It’s common knowledge that New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and New Orleans are staples for getting great cocktails. A little-known fact is that Miami is also killing it in the cocktail department. Here’s a list to feast your eyes on for your next visit to the Sunshine State.
1. The Broken Shaker
2727 Indian Creek Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33140
(305) 531-2727
The Broken Shaker has opened, closed and re-opened, and it is now one of the best cocktail bars in the world. Named one of the top hotel bars in the U.S., this establishment serves the best of the best. I would highly recommend the Cowboy Breakfast Old Fashioned. It’s justice served up in the form of Old Forester bourbon, pork belly bitters, chicory-infused mellow corn and maple for $12.
2. The Rum Line
1601 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 695-0110
First of all, the Rum Line is featured in the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, which just screams class. It has been described as what would have possibly been Hemingway’s second home if he had made it there. Fittingly enough, this bar serves more than 100 different rums, one of which is the Zombie No. 305. Served with Bacardi 8-year, Mount Gay Black Barrel, Avión, Lemon Hart 151, Kronan Swedish Punsch, Donn’s Mixx #2, grenadine and lime in an absinthe-rinsed glass for around $18.
3. Blackbird Ordinary
729 SW 1st Ave.
Miami, FL 33130
(305) 671-3307
It’s pretty obvious that there’s nothing ordinary about the Blackbird Ordinary. Even if it’s just the name that is unique, which I highly doubt, it is a don’t-miss for sure. This old-school bar serves up some of the best whiskey two-in-the-morning drinks. The Signature Blackbird is sure to cure your summer sunburn and cool you off from the Florida heat. It’s a vacation in itself at $10; you can’t go wrong — the same could be said about most of the cocktail menu, though.
4. The Regent Cocktail Club
1690 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 975-2555
The Regent is definitely a cure for Florida fever. If you really want to get away from the norm, the Regent is the way to go. This classy hipster joint offers an outside cigar smoking area along with dominoes, not to mention the waitstaff serves in waistcoats. The mainstay in this home-away-from-home is definitely the bartender’s pick. Allow the classically trained staff to pick for you; you won’t be disappointed.
5. Ball & Chain
1513 SW 8th St.
Miami, FL 33135
(305) 643-7820
If you’re really into the 1930s-esque time period, this is where you will die and go to heaven. The cocktails and bar are fit for a lover of jazz and Cuban nostalgia. If you’re going to take a trip here, definitely try the Mojito. I promise you won’t put it down.
6. Repour
1650 James Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 913-1000
The Albion Hotel features the cocktails of the famous Isaac Grillo, once voted the ultimate bartender in 2012, in the form of the Repour. Imagine the feel of an ice bar or ski lodge in the middle of Miami and you’ll find yourself at the Repour. It’s definitely a place to visit. Drinks are infused with a variety of things for anywhere from $12 to $15; some even include Pop Rocks.
7. The Corner
1035 N. Miami Ave.
Miami, FL 33136
(305) 961-7887
Knock knock, who’s there? A speakeasy in the middle of Miami! If you’re in the mood for classic cocktails and classy décor, The Corner is the bar for you. This hipster bar is the Bee’s Knees in the middle of a busy Miami. Its Hurricane is also rumored to put New Orleans’ bars to shame!
8. 1930s House
4041 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
(786) 605-1044
This restaurant and bar is featured in the Thompson Hotels chain in Miami. Enjoy a drink by the pool, in the lounge or near the garden and you will surely be transported from the hustle and bustle of the night life. This cocktail den features a variety of music and a great selection of drinks. For around $15, you can enjoy the Goonie Goo Goo, a drink comprised of Port wine, Cardenal Mendoza brandy, orange juice, lime, grapefruit, cinnamon, orgeat and Elemakule Tiki bitters.
9. The Abbey Brewing Company
1115 16th St.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 538-8110
The Abbey Brewing Co. is the oldest and only brewing company in Miami Beach. This award-winning brewery features four in-house brews, along with 10 guest brews from hard-to-find micros. Overall, Abbey’s vision is simple: Give people a break from the Miami nightlife by giving them a place to enjoy a hand-crafted beer and some great conversation.
10. Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
1600 Lenox Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 538-5220
Yardbird is the place to go if you’re looking to enjoy both a great meal and a great drink. This Southern-style establishment serves some good ol’ down-home cooking. I would definitely suggest the Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade with the brisket and homemade biscuits.
Party hard and need a bite? Miami also made the list for the Top 10 Taco Cities in the US. And if you just can’t wait to try a Miami cocktail, check out these apartments in the Miami, FL area.