captain Planet. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. Each bite was better than the last. Despite my best efforts, I inhaled my food. I wanted to savor it. I wanted the flavors to linger on my tongue... but I scarfed it down. And I'd do it all over again. That isht was good!
(4)Karla S.
I'd like to give Tap Tap 4 stars based on the atmosphere alone. The colorful walls adorned with Haitian art are absolutely enchanting. You really see how vibrant this culture is with the restaurant's decor. It's lively and beautiful. However, as lovely as the restaurant looked, I was there for the food. I ordered the Haitian mojito which was less than memorable. To start off we ordered the conch salad (which was ok, but tasted like a really rubbery overcooked ceviche with celery bits). My entree was the grouper in lime sauce, which came with fried platains (just like Cuban tostones) and rice and beans. The fish was cooked quite well and the flavors were mild and pleasant. However, for an $20 dish, this was just average. The service was attentive, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food was simple but good. I just don't think I'll be a regular any time soon. I'd recommend to try it out once, maybe when they have live music just for the experience alone.
(3)Katrina S.
It was the end of a beautiful day on Miami Beach. My girlfriends were trying to figure out where we wanted to get dinner that evening, so I whipped out my handy-dandy Snap Guide for Miami... budgettravel.com/bt-srv/… . I scanned through the list of potential eats, and my eyes could not move past - Haitian! - goat stewed! - live Haitian music Thurs and Sat! The day in question was indeed a Thursday so I was able to convince my companions that we must go to Tap Tap! Bonus... Tap Tap was walking distance from the beach! It was still pretty early so we were some of the first diners to arrive. Since we were still in our beach wear, we opted to sit out on the front porch to enjoy the rest of the warm day. Our server was as sweet as could be and answered all our questions about the Haitian dishes that were new to us. All the food was delicious... I especially loved the spinach in coconut sauce. Mmm, great combination. Don't forget to try one of their juices!!!! I am a soursop fanatic and I almost jumped out of my chair when I saw they served fresh soursop! My cohorts were hesitant at first, but when I passed my glass around the table to offer tastes, a new order went in for 4 more soursops! Yep, they are that good! I wish I could have tried more dishes, stayed longer to enjoy the live music, and basically just enjoyed the comforting atmosphere, but this was a short trip to Miami Beach and the night was about to get started. Reluctantly I left my empty glasses and dishes, but the next time I find myself in South Beach, Tap Tap will be at the top of my list of sights to see, to experience, and to get my grub on!
(5)Luke W.
This place is a diamond in the rough. Miami Beach is full of template-cut art-deco bars and restaurants offering food at premium prices, and here is this incredible restaurant offering authentic cuisine from a country not known for its cuisine at very reasonable prices, along with wonderful murals of pastoral Haitian life covering practically every surface and live Haitian music on the weekends. This place is so good, it was the only restaurant I would ever go to because nothing else in Miami Beach can even come close.
(5)AshleyMarie O.
YUMMMYYYYYYYY Mango Salad, Coco Shrimp, whole fish xoxoxxxx yummmm Mojitos are killer
(4)Marcus K.
I agree with my friend who reviewed this place 4 years ago -- overrated. While the decor gives off an appropriate island vibe, the floors and tables were simply dirty (I especially despise it when my forearms stick to the tabletop). That pretty much ruined the meal for me. Then the food came out (VERY SLOWLY), and was pretty much underwhelmed by the flavors. Had the fried appetizer, which was fairly unremarkable, unseasoned for the most part, and with the exception of the green sauce, lacked any flavor. There was one sauce that tasted like roasted pork drippings, which unfortunately tasted too much like week-old left-overs. Then had the coconut shrimp, which was really not that good. But the kicker was that the shrimp were NOT de-veined. That's just simply unacceptable. AND, it's pricy. Don't really feel like forking over a decent wad of cash, for mediocre food, and walking through a slightly shady part of SoBe to do it. My recommendation is not to Tap Tap it.
(2)Erik R.
Let me start out by saying that the food here is VERY good and tasty! We had the whole fish and the half chicken and they were both very good, the chicken in particular. However, each of the dishes were described by the waitress as being enough for two people, yet with our party of three, we had to order extra rice and the amount then was only just enough. The cilantro-garlic sauce was out of this world. Judged on the food quality alone, this would be a solid 5-star. However, this is where the negatives start to pile up. First off, it was quite on the pricey side and even though the service was almost non-existing (only got water refilled once, after a long wait and requests), we also had to wait for our food for quite a long time (~45 mins after being seated). Not to mention that our waitress was quite unfriendly the few times she actually made it to our table. In addition, the place is somewhat decorated with homeless people that seem to be hanging out at the place. We had outdoor seating (there are only two tables there) and there were two - apparently homeless - people sitting at chairs right next to our table and they were not told to leave by the staff. It didn't bother me too much and I actually ended up having some interesting conversations with them, but it might bother some that don't want to be bothered while eating out in a restaurant that is not cheap. They also had some odd 'booze-the-tourist' thingy going on at the bar right inside where they would semi-grab customers, put them on a bar-stool with the back against the bar then pour liquor down their throats until their mouths would overflow. Made me think of a cheap, very-sketchy Cancun experience I had years back and not something I expected from a rather expensive (and VERY nicely decorated by the way) restaurant. Furthermore, when the bill arrived, they had already added an 18% tip, which I was not happy about. Granted, I always tip, and very rarely less than at least 15%, but I reserve the right to tip according to the level of service and this was NOT worth an 18% tip as described above. There was another line for ADDITIONAL tipping and out of principle, I added a negative 3% tip to form a total of a 15% tip (I would say, the service we got from this waitress was more like a 5% tip though) and updated the total accordingly. Again, we are talking less than $2 difference, but it's the principle that matters to me. Well, when I checked my credit card statement, they had still charged me the full amount (including 18% tip), which was NOT what I signed the check for. So, while the food was tasty, the overall impression was just not great at all.
(2)Melissa C.
This place has really tasty food. I've never had haitian food before so when this joint popped up in our yelp search for top places to eat in the area, i was excited. The building looks like an office building of some sort from the outside but inside it's colorful and fun! Lot's of decorations and pretty wall murals on the inside. We were seated right away and ordered the goat tidbits and conch for appetizers. For our main courses we shared stewed goat, the whole fried fish, and the pork. All were really good. The conch salad had a spicy kick which was really good and the salad tasted really fresh. The goat in both the appetizer and the stew were delicious...very tasty and super tender. The fish was crispy on the outside and flavorful all around. I would definitely recommend this spot if you are in the area. The service is very friendly...but a little slow, but the food makes up for it so just come here when ur not in a hurry.
(4)Kelly S.
The bartender was the friendliest bartender ever - even though we were only having iced tea and some lunch. The food was nicely seasoned/spiced. I had a shrimp dish that was just divine. Will definately go back if I'm back in the area.
(4)Maria K.
I must say, I'm thoroughly disappointed when it comes to restaurants in South Florida. While it's easy to find restaurants that look trendy, chic, and are full of beautiful people, it's hard to find places with substance. Which is why I was in for a real surprise when I went to Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant. First off, the atmosphere is nice. It feels authentic. The decor is very much inspired by the colors and designs of Haiti. Second (and most important) the food was phenomenal. The menu is small (a good sign that they abide by the quality over quantity principle) and you can tell all the ingredients were top notch. Definitely no cutting corners. I went there two times (within a week) and both times ordered the diri kole (mixed beans and rice), banann peze (fried plantains), kribish nan sos kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce). For dessert, we shared the benyen (banana fritters w/ sprinkled sugar), blan mange (traditional coconut dessert), and pen patat (sweet potato pie.) Deeeeelicious. Lastly, the cocktails were excellent too! If you are ever in South Beach, you have got to try this place. It's unpretentious and the real deal!
(5)Diva A.
Absolutely love this place!!! The food is great as well as the atmosphere...i will definitely go there again
(5)Raquel S.
What really brought me to Tap Tap is the Food Network special that featured them, plus I'm Haitian so I was really eager to go. I really appreciated that they kept the menu true to our culture, but was a little disappointed with the taste. Don't get me wrong, the food was ok, but I've had better at other authentic Haitian restaurants for cheaper. I ordered the grilled lumbi which wasn't bad. Their Kabrit en sauce was not too good though. The pieces were too large and had huge bones in it. The rice and red beans were official though...very good! Fritay was just ok. We ordered their famous poached snapper in sauce to go, so I hope it lives up to its rep. Wasn't too big on their drinks either... Love the Haitian decor and ambiance...you literally feel like you're in Haiti when you walk through their doors...they get points for that. Not going to rush back for seconds, but will not stay away either...The chef was very nice also.
(3)Kent H.
Little bit of a wait, but it was well worth it. First comes the shrimp in coconut sauce, the coconut sauce was phenomenal. I found myself dipping everything in this sauce. The rice, that came with the shrimp had a great spice taste. Soaked the rice as well. Had the grouper in lime sauce, good, but nothing too special. The tropical rhum punch, very fruity, didn't taste much of the rum at all, this was a positive.
(4)Tania G.
what happens when friends unite for another friend's birthday? CHAOS! thankfully, we were seated far from 'normal' customers b/c we were pretty noisy... anywho...the food was great! i had the shrimp in coconut sauce and i loved it! the sauce was just right-- not too sweet. the malanga fritters were so good and so was the watercress sauce! who would have thought?! my one complaint is that the food took VERY long to arrive...nearly an hour to be exact! parking is available in the back, so don't panic.
(4)Tom L.
The food here is amazing. The snapper with Scotch bonnet pepper sauce was outstanding. Everyone must try it, as soon as possible. We ate way too much because it was that good. The fried pork, the rice, the plantains, the fish, the pickles..I could go on and on. Food is bursting with flavor. Service is fun and friendly, the place has amazing murals on the walls and they had- hands down- the best mojitos in miami. Yes I said the best mojitos!
(5)Michael N.
Great service. Great food. Had a party of 12 there Saturday night and they were extremely attentive and everything was superlative. I had been to Tap Tap a few years ago and loved it and was pleased that over the years nothing had slipped. What I love most about it is it's an escape from the South Beach thumping dance music vibe and generic food of Ocean and Collins and easy walking distance from the hotels. I highly suggest it.
(5)Jamila N.
The food here is absolutely delicious. Hands down. Flavorful, fresh, well made. The service is good, no doubt. Attentive and friendly. The decor is gorgeous, with Haitian images painted on the walls, chairs, doors, even the bathroom stalls. The location is pretty cool, and if you eat outside, it's great. I have to take away a star because of their tendency to run out of things...essential things...like rice, towards the end of the night. This is Haitian food. Even at the end, you GOTTA have rice! Oh, try the fish and the spaghetti with shrimp (share it as an appetizer). More fantastic than you'd imagine.
(4)Gina N.
Yay for haitian food in Miami! Loved the decor and ambiance of this place. Given all the raves on yelp, we had to check it out. Even better, it was just a few blocks for our hotel. The only disappointment was there are actually no more live bands playing here. But that didn't stop us from enjoying our delicious dinner. Service was a bit slow, but expected on a busy saturday nite. We tried the malanga fritters & the grilled conch. Both very unique and distinct flavors, but oh so tasty. Us gals scarfed down our food, and our plates were wiped clean! Either we were super starving or the food was just that good! I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone visiting miami and wants to try authentic haitian cuisine!
(4)C D.
MY ALL TIME FAVORITE RESTAURANT. I wish I could eat here everyday. The downside, they don't always have everything on the menu in stock.
(5)Octavia Y.
Soooo, I read a few reviews about Tap Tap before going and without a doubt, they were mixed so I thought it was worth a try. Boy was I wrong!!!! I got the shrimp creole, another friend got the whole fish, and another got the stew chicken.... First off, OUR FOOD CAME OUT COLD, all except the fish. Next, my shrimp Creole came out tasting and looking like a warmed shrimp cocktail, it was gross! I told the waiter and she told me "yea, sometimes it comes out really tomatoey and sometimes not". She was so nonchalant. I should have listened to my haitian friend that said the place was no good! It was a waste of our money. We went a few minutes after it opened... To add insult to injury, I went to the bathroom before we left only to be greeted with NO TOLIET PAPER!!! I had to wipe myself with paper towel ! I would NEVER recommend this place to ANYONE. Get off the beach and get up to North Miami and check out Chef Creole ! The food is amaze and the cost is even better.
(1)Nik J.
Overall, Tap Tap is a winner in my book. The food and drinks are authentic and good. The service can be a bit slow, but this is Miami Beach, so you can't expect things to move at the speed of light. The decor is vibrant and something really different from the contemporary look that most restaurants on the beach have. They really went authentic with the murals and colorful walls all over the restaurant. As far as the food, we got the goat tidbits and conch ceviche appetizers. They were both solid dishes but I would recommend sticking with the goat because it was tender and flavorful and something different. For entrees, we got the half grilled chicken, goat stew, shrimp in coconut sauce and the snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. The chicken was some of the best I have EVER had. It tasted like it had been marinated for days and was super tender and full of flavor. It came with a green chutney type sauce for dipping which was amazing as well. The goat stew was pretty good, but didn't knock my socks off. The shrimp in coconut sauce was outstanding.. a must have. The only negative thing I had to say about the place is that you have to be careful if you don't like spicy food. I asked the waitress if the snapper I was ordering was spicy and she said it was mild. When it came, it was blazing hot and got my sinuses working overtime. I don't know if the cook just went overboard on the hot peppers that night or what, but it was HOT. I was also disappointed about the fact that they were out of the grilled goat entree that has gotten rave reviews. Supposedly they sell out of it within a day or two of receiving it, so you should call beforehand to see if they have it before going there. Now most importantly the drinks are outstanding. Probably the best rum punch I have had that I can remember. The mojitos are also good, but the rum punch is a must have. The Haitian Pretige beer is also good.. kind of similar to a Red Stripe. Bottom line if you go there: get the half chicken, try some kind of goat dish and drink the rum punch.
(4)Nicky L.
The food here was delicious. Service is quick and friendly. You feel like you are transported into a home in the Caribbean with the authentic decor and creative murals. I would definitely return. A lot of people mentioned having the best mojito here but thats the one thing i wasn't to thrilled about. It was just ok. While in miami i look for Mojito perfection.. just saying..
(4)Chu Z.
Went on a friday night. Very crowded. The food was quite good but the service was definitely not that satisfying. It took me and my gf over 30 mins (which was supposed to be 10 mins) to wait for table and more than 20 mins for our dishes. During this time the waiter never came up and talked to us. Ordered their malanga fritters (amazing sauce), shrimps in coconut sauce (over cooked shrimps), fried birkshire pork chunks (yummy!), signature mojito and tropical rum punch. Food was really good, but the portion was not generous. Drink was really good too, quite strong and a little pricey ($8 each). We ended up paying over $30 each. However did not feel full. Nice deco with relaxing and joyous atmosphere, tropical theme and haitian painting were impressing as well. If only the service was better.
(3)Beth L.
South Beach is full of overpriced, hyped up scene-y restaurants that promise the best but don't deliver much more than attitude and mediocre food designed to fleece tourists and locals alike. Tap Tap is the antithesis of this -- unpretentious, down to earth, delicious food and decent sized portions. I had been meaning to try this place for years, but just never got around to it until a few days ago when a friend suggested it to celebrate the birthday for another friend. I wish I could remember the dishes we ordered and shared that night, but truthfully either my brain shorted out while I was shoveling all of that delicious food into my mouth, or I had one too many Haitian mojitos.
(4)M. J. D.
Haiti. It's just as relaxed as you can get. So calling Tap Tap Haitian Restaurant authentic, is spot on. When we first arrived, the door was still locked. There were a lot of signs on the door, but nothing with the hours on it. After a minute or two, someone came to the door and asked what we wanted. Um, it's a restaurant at lunchtime, so I'm thinking food? He says they will be open in maybe 30 minutes. I wasn't starved, and we had rented a couple of Decobikes, so we just toured up and down South Beach and returned to Tap Tap. You see, the guy just seemed so pleasant about not being open yet, that it gave us both a good vibe. No hurry, laid back. It's why I go on vacation. Inside, it feels like a Caribbean bar. Multi-colored everything, wooden stools at the bar that couldn't have cost more than $3. We sat at the stools. No worry, my brother mon, it wont fail you. Hot and tired from our ride, the waitress treated us like friends. Water came swiftly, and we were treated quite well, despite our claim that because we were so tired, we were only going to split an appetizer, and have a couple of beers. The waitress, who also carried a certain air about her, like she was the proprietor, suggested a Haitian beer when we mentioned we were looking for something authentic. Being thirsty, I decided to play my beer safe and stuck with a familiar Jamaican beer. Also at her recommendation for authentic Haitian we ordered the Conch Salad. Prepared with scotch bonnet peppers, they managed to do something I never thought possible. They carried the flavor of the scotch bonnet pepper, without the eye tearing heat. Sure, it had some spice, but it was very pleasant. It was like the peppers were also laid-back. We were satisfied after the salad, but wanted to try a dessert too. Again, we allowed the server to make a recommendation, and we were not disappointed with the Gato Zannanna (Pineapples + Rum getting down in a cake). Now, quite full and re-hydrated, it was back to the beach to relax off all of our extra calories.
(4)Dee B.
Good traditional Haitian food with some Dominican flavor. Loved it!
(4)Lily A.
I have to give this place kudos for convincing me to bump up my former rating one more star solely for the service and the down-to-earth and honest owner. And we didn't even eat here this time around! We wanted to because I remembered how savory everything was, but Yelp fooled us; the restaurant opens at 2 pm, NOT 12 pm. (We did tell the owner that, and he said he will be submitting for those changes) But because we had a cruise to catch, we had no clue what to do with our rumbling tummies now that our eating plans were shot. He instead told us we must try this other restaurant a few blocks away that he absolutely loves.. and we actually ended up loving it too (refer to my last review on Fratelli La Bufala). The owner then told us that the next time we stopped by to ask for him and he'll treat us to mojitos. Ohh I remember how much I loved those fresh mojitos, almost as much as the delish stews, beans, and rice. I know I'll have to make another trip to Miami soon!
(5)Jeff O.
Loved it! Tap Tap refers to the little passenger truck outside the door. A truly unique experience for the adventurous. You'll be very glad you graced this establishment with your presence. Bring your family, bring some friends, this place is relaxed and full of life. The big, bright and gorgeous murals will whisk you away to the Caribbean. They're on island time mon, so don't come in expecting a fast food experience. It wasn't particularly slow, mind you. Just right for made-to-order grub. We loved the malanga fritters, and the watecress dipping sauce was jaw-dropping good! I tried the chicken and beef stews. Both were rich and fresh. The bean/rice mix recommended by our server was so-so, but worked well with the stews. Plaintains were fine, not hard like one lady below said. Limeade was our drink of choice. It went well with everything. This place has been here for decades. I hope to return in two months.
(5)Mike D.
Outstanding. If you're looking to get out off the main drag and away from the over priced tourist traps of the Miami Beach strip this is your place. It's authentic Haitian food at it's best. The grilled chicken is amazing and the snapper fish dish (which is offered poached on the menu but I ordered it grilled which is more common in Haiti and the way I suggest you have it) is amazing if you like fish. Great mojitos and when my wife and I were there they had a live band playing Compa music (the music of Haiti) which was really cool. Pricing is easily half of the cost of the main drag and it's a great place to just chill and have a great meal. Ill be back next time I'm in town.
(5)Romy G.
5 stars for food and prices 4 on service every dish is amazingly delicious the goat, chicken creole, spinach, pumpkin soup, fish , salad etc etc you name it goooood home cooking style, love it!!!!
(4)Robik V.
Aside from the dicks on the wall the place is nice the food is a bit pricey for what you get but it's decent and hardy oh yeah their was a green thing in my room mates water
(3)Lis K.
I have only been to Tap Tap for their mojitos...AMAZING! Fresh and all natural. I have yet to try the food, but when I do, I'll be back to review it. :)
(5)Elizabeth D.
Had a large birthday dinner here and was very excited to try Haitian fare. They placed our large group in the back area. It got very loud because we were in a very echo-ey, contained space. Regardless, Tap Tap has some fantastic alcoholic beverages to distract from this fact. In particular, the Rum Punch was destructively good. Unfortunately, the food left much to be desired. Maybe it's because I grew up with Latin food, but Caribbean fare is not much different, hence, less exciting. Nothing truly stood out to us. Go if: You're looking for a uniquely different cultural experience and home-cooked style food. If I come back, it'll be by the bar area, overlooking the streets of South Beach, sipping on a delicious Rum Punch and having some fried pork bits. I'll leave dinner to a place with a little more kick.
(3)Sheenon O.
the shrimp in coconut sauce is awesome and the whole fried snapper in scotch bonnet sauce. There is this amazing spicy pickled cabbage that I can't get enough of. Super causal and live music on the weekends. also they have the best Mojitos in town and if you get in early enough you can catch their happy hour. I think it is from 5-7 but dont quote me on that one.
(3)Dannie M.
GO! Visiting Miami? Want to have a great dinner experience? Then try taptap. Great food (try the goat or shrimp with coconut) and fantastic live band on the weekend. The place is full of friendly servers (very hard to find in miami). Also fantastic beverages!
(5)Sasha B.
Good food, good service, reasonably priced. Something out of the ordinary. Not something I could find in NYC.
(4)Patrick K.
Simply amazing. The food. The restaurant. The story. The vibe. The thing about Haitian-style food that I find so wonderful (as with Cuban food) is the simplicity in it all; much more 'spice' than typical Cuban/Central American food (in my humble). When you are in Tap Tap, you almost feel like you are in a different world, a different time. The stunningly beautfiul murals speak to you (and that's not the mojitos). Since we are all new to this cuisine, we dabbled in many different items: the rice with black bean sauce (shazam!), fried plantains, red snapper, and the slap-yo-mama-and-sister flank stank. This was one of those meals, since the food is new to us, where every bite is new and exciting (and of course, helps that it was good). Casual and fun, if this place closes, Miami Beach would lose part of it's soul. Clearly a place for locals and tourists willing to step off of the sometimes awful Ocean drive, you will not be dissapointed. Next visit, this will be the first place I visit.
(5)Michelle D.
I have been coming to Miami Beach from time to time over 18 years. I have noticed this quaint looking spot but never decided to try it until this time around. I am pleased w my decision. Personally I get bored with average food done "different" ways. I was fresh off a boat ride and starving for a real meal. By real I mean one that was authentic and really seasoned and throw in a dash of real culture. Tap Tap had that look to me so I went for it. Upon entering I was greeted by a lively crowd and perhaps the owner or GM and a feast of art for the eyes. I was seated immediately and tended to almost instantly. There was so many choices (all looked great) I could not decide so I ordered and appetizer that had a variety of items. The food and sauces were so freakin' good. I wanted more but was so full I had to leave w my left overs. I am leaving soon to go back home and I am seriously considering returning for dinner before I leave. The price was very reasonable, the service was great and atmosphere very welcoming and clean. Oh, great art for purchase was also available.
(4)Scott L.
A concise review: 1. Arrive around 12:45 and the lights are off, chairs are up and a hatian man is asking what time they open. 2. I call the number and they say 1pm, 10-15 more minutes, they are running late. 3. Who opens at 1pm?? 4. I said "that's very carribean" the hatian man said, laughing, "very unorganized" 5. We sat outside and they brought tables to us around 1:05pm. 6. Good and hot French baguettes with euro butter arrives, 1:15pm. 6. I order coffee, I receive a little espresso around 1:30pm. 4 other people show up. 7. My creole spaghetti w shrimp arrives at 1:45, the hatian guy was already done - he ordered fritters and soup. 8. Spaghetti was good w flavor and with old school canned veg-al veggies of beans, corn and carrots. Shrimp were big and fresh. I lived on a carribean island once so this tasted true - nothing fancy. 9. 1:50 - hatian guy leaves. Waiting for the check 10. 1:55 done with food - ate it all - trying to flag down waitress for check. 11. 1:56pm I wonder what the hatian guy is doing now. I'm waiting to go lay out. Waiter walks by me - I don't get his attention. 12. 1:59 - I start eating the shrimp tails I discarded earlier , because I'm bored, and respond to some FB posts. 13. 2:01 pm - music turns on. The new table of Asian girls order 14. 2:02 - I tell the waiter I'm ready to pay, he takes my plate. 15. 2:07 Got check - she didn't charge for coffee - I wait for change. The inside area is pretty full. 16. 2:10 she tells me she has to get change w a smile. 17. 2:12 - thought bubble "I've been here 1 hoir and 30 minutes." 18. 2:13 change arrives! 19. 2:14 I'm outtie 5000
(4)Susan C.
I just went to Tap Tap for my second visit and it was as delicious as the first. Last time around, I went with my husband and had the goat stew which was extremely flavorful and delicious. It was my first time ever trying goat and I was pleasantly surprised. This time, I was going to order the goat again, but was very disappointed to learn that they didn't have any. I guess their shipment didn't come in, but this restaurant does not have a huge menu and at least 3-4 items have goat in them. Luckily, the dish I did order totally made up for it. We brought my parents and three of us all ordered the Sunday special, which was a vegetarian stew that had shrimp and blue crab in it. It came with rice and beans, and it was so delicious that I did not want to stop eating it. Like the goat last time, the stew was incredibly flavorful. However, the pieces of crab came in the shell. I don't mind cracking my own crab per se, but it was incredibly messy to eat as the pieces were mixed in with the rest of the stew. My Dad got the regular grouper with lime sauce menu item which he absolutely loved. Tap Tap may look like a hole in the wall, but it is definitely worth your time.
(4)Donna C.
This cute little place has phenomenal food and great atmosphere! The food, oh my, was definitely the highlight. My first time having Haitian food and it did not disappoint. The Griyot was cooked to perfection. The Kabrit Nan Sos (goat stew) was so delicious. Get the white rice and bean sauce as your side instead of the one mixed together... you won't regret it. Top it all off with the Blan Mange (traditional coconut dessert)! Damn this place is awesome. Would return in a heart beat!
(5)Meredith M.
This restaurant has the BEST service, the BEST food, and the BEST live music. All wins for me. I had the coconut shrimp and it was so amazing I am drooling thinking about it now. The sauce was amazing and my friends stole as much as they could to put on their rice. The plantains were of the drier variety, not like the sweet sautéed version. My friends had the lime fish (a little bland) and the pork (very nice and tender). We really enjoyed the casual vibe and excellent food and service. I would definitely return if I'm ever in Miami again.
(5)Ling H.
My friends and I have never tried Haitian food and I am so glad I saw this on Food Network and we were able to try this place out! Everyone here was SO nice and very helpful in suggesting from the menu. Taso kabrit- Goat tidbits came with a spicy red dipping sauce. This was pretty good. Salad Chktay- salad with herring, which was a little too salty for me. My first time having herring and I'm not too big of a fan. We also had another salad that came with marinaded conch on top, which was also okay. I would pass on salad unless you require something green on the side. Pwason Gwosel- Pan-seared Yellowtail snapper with a lime sauce. This was a crowd favorite! Definitely get this! The fish was not at all fishy and the lime sauce with this dish was amazing! Lanbi Nan Sos- Stewed conch. This is what I saw on Food Network and was disappointed. It wasn't that spicy and borderline fishy. There were also a couple other things we got that I cannot remember, but the staff will most certainly help with any questions. Definitely a place I would come back to to try again!
(4)Jasmine L.
I have to agree with another reviewer proclaiming this place as average at best. The first problem with this food is that it's overpriced for what you get. This is typical Haitian/Caribbean/West Indian food. You can get a box meal of this to go at your local island restaurant for $5. You get bird sized portions at this place compared to what you really get and are paying for. Secondly the food is bland and dry. I see there are raves about the spices but I guess anything after salt and pepper is "spicy" to some perspectives. You want REAL spicy, authentic, Caribbean food?? Take 10 minutes to cross the bridge into Overtown, Liberty City, etc. This place is a pricey bland knockoff designed to maximize its profits while conning the average man. AKA South Beach
(2)Andrew K.
I too went to Tap Tap after Guy Fieri made a visit here. That guy has a ridiculous ability to get me out of the house and into a restaurant. This was my first run-in with Haitian food so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect flavor wise, but boy oh boy was I pleased. I went strictly to try the whole steamed snapper dish, which ended up being great. The fish is steamed in some sort of lemon butter broth and covered with peppers. The aroma reminded me somewhat of a picatta dish. I'd say two people could share one snapper and an appetizer and be satisfied. The service was a little slow, but hey, it's South Beach. All in all, I really enjoyed this unique dining experience and will absolutely return.
(4)Merri L.
This was all of ours first Hatian restaurant. This place looks smaller, but there are a few different rooms. All of the walls, including the bathrooms, are covered with beautiful murals. They have such yummy juice, which sounds funny to praise in a restaurant, but it was really good. I had the grouper in lime sauce with avocado and loved it, so fresh tasting. We tried a bunch of different sides and appetizers, and my favorite was actually a potato thing, even though normally i'm not big on potatoes. Very tasty! I remember seeing some desserts that I wanted to try, but we had to get going to get ready for the night and didn't get a chance. Try them out for me!
(4)Maria A.
Shrimp in Coconut Sauce is by far the winner! Start off with a simple appetizer and save room for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Easily the best dish of the night and the sauce is oh so perfect for dipping your bread into. The red beans and rice were lacking that gallo pinto goodness I've come to know and love but was still a nice side dish. The service here is good but a tad slow. I'd come back for the coconut sauce and stick around for some music
(3)Miriam W.
Given my dining companions, it was near impossible for me not to have a terrific time at Tap Tap. If you go, I'd steer you strongly toward the fried pork chunks. One bite of this dish incited serious food envy in me. Another standout was the shrimp in coconut sauce. Thankfully Maria didn't mind me dipping liberally into her dish (if you opt for the shrimp make sure to ask for additional bread to sop up its savory sauce.) My grouper, on the other hand, was disappointing.
(3)Tara L.
I love conch. Hot conch. Thick conch. Juicy conch. Spicy conch...just give me the conch. However, I must say, the spicy conch appetizer at Tap Tap was a bit too spicy for me. In fact, it pretty much burned off all of my taste buds upon my first aggressive spoonful of minced onions, peppers, lime and conch. At first I thought that maybe I just had some pansy little anti-spicy taste buds, but after passing it around the table, everyone agreed that this dish packed quite a fiery punch! The herring and avocado salad that I ordered was superb! After sampling everyone at the table's dishes, the consensus was that the two favorite entrees of the evening were the coconut curry shrimp and the pork entree. The mojitos were apparently voted best in Miami and I can understand why. They were delicious, well mixed and not too sweet. Presentation was wonderful as well. I also adored the colorfulness of the restaurant. Painted with vibrant colors, the restaurant is adorned with murals and character paintings. I felt as though I was in a different country for the hour or so that I was there. Overall, I really enjoyed Tap Tap. I've eaten Haitian food before at a family friend's home and I felt as though the dishes here were not too far off.
(4)Shenika T.
This is such a beautiful place ... on the inside. I kept driving by here and I wasn't sure if I should go in b/c the outside isn't really inviting. The outside of the restaurant is very dark. I didn't know where to park here, so I almost didn't go. Anyhow upon walking up to the restaurant, I know I made a good decision. The paintings inside are so beautiful. It didn't feel like I was on South Beach. We ordered the fried goat tips for appetizer and man o man, that was delicious. I even loved the dipping sauce and dipped my bread in it to soften it. For dinner we ordered the goat stew and grilled yellow-tail snapper. The goat was so tender and the fish was moist and flavorful. We also ordered a Haitian mojito and a Haitian fruit punch for drinks. The food was as good as it gets, but overpriced. I know it's South Beach, but Haitian food is not expensive to prepare. I would recommend this place if you are in the area and want to try something new, but as for me I'm looking for more authentic Haitian food.
(3)Jay W.
Hmm... I think I must have caught Tap Tap on a bad day or ordered the wrong stuff. We dropped by for a light lunch consisting of griyo and conch salad but were a little disappointed with the results. The griyo (fried Berkshire pork) was fried to a crisp and the cuts we got were mainly fat and no meat. The meat that was in the griyo unfortunately was dried beyond belief. They do use real Berkshire pork here, but it seems like such a waste to overcook it like this. The portion size was also disappointing though since there were just 3 little cubes of pork with our order. The conch salad though, was perfect. The conch wasn't chewy or rubbery like what you would expect. It was prepared ceviche style, so it was nice and refreshing from the Miami heat. My only complaint was that I wish they gave me more!
(3)Michelle W.
4 stars for the shrimp in coconut sauce. Shrimp were the perfect texture, fresh and the sauce was just delicious. The drinks we ordered were also quite good (had a large variety between the 8 of us!). My dining companions were also pleased with their food choices. 2 stars for the service. The service was ridiculously slow. We were there for a birthday (had reservations) but everything was painfully slow. The restaurant wasn't that busy and we were there almost 4 hours....frequently awaiting drink refills....if you needed something it was difficult to get the servers attention and when you had it there was always a chance that they wouldn't remember what you asked for anyways. yummy food (4) + service sucked (2) = 3 stars
(3)Brian F.
Great food and very friendly staff
(4)Dalton D.
Tap Tap is a vibrant and fun restaurant that happens to serve exceedingly delicious food. My plate, which I can't remember the name of, was a beef stew with a side of creamy grits. I was stupefied as to how amazing the food tasted, it was a minor miracle I didn't order a second plate to take home. So while I will champion the flavor, I must caveat this review by saying the service was slow. Nothing wrong with slower than expected service, just a heads up to anyone interested in a quick meal. There's also a full service bar at the front of the restaurant full of locals socializing with the friendly staff. All in all, a much appreciated experience at Tap Tap.
(5)Saterah M.
I love Tap Tap! I stopped in Miami after leaving the Bahamas and was having withdrawals from the native food already. Tap Tap to the rescue. We grabbed a table outside, ordered the stewed chicken with beans and rice mixed, extra plantain (tostones style), and a mango beer! DELICIOUS! The flavors were balanced, the gravy when applied to the rice was hum-out-loud good, and the beer made me want to lay in a hammock afterward! It was a great Haitian food experience :)
(5)Edmund L.
We found this place in the Fodor's Florida guide. When we walked into this place, we were amazed by the vibrant colors of the murals throughout the entire restaurant, and I couldn't resist taking pics of the place while waiting for our food. With reggae music playing, it made us feel like being in Haiti. We shared akra as an appetizer. It is a root veggie, and it was prepared as fritters and tasted quite like corn meal. For entrée, I had shrimp with kokoye sauce, which is a mix of creole and coconut sauce, and I quite enjoyed the dish. One disappointment was that other dishes we originally wanted to order were all sold out. My wife tried to order kabrit nan sos, goat stew. Because the kitchen almost ran out of the pot and the remaining portion was only enough to fill up half a bowl, they made it on the house to let us try. It was a great dish to dip bread to truly taste the sauce. Another disappointment was that with a party of four they automatically charged us with a 18% of gratuity on the check.
(3)Alejandro S.
I love this place!!!!! I can't express this enough. I usually go there and sit on the bar. I take advantage of their 3 star mojitos during happy hour for 6$. A steal compared to how ridiculously expensive other places are. Definitely the best mojito in Miami. The service is constantly great too!
(5)Rathore V.
We got the grilled chicken, spinach in coconut sauce, and the rum cake. I don't remember what we got for an appetizer. Everything was excellent and different from other Caribbean food. The rum cake was the best we had since we had the cakes in Jamaica. Try it for the food, ambiance and the friendly, attentive service.
(4)Heather L.
Would recommend: - conch dishes - tapas that come with the cilantro dressing (it was really good) - curry Would not recommend the spaghetti - they said it would be spicy but it wasn't really spicy at all - maybe for people who don't eat spicy it would be? *shrugs* Great service and awesome drinks - I enjoyed the mojito.
(4)Asha F.
Love Tap Tap. Have traveled to Miami twice in the last three months and Tap Tap has always been one of the first places on my list to visit. The ambiance is great. Very homey and chill... The artwork inside is beautiful and really speaks to the culture. The staff on the other hand are very similar to your family...very slow to meet your needs. But once they are met, you will be very satisfied. Even the water initially brought over to the table is water with a twist...grapefruit water with mint.. Simply amazing. My favorite meal has to be the griot- fried pork. The meat is very tender and served with an amazing spicy sauce. Another great meal is the pwo djen djen-stewed chicken and mushrooms (sp?) and the stew chicken is amazing too. Tap tap is a hit!
(4)Janet G.
We waited a really, really long time for a table. As the front barroom filled up with people, I got hungrier and hungrier (and increasingly nervous that the lack of sign-in sheet would mean we'd get seated last even though we'd arrived first). Turns out there was a sign-in sheet no one pointed out to us. Alas. Once led to our table, the experience changed completely. Turns out they were just super backed-up, and once we had a table we got a kind, attentive waitress who was really patient and helpful with us as we ordered our first Haitian meal. I had the vegetable ("legim"?) dish with beef, the traditional way it's served. I'd expected the veggies to be steamed separately, but they were combined into a sort of thick, stew-like mush that sounds kind of gross now that I write it. But it was so, so delicious! My boyfriend ordered the griyo, another traditional dish, and adored it. We told the waitress it was my birthday, and she presented us with a fat, complimentary slice of Haitian cake. (Like traditional American birthday cake, but more dense due to the corn meal and less sickly sweet.) I feel like the first 30 minutes of waiting for the table had absolutely nothing to do with the 1.5 hours we had of this amazing food and service. I wish I could go back this moment!
(5)Dan R.
Got the herring with habanero-lime sauce and shrimp with coconut sauce...absolutely amazing food experience. Both dishes were out of this world, and I wish we had room for dessert. Will definitely come back if we are ever traveling through Miami again.
(5)Dana S.
I found Tap Tap on Yelp and decided to give it a try while I was in Miami Beach over New Years. Boy, am I glad that I did! The food, service and ambience at Tap Tap are fantastic. Our waiter was so polite and cheerful, he also made some great suggestions. After reading about the shrimp, I knew my friend and I had to try it. All of the other reviewers are correct, It was absolutely divine! We also tried the akra, a creamy tomato/spinach dish our waiter recommended and I had a glass of chardonnay. You are also served complimentary bread. Everything was great and my bill came to $22 with tax and tip. Not bad for the outstanding food and a glass of wine. Only downside? Parking is difficult (but that's true pretty much everywhere in South Beach). Bottom line: Great West Indian food in South Beach at a reasonable price.
(5)Daniel M.
I was on vacation in Miami and my friend from there had suggested we try this place out - and I'm glad she did! I went at about 9PM by myself, since the friend I was with didn't want to walk that far away from our hotel (haha). The guy who greeted me was extremely nice, and probably since I was by myself he gave me a tour of the restaurant and let me choose wherever I wanted to sit (I chose outside, since it was a nice night). As a vegetarian, I was afraid there wouldn't be much for me to order - but there was. I ordered the spinach in coconut sauce (a MUST order, as I know other Yelpers have suggested), the plate of fried deliciousness (I think it was fried yucca, plantains and something else) and rice and beans (didn't ask if this was vegetarian, so maybe it isn't...) Everything was delicious, and I cleaned all 3 plates like the heifer that I am (hey, I was on vacation mode!). I even ate the basket of yummy warm bread they brought as an appetizer. The ambiance of the place was really cool, too, with colorful murals on the wall. I'd definitely recommend this place, and if I'm ever back in Miami I'd go again.
(5)Andre G.
Very Tasty spot, go with a big appetite. The place is decorated in vibrant way depicting farms, trees of bounty and of course livestock. I ate the goat, my brother ate the cow and and my sister ate the fish. All were amazing but all we very different Okra came in a beautiful broth, the cornmeal dish was amazing and flavorful and the rice was amazing. The drinks were a little pricy but tasty.
(4)Arif M.
Live music, good cocktails, an intimate setting, and most importantly, great food. Started off with a fresh mint mojito made with Haitian rum and cane sugar. Definitely refreshing after a long day at the beach. They were out of the charcoal grilled goat so I settled for the beef, okra and cornmeal plate. What I had was incredibly simple but I loved it. It had just the right amount of spicyness and the cornmeal worked perfectly with the beef. I tried my friend's stewed conch. It was my first time trying conch cooked like that and I was pleasantly surprised. We finished the night with a round of the 15year Haitian rum, served neat of course. Service was slightly slow but I was in no rush to leave after a meal like that.
(4)Ericstevenc T.
Great Haitan food check out the Malanga fritters & creole shrimp and of course goat meat and mojitos
(5)Vanessa H.
The colorful paintings adorning every wall make you feel as if you're in a mural. Started off with Haitian rum cocktails. Had the anchovy spaghetti, savory goodness, and the grilled snapper. Our friends ordered the stewed goat, tender and delicious. For the sides try to the greens in coconut milk and the beans and cornmeal (reminiscent ofpolenta).
(4)Justin E.
Great experience on South Beach. My wife and I were looking for authentic Caribbean food and trying to avoid the touristy atmosphere present throughout a lot of Miami Beach, and we weren't disappointed. Cool atmosphere. Extremely helpful waiter, went above and beyond, and we were glad we went with all his recommendations. Also, it was relatively well-priced for the area. The one disappointment was they were out of goat, so we didn't get to try any of these dishes. The drinks were great - Mojito was one of the best I've had, and my wife enjoyed the rum punch. The melanga fritters are a must try. For entrees we had shrimp in coconut sauce and fried pork chunks, which I thought were especially good. Tried the banana cake at the recommendation of the waiter and it was awesome. We had a great time and thought the food had more flavor than some of the other Cuban places we tried on South Beach. Great drinks and not ridiculously priced.
(4)Brien W.
We were there on a sunday and they were out of a lot of things, like half the menu. The place has some really interesting and erotic art on the walls and tables, pretty funny. Food is ok, not a lot of flavor in anything but was fresh and appealing. The place is a little dirty and run down, could use a good cleaning.
(3)Jimmy V.
The food was great, the decor is awesome but the customer service was unprofessional and they were understaffed. The worse Mojito I have ever had they had to make it twice and even then it sucked. The only thing they had going for them was the food which was awesome.
(1)Fabian A.
They serve some great mojitos. Food is awesome!
(4)Katy B.
Mojitos: 5 stars Service: 1 star Food: 1-3 stars depending on dish Murals: 4 stars Tap Tap has the potential to be a really great place, but the waiter we had switched from sweet to super abrasive like flipping a switch multiple times. Abrasive as in I have never experienced such blatantly rude service in my life. The food also seems like a good start, but could stand to be prepared with a little more care. Tough meat, and lack of flavor seemed to be common themes among a few of the plates our table ordered. The worst case of tough meat was the pork chunks which my boyfriend ordered - he said they were so chewy he was afraid he was going to hurt his teeth. The vegetarian stew I had was mushy and not memorable. It wasn't that it was bad, it was just really not special. Given the amount of attitude our group was given, I'll mash up my own vegetables thankyouverymuch. But damn... that mojito was the best I've ever had. I'm going to be seeking out some Barbencourt rhum back in Chicago for sure.
(2)HA F.
I haven't been to this place in years because I moved out of FL, but I can say that when I was there this place is EXCELLENT and I'm STILL thinking about it...lol... Its very difficult to find authentic Haitian food. Most places generalize Caribbean food all in one, but Haitian food has its own FLARE and this place has it down pact! I use to go there just about every Friday for dinner. I would have the king fish with rice and beans (together) and ginger tea. I've had the stewed chicken and well just about everyting on the menu... all I can say is GO THERE if you are in Miami, when I take a trip down again.. that's where I will be eating the first day. The food is special About the decor... very pretty, beautiful murals and decorative tables.
(5)Lola P.
I ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce. Pretty tasty, delicious sauce. When it comes to shrimp I guess I like my tails off since it makes it easier to eat. I dislike having to take the tails off myself. One tail for decoration is ok, but not in all of them. I wish they had the option of sides for their dishes like many restaurants do. The shrimp came with some rice (ok) and sweet fried plantains (not a fan of ripe plaintains so I can't comment). Very nice, colorful, fun decor. Bright colors everywhere. Parking is an inconveniece of its own. I had to drive around the block several times to find a metered spots...Oh South Beach.
(4)Steve L.
Great spot. My wife had the coconut shrimp, which she liked, but we both preferred the grilled goat I ordered. I just wish it had come with rice instead of the dry, overcooked corn on the cob. Also really enjoyed the Natif cocktail, a kind of rough-hewn proto-daiquiri that went down all too easily.
(4)Kevin M.
Great meal, had the Griyo, loved it. The pineapple upside down cake was excellent. I took my in-laws here and they really enjoyed it despite initial trepidation (they aren't very adventurous).
(5)Nithasha Y.
So happy we went here. The place is very welcoming and service is great. Food is DELICIOUS!! As Indians we thought we could handle any amount of spice, So made the mistake of asking them to make our food extra hot. BIG MISTAKE!! Couldn't handle it. Just stick to what's on the menu and you'll love what you eat. Very flavorful, meat cooked just right. We ordered, Spaghetti with shrimps, shrimps with coconut milk, beef stew and goat stew. Can't decide what I loved more. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Apurne G.
After surviving many years on the beach, Tap Tap may be considered a Miami Beach institution. The food is always good, sometimes awesome; and the service is usually grudgingly and pleasantly mediocre. As long as one is prepared to expect a little attitude and a sometimes long wait for attention, one can enjoy some very nice food. The conch and the legim are often stand out dishes- though none are as good as in our Haitian friends kitchens. Management has really pulled it together in recent years and the overall experience is better than ever. Not to mention their true underlying raision d'être of supporting democracy and freedom in Haiti.
(4)F. P.
I came here a month ago, waiting eagerly for my first Haitian dining experience (had heard this place was featured on The Food Network with Guy Fieri). Managed to get an early dinner reservation so there was no wait at all. And the crowds had not come yet. The entire restaurant gives us a very festive feel, with its bright colors and decorative murals. Ordered dishes that I basically had never tried before: For for appetizer, we ordered the Lanbi Pike Nan JI Sitwon (spicy marinated conch) - this was really good, had a nice spicy kick. The texture was interesting - like ceviche, chewy but with a little "crunch" as well. Definitely memorable and quite yummy. The entrees were all right. We had: - Pwason Gwosel (steamed whole yellowtail snapper served with scotch bonnet-lime sauce with rice and beans) - the snapper was tender (almost too tender as it seemed "mushy" at times) - Griyo (light, fried marinated "kurbuta" pork chunks) - just ok Sides: Zepina Nan Sos Kokoye (sauteed spinach in coconut sauce) - very good; definitely a must-order Manyok Fri (fried yucca) - nice crisy texture on the outside but the inside was a bit dry and bland. Aside from the conch, what I liked the best were the drinks, actually. We started with the Haitian mojito (w fresh mint, lime juice, raw sugar and Barbancourt rhum), which was very refreshing and clearly well-made. Then we turned to some beers we had never tried before - Tropical Mango Pale Ale (Virgin Islands) - Prestige Lager (Haiti) - Tusker Lager (Kenya) Definitely worth a trip, especially if like me, this is your first Haitian experience. Think this is the type of place that would be great to go with a bunch of friends.
(3)Jenn C.
The food here is excellent! It is also on the healthy side of haitian cooking as you don't have to get your fish fried. The atmophere is just great, you can walk around and just stare at the art work. and it's on South beach! which brings a bit of haitian flair to the area.....ok to the poster to said to go to overtown or liberty city to get haitian food, that is not an option for many people.
(5)Moe J.
Hati - always forgotten as the land that told the French to go screw themselves because we aint going to be slaves for you no more! Three cheers for the anti-colonial rebellion which pre-dated our Civil War! There cuisine was simply a must try. This was my first time to try Hatian food. I wanted to make the trek to Cafe Creole but being car-less and with limited time - I took my local Hatian bell-captain's word that this was a good spot. I arrived for lunch around 1 p.m. on a Monday and the place was nearly empty. I started with the Pumpkin Soup which was light and a good start to the meal and a very reasonable five dollars. For my main course, I ordered the snapper in lime sauce - I had seen the snapper on No Reservations and was excited to try. It was good but I just think I was not in a fish mood. It could have used a bit more spice to crank up the heat a bit. Also, the portions are large so you can share easily here. I had a couple bites of the rice and beans that came with the fish - there were pretty tasty for what they are.
(3)Amy S.
Adorable atmosphere, with colorful painted chairs and beautiful murals around the restaurant. The music was also great. Definitely gets points for being a clean, attractive, relaxing restaurant. Service was friendly, though slow. We arrived mid-afternoon and were among maybe five patrons, but still waited a while to place our order and get our check. Though we were a party of three, our gratuity was added automatically, which is something that bugs me. I typically tip much more than the suggested gratuity, but this always deters me. I've found it more typical in southern Florida than anywhere else in the country, so maybe I'm just missing something. The food quality was excellent; the shrimp in creole sauce was fresh, with the best texture and flavor I've had. My brother enjoyed his pork as well. The rum punch I ordered was nothing special, especially at the price. On food and atmosphere alone, I'd give five stars. Service, drinks, and price considered; I would say Tap Tap is a nice place, I would definitely give it another chance on that shrimp alone.
(3)Mike S.
I've been here a few times and the food is nothing to yelp about. The conch salad tasted "off" and gave me some heaves. The pork dish I saw on Triple D was a little overcooked, dry, and stringy. The coconut shrimp has a hint of aluminum, maybe they could use better cookware. The grouper was overcooked as well. The food may have been good in the past but the management needs to focus on fresher food and better quality control.
(2)Sharon S.
What a great Haitian ethnic opportunity for me at Tap Tap. The place is very island-ly colorful and very much relaxing. The food is outstanding! I would have to say that I have never been disappointed in any of the culinary delights I have sampled. The watercress sauce is out of this world tasty! I would love to have a recipe for this so when I make akra it will be more enjoyable. The staff are very personable and pleasant beings from the management on down. Just remember that the parking is a few steps down the alley from the actual restaurant.
(5)Tiffany A.
Why didn't i try this place sooner?? It's around the corner from my apartment... I met a friend for dinner there last week and I felt like I was reminded of one of my favorite bars in SF... (little baobab which is a senegalese bar/restaurant)...The decor was great... bright, colorful, just like being on the islands.. The food here at tap tap however was EXCELLENT.... i ordered the shrimp in coconut sausce triple YUMMMMM and the conch salad appetizer... they say it's spicy but I grew up on mexican food so it didn't faze me... my friend added that the conch was reasonably priced and joked 'did they smuggle it in from Haiti to get it so cheap?' lol... I didn't try the mojito but i need to... i'm only taking a star off because it was a bit hot in there.... it would have been nice to be a bit more comfy while i ate, that's all but all in all I loved it here and definitely recommend it to folks who are in Miami as a 'must do'.... The icing on the cake was the friends I made at the bar.... (where you can have a great time if your flying solo)... there were actually 2 single diners seated there who i chatted with while i waited for my friends.. we even created our own 'click' of iphone users... too funny!!! I love that this place attracts cool people!!! Must return next week.. must return!
(4)Tony T.
Came for a late dinner and they ran out of a few things including goat. Tried the melange fritters which were lightly fried. The watercress sauce that came with the fritters was both spicy and sour and it was a nice mix. Had the conch that came in a salad. The conch salad was fresh, spicy, sour and chewy. For dinner had the shrimp in creole sauce, which was tomato based. The shrimp were well seasoned and cooked perfectly. Also tried the chicken stew. The chicken was tender but a little dry and the stew was very good. The fried fish was great. It was fried nicely on the outside but was tender on the inside. The sauce that came with the fish was sour and spicy. Also tried the griyot and the pork was well cooked and not too dry. The dish also had onions and red bell peppers. The mixed rice and beans were good but the rice was a little dry. It was the best place I tried on my Miami trip. The decor is colorful and the paintings on the wall were cool to look at as we ate. The service was fine and they had a Kenyan beer (Tusker) which was pretty good.
(4)Deb L.
This was the first time I'd ever tried Haitian food. A friend and I shared two entrees- *shrimp with coconut sauce *stewed conch We asked the waiter what "conch" was, to which he answered "a type of shellfish." As we both love shellfish, we decided to give it a try. It was so tender, soft, and chewy. After looking it up on wikipedia, conch is actually a saltwater snail : ) The entrees came with a side of rice and beans and a piece of plaintain. There was a spicy coleslaw-like side dish on all the tables (super spicy) that went well with the bread that was served.
(4)Miriam F.
Definitely a must try restaurant!! Haitian food is not for everyone though... but I was a fan! For appetizers we had the fried platter, malanga fritters, and the conch! All of it was amazing... I cant pick a favorite... it was all good!! My recommendation for dinner is the shrimp in coconut sauce (note: this is not your average coconut sauce.. it is very sweet!) and the grilled goat dish. Also, the pork chops were very good. When you order any of the seafood, please not they will not take of tails or heads... but it is very fresh and delicious! Prices were ok... about $20 a entree. For drinks, it is imperative that you have a Mojito, the rum is amazing and very smooth. (However, I am not a rum expert). Enjoy!
(4)Olle P.
I'd seen the place on the check please show and we tried it for lunch on a very quiet Saturday. We ordered conch and mango watercress salad for starters and for mains shrimp in creole sauce and the goat stew. The food took way to long to arrive, especially considering that the place was nearly empty. Fortunately their mojitos are good and that amde the wait more bearable. Except for the shrimps the food was pretty bland and boring. I really can't recommend the place for the food, which is sad because the place has a cool Caribbean vibe and could be so much more. Maybe I'll come back on a busy evening just for a drink and hopefully some music, but I will have eaten my dinner before I arrive.
(2)Rick P.
Food and service were great. Portions were perfect. I had the stewed conch and corn meal, and m wife had stewed beef Kalalu and rice and peas. The Haitian Mojito was great. I would have preferred the Kremas but they were out, they were also out of beignet. Disappointed about that but I would definitely go back. Wish that a Haitian Restaurant this good in L.A.
(4)Pachuco K.
What a joke this place is. Yes the food is good --but not all the foods on the menu are authentic Haitian recipes. The first time I went with some family members, some of us ordered the griot, (fried pork chunks) they came back with pork chunks in sauce !!!!!!!!! We left without touching the food. They figured they would change the recipes to FIT the AMERICAN taste buds.!!!!!!!!!! Not surprising since the owners are NOT HAITIANS. I went back many years later and they now serve Fried pork chunks ( I guess too many complaints from real Haitians). But I still think most of their food and taste are spiced down, and they also serve other things on the menu not usually found on the island. But, then again it is on Miami Beach, -------tourist heaven..............
(1)Del M.
Stepping into this place which is right in the middle of the hectic and posh life of Miami Beach is like walking into another world. From the decoration to the friendly staff to the amazing smells emanating from the kitchen you are transported into another dimension. I learned about this place from Triple D's on the Food Network and it was worth the trip. I had the Snapper which was exquisite, along amazing drinks and a unique desserts. I have not been back in a while, but I am looking forward to the day I return.
(4)Aileen F.
One of the first spots I ate at while in South Beach and the food was amazing. After a day of exploring South Beach, my boyfriend and I decided to eat here since we never had Haitian food. In addition, this was one of the places I had on my "things to eat" from doing my research on yelp and through my handy dandy Fodor's book. We ate around lunch time and the restaurant was super quite with a hostess in the front who sat us in the front. Not only were the menus interesting to look at with the different types of food, but the restaurant it self had a lot of art work. The place was very colorful and full of Haitian art. I enjoyed the front artwork with my glass of rum punch which was delicious. The name slips my mind, but it was blended with fresh fruits and had a wonderful sweet taste, I couldn't taste the alcohol and maybe that's why I liked it so much. For lunch, we enjoyed the Kribish Kokoye (shrimp in the coconut sauce) and pan-seared Pwason Gwosel (yellow tail with lime sauce). We enjoyed these entrees with mixed rice and beans. The 2nd dish I mentioned was highly recommended by the hostess and it was very delicious. So flavorful and it was my favorite out of the two. The fish was very fresh, the meat fell right off the bone. And the sauce...coconut with a lime taste. I also enjoyed the condiments - a spicy Haitian sauce. Cabbage, carrots, red spices all soaked in vinegar, a perfect sauce for the fish. I would definitely come during lunch time because its less busy. At night, I hear it gets very busy. This restaurant is off fifth street and very hard to miss during the day, but at night the illuminating sign is easier to spot on the busy street. Parking is found several steps away BEHIND the restaurant and its free. Gratuity is already included on the check so don't worry about leaving tip, unless your that generous lol. Decent price for good Haitian food! a MUST to go to while in South Beach!
(4)Vanessa S.
The goat stew was delicious! The bignets for dessert were also great. We sat on the porch and enjoyed the experience.
(4)Miranda P.
I've never had Haitian food before but I was up for an adventure. I ordered the fruit punch to drink which had guava, mango, passion fruit, and a couple other delicious juices. I know it sounds like an odd combination but the coconut spinach was so good and the tap tap salad was good. I discovered I don't like mango as much as I thought. The décor is very colorful and I imagine it's exactly what it would be like in haiti. The service was good too. Now onto the dessert. My parents ordered the pineapple cake which was decent with a consistency between bread pudding and fruitcake. I ordered and devoured this coconut thingie. it was so sweet, light and fluffy like a coconut cloud. Yummers!
(4)Jay R.
Incredible food, awesome ambiance. The spaghetti creole and grouper were delicious, and the whole interior is coveted in murals which are fun to look at. Only damper would be the service, which was painfully slow the night I went.
(3)Tanya E.
I celebrated my 31st birthday here in 2009 and although I can not remember what I had, I do remember it was hella good. So was my drink. My company and I had a ball and if I'm ever in Miami again this will be a definite stop. Must fill up on good stuff before heading to Wet Willie's.
(5)Brain S.
A coworker and I stopped by Tap Tap while we were visiting south beach on a work trip. We were seated at 9pm, ordered two rum punches and decided on charcoal cooked 1/2 chicken (18$) and spicy conch salad. The server (the guy with the dreads) never returned with the drinks to take our order. 30 minutes later I walked to the bar to ask about the drinks, and found our missing waiter watching a basketball game at the bar. My buddy flagged another waiter down so we could get our orders in, but he dismissed us. Our server finally approaches, and without apology, asks if we've decided yet.. Long story short--dinner took 1:45 when we needed to get back to hotel to pack, and it cost $96 dollars with Gratuity included.... Tips stands for To Insure Prompt Service... I am NOT a complainer, and the food here IS good. But I'll not be returning. BTW Tap Tap, I work on a FOOD NETWORK show....
(1)matt p.
This place was great. The goat, the grouper, the whole red snapper, and the pork dish rounded out our entrees. You have to ask for the green watercress sauce - I ended up dipping everything in that...yum! two bummers - they were out of the pineapple dessert and no music the night we went. Guess we'll have to back later in the week for some dessert and tunes
(4)Jennifer F.
The food was good. Not the best Haitian food I've ever had, but the goat stew was tasty. I'd been told the grilled goat was excellent, and the waiter pushed it big time. I ordered it, but they were out. It was only about 7 pm on a weeknight, seemed early for them to be out of one of their signature dishes. But it happens, and that's not why they get a mere 2 stars. Expect to be charged more for each item than the price listed on the menu. My dining companion ordered the grouper, but was served (and charged for) the more expensive snapper (which the waiter was also pushing, must have had too much of it back in the kitchen). We were charged an extra dollar for each of our drinks, and for some reason my $15 entree on the menu was $18 on the bill. We didn't do any substitutions or special orders, they just charged us more. In the end, it's not the price itself, it's the sense of being ripped off. Like many restaurants in Miami Beach, tip was already included in the total, so we couldn't just take the difference out of the tip (my usual tactic when a server tries to rip me off). Print new menus if you need to raise the prices, but don't just surprise your patrons with an unexpected bill. That maneuver changed Tap Tap from a place I would recommend to friends to a place I would recommend my friends stay away from. There are plenty of other great places to eat within 3 blocks, and plenty of better Haitian restaurants, so why support the con artists at Tap Tap?
(2)Marcos R.
This city slicker can't vouch for it's authenticity, but it sure tastes good! Great little spot on the fringes of the South Beach hot spots. When I was there there was a little 3 piece band playing some Haitian/Afrobeat music. I would definitely go there again.
(4)Dennis W.
Tap Tap came highly recommended. We arrived after Art Basel on a Sunday. The place was packed, the small bar/waiting room was elbow to elbow with a very laid back friendly crowd. Every conceivable place, the floor, ceiling, walls, tables and chairs are painted with scenes, murals or words in colorful paint. Very interesting. The staff greeted us, wrote down our name, "ten minute wait no problem" Mohitos were ordered which were excellent. Forty five minutes later after inquiring about the wait list, we were seated in the very back room which was half full of diners. The other diners had one waiter, we had a darling Haitian waitress who had just us. (ominous sign) She promptly came, and advised us to get the Shrimp in Coconut milk, the whole- fish Red Snapper which came with beans and rice, we also ordered the excellent Tap Tap salad with mango, watercress, tomato and a basil based dressing. We ate the salad then waited a L O N G time for the entrees. Finally...the entrees came, the shrimp dish was excellent and the coconut sauce with red bell peppers was incredible, but the medium size shrimp were only six in number. The whole fish (head on) snapper was cooked artfully but not the easiest to eat due to the bones. It was excellent. We traded bites and used some of the coconut sauce on the snapper. Tasty. Then another long wait, and wait. Finally the waitress showed and recited the desert menu. For desert we ordered Haitian cake, along with coconut sorbet; the cake came first, it was good but dry, and needed the sorbet, yet the sorbet came a good seven minutes later. The . The sorbet by itself was refreshing but did have much flavor. Then another wait for the check. The whole thing came to $92, food, drinks, tax and the added 18% tip. The problem with the mandatory added tip is there is no incentive to excel, certainly no reason to hustle. We might go back, and try something else and hope to get another waiter. We got there at 7:30, left after 10:00, the place was mostly empty by then. Other reviews mention the slow service, it really was the worst we have experienced in a long time.
(3)Forrest D.
As far as I know we don't have any haitian food in LA, although we probably do. This was my first experience and I loved it when I ate here about 20 years ago, and never forgot the place. When we visited with friends, we had to come and it didn't disappoint. I read some reviews here that call this Hiatian lite and it may be but that doesn't diminish the tastiness of the food. Sometimes authenticity is only good to those who grow up on it. For example, my wife is Chinese and she and her family love some restaurants that serve traditional chinese food that truth be told isn't very good. I don't mean because I don't like traditional food, I mean sometimes food changes for the better when it changes and the original is comfort food for those that grew up on it but noone else. So while this may not be truly authentic Hiatian food, it is really tasty and be aware, quite hot if you order certain dishes. In fact one of the spiciest dishes I ever had came from here, although I don't remember what it was. The goat and fish dishes are very good, and I love the shrimp. Service is always extremely slow here but the rooms are all delightfully painted with fantastical murals and designs. For those who didn't enjoy, it's always a good idea to read the reviews most restaurants post as they usually tell what's good. That's the first thing I do when we try a new place, as well as looking up reviews and it rarely leads us astray. All in all I'm looking forward to trying some truly authentic Hiatian food to see how it compares. In the meantime... Food - A- Ambience - A+ Service - B- Value - A-
(5)Rob C.
2.5 stars for food sorry, this place is overrated. No one can deny that the restaurant is interesting however; it's like a miami institution. colorful mural artwork adorn the walls, great energy and music fill the air. ambiance may create a memorable experience but it didn't help with the food for me. caveat, i was full and only sampled appetizers... nice soursop juice (same as guanabana) had the pumpkin soup -- tasted like a can based broth fritay appetizer plate -- items either too dry or just fried mush (green cilantro sauce was ok) okra stew -- bland, all the flavors were not as bold as i thought they would be i'd go to little haiti for haitian food...but for the "experience," like most everything on sobe, you should come here.
(3)Diana N.
Tap Tap is really off the beaten path. I spoke with the restaurant manager and he told me that the restaurant has been around for over 15 years! It's pretty traditional Haitian food and if you don't know what to get, you should ask the waitress for recommendations. Prices are good, service is pretty consistent.
(4)Andrew P.
Excellent simple Hatian cuisine. The best mojitos in Miami made with hatian rum. Get the whole fish.
(4)Pavel D.
Best haitian food I have ever had. Much better than any of NYC's offerings
(5)dayna c.
I loved this restaurant. I might be biased because I am highly persuaded by bright colors, but our experience was great. We were on vacation and I was looking for restaurants with vegetarian options. Although they were out of a lot of things, it was late and I'm guessing they had been busy, all I wanted was the spinach dish. It was sooooo good. I can't even begin to explain it, like I would fly back to Miami yummy. Seriously.
(5)Ernesto L.
Great hole in the wall place with some really good food. I went on yelp to find a great bite without walking around in the heat. Read the reviews and thought we'd try it out. Amazing! Try the fresh squeezed limeade. I had the chicken with rice, beans, and plantains. Very good! Will definitely go back next time I'm in town.
(5)Eric S.
Really cool atmosphere, fun bar, interesting (in a good way) food. I'm a flatlander who was down in Miami for work, and decided to try the first Haitian meal of my life. I tried the kingfish with coconut sauce, which was delicious. Staff were extremely friendly.
(4)Charlie U.
Yearning for a semi-authentic dining experience? Try Tap Tap with its great Haitian dishes served in a ramshackle setting complete with colorful murals and sleepy looking guys sitting on the front porch. The food never fails. Especially good fish preparation. Relax and enjoy the slow service. You'll start to believe you've been magically transported out of South Beach and landed in Port-au-Prince.
(4)Patricia d.
Incredibly delicious food, that makes you feel like you're eating at your Aunt's house - especially if you're Filipino. Okay, give or take a few ingredients...lime instead of kalamansi...and butter instead of vegetable oil (I'm guessing that's the French influence on Haiti)... Menu Drinks - hubby had the mojito...DE-LISH! I had the Sitronad, which is basically lime-aid...also yummy! Our server gave a warning that it might be too sour, but I make my own kalamansi juice and try not to use too much sugar, so for me - it was perfect. Appetizer - we had the Akra (Malanga fritters)...good. A little too bread-y for my preference, but we still ate it all. The sauce that came with it was amazing!!! We were hoping for more heat, and found it in the jar of pickled something-or-others on the table...but honestly, it wasn't that hot. Main Course - I had the whole fish in lime sauce...uh, I pretty much finished it all. I would only recommend this if you're used to dealing with the fish bones, otherwise, get the fish fillet in the same sauce. My hubby had the Griyo, which is a pork dish. He also finished his meal - I mean almost licked the plate clean. Dessert - we had the Blan Mange. Completely yummy coconut dessert, kind of like jello in consistency and they serve it with mango slices. If you're Filipino, you'll think it tastes like Maja Blanca...it also kind of looks like it, minus the toasted coconut sprinkles on top. If you live in Miami, I hope you're eating here at least twice a month. If you're visiting Miami, save your appetite for a big meal here!! You will LOVE it!!
(4)Leslie W.
Good service and solid good food. The grouper was excellent. So many locals streaming through these doors, you can't go wrong with a local fave.
(4)Ryan K.
Wow, as if Miami couldn't be any better! Talk about awsesome food! Never had Haitian food before. It was amazing. Absalutely amazing! The service was great. the restaurant was clean. Good recommendations from the server. I'll make it a point to visit this restaurant every time I come back to Miami! And hopefully I'll be back SOON!
(5)Asher B.
This place is full of character and characters. The mojitos lived up to the hype and the stewed goat just melted. I came back several times during my South Beach stay. Delicious and highly recommended!!! Stay for the band if you can, it is worth it and maybe you will get hungry enough to eat more of the wonderful food too. Seriously what more are you looking for?
(5)E. Y.
We went there a few days ago because it was recommended on Diners, drive in &dives show on food network. It was a disappointment. First of all the service was slow. We waited about 20min to get some bread and then about 50 min to get our food. I can understand if it was crowded but it was not. We ordered the shrimp in coconut sauce..the sauce was good. Also had the pork chunks dish and the free range chicken...both were okay... Not that flavorful. The plantains were tasteless and dry..needed sugar on them. We had to go out to the car to put more coins for parking because service was so slow. There was also no close parking. Last thing was that the 18% gratuity was automatically tacked onto the bill..which I would not have complained about if the service given was good, but it was so slow, they did not deserve the tip!! I would not go back again.
(1)Cristy M.
Long story short: I didn't know I was on a "date" until half-way through dinner. Oops. My bad. In the end, it didn't work out for the guy. For me, on the other hand, it totally did. Tap Tap is a great little Haitian restaurant that you've probably driven by a million times if you've ever come off the MacCarthur Causeway to go to Miami Beach, namely South Beach. I've had a Haitian close friend for over a decade and it had never occurred to me to ask her what Haitian cuisine was because, for whatever reason, it hadn't dawned on me that there WAS a Haitain cuisine. Big mistake. Apparently, not only is there Haitian food, but there is Haitian-style food, and this place is the only place that I've ever been to where I've eaten it. For that, I can't give much of a foodie kind of review. Instead, I'm going to stick with the ambiance of the place and how generally enjoyable just eating there is. It's been a while since I've been to Tap Tap but, I'm not gonna lie, I always want to go. This might have been perhaps the best place a guy had ever taken me to dine on a date and that's saying a lot. Being there is almost like being at someone's residence. It's comfy and quaint and really personal. It's not showy or hip or any of the stuff that places like this fall at the risk of being. Instead, it's just a great place to have a bite and chat while you eat. Good for every one. Damn, now I wanna go back. Date or no date. Considering the last guy, I might as well go with friends. Note: At the time, I was a strict ova-lacto vegetarian and was able to find a selection from which to order.
(3)Jull Y.
Food is pretty good. But not feeling the included tip on the bill... So one star off.
(3)Sabrina Anna C.
This is such an intereting little place! The artwork and general vibe/set up is very Caribbean and tropical. It always has a fun crowd, good music and excellent cocktails! Great place on a Thursday or Friday night. There's the live band The food is exquisite, with interesting selctions. Their seafood is always fresh and a great way to go with your meal selection! I enjoy the seafood, the plantain dishes, and the Conch (classic!). The first time I came here was in 2005. Love it! This place is excellent for anyone from locals to tourists! Just a great time, fun spot, and excellent meal! :)
(4)IGOR B.
Are you in Miami? Do you wanna try something different and very local? Go! Nothing fancy but real Haitian food. Everything is fresh and the venue is very Hiati style. Haitian paints on the walls, haitian music, good MOJTO and not expensive at all! Colors colors colors and friendly ppl! Try it!
(4)Maria C.
I think this place is pretty good. I had some sort of white fish which was just so very tender and soft. Simple. Yet good. Did not eat the rice or beans. They were dry. We had some deep fried sweet potatoes and plantains for appetizers. Nice and crispy. I also remember this green sauce being very tasty. We sat right in front of the band. The whole place had a mellow but somewhat sad overtone, though, despite the colorful walls and great character of the place. The owner was SUPER nice. Drinks are cheap. Good stuff.
(4)Jessica P.
The food here is fantastic! I've literally had every dish on the menu (including the goat) and absolutely loved it! Be sure to try the Cornmeal beans side dish. Not only is the food great but the atmosphere is always fun and lively. Perfect place to come with friends and family!
(5)Ryan R.
We came here from all the hype, but this place is overrated. The food wasn't amazing, but alright and overpriced. The place itself has a nice vibe.
(3)Marty P.
Five of us went last night. We made reservations and we got a private room for dining. The decor is fantastic and the food is exceptional. Best fish I've ever had. Snapper with a scotch bonnet lime sauce. We had two picky eaters with us and both were won over. Great service. Great cocktails. I had come here about 8 yrs ago with my wife. I remembered it fondly and I'm glad I returned. Also, is a HUGE improvement on the quality of the food relative to anyplace on Ocean Dr. Good value.
(5)Augusto N.
we followed the bad advise of one of those tourism channels on tv knowing that probably there might be some money exchange involved in their neutral opinion. the yelp reviews weren't that bad, we just came for mohitos and there were two two schools on the subject, either water down or very strong so what the heck. unfortunately we landed the first one so after paying for state tax, resort tax and an already included gratitude it felt like paying for a very very expensive lemonade. we thought of telling the bar tenderness that not much of their famous rum was savored with the drink but while she seemed to be a very nice gal she didn't show much interest in our overall experience then we opted to skip the whole discussion.
(2)Wen B.
this restaurant was really cute inside, the service was not too good but if you like seafood this is the place to go. My friend had the red snapper and said it was amazing, i had the chicken and it was extremely dry so if you go to this place definitely get the seafood. the mojito was really good as well.
(4)Peter S.
Great atmoshpere, great Hatian food, Live music, different, fun, not expensive for SoBe
(4)Brinda M.
Awesome mojitos! Ricardo, our bartender made perfect drink suggestions and made the amazing mojitos I have had in a long time.
(5)Amy G.
Friendly & casual place. Great ginger tea and goat dishes. Parking is mostly on the street with quarter meters :(
(4)Aaron V.
We dined recently at Tap Tap...our first foray into Haitian cuisine. I've waited a few days to digest the hot mess this place is....it's difficult to be objective on the food while you bask in the vibe.... We made reservations earlier in the day for 9 pm. When we arrived (8:45), there didn't seem to be a hostess, only servers running frantically about. We flagged one down who told us we'd have to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes. No problem, we could just have a drink. we ordered a couple of mojitos, quite possibly the best any of us have ever had. There had been an older woman sitting at the bar sipping wine, almost in some sort of trance. She sort of snapped together and asked us if we had been helped, to which we replied that we had. She smiled. Come to find out later, she is apparently one of the owners. While waiting, I was chatting with one of my friends how nice the breeze was...and we both noticed a vacant table on the front porch. We asked one of the passing servers if we could dine there..."sure, why not" was the response. We were seated after the table was cleaned. It took a bit of time, bit our waitress finally came and took our drink order, a little more time for our drinks to arrive, and more time for her to come back to take our orders. We all ordered some sort of appetizer - malanga fritters, pumpkin soup...all very good. Again, it took some time for them to arrive to our table. More waiting, then our main courses showed up. Two in our party ordered the fish - yellowtail snapper? One was fried, the other in some sort of sauce. The reason I added the question mark is no one at our table had heard of that fish, and they did have a minor complaint that the meat was a little more difficult to remove from the bone. The one with the sauce raved about it. My other friend had the grilled chicken with cornmeal and beans. I had the stewed chicken with the cornmeal and beans also. My friend said his grilled chicken was good, but a few pieces were a little overcooked. Even though mine was "stewed", I'm convinced mine was grilled also, then dunked in a bland creole sauce. Some of my chicken was overcooked and tough (dark meat, go figure). We both agreed that the cornmeal and beans were excellent. I had also ordered the okra, which came in more creole sauce. I love okra, but the creole sauce added nothing...more bland. After finishing our mains, and more waiting, we were asked if we wanted dessert. We went for it. Sweet potato pie, banana fritters, and coconut sorbet. The sorbet was excellent, but banana fritters were, well, eh. Then there was that pie. We all tasted it, and it was completely nasty. It tasted nothing like any sort of sweet potato pie we'd ever had, and the texture was strange. It went uneaten. Later on, we finally got our check. I point out the slowness of service throughout the evening because I would normally be really pissed off. However, we found out that it was one of the last nights of Fet Gede, a Haitian festival of the dead. There were a number of people showing up for the live band and other assorted activities...chants, parades, blessings, etc. It was loads of fun and the vibe was just right....so no worries. However, I need to visit on a more "normal" evening to re-review. Will I be pissed at slow service for mediocre food, or will I chill to the mood?
(3)Jerri Z.
Do not recommend. Disappointed. Looked forward to trying Tap Tap, but the so so reviews hit the nail on the head. Slow, disinterested staff and kitchen. Found the snapper to be fresh, but very bland pepper sauce. Beans and rice not very good. plantains rock hard. Would never go back and would tell others to try someplace else. Closest parking in the public garage 3 blocks away.
(2)n l.
actually, about a 4.7 because it was a really hot that day :( I came here on a Tuesday afternoon so it was not too busy. I had a spageti kreyol with kribish (shrimp) and a hatian mojito. The spageti kreyol was delicious!!! A little spicy, but nothing most can't handle. The staff was kind and the walls were painted with colorful murals. I would come here again if I lived in Miami. Not too expensive.
(5)Stricky T.
First impressions last, tap tap made an impression. Just like most of the reviews, I tried the grilled conch, the spinach in coconut sauce. I really liked the food and have go back someday. Grand food
(5)Chrichelle M.
Another Yelp hit. We're visiting and have flown blind based on Yelp recommendations and haven't been steered wrong yet. The service was distant which is why it wasn't five stars
(4)Jake W.
Crazy awesome voodoo decor and great food
(5)Carla B.
This place popped my Haitian cuisine cherry. :-) Pleasant, different experience. Colorful place, very authentic, nice servers, good prices and the food is good.
(3)Nikki B.
One of the best meals I've ever had. Ever. Impeccable service. Fun decor. Highly recommend.
(5)Kenny S.
Great food and Ambiance! Very authentic and more!
(4)Christian B.
The appetizer platter is at must have if you are new to haitian food. The beef stew and the whole fried fish are definite good choice entrees. The Haitian mojito rocks and the virgin papaya shake
(4)Molly M.
Amazing. The food was carefully prepared. The drinks were also wonderful. A great band showed up, and eventually my friend and I were having drinks with the owner and some of the other guests on the porch. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
(5)laquisha v.
Eaten takeout from here once. Conch Creole, ceviche and ginger tea are excellent. Goat was a mix of tough and tender, so I wasn't crazy about it.
(4)Karen L.
Legit. Everything I ate here was solid and a great experience for my first time trying Haitian food. Friendly service and lots of a food. Highly recommended if you ever get the chance! Just ask the waiter/waitress for what they recommend, that's what we did.
(4)Andrea W.
I had never heard of Tap Tap or even knew what haitian food tasted like. When I walked in I felt this great energy starting with the walls bright and colorful like your childhood coloring books. We were seated immediately despite not everyone in our party being there. We started off with goat tidbits that I was super hesitant because the thought of eating goat didn't seem rappetizing but I was told I wouldn't be disappointed and i was not they looked like chicharron but tasted like oxtail! Delicious! Then we also tried shrimp in coconut cream sauce and the griyo which is pork chunks both were good but the show stealer for the night was definitely the goat. I also got to sample the vegetable stew and that is something I must order next time I go. The service there was great which is always wonderful to compliment a great meal.
(5)Christine P.
What a great find this place is. I came here one first date and it was a perfect choice. The ambiance is very welcoming & casual. The restaurant is decorated with lots of colors and textures on the walls and very cool art to boot. I found myself paying more attention to the intricately beaded mural behind me than to my company. But the art ended up making for good conversation pieces. This was my first time having Haitian cuisine and I didn't know what to expect. They offered a few specials, but were out of the ones we were interested in. I ended up ordering the pumpkin soup and the avocado salad, both were fresh & very good. We also ordered drinks from the bar, it was a blend of rum & mango. Kudos to the bartender on a fantastic drink. I will definitely be back and next time I'll bring a bigger appetite.
(4)Lia T.
Really, really good food. Great service. I had a shrimp and rice dish and it was saucy and delish. My friend had a shrimp and spaghetti dish that I wanted to eat too. The folk art on the walls is engaging and the lighting is creative. The music was recorded but good. The only ding was the sweet potato pie. It was a leaden cube of flavorlessness. Get the passionfruit gelato. Dreamy. The night we were there the whole front bar was full of people watching the town hall presidential debates. Everyone was quiet and respectful. Nice.
(4)Jenny Q.
Great haitian food beware that service is sometimes slow.
(4)Mika G.
Walked in and was greeted by I think the owner. The place was very colorful inside and out. We started with the akra (malanga fritters). Malanga is a starchy root. The fritters were yummy. I ordered the griyo (marinated pork chunks) and my coworker ordered the shrimp creole; spicy. My pork was good and I loved the vinegar dipping sauce. My coworker took a bite of her shrimp and refused to eat anymore. She said it was too shrimpy. I took a bite to try it. No it's not spoiled. The flavor was that great seafood flavor like you get with cioppino. I guess she didnt know what to expect when she ordered creole. So I ate a couple of the shrimp so it wouldnt look like she hated it. She ate some of my pork chunks. We traded dishes a couple times when we went out. I took the leftovers back to my hotel for breakfast the next day. It was a good breakfast. I liked this place. The food was great.
(4)Maxfactor C.
I fell in love with this place as soon as i walked thru the door. The colors are amazing! There are murals on the floors,, walls, tables and ceilings. The bartender was great. Fresh mint mojitos! She mixed it in some stone bowl and it was amazing. This place looks like a little house with many rooms. As for the food I had the grilled lime grouper which was delicious. i had to come back again before I left miami so I came back the next night and had the shrimp in some coconut sauce with rice. It was great as well! This time there was a live band! I had the best time there and I will never forget tap-tap and the prices were reasonable which is so refreshing for S.Beach. I'll be back!!!
(5)Liz T.
the food's tasty. there's bright murals all over the walls, it's always loud & fun, and pretty much all the previous reviews were spot on... but the reason i love this place is the Tap Tap Band. i believe they play on thursday and saturday nights. get there early to get a spot. some nights there will be only 1 or 2 band members and 10 the next time they play. but regardless they're always jamming out with everyone dancing and singing along. the main guy in the band (forgetting his name) is just the coolest guy ever. great guitarist and great singer... but the most interesting part about him is that he used to be the mayor of Port-Au-Prince. how bad ass. that's reason enough for me to go.
(4)Dani B.
Changed from 4 to 2 stars. Good has gotten much worse. Service has always been slow as molasses. A shame bc used to be one of my favorites.
(2)Bonnie n.
pass... no need to go unless you want to have a long ass meal. i went for lunch, and because i had previously read yelp reviews i knew it was gonna be a bit of a wait.. i just didn't know how long it was gonna be. the restaurant was empty, except us and one other table. the fritters came out quickly so i was hopeful... however the main course came out nearly 45 min after we ate our fritters.. and the grilled corn came out after our main course was done and we had paid the bill... malanga fritters were ok.. a little too greasy. couldn't get pass eating more than 2. coconut shrimp had good flavor, nothing special though. there were only 4 shrimp. so not really filling.. i guess if you add the rice and beans you would get full. fried whole snapper, was large. the waitress recommended it pan fried, i think it may have tasted better deep fried. the sauce was good, still nothing special. charcoal grilled corn.. plain.. nothing but plain grilled corn.. i got a virgin mojito because i had to drive... it was too sweet
(3)Mae V.
This place was excellent! I got the snapper and it was fluffy and fresh. Beware, they give you the entire fish with the head still attached. I'm asian so I'm used to it, but the people sitting next to us were horrified. Haha they just stared at me while I devoured my fish. My sister got the shrimp in coconut sauce which was divine. The servers are very warm and friendly.
(5)Dan B.
Tap Tap is more than a restaurant. It's a showcase of the art and culture of a country who is, more often than not, considered a paradigm for the pinnacle of urban blight. The media will get an infinite amount of cracks at you to show you the extent of the poverty and suffering that goes on in Haiti, but representations of the beautiful side to the country are a dime a dozen. Does Tap Tap need to be located in Little Haiti to convince me of it's authenticity? Absolutely not. Even in "trendy" South Beach where style comes before tradition, Tap Tap convinces you from the moment you walk in that this is a true expression of artistic and religious Haiti and not a transient "cool place to be" that'll be replaced with an eclectic tapas bar. The menu is simple, but you can be assured that the dishes you select will be done right. I had the breathtaking privilege to try my first malanga fritter. Malanga is a root and they deep fry it, serve it on a bed of lettuce, and give you watercress dipping sauce, which is amazing. They also start you off with some of the hottest, freshest, and most delicious bread you can ask for. For any part of your meal, you can try the Haitian version of cole slaw, which actually serves more as a topping, as it's juicy with scotch bonnet peppers, something that you inevitably will find in most Caribbean foods. With exotic dishes such as conch in Creole sauce and stewed goat, it was hard to choose. I ended up going with the fried pork chunks, which I don't regret at all. The pork was deceivingly soft, juicy, full of flavor, and was accompanied with rice and beans, a plantain, and a garlicky/spicy dipping sauce. The meal was fabulous. I also tried some shrimp in creole sauce, which kind of reminded me of the Thai version of shrimp curry, with subtle differences. For your beverage, I highly recommend getting the Soley, which is a mix of Barbancourt Rum and Passion Fruit Juice. For $1 more, you can substitute 3 star rum for 5 star rum. The mixed beverages are delicious and tropical. For dessert, I tried the coconut pudding--a light dessert whose taste will be widely praised, yet whose texture will not be for everybody.
(5)D S.
We ate there tonight and it was great. There was no waiting and the food was delicious. If I had one thing to improve it would be to make the drinks larger or less expensive. The shrimp with coconut sauce,red snapper and grilled chicken was perfect!
(5)Peter C.
I started describing the heavenliness that is shrimp in coconut sauce to a friend, only to find out that he's a vegetarian since birth, hence has no idea what shrimps taste like. Thank goodness he is not blind, so I can still take him to Tap Tap and enjoy the visual feast of the wildly colorful mural. He's also not deaf, so the upbeat music will be fun for him, too. Oh, I am sure the gorgeous mojito is vegetarian, and the laid back, party atmosphere can be therapeutic in a way that does not violate his religious practice. However, if he were to venture into carnivorism once and forfeit his chance at eternal joy, the shrimp dish is probably worth it.
(4)Luis M.
Tap Tap is amazing. I saw it on the Food Network and though man that looks good. So I went with my wife and we had a great time. The food was awesome the service was great.
(5)Dee K.
My experience at Tap Tap was mixed. I have been anxious to try this place for years and now that I finally had a partner in crime who was as adventurous as me it was the perfect opportunity to make it happen. After tasting the food, I realized Haitian food is not as adventurous as i thought. It parallels the satisfying flavors of Latin and Thai food, which are more like staples in my flavor preference. what was adventurous was to pay that kind of money for that kind of service. The prices at Tap Tap are not THAT bad, unless you want to try new things. Everything added up pretty fast and the portions were a tad small. 4 of us tried a range of dishes from the whole red snapper to the pork chunks to the shrimp in coconut sauce to the spaghetti/shrimp special of the day. The snapper had bones and was really hard for the person to eat b/c he spent most of his time picking the fish off the bones. Pork was good and served with a clear spicy dipping sauce (onions and scotch bonnet pepper?) and was served with rice and beans (gallo pinto). Most of the dishes were served with gallo pinto and a couple fried plantains. The coconut sauce shrimp was very similar to a Thai coconut red curry sauce. The shrimp and spaghetti special was recommended to me by the server and I decided to take her advice. It was a grilled spiced shrimp tossed into a basic spaghetti with a lime/scotch bonnet sauce. We also shared the appetizer that came with a combo of fried okra, fried sweet potato and fried plantain- which we dipped in the green watercress sauce (flavors of this sauce are a MUST TRY). I also took fellow YELPers advice and ordered the spinach in coconut sauce- which was delish! The table had soursop, passionfruit and mango juices and I had a mojito. The mojito was nice- a perfect combo of flavors, but very simple. We sat outside on the front porch, which was very laid back. The inside of the restaurant was very colorful and even had a band playing in one of its rooms- nice vibes. All the walls (even the restrooms) are very colorful and bright. The service was verrrrrrry slow. Parking is a HUGE PAIN IN THE A$$. We dropped off half of our party to wait for a table and they were seated before we found parking. Our bill automatically included gratuity and probably came out to about $35.00 per person split equally 4 ways. The food was nice and everything else was ok - i think with some tweaking of the prices and attention to detail on the service this place could reach a higher standard. Nevertheless, I would come back to try additional items...
(3)Jen L.
Dining at Tap Tap extended our Caribbean culinary adventure after our cruise. We had the Creole Spaghetti with Herring and Stewed Goat. Both dishes were superb! The pasta dish had a good balance of flavors. I love that it has some spice but it wasn't hot. The stewed goat with the white rice and beans was tender and flavorful and the taste was made perfect with a squeeze of lime. The restaurant's ambiance is festive and colorful. The waitstaff is also knowledgable about the menu and offered good recommendations. The restaurant's patrons are a combination of locals and tourists. It is a good place to dine at when in South Beach.
(5)Agnes F.
went to tap tap for lunch the other day, no wait as i got there around noon started with a cocktail with rum, triple sec and something else (its orange in color) and its very tasty had the goat bits for appetizers, i love the deep fried goat meat with a dipping sauce that is full of flavor opted for stewed conch for entree, with a side of the polenta with red beans and coconut spinach on hind sight, plain rice would have been better as i can enjoy the stewed conch sauce even more but i really can't complain the conch was very tender and the coconut spinach was as good as everyone says here at the end, i was too stuffed to have any dessert love the beautiful murals and the friendly service, this was my first experience with Haitian food so i can't say if its authentic or not, but i enjoyed everything and look forward to going back there again
(3)Madeleine O.
Now this was my first experience with Haitian food. It may be possible this is not the best but for me this is my #1 for food. I could go without eating anything else. Haitian food is like a magical mix of the light sweet tang of Vietnamese plus the warm kick of Indian and the zest of Cuban with mystery deliciousness thrown in! The waitstaff is extremely friendly as are the patrons. I like the art, great colors. I'd probably want to sit on the deck next time and I would suggest newbies do so. The goat tidbits were delicious. Kind of reminded me of the Filippino dish lichon minus the fat, we ordered a fried veggie platter, delicious root vegetables with three divine dipping sauces and I had goat stew with rice and beans. Seriously phenomenal. Oh also I tried conch for the first time! It was like an ahi tuna tar tar salad. Cold sweet tangy and with a real kick in the mouth of spice at the end. LOVED it! Go for the 5 star rum when you order the tropical punch (because it isn't an option not to order at least one!!!)
(5)Isabel J.
classic, one of my favorites in miami
(4)Trillvia P.
I love this little spot. The waiter was very attentive and sweet, so were the men (managers? owner?) who walked around to make sure we were having a good time - forgot their names! I ordered the sour sop, and a mojito with water to down it all. How thorough! Lol, For my appetizer I got the spinach in coconut sauce and a plate of the papas fritay? It had plantains, sweet potatoes, a spicy cajun sauce and another green sauce to dip this other fried food in. It was all good. I really wish I was hungrier to have gone for more afterwards, but I'll be back. The rooms inside are very kid friendly and artsy. Lovely to be in, I sat outdoors though :)
(5)Ha R.
Had the Conch stew. Not as spicy as I had wanted. The ginger tea is really good. Worth a visit.
(3)Andrew B.
Great food! The service was wonderful - we took our recommended foods to go, fried goat, coconut shrimp, fried plantains, beans and rice--- the woman in-charge rushed the order and spent 10ish minutes chatting while it was prepared. If I lived in Miami I'd return here often!
(4)Adam O.
I love this place. Although it is almost always super loud and packed with people or closed for a month long vacation, I really like it. The brightly colored and "fun" flags and murals often depicting something grisly taking place in the graveyard are pretty much awesome, and really are works of serious art. In fact the whole ambiance here is pretty good. Hipsters, haitians, aging world-travelers, jazz musicians, kind of tropical bohemian that isn't too pretentious, but is fun to look at. If your table isn't ready when you get there (call ahead) you can sit at the bar and try one of many delicious caribbean drink specialties while you wait, which are all very delicious. The food is consistently good. I've had the Ox Tail stew, Goat Curry, Fish, Conch, Legim, etc., and they are all good. I think most of it comes with the spicy haitian-style cabbage pickliz, which is cool and hot at the same time. This is definitely one good place to get away from the cuban sensibility about spices (or lack thereof). Things are hot, and they taste good. The menu seems to change seasonally, and there are sometimes some great specials. Also, for an entertaining meal on the beach, you will pay about $10-15 per entree which is unheard of and totally radical. I take out of town guests here all the time.
(5)Dan F.
Take this review with a grain of salt, I didn't actually eat dinner here, I only sat at the bar and had mojitos. But seriously, one of the best Mojitos on planet earth. The haitian rum really packs a kick without tasting strong. Drink these with caution. The service was good, the interior charming and again, best mojitos in Miami. Well worth a stop if just for a Mojito.
(5)Jennifer N.
Tap Tap, located on 5th St. in South Beach, is an unexpected, inexpensive, Haitian restaurant that serves really good food. The moment you walk in, you're struck by the vibrant colors on the wall, the murals and works of art, and the staff. You feel like you're in Haiti, if this is how Haiti is supposedly like. It is lively and fun. We started the meal off with a huge bowl of Bouyon, which consisted of beef, boniata, malanga, potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, and dumplings in a clear broth. The soup was homey and soothing. Quite tasty for a soup. For the entrees, I ordered the Oxtails stewed in tomatoes and my friend ordered the Crab stewed with Eggplant and Tomatoes. Hands down, my dish was the best that night. The oxtails were so tender and succulent, and full of flavor. Served with a side of dirty rice and Tostones, I couldn't have been happier. So much good food, how could I complain! My friends dish was decent but not fantastic. The dish was mostly crab shells hiding the little meat it had. There was a jumble of flavors, complicating the simplicity of the way the dish should've been. I guess you just can't have it all can ya? We were too full to have dessert, so we opted to end it there. Definitely a place to revisit again. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Mcduff G.
Not authentic Haitian food. Was very dissapointed because it is advertising as a Haitian restaurant. I am Haitian and this is def not Haitian food.
(2)Rick K.
Just arrived in Miami and this was the first place I went. It was a Sunday afternoon and I was the only one there. I ordered a mojito drink that didn't have mint (its called something different but I can't recall the name) and the coconut shrimp with the rice and beans. Everything was incredible. The coconut sauce was unlike anything I had tried before, and when you douse their amazing homemade hot sauce all over it, you are talking some incredible flavors. The drink was tangy, sweet, fresh and strong (although small). All in all I think this place is great. I considered giving it 4 stars because it is a bit expensive (the coconut shrimp was $16, the drink $7 -- lunch menu) but really it blew me away so 5 it is.
(5)Bruce R.
After you are done gawking at the half clothed beautiful people on the beach, head on over to Tap Tap for some great Haitian cuisine. This place was AWESOME. Great Happy Hour and great food and ambiance. Our server was superb! Must eat at if you are in Miami.
(4)john m.
What a cool place! The atmosphere was very cool. You eat in painted chairs surrounded by murals of Haitian life. We started with the fried plate. I had the whole fried yellow tail snapper. All very well prepared. Good friendly service. Set in the middle of the Art Deco South Beach this is an ethnic find. Creole food is such a wonderful treat.
(4)Matt R.
this was our first time having haitian food and it was a good experience. we tried the malanga fritters, spicy marinated conch, avocado and tomato salad, and the shrimp in coconut sauce. it was all extremely good and tasted even better with a mojito.
(4)Emilia P.
I expected better! I had been here once before and while the food was good the service was poor yet, I decided to give them a second chance. Yes the food is good, I will not take that from them, the place is also very cute but the service well, is poor and this time, enough for me not to comeback. It took them 50 minutes to serve us the appetizers (it was only 3 of us and the place was empty) after waiting over an hour the waiter came back to tell us that they didn't have one of the dishes we requested so we waited some more. The entire time we were there, nobody came to ask how we where let alone to refill our glasses. As I said, the food was good once we got it, the place is cute and tastefully decorated on the other hand, the prices where not cheap. After the entire meal all I was left with was...why did we wait?. next time I will walk out from any place that makes me wait 1 to 2 hrs for a meal unless the food is to die for, but here? sorry but not worth it.
(2)Katrina C.
okay, so not being haitian and not having eaten in little haiti, i cannot vouch for authenticity, but i LOVE this place. i passed by it many times before realizing it was there, it's kind of a hole in the wall but once you are inside, you can't believe you were missing it. the ambience is fantastic, particularly on weekends when they have live music. the murals on the walls are gorgeous. portions are huge, while i rarely got too adventurous (i think the most i can boast about is trying someone else's fried goat) everything i tried was deelish. there was a drink there that i cannot remember the name of for the life of me, but if you like ridiculously sour things, it's got your name on it. it's basically rum and fresh lime juice. we took almost all of our out-of-town visitors there and it was always appreciated.
(5)Joseluis A.
finally, after years of hearing good things about tap tap... i finally checked in today for lunch. i sat by the bar and ordered a guinness cause they have it on tap ... tap. so, to be honest, my beer was not cold, they musta have just changed kegs, so i had no other choice but to chug it. oh, the sacrifice... the menu looks good but also sorta pricey, two digit numbers all over the place. i ended up getting the goat stew which i compare to clives cafe, that lovely jamaican place on north miami avenue and 28th street. this is the deal, tap tap has better quality goat. lean, less fatty, flavorful .. very meaty chunks. came with rice and beans. a small portion of that and ONE, a SINGLE piece of plantain. for $15? thats a little bit too much in my book. although i liked my meal, i dont think i would just come back here for kicks and giggles .. i rather go to little haiti and find something similar but at 1/2 the price.
(3)Nicole M.
pretty good prices and great flavors. and it's so nice to be somewhere colorful and unique and a bit rustic (quirky in a word) which south beach prides itself on getting away from. only small problem is that things aren't exactly what you'd imagine from the description sometimes. i ordered some sort of stewed chicken but it was really more like roasted chicken that was placed into stew before serving (yes, there's a difference). they definitely have the best fried yucca in town though, good for any "fries" connoseur... you know who you are. i would go back just for that. Also try the face-burning clear hot sauce that's on the table (that my friend requested additional jalapenos for) and a haitian after dinner drink called crema which tastes like super creamy spiked horchata.
(4)Michael Y.
Very cool restaurant. Great art work throughout. Really enjoyed the goat stew and the fish dish that was recommended was delicious.
(5)Sabrina M.
Assuming you didn't know much about Haitian food, or you've never had it before, Tap Tap is a great place to start. But when you go have a meal in Little Haiti, you quickly realize that what you had at Tap Tap was "Haitian lite."
(3)Wona C.
cool colorful Haitian decor welcomes you and i was very excited to try Haitian as an island food lover. but overall, this place didn't do much for me. i ordered their authentic fried pork dish(griyo), they overcooked and I didn't like my dried out pork. but regardless of my food quality, i think it is worth the visit if you want to experience new culture & food.
(3)Sabrina B.
This is the worse excuse for a Haitian restaurant if there ever was one. As a Haitian myself, I grew up eating a lot of the foods on their menu, and let me tell you, some of their entrees are simply not edible. The chef uses so much salt and drowns the food in so much sauce that you can barely identify what you're eating. If you're in Miami and want authentic Haitian, go to Little Haiti, this place is not worth your time and will be VERY disappointing! The decor is interesting and the appetizers are at least edible, but there are FAR better choices in Miami than this place. Save yourself the stomach ache and walk on by, you'll be so glad that you did!!!
(1)Irene W.
I was looking for a dinner place that could accommodate a party of 10, and I chanced upon this place on Yelp. None of us had ever tried Haitian food before, so we really didn't know what to expect. We were not disappointed though - it was delicious and not overly expensive! Including alcohol we spent around $40 a person. I'd definitely come back the next time I'm in Miami. We decided to go family style and order a bunch of dishes to share - the stewed goat, spinach in coconut sauce, shrimp in coconut sauce, oxtail, fried pork chunks, grilled chicken, and a steamed whole fish. The general consensus among our group was that the goat, shrimp, spinach and fried pork were the best, but everything was very flavorful. The coconut sauce was incredibly good - it's the consistency of a thai curry, only with other spices in lieu of curry...so good in fact that we all just wanted to drink the sauce. The goat and the pork were cooked just right and nicely moist, with great flavor. Apparently they're also known for their cocktails, and while I didn't try any of it, my friends LOVED the mojitos and other cocktails on offer. The colorful decor adds to the character of the place, and the service was just about right - not overbearing, but just enough to get what we needed. The server also made some great recommendations on what to order.
(5)Gretchen T.
A real treat for a California kid to try Haitian food. We opted for take out but the restaurant is very festive and has a little bar area where the cool server offered to make us a fresh mojito while we waited. My favorite dishes were the coconut and spinach, and the prawns. We skipped the goat and other more creative dishes but I would try them next time. Note: the prices are cheap but the portions are also small, so order away!
(4)Mel M.
The food's ok, but the people are nice and the atmosphere is amazing. Love just sitting there looking at the stuff on the walls. I've been there on live music nights and it's a lot of fun, but given this is a renovated house and the spaces are narrow, it's LOUD. But it's still the first place I try to talk my friends into going whenever I'm in for a visit.
(4)Carolyn T.
Friday night's dinner was at Tap-Tap. I probably made a mistake by trying to taste too many dishes and sufficed by ordering all of their appetizers; a pumpkin soup which was redolent with mostly large chunks of cabbage and smaller bites of pumpkin but was overall WAY too salty and a platter of goat bits served with a red sauce that was (happily) not too spicy. Then there were the two platters of fried vegetables... One was a sampler platter which included three vegetables and two sauces; the same red goat sauce and a green salsa verde. The other was a duplicate plate of one of the same vegetables. Meaning? When I placed my order, it would have been nice if my server told me that I was ordering the same thing as it was made apparent that I was ordering this way to get a lot of tastes... To their credit, they WERE slammed and my solo meal at the bar took over two hours.
(2)Derkins R.
amazing. if you're in miami, this is a must. went with a group of 9 and got to try a lot of different dishes. they were all so delicious! we need one of these in nyc.
(5)Liza H.
A bright and cheery place. Vibrant fresh tasting food made with primo produce. Grouper in spicy lime/cabbage sauce, Tap tap salad and Goat were very good. Fun Caribbean color scheme with Haitian metal work, paintings, voodoo flags and a late model truck dolled up like a Tap tap give a quirky and fun vibe.
(4)Gourmet G.
With its festive wall murals, brightly painted tabletops, and rotating art, the decor here is as colorful as the jitney buses seen around Haiti, from where the menu draws its inspiration. The pumpkin soup, fried Haitian pork, and shrimp in a spicy Creole sauce were as delicious as I remember them being in Port-au-Prince. Live - and lively - native music adds to the fun in this cramped, noisy restaurant.
(4)Bebe L.
This place is totally overrated. I just ate there last week during my visit to Miami. Seeked out this place mainly because of such good reviews on yelp. I wonder what people ordered that they loved so much. I had the shrimp in coconut sauce, but I couldn't taste any trace of coconut. It tasted like salty, flavorless tomato sauce to me. My boyfriend agreed that it was really bad. I asked the waitress if the dish was really "shrimp in coconut sauce" and she said that it is. Yeah right. My boyfriend had the grilled chicken and that was decent, escpecially when dipping in the green sauce. The avocado salad was good, just nothing I'd want to come back for. That being said, the decor was very nice and colorful. There was a 1-person solo keyboard player/singer and he was pretty good.
(2)Juhani P.
The place looks FUN - very Caribbian - food was good and portions were big. That 'cole slaw' thing was really hot. Way too hot. Watch out for that. Otherwise, the service wasn't that great but if you are not in a hurry, the balcony on is nice place to chill out and watch for Ferraris and Rolls-Royces cruise by.
(4)bridget e.
when you get on board the metaphoric tap tap conveyance, you are transported to a magical tropical realm. upon entering, gone are the notions of pink stucco, sun scorched asphalt, gleaming, pedicured, massaged like kobe beef, sleek delorean riders. an impossible riot of color, murals adorn the edifice. scenes unfold, stories painted in scarlet hibiscus, orange african tulip blossom, lavender jacaranda, mustard spotted orchid, emerald fern tree green, and cobalt sky blue. vivid matriarchs and smiling children, a veritable hustle and bustle of life. we were led into our own room whereupon our cranky matriarch complained about the cold. the server, wisely assessed the situation and suggested i follow him to find a warmer spot. none was found, but he cleverly opened a window, and after struggling valiantly, managed to open another. grandma unlucky was satisfied. the food was excellent. i was leery of ordering krihish kokoye (shrimp in coconut sauce), because experiences with this in lesser eateries invariably materialized as cloying and sickeningly sweet. fortunately this was not the case here, the shrimp in coconut sauce was tender, flavorful and fabulous. we ordered griyo (pork), spinach in coconut sauce, snapper with a spicy scotch bonnet sauce. everything was truly delicious with the exception, as noted by maria, of the rice and beans. sadly, they were out of cabrito (goat) my mojito was excellent and made with my favorite rum, barbancourt. as new york yelper's know, you don't just go with any motoconcho, or tap tap. BABAY! p.s. they have parking!
(5)Drew G.
This place is good. I had one of the fish specialities which was pretty underflavored. My friend had the goat stew and that was really great! Lots of good flavors. Wish the fish had been similar! Other than that, nice staff and great ambience.
(3)Affifa A.
Great place to have a nice time with friends. The ambiance, the live music really brings out the place. The waiters and bartenders are great.
(5)Paul N.
Food ok; waited an hour after they forgot my partners dinner; same thing fr couple next to us:-/
(2)Mike M.
Had a great lunch here yesterday. Cool spot to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful Miami air. First time trying Haitian food and glad I did, the shrimp creole and fried goat chunks were great. Definitely would like to come back and try some more stuff and another Mojito or Guinness.
(4)Joey V.
I had a great time here. I loved the goat tidbits appetizer and the Griyo was outstanding. delicious sides and mojitos as well
(5)Marc D.
a hidden gem in South Beach. best mojito in town, get the whole fish in the sauce for an amazing and very flavorful meal. the quality of the meals far outweighs the pricelist :-)
(5)Erica G.
Oh my god, this mojito changed my life! Ok, not my life, but at that moment, it made me so happy- there were bits of lime floating in it, and fresh mint with just the right amount of sugar cane. The shrimp in coconut sauce with red beans and rice was also amazing- I wanted to slurp my broth like soup, but I chose the more sophisticated method of adding it to my rice and beans. The flavors were amazing. I had to talk my friend into dining here, trying to explain that authentic cuisine is so much better than the tourist trap she wanted to go to- glad I won that argument!
(5)Angela M.
Had acra, lamei and kabrit as suggested by my girlfriend. They were all delicious! My friend is Hatian and she agrees! Nice atmosphere. Will come back when in Miami.
(5)Saiheng S.
I love the color and the goat soupï¼ Semilar to Mongolianï¼ you have to try this.love itï¼ and the ginger soup is good too. spicy. I love the free breadï¼ï¼ kkkkkkkkkk
(4)Abir H.
I would give this place 0 stars, except the foot was actually delicious. The service is rude and non-existent. After a great day on Miami Beach, I headed to Tap Tap on the recommendation of one of my best friends who used to live in Miami. He said I had to go eat here. After ordering a bottle of wine and our food, the waiter was no where to be seen. Finally 30 minutes later her comes by and says our food will take a little longer- which was fine, and he'll bring us more water. Here's where it gets bad, after bringing us our dishes, I again asked for more water (I usually like to drink a lot of water with dinner- especially when drinking wine). At this point I'd been there for an hour, and all 3 of our glasses were empty for at least 45 minutes. I asked him again for water, and he just walked away. Finally maybe 15 minutes after finishing our meal I got the attention of another female waiter who did bring us water maybe 15 minutes after that. While the food was good and we wanted desert, we weren't going to sit there any longer so we asked for the check. Unfortunately we had too. After asking for our check, we waited a solid 30 minutes...and still didn't get our check. Finally having to leave, I just walked up and found the waiter asking him to give me the check. He didn't even say sorry once and worse gave me an attitude for having approached him about it. So I said to him you could at least apologize to me, the customer who's paying a $100+ bill at the restaurant...and he just walked away. So I spoke to an assistant manager who offered us 3 free drinks if we came back again (which is never happening). I just said I simply wanted any apology. The assistant manager gets the waiter and he looks at me and says "I apologized to you twice I'm not apologizing again." And that was that. Never going back there. Absolutely worst service experience I've ever had...and I live in New York...
(1)Aubrey S.
Saw this place on Trippin Out with Allie and Georgia on the Food Network. We've never tried Haitian food, so thought we would check it out. I think the mojitos won an award, but they were pretty basic mojitos in my opinion. The water was infused with fruit and was really delicious. I got goat stew and my husband got braised beef and the food was really good. The decor/art/furniture was really cool. One star off for similar complaint as other reviewers...the service is just meh. We stood around the hostess stand for a while before someone came out. One person even saw us and walked away. Service was a little slow but nothing to keep me from coming back there.
(4)Candice C.
The only reason it didn't get 5 out of 5 is because of the lack of air conditioning however it is the best food I have had in South Beach in the 3 times that I've been there. Everyday is a new specialty rice and bean that is used which is nice for the person that goes there often but I really with I could've gotten the black rice that I'd been thinking about for weeks lol. Anywho the service was good, the food was excellent. I am not Haitian, but I know good food when I taste it. The interior art as well as the exterior gives you a feel for the culture. I loved it and recommend it and hope the business grows and expands to new places.
(4)Shirley Z.
Just not my thing I guess. :( After yelping/bothering every cab driver we had in SoBe. We finally ended up at this super down to earth restaurant that everyone's been raving about. Me and my boyfriend made it a goal of ours to hit up all the best reviewed dives/holes in the wall/ funky restaurants, and tap tap was unfortunately a miss for us. Pros: * Employees were super friendly and helpful with everything. * Best mojito I had in miami. * Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) was fried perfectly! The quality of the fish was fresh, tender and just perfectly cooked. * Love the mural and the use of all decors. It felt very sincere & authentic. * Spicy pickled cabbage was BOMB-DIGGITY! Cons: * Coming from the south, I am very spoiled by all the amazing fried food. Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creol dipping sauce) from Tap Tap was not my BFF. I was expecting the meat to be fried with a coat of batter, tender+juicy, and the dipping sauce to be more of a thicker/creamier texture. Boy was I wrong. It was the complete opposite. * Grito (fried pork/most popular dish) was cooked the same exact way as the Taso Kabrit. Not my cup of tea. *Pwason Gwosel (whole yellowtail) although was fried perfectly. It lacked a bit of seasoning in my opinion. We so badly wanted to love the food but unfortunately it was not a win for us. Service & Authenticity: 4.5 stars food & taste: 3 stars...sorry
(3)Hakim W.
We made a reservation. Showed up and stood there for 15 minutes or more waiting to be seated. Staff bustled passed us and not one acknowledged us. Even if you are under staffed you can briefly acknowledge the customer. Poor customer service doesn't leave a good impression.
(1)Stan C.
In connection with the 9/5/2013 one star reveiw, I was at Tap Tap the night all this went down (Sunday Sept 1), and the idiot (as evidenced by his spelling and grammar skills) who wrote this review is an embarrassment. My companion and I were dining in the front room, when we heard a commotion towards the back. We looked up to see 2 ratchet girls and the reviewer yelling at the staff about the amount of their bill. They appeared drunk. This shouting went on to varying degrees for about ten minutes, at which time other staff stopped what they were doing in order to try and resolve the situation. These kids rejected all of the staff's offers of contrition and ultimately demanded that their server come out and apologize to them (for what, no one is sure of). The server offered up an apology, but that was not enough - the reviewer berated the server like a schoolyard bully. To the delight of the many other diners at Tap Tap, the reviewer finally left. In case there was any doubt as to how the others in the restaurant felt about the reviewer's tantrum, as he was leaving a fine looking local told him she hopes to never see him at Tap Tap again. Everyone else applauded and thanked the reviewer for making their dining experience so unpleasant, albeit temporarily unpleasant. Good luck in Queens, Abir. Try Atlantic City next Labor Day weekend - it's more your style.
(5)Taline C.
I was super excited to try this Haitian Restaurant for the first time; to put it mildly the experience and the food was subpar at best. The restaurant location is great although parking is non existing; we enter only to have to wait for 10 minutes before the hostess comes to greet us. When she finally arrives she tells us that the wait would be 15 minutes before we could be seated, not because there are no tables but because they have no food ready...what?! At this point we are ready to go to the Cuban spot I always go to when I'm in town but they are closed:( We wait for 20 minutes and finally are given a table. The table is not clean and there is a puddle of water left; takes 10 minutes before we can catch anyone attention to clean up the mess. When the waitress finally arrives she informs us that over half of the menu is not available. We are limited to a beef dish, legume, fish dishes and a conch dish. They have run out of everything including RICE!!! This is sacrilegious, what Haitian restaurant worth a grain of salt runs out of rice on a holiday weekend. We finally order and get the food to realize its lukewarm. By this time my goal is to eat and leave because we are beyond disappointed. This place may have been on diners, drive ins and dives but they must have gotten their act together because they new Guy was coming. I love to support my Haitian businesses and culture but I will not come back to this place again; I can go home and get better food from my mom!
(2)O E.
I feel that this is just another restaurant that Guy Fieri and his show ruined. I was sat by the bar for and early dinner. I wanted to order the chicken stew but they ran out of it ...at 5pm? The staff recommended the grilled chicken, so I ordered that. It took about 30 minutes for me to get this. Meanwhile, the waitress apologized for the delay and served me some fried goat, which was decent if its your taste... So 30 minutes later my chicken arrives with rice and fried plantains. The chicken breast was overcooked, dry, and flavorless. The chicken thigh was raw, and only cooked on the outside. This was the worst grilled chicken I have ever tasted. I would recommend going to pollo tropical instead. The rice was very good. Once the server saw the the chicken was raw, she comped the meal. But still I would never go back.
(1)Charles L.
Service sucked. Griot was very good. Very small portions considering the price you pay for cheap Caribbean food. I can get twice the food for 5 dollars cheaper in a North Miami Haitian restaurant that is just as good.
(3)David S.
This is a great place for Haitian food. I come here every time I go to Miami. The stewed goat is especially good! And the restaurant is covered in Haitian murals.
(4)K D.
The bartender's special cocktails are amazing, the food was scrumptious and the live music was good too. Ive been in Miami for the past few days, soaking up the sun while the Northeast is cold, a little quiet and just a little bleak after the holiday sparkle has been packed away for next year. While here, I have been trying to find some food and drink that is both creative and tasty while being authentic (or as authentic as Miami can dish up given how new places appear for a year and vanish without a trace the next and also Miami is not exactly known for locally sourced, good-tasting and creative foods...just saying). So we started off at the Broken Shaker - a favorite place of mine. Still great cocktails, creative and semi-affordable with a fun poolside scene. I was totally impressed with the food we had...awesome takes on Haitian classics such as codfish fritters - good with lots of fresh herbs and spicy veggies alongside. An off-duty bartender told me that if I preferred a more authentic atmosphere with actual Haitian cooks and even moire affordable tropical inspired cocktails then we should make our way to Tap Tap. On our way south, we stopped by the new Rum Line over at Loews...enjoyed another round of awesome cocktails and a cool breezy atmosphere and great conversation. Didn't order up any nibbles here as when we mentioned we were headed to Tap Tap some friendly bar patrons overheard us and re-raved to us about it...but advised that we go there mid-week so that we could experience the cocktails as made by the newer bartender who is making some of the best cocktails on the beach. That sealed the deal. It was Thursday. We went to Tap Tap, our last stop for the evening. When we sat at the bar, we were presented with a small taste of the barman's special cocktail of the night and Wow... it was FANTASTIC. I ordered one of those and was dazzled by his special drink with ginger and coconut water and a bunch of other flavors (did I taste banana?) My friend was hoping for an equally inspired cocktail made with gin (mind you - this bar is hardly a "bar" as it has only a few bottle of rum and maybe a couple of other options on an otherwise minimalist back bar) and so Gary, our friendly and professional bartender, inquired whether he preferred "sweet/fruity, tart, boozy or balanced?" To which my friend replied "balanced". He instantly whipped up a gin cocktail with guava and lime and a few other ingredients that blew us away. Absolutely delicious and inspired. Mmmmmmm! We feasted on an assorted appetizer platter of various fried goodies, whole fish and rice (how can plain white rice taste so good?) and a salad with lambi (chonch) and a watercress dressing and hot spicy cabage. Fabulous. To our left was a woman visiting from England, who was equally wowed by the special libations (she had 3), and who generously shared her food selections with us, and we shared ours with her...and a great evening was had by all.
(5)Jennifer W.
A must try restaurant in Miami Beach! It is definitely the best! I Like the coconut sauce so much! It is sooooo good! And the cornmeal with black beans is also very special and I love it so much. I came to this restaurant at noon and there was not much people in there but you will probably expect more people in dinner time. So just come earlier if you don't want to wait in line!
(5)S C.
STAY AWAY!! This place doesn't represent authentic good Haitian food at all. Had a reservation at 8pm didn't get seated till 20 mins later. After being seated was told they ran out of rice and beans, fish, shrimp, pork etc...after waiting an entire hour of nothing to drink and no food and no sign of our waiter I asked for my food to go leaving the rest of my party to wait. Surprisingly that only took 5 min to arrive. The food tasted BLAND not good at all. My party said they waited an additional 30 min after I left for there food which was also flavorless. Tip was included which the waiter would of never gotten from me since he basically forgot about us. Oh and no parking at all I had to park my car in a very dark public parking lot down the street and walk through some crackheads to get to it. Please save yourself the stress and money.
(1)Jessie L.
I love this place. This is THE place for great quality Haitian food. I tried this place back in 2009 with my boyfriend and a few friends, we took out some food and brought it back to my friend's condo on the beach. I didn't think it was all that great then. I got the griot (pork chunks) with pikliz (spicy vegetables) and sweet plantains. The griot was very good quality meat with hardly any fat and very succulent but the pikliz were terrible! They didn't taste good at all. And we all know that you can't have griot without good pikliz on top. The sweet plantains were also very good. Now, last month, my boyfriend and I decided to give this place another try. This time I ordered the poule nan sos (free-range chicken). This was AMAZING. It comes with a half of a chicken that they cook in it's own juices, rice & beans which were VERY flavorful, and green plantains. I normally get the green plantains when I eat Haitian food, but this time I substituted it for the fried sweet potatoes. I gave the pikliz on the table another try and they have also greatly improved to perfection. This dish was so flavorful that you didn't even need to add the pikliz. My boyfriend ordered the griot again and said that it was excellent. I'll definitely be back here soon!
(5)Kaneesha P.
Yesterday evening, I went to Tap Tap with my partner and two of our close friends. Three members of our group are Jamaican American, so we wanted to experience the some of the best Caribbean food Miami Beach has to offer. We were not disappointed. First, the interior of the restaurant is striking. The walls and tables display colorful scenes and landscapes, making this also a site of public art. I'd like to learn more about the artist or artists. I was unsure about what I would be able to order, as I have a severe dairy allergy and am recently gluten free. (Jamaican food does not normally rely on cream or butter.) When I shared my concerns with the server, he was receptive, advised me on what could be adapted, and spoke to the chef about my order. We waited 20-25 minutes for our food, but the wait was likely due to my dietary restrictions. While we waited, I had a glass of their refreshing limeade. I didn't try the bread and butter, but it smelled incredible and my friends seemed to really enjoy the texture and flavor. Ultimately, I ordered the goat stew, which comes with mixed rice and beans and fried plantains. I loved it! The goat was tender and well-seasoned, but not overly salty, and the rice was satisfying. The plantains were good, though they were more starchy than the over-ripe Jamaican preparation to which I'm accustomed. The prices are higher than I'm used to paying for Caribbean fare, but it was worth every penny.
(5)Eric K.
Great, charming, little SoBe spot... not too far out of the way / nice reprieve from the busier areas. Staff was super cool... We sat near the bar so drinks came extra quick - Good $8 mojitos are a real bargain.. We split a cpl sides (awesome spinach) and the whole poached fish which was really amazing.. Done in what must hv been homemade fish stock w lime juice and herbs. Very nicely done / large portion.... Similar to the steamed whole steamed fish at SriPraPhai or other good Thai places, but better. All about the broth.. French influence in full force w this dish. The whole meal w a cpl rounds was less than $60. The ambience was really cute too - simple furniture / layout but lots of fascinating custom mural work everywhere and some excellent live music on Saturday night. Tap Tap was pretty much my first experience at a real Haitian restaurant and I'll be back / will try to seek out something comparable here in NYC next time I'm in the mood for unique, cheap sea food, but I'm not holding my breath that I'll find anything here as good. Thumbs up.
(4)Rodd P.
Nice restaurant with outdoor sitting, service is great food is amazing, if you are in south beach or anywhere in south Florida you must stop here , it'll remind you of Haïti
(5)Steve T.
We ate here on 6/5/2014 at their outdoor space and mostly enjoyed the experience. The hostess, waitress, and male food runner were very pleasant, attentive and helpful but the female food runner was surly and somewhat rude. When a customer thanks you for the food you've just delivered a blank look is not the correct response. Everything was very quite prepared and extremely flavorful. I ordered the goat and while it was very good thought it could have used a little more cooking time as some of it was fairly difficult to eat. The only other real negative was the very long wait we had to get our check. There was another table outside waiting for their bill as well and in the end we both ended up having to go inside to request it at the bar. This was at 10:45 and while they had been very busy earlier in the evening things had quieted considerably by then.
(4)Cristina W.
This is the perfect restaurant if you just want to chill out w/a group of friends and eat great food. I love their live music and chill ambiance. Plus, the food is also excellent. We always order the plantains, that are not overly fried or greasy. Oh, and don't forget their art murals and artifacts.. This is somewhere I'd definitely bring some touristy friends, who want a taste of what Miami is really like.
(5)Kristi K.
Menu Choices: Wide-range of selections from the Tap Tap salad to Legumes to Fish to Goat. Food: Yes Lawd! If you know me you know I have an affinity for goat. Every time I see that on the menu at a Caribbean restaurant it is my "when in doubt" meal. They didn't have the stewed goat that I had my last visit so I had the Taso Kabrit (fried goat tidbit with spicy creole dipping sauce). I was going to save this as a "tip" BUT by fried they don't mean "southern fried". You are not going to get a crispy layer, so if that's what you are looking for you might be disappointed. It was definitely a homemade taste, which I can appreciate. Is is the height of culinary mastery? Not so much. Service: I wasn't fall awed by the service, but we really didn't give him much to do. The orders were taken well, and came out promptly. That's good in my book. Environment: I can go on and on about the environment. From the outside you have no idea about the rich vibrant world you are going to embark on. From the painted chairs, to the beautiful wall murals (that I could have stared at all day), it is a great space. The band was great and definitely made you swear you are on the short of Port-au-Prince. What to Wear: Whatever your heart desires but you can really leave the body cons in the closet (it's not that kind of party) Overall: Strong 4. Would I go again?: It is definitely on my Miami recommendations for friends, because the locals already know about it. A couple of tips: 1. There is a live band on Thursday that definitely heightens the whole experience. 2. They are known for their Mojitos.... kinda sweet but does that dang thing.
(4)Valerie C.
In South Beach, you HAVE to try this. The Bef Kalalou Ak Mayi Moulin (Beef and okra) was plate-lickable. I normally don't finish beans & rice, but nearly licked that bowl too. Brought some take out back to my husband who was skeptical about Haitian food. One bite, his eyes bulged out as he said "we're going back". Star demerit for the prices, a bit more than expected but I may need to spend more time in SB to realize most everything costs a bit more here. My husband didn't seem to think it was expensive so there you have it. Ambience is cool, every square inch is hand painted. Staff is friendly amd attentive.
(4)Collin C.
Overpriced! Lousy $9 rum punch. Watched servers use left behind used napkins and half drank ice water to wipe tables down for next guest. Food was just ok. If this represents Haitian food well, than I'm never going to Haiti. Our waiter though was very pleasant.
(2)Brian C.
We stopped in based on a New Times recommendation, as this place recently won the "Best Mojito" award. How could we not stop in for a mojito while in Miami? The mojito fully deserved the award and was by far the best mojito I've ever had. I wish we were hungry then, because the food we saw looked and smelled delicious. The staff was very friendly and the ambiance was awesome. Cool place.
(5)Rene R.
Great customer service but they took forever to bring our food! 2 hours of our trip wasted!!! Not good when it is your first time to Miami!
(3)Nathan E.
I love this restaurant. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best in the world. It's definitely one of my favorites. First, the menu. Despite the huge Haitian population in Miami, there aren't a lot of Haitian restaurants. And this is the best one. You're getting something here that you're not going to get anywhere else outside of Haiti. Start with the pumpkin soup. Try the Pwason Gwosel (Whole fish in lime sauce) as your main. The coconut-cremed spinach is my favorite side dish. And a natif is a great cocktail, and I bet you'll never find it at another restaurant. But all the dishes are good, so if you're with company, get a bunch of stuff and share. Secondly, the decor. The taptap parked on Fifth Street in front of the restaurant establishes the Haitian ambiance. (If you don't know what a taptap is, ask the owner - he loves any excuse to talk about Haitian culture!) The walls of the restaurant are all hand-painted murals, mostly depicting Haitian Iwa (Again, ask if you don't know!) I love the room with the pair of facing Erzulies (Danto and Freda), and also the painting of the happy village in the music room. All the chairs, tables and everything else is hand-painted too with decorative patterns of lively colors. Not only is every corner of this restaurant interesting to look at, it's distinctly non-trendy and non-corporate. There's really nothing else like it on South Beach. Next, the live music. It's free live music! How often do you see that on South Beach. The band is great, the singers are great. It's a mixture of French jazz and popular Haitian folk music. Often the whole thing turns into a big sing-along. And the prices are damn cheap for what you're getting. Ok, the draw-backs: (1) It's hard to get a decent table on a weekend night, especially if you want to sit in the "music room" (2) the layout of the place is kinda funky for live music. Let me explain: The place comprises a series of small rooms with only a few tables in each. If you're sitting in the "music room" then expect that you won't be able to have a conversation while the band is playing because it's so loud in there, and expect that the room is so cramped that you're probably going to have an instrumentalist leaning on your table for balance - if not playing directly over your head. On the other hand, if you sit any place else besides the "music room," then you won't be able to see the band at all. You can hear them through the thin walls, but that's it. I always try to reserve the "music room" when I go to Tap Tap. I love the music, and live music is more interesting to me than dinner conversation. Besides there's always a chance to talk during breaks and before and after they go on. It's like a free concert with great food. I love it. It makes me want to plan a trip to Haiti.
(5)Max S.
Such a unique place. Don't get to come here as often as I'd like but its always on my mind! Great Ambiance! Their is ART all over the walls! Great food! and sometimes they have live music.
(4)Jason J.
The love the look and feel of this restaurant. The service was awesome and the waitress was very informative. The location isn't that great because they don't have a parking lot.
(4)Jessica J.
We stumbled upon Tap Tap after realizing that Joe's Take away closed for the season and I'm so glad we did! We ate on a Thursday night and they had an awesome band playing in the back. I loved all the colorful murals and our server was great. He warned us on spice levels of dishes, suggested complimenting sides etc. For an app we ordered the conch ceviche and it was so good we ordered another! For our meal I had the shrimp in coconut sauce spicy and my husband got the grouper. Both were delicious! We had the upside down pineapple rum cake for dessert and while the flavors were there it was oddly crumbly texture for a cake. I would try another option. We will be back!
(4)Brian G.
Tap Tap has 5 food and 3 service all be it friendly, but who cares, it is unique, has music, brightly colored murals, all over the walls as well as, smaller more private rooms etc. the food is fantastic. the goat, conch, chicken, fish, drinks etc etc. it is a great place to celebrate or just go for dinner. when there is music, it can get loud. they have a small bar in front, 2 tables outside and an upstairs for big events. so there is no need to travel to little Haiti!! the prices are also reasonable for South Beach.
(4)Ashley N.
Never had Haitian food before but after trying tap tap I LOVE IT!! Had the pork!! Just amazing and perfect amount of juiciness ! A must try. Mojito was good as well.
(5)Feyi B.
I would come back to Miami just for this place. First time having Haitian food and consider me SOLD! There arent many international food places that are non-hispanic, so when i was feigning some caribbean food, this was the closest i could find. The place is really colorful, nice live band playing, super friendly staff and food to make you SLAP your mom! (not really slap her, but you get me. notice i didnt say slap MY mom). I had oxtails, coconut spinach, fritters and this concoction thats like an oatmeal mixed with beans or something. Everything was to die for. The ONLY reason i didnt give this place 5*'s is because they kept running out of stuff, which was annoying. I wanted goat, but they ran out. I wanted fried plantains, but they ran out. I wanted bread, but they ran out... I mean..... Only thing i wasnt a big fan of was the fritters, maybe if the sauce was different.... idk. a lil tangier than i wld've liked.
(4)