Miami Beach is a nightlife paradise in Florida, but not only! The My Party Bible team left on a quest to find the best bars in Miami downtown and Miami Beach. The offering is large; from intimate bars for a quiet drink to high-energy spots for those seeking an unforgettable night out or fancy cocktails for the connoisseur, a craft beer for a chilled evening. At the end, if you are simply looking for a great time in Miami, the perfect bar to match your mood is in this list.
Ball & Chain
The Ball & Chain establishment on Calle Ocho pays homage to a renowned 1930s venue that hosted legendary jazz icons such as Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Chet Baker.
Featuring a beverage selection crafted by esteemed mixologists from the Regent Cocktail Club, nightly live music, salsa dance sessions, and an iconic outdoor stage resembling a colossal pineapple, Ball & Chain promises an exhilarating evening for any occasion.
Additionally, it offers a delightful spot to unwind on any given afternoon, with live music playing practically from opening until closing time.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Latin and Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery
Hidden down a brief staircase adjacent to the Stiles Hotel lobby, Swizzle flourishes in a serene, alluring setting away from the bustling noise of Collins Avenue. Resembling a quaint wooden pirate ship, the dimly lit, narrow space showcases an impressive collection of over 150 rums.
If you're looking to indulge in a couple, or perhaps three, strong cocktails, proceed with caution: the impeccably crafted drinks pack a punch. Whether you're cuddling up with your significant other at the cozy bar or securing nearby high-top tables for a girls' night out, Swizzle offers an intimate ambiance for a memorable evening.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Cafe La Trova
Cafe La Trova embodies a distinct Miami essence with Cuban cantinero Julio Cabrera's expertly crafted daiquiris and chef Michelle Bernstein's tantalizing cuisine. Bernstein's comforting dishes are universally appealing, catering to guests' culinary desires, whether they seek elaborate fare or a classic tres leches dessert. Cabrera's cantineros demonstrate a mastery of mixology, showcasing their skills by theatrically "throwing" daiquiris, choreographing spontaneous dance numbers while creating an arch of liquid in the air from shaker to shaker.
However, like many establishments in the Magic City, Cafe La Trova offers more than just exceptional food and drinks. Throughout the day, the ambiance is enriched by live performances from musicians clad in guayaberas or jazz trumpet players, creating a vibrant atmosphere against the backdrop of an Old Havana-inspired façade. Recognized by the Florida Michelin Guide, Cafe La Trova stands out for its exemplary culinary and beverage offerings.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Latin
Expected entrance fee: Free
Bar Kaiju
Nestled on the mezzanine level of The Citadel food hall, this speakeasy cocktail bar offers a unique experience. Choose from a vibrant anime comic book menu where each eccentric drink is showcased on its own action-packed page. The descriptions not only tantalize the taste buds but also evoke imagery of Tokyo under attack. This whimsical approach sets the tone for Kaiju, an establishment that exudes trendy East Village vibes, illuminated solely by red lights.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Broken Shaker at Freehand
This bar has been instrumental in showcasing the excellence of craft cocktails in Miami. Established by the consulting agency Bar Lab, this tropical oasis is located at the Freehand Miami Beach. Surrounded by palm trees and adjacent to a pool, it offers an abundance of refreshing umbrella drinks, epitomizing the laid-back Miami lifestyle often recommended by travel guides.
The Shaker truly shines with its seasonally driven beverages, while its oversized punch bowls make it a popular choice for group gatherings.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company
Ranked on the 2021 World’s 100 Best Bars list, Sweet Liberty holds the unique distinction of being a beloved local haunt, a favorite spot for industry insiders, and a popular destination for tourists.
The spacious bar caters to a diverse clientele, offering something for everyone, whether it's an elegant $17 martini, budget-friendly 95¢ oysters and $7 rosé during happy hour, or a casual beer and shot after midnight. The establishment exudes a familial atmosphere, with much of the welcoming staff having been part of the team since its inception.
Additionally, live music performances on weekends provide the perfect soundtrack to get patrons moving. Embodying the ethos of its late co-owner, John Lermayer, the neon sign bearing the motto "PURSUE HAPPINESS" adorning the wall ensures that Sweet Liberty always delivers a memorable experience.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Monterrey Bar
Monterrey Bar pays homage to its roots, The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, which harks back to the Monterrey Motel that first opened its doors at 40 Island Avenue in 1953, a creation of Architect Norman Giller. This cozy bar celebrates inventive twists on timeless cocktails and refined culinary offerings. Specially crafted light plates are carefully curated to complement the diverse beverage menu, embodying the chic and mysterious ambiance of Monterrey Bar.
At the heart of the space is a striking T-shaped bar crafted from Amazonite stone, serving as a captivating focal point for intimate gatherings. The walls adorned in Afromosia paneling and plush carpet reminiscent of ocean waves create a harmonious backdrop, illuminated by a magnificent Murano glass chandelier. Playfully lining the shelves is a vibrant pop art collection titled "Frozen Moments" from the 1980s by artist Geoffrey Rose. Step inside and unwind in this inviting atmosphere.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
The Corner
In downtown's bustling 24-hour club district, The Corner defies expectations by holding its ground amidst behemoths like E11EVEN and other nearby venues. Its intimate, dimly lit ambiance caters to patrons who prefer leisurely enjoying a craft beer or cocktail at rustic wooden bistro tables over splurging on bottle service.
Opt to save your funds and relish in the complimentary Tuesday night jazz and discounted drinks available during the 4–8pm weekday happy hour, or invest in the diverse array of exceptional pop-up dining experiences they frequently showcase.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Gramps
Gramps attracts a diverse crowd who gather to enjoy the city's finest Moscow Mule. This Wynwood staple, soon to have a Key Biscayne location, continues to charm patrons with its extensive lineup of events. Whether you're in the mood for a captivating drag showcase, karaoke, or a trivia night, Gramps has you covered.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Mama Tried
Adorned with mirrors and disco balls, this carpeted nightclub boasts a starry ceiling, creating a striking contrast in the gritty Downtown area. Yet, for some, it fills a void by providing the neighborhood with essential elements it lacked: a dance floor, a late-night bar, and a comprehensive nightlife venue where patrons can begin with quality cocktails and end the night with a shot and a game of pool.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Mac's Club Deuce
This iconic dive, hailed by Anthony Bourdain as his ultimate Miami hideaway, continues to draw crowds even after more than 50 years in operation. Situated in South Beach, it remains a favorite among locals and low-key celebrities, thanks to its unbeatable BOGO (buy one, get one) happy hour that runs daily from 8am to 7pm.
Remember to bring cash to this no-frills establishment, where smoking is permitted but credit cards are not accepted.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
Esotico
Miami has finally found its ideal tiki bar. Daniele Dalla Pola's ground-floor drinking haven is a vibrant oasis adorned with banana-plant wallpaper, neon signs, and eclectic glassware. With a passion for tiki culture that's infectious, Pola has amassed a collection of knick-knacks over the years. During your initial visit, he'll have you indulging in Polynesian-style rum concoctions with the same fervor he dedicates to crafting them. For a more intimate and genuine tiki experience, consider visiting Kaona Room, their attached speakeasy.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Latin and Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
1-800-Lucky
Among Miami's myriad food halls, 1-800-Lucky in Wynwood stands out as the most vibrant and energetic. While Chinese barbecue and fish-shaped ice cream cones are certainly popular offerings in this expansive 10,000-square-foot Asian marketplace-themed venue, they are not the main attractions.
Alongside these culinary delights, 1-800-Lucky boasts a private karaoke room and an onsite convenience store stocked with essential gas station items such as cigarettes and Red Bull. Additionally, Lucky's patio bar serves as a lively venue for renowned DJs, lively ladies' nights, and various other events.
Open: Everyday
Venue type: Bar
Music is mainly: Hip Hop, R&B and Commercial
Expected entrance fee: Free
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