About 94th Aero Squadron
The 94th Aero Squadron in Miami is a unique aviation-themed steakhouse that immerses diners in World War I history . Opened around 1975 (with the kitchen “serving satisfied customers for over 45 years” ), it recreates a 1917-era French airfield. The exterior and dining room are styled as a Normandy farmhouse hangar filled with authentic period memorabilia. Tallichet’s concept was to “draw visitors into World War I” with replica fighter planes and rustic buildings . The restaurant spans about 5,000 sq ft and seats roughly 220–240 guests (220 for banquet-style dinners) , with an additional outdoor patio. Its signature feature is the long row of picture windows overlooking Miami International Airport – you can watch takeoffs and landings from every table . Each table even provides headphones tuned to live air-traffic-control communications . This one-of-a-kind blend of dining and aviation (named after the real WWI “Hat in the Ring” 94th Aero Squadron, which produced ace Eddie Rickenbacker ) has made the 94th Aero Squadron a beloved fixture in Miami’s restaurant scene.
Events and Programming
The 94th Aero Squadron primarily operates as a restaurant, but it also hosts regular live entertainment and special meal events. Notably, Weekend evenings feature live music: a Latin band typically performs in the lounge Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (roughly 8:30–11:30 PM) . Sunday mornings bring a Champagne brunch buffet (10:00 AM–3:00 PM) with a variety of breakfast and lunch offerings . Outside of routine dining hours, the venue is frequently booked for private functions. The main “Nieuport Room” (56′×43′) serves as a banquet hall that can seat up to 220 guests for a sit-down dinner , and further details (AV equipment, dance floor, etc.) can be arranged. The restaurant provides full-service catering and custom event packages for corporate outings, weddings or large parties . There is no separate ticketing or cover charge – guests simply reserve (or walk in for) their table and pay per dish. Typical dinner entrées run in the $20–$40 range (steaks, seafood, pasta), and currency is accepted via major credit cards. Special events (holiday dinners, group packages, etc.) are announced on the restaurant website and may have fixed pricing.
Reservations and Booking
The 94th Aero Squadron is essentially a dinner restaurant, so there is no box office or ticketed admission. Instead, guests make reservations much like at any upscale eatery. Reservations are highly recommended for Friday/Saturday nights, holiday weekends, and the popular Sunday brunch. Tables can be booked online via the restaurant’s website or by phone. Large groups or private-event inquiries (weddings, corporate dinners) should contact the events staff in advance to customize menus, AV setups, and seating configurations . For typical dinners, simply showing up is an option if space permits, but expect a wait during peak hours. Walk-ins are accommodated whenever possible. All patrons pay for the food and drinks they order; there is no separate cover or ticket fee for live music. Standard dining etiquette applies (auto-gratuity is not imposed but tips around 15–20% are customary). Finally, verify hours and availability ahead of time, as the kitchen closes between brunch and dinner on Sundays, and the restaurant is closed on Mondays .
Seating and Layout
The main dining hall, called the “Nieuport Room,” measures about 56×43 feet and is arranged in banquet-style seating. It can accommodate about 220 seated guests (no-dancing layout) . Alternative setups (e.g. theater seating) can fit up to 240 guests . The hall is lined with large picture windows facing the airport runways, so nearly every table has an airplane view . A portable bar is often set up along one side, and a small stage/backdrop exists on the lounge end for live music. An adjacent outdoor patio and lounge area provides additional seating in fair weather. In practice, the best seats are those closest to the windows for clear runway views, but every seat can see outside. If you prefer less noise, sitting away from the stage (or farther back from planes) may help. All seating is on one level; there are no balconies. Acoustically, the room can be lively when the band plays or jets fly, so conversation is often done at a moderate tone. There are no general-admission or standing areas – all patrons are seated at tables (with the exception of occasional dancing when an event calls for it). The venue spans roughly 5,000 sq ft in total , with a maximum capacity of about 240 people indoors (plus outdoor areas).
Getting There and Parking
The 94th Aero Squadron is located at 1395 NW 57th Avenue in Miami (near NW 12th Street), just north of the Miami International Airport complex. It sits close to major roads (the Palmetto Expressway, SR-826, and NW 12th Street are nearby), making it convenient by car. The restaurant offers free on-site parking for all guests . There are plenty of spaces in the on-site lot (including designated accessible spaces for disabled vehicles) , but keep in mind it can fill up on busy nights. For public transit, the closest options are the Miami Airport tri-rail/metrorail station and the local Metrobus routes. For example, Metrobus routes 7 and 57 run along NW 7th Street (within a few blocks of NW 57th Ave) , and Tri-Rail/Metrorail service to the Miami-Airport Station (just east of the restaurant) is available; from there a short taxi or bus will reach the restaurant. Some airport-area hotels (such as the Homewood Suites by Hilton, Pullman/Regency, Sonesta/Regency, DoubleTree and Holiday Inn Express) are within 0.5–1 mile . Many of these hotels run complimentary shuttles to MIA (and some may come close by the restaurant). Rideshare drop-offs are allowed at the front entrance. Late-night transportation: taxis and ride-hailing (Uber/Lyft) work well, but local buses stop service around midnight.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, you’ll find a spacious, dimly lit dining room with high wooden-beam ceilings and aviation decor at every turn. The atmosphere is casual but lively – expect the sound of distant jet engines and occasional music from the lounge. The restaurant has a full bar, so cocktails, beer and wine are available (the menu includes an international wine selection and beer drafts). The food menu offers classic American/Continental dishes: prime steaks (e.g. filet mignon, rib-eye), seafood (shrimp, salmon, etc.), pasta and salads . One specialty starter is the “beer cheese” soup (a house recipe), and hush puppies or cornbread often accompany meals. A children’s menu is also offered, and a Champagne brunch buffet is held each Sunday (buffet price includes unlimited mimosas or champagne). Restrooms are located inside and are ADA-compliant. There is no coat check. The restaurant is family-friendly and does not enforce a strict dress code – most guests wear business-casual or smart-casual attire. Photography and smartphone use are fine (many diners photograph the planes); service animals are permitted (though personal pets are not). Guests should not bring outside food or drink. Free Wi-Fi is typically available for customers. Overall, expect attentive table service in a unique venue; tip staff as you would in any sit-down restaurant.
Nearby Amenities
The 94th Aero Squadron is fairly isolated, surrounded mostly by airport property and hotel blocks. There are few standalone restaurants or bars within walking distance aside from a convenience store/gas station nearby. If needed, however, several hotel dining and lounge options lie within a 0.5–1 mile radius. For example, the Homewood Suites (0.3 miles away) , Hyatt Place (Pullman/Regency area), Sonesta/Regency, DoubleTree and Holiday Inn Express hotels all have on-site restaurants and bars that the public can use. Many Miami hotels in this area provide shuttles to and from Miami Airport, which may drop you off a short walk from the 94th. For late-night drinks after dining, you’ll likely rely on a ride-share to take you to a nearby nightclub or bar (since the restaurant itself closes by 11 PM). If you’re driving, note that valet parking is not offered, but the free lot is large. In summary, most visitors simply dine at the 94th itself rather than seeking pre- or post-dinner nightlife in the immediate vicinity.
What Makes This Venue Special
The 94th Aero Squadron stands out because it offers a truly singular experience in Miami. You literally dine among World War I artifacts: the interior feels like an aviation museum, complete with replica SPAD biplanes hanging from the rafters and original squadron banners. In effect, you’re eating in a WWI airfield hangar . The restaurant’s lore is real – it honors the U.S. Army Air Service’s 94th “Hat in the Ring” pursuit squadron, America’s first air-combat unit in WWI (flies in combat, downing 69 enemy planes) – and memorabilia and names (like the “Nieuport Room” banquet hall) reflect that history . Over decades, the 94th has become a local legend: travelers and aviation fans often recommend it as a “must-visit” in Miami. It even won travel and diner awards for its novelty and cuisine. Every detail – from the rustic French-farmhouse facade to the ambient jet engine sounds – reinforces the theme. In short, this restaurant is special not just for its food (which many patrons enjoy for its quality) but for its immersive storytelling. It links Miami’s present to its aeronautical heritage, making dining here memorable in a way you won’t find elsewhere in the city.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan ahead. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and open late (Tue–Thu 11am–10pm, Fri–Sat until 11pm, Sunday brunch 10am–3pm, dinner 5–10pm) . Safety: arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your reservation time to get seated.
Reservations are strongly recommended on weekend nights and for Sunday brunch, as the restaurant fills up. Walk-ins are welcome if space is available.
Live music starts at 8:30pm on Thursday–Saturday , so book an early dinner if you want to enjoy the show. (Note: the lounge and band close around 11:30pm.)
Dress is casual. Many diners wear collared shirts, jeans, or casual dresses. No formal coat-and-tie is needed, but avoid beachwear or shorts if you want to fit in.
Children are allowed and get a special menu; service animals are permitted (personal pets are not). It’s a family-friendly place, but keep an eye on youngsters when planes roar by.
Photography is fine – guests love taking pics out the windows or of the planes on the wall. Feel free to bring a camera or binoculars for spotting planes.
Food and drink rules: Outside alcohol or outside food is not permitted (Florida law forbids open containers). The full bar offers cocktails, beer and wine. Don’t forget to tip your server (18–20% is customary).
The restaurant can be noisy when jets or music are loud. If you prefer a quieter meal, request a table away from the bar/stage or weather conditions. Earplugs can help sensitive ears, though most diners find the noise part of the fun.
Free parking is available on-site (including handicapped spaces). If using rideshare or taxi, drop-off is at the front entrance. Public transit options are limited late at night, so plan accordingly.
In good weather, outdoor patio seating is pleasant; otherwise, the entire indoor hall is climate-controlled. There’s no coat check (Miami rarely needs it!).
Credit cards are accepted everywhere. The staff can split checks for larger groups if asked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket or cover charge to eat at the 94th Aero Squadron?
No. The 94th Aero Squadron operates like a normal restaurant. There is no cover charge or entrance ticket – you simply pay for the food and drinks you order. Even on live-music nights, admission is free with dinner. To get a table you book a reservation or walk in; there are no separate show tickets.
How do I make a reservation at the 94th Aero Squadron?
Reservations can be made online through the restaurant’s website or by phone. It’s best to book well in advance for weekend evenings, holidays, or large parties. Those planning private events (weddings, corporate dinners, etc.) should contact the restaurant’s event staff to arrange catering, audio/visual equipment, and seating. For regular dining, simply pick a date, time and party size, and the host will seat you at your table when you arrive.
What is the price range at the 94th Aero Squadron?
The 94th Aero Squadron is moderately priced for a steakhouse. Most appetizers and entrées fall in the $20–$40 range. For example, steaks and seafood entrées are often in the mid-$20s to low-$30s. (There is also a kids’ menu with lower-priced items.) The Sunday brunch buffet is a fixed price (including beverages), typically around the low $30s per person. No cover or extra fees are added beyond the menu prices and any tax and tip.
Is there free parking at the 94th Aero Squadron?
Yes. The restaurant provides a large free parking lot for diners . Spaces are available on a first-come basis, with additional accessible parking stalls for disabled guests. Valet parking is not offered (it is complimentary self-park). On busy nights the lot can fill up, so it’s wise to arrive a little early or be prepared to wait for a spot.
How can I use public transit to reach the 94th Aero Squadron?
Public transit options are somewhat limited. The closest rapid-transit station is the Miami Airport Station (Tri-Rail/Metrorail) a short drive east of the restaurant. From there you would need a taxi or bus. Several Metrobus routes serve NW 57th Ave – specifically routes 7 and 57 pass near NW 7th St/NW 57th Ave , which is within walking distance. However, there is no direct airport shuttle to the restaurant. Most visitors arrive by car or rideshare (Uber/Lyft).
How far is the 94th Aero Squadron from Miami International Airport?
The restaurant is adjacent to Miami International Airport. In fact, it overlooks one of the main runways. It’s only about a 1–2 mile drive from the airport terminals (5–10 minutes by car, depending on traffic). Many guests simply drive or take a taxi from the airport. It’s not practical to walk directly from the terminals (it would be about one mile along busy roadways).
What is the seating capacity of the 94th Aero Squadron?
The restaurant can accommodate roughly 240 people indoors at maximum. In banquet configuration it seats about 220 diners . (As a comparison, theater-style seating can fit 240.) There is also an outdoor patio and lounge area that can hold additional guests in good weather. The main dining room (the “Nieuport Room”) measures about 56×43 feet and includes a portable bar if needed , so it can be reconfigured for large private events.
Are children allowed at the 94th Aero Squadron?
Absolutely. The 94th Aero Squadron is family-friendly. A children’s menu is available with smaller portions and kid-friendly options. Parents often bring children to the Sunday brunch buffet. Keep in mind that the restaurant can be loud (with airplanes and sometimes music), so it’s best suited for kids who enjoy excitement. There is no minimum age requirement; infants and babies are welcome.
Are pets allowed at the 94th Aero Squadron?
Only service animals are allowed inside the restaurant . This includes guide dogs or other service animals for guests with disabilities. No other pets (such as dogs, cats or the like) are permitted. The patio area is not designated for pets either. If you have a service animal, inform the staff upon arrival so they can seat you appropriately.
Is the 94th Aero Squadron wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue is fully wheelchair-accessible. It offers accessible parking spaces , wide entryways, and accessible restrooms . The dining room is on one level, and pathways inside are spacious enough for a wheelchair. The restaurant is compliant with ADA standards, and staff can assist with any special seating needs.
Is there a dress code for dining at the 94th Aero Squadron?
No strict dress code is enforced. The atmosphere is relaxed, but guests tend to dress in smart-casual attire (for example, collared shirts or blouses, jeans or slacks). You will see both casually dressed locals and business travelers. While polo shirts and jeans are fine, avoid overly casual beachwear or gym clothes to fit the setting. In short: neat, comfortable attire is recommended.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to the 94th Aero Squadron?
No. Outside food and alcoholic beverages are not allowed. The restaurant has its own full kitchen and bar, and by law only food and drink purchased on the premises may be consumed inside. Children’s birthday cakes or specialty desserts can be offered by the restaurant if arranged in advance; otherwise please reserve such items through the staff. In general, plan to order everything from the menu and bar once you arrive.
Can I take photos or video inside the 94th Aero Squadron?
Yes. Photography and videography are welcome at the 94th Aero Squadron. Most guests take pictures of the planes, décor, and runway views. Feel free to use your phone or camera to capture the experience. The only restrictions would be flash photography if it interferes with other diners, or filming the staff without permission. Otherwise snap away – it’s part of the fun.
What are the operating hours of the 94th Aero Squadron?
The hours vary by day. Currently: Closed Mondays. Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM. Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM. Sunday has split hours – Brunch buffet 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, then closed for a break, and dinner service from 5:00 PM–10:00 PM . (These hours can change seasonally, so it’s best to check the latest schedule on their website or call ahead.)
Are there other 94th Aero Squadron restaurants?
Yes, the 94th Aero Squadron began as a chain concept by David Tallichet’s Specialty Restaurants. As of now, there are sister locations in California (San Diego and Van Nuys) that use the same name and theme . However, the Miami location is the only one in Florida. Each operates independently under the same homage to aviation history.
What does “94th Aero Squadron” refer to?
It refers to the real World War I U.S. Army Air Service unit. The 94th Aero Squadron (nicknamed the “Hat in the Ring Gang”) was America’s first operational fighter squadron in WWI. It was based in France in 1917–18 and included famous pilots like Eddie Rickenbacker . The restaurant’s theme and décor pay tribute to that squadron’s history.
