Numerous new bars, lounges, speakeasies, and clubs have opened up within the past couple of months, meaning that you’ll be busy busy discovering them all! From a hidden, mysterious speakeasy to a bar themed after Alice in Wonderland, you’ll want to visit every watering hole on this list.
DRAWN TO THE 40’S
1801 Collins Ave., Miami Beach
shelborne.com
If you’re down to feel swanky, look no further than The Drawing Room at The Shelborne South Beach. The hotel lobby lounge is decorated around the theme of the 1940s, and thanks to its newly finished renovation, features plush décor and furnishings: Expect statement chandeliers and zebra print seating. Another fresh addition is the food menu by Chef Andrea Rainis which includes different multicultural dishes like Patatas Bravas and a Mezze Platter. Cocktails by mixologist Christopher Hudnall are created with tropical Miami flavors in mind like the Tamarindo Margarita, made with Alipus Mezcal, tamarind paste, canela agave, lime, and Angostura bitters.
CAST A SPELL
1000 Collins Ave., Miami
spellboundmia.com
Speakeasies are not unique in Miami. There’s quite a few who boast exclusive passwords and dark alleyways you need to walk through to reach them. However, Spellbound, South Beach’s newest speakeasy, really sets itself apart from the competition. With a dark, mysterious vibe and a drink menu that asks you to “pick your poison,” you’ll feel as if you’re in a witch’s lair. The drinks are presented on tarot cards while candles and herbs lie around, making you feel as if you’re about to drink a magical concoction. Make sure not to miss their “Witching Hour,” where you can enjoy discounted drinks from midnight to 2 a.m.
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
465 Brickell Ave., Lower Level, Miami
socialistalounge.com
Another ritzy spot this month, Socialista Miami, recently opened this past December, and yes, it should be on your nightlife bucket list. The man behind the bar, Maggio Cipriani, comes from the Cipriani family, famously known for the 1931-established Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy, which was declared a national landmark. The lounge acts as a “Caribbean-inspired playground” that pays homage to pre-Castro Cuba, as well as other influences that range from Chinese accents to 20th century modernism. Due to the Caribbean vibe, expect lots of rum cocktails. Also available here are hand-rolled cigars, live entertainment, and resident DJs. A perfect Miami night!
DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE
1309 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
facebook.com/HiddenGardenLasOlas
Fans of Alice in Wonderland will be thrilled to discover that a bar themed around the movie has opened on Las Olas. The Hidden Garden debuted on March 13 on the second floor of The Balcony, the former New Orleans-themed restaurant that also includes the downstairs Bo’s Pub. It’s decorated with lush foliage and tropical greenery and embellished with references to the movie such as tea pots and catchphrases on the walls. Themed craft cocktails are featured in a “Curiouser Menu” while food options lean toward yummy plates like tuna avocado tostadas and quinoa salad. Travel to this whimsical bar for a fantastical time!
LIFE IS ONE LONG WEEKEND
740 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
tommybahama.com
We all know Tommy Bahama. Especially being Floridians, we’ve seen that name on just about every beach towel, umbrella, and flip flop out there. You’ll want to gear up in your Tommy Bahama gear when you step inside the Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar. Located on Las Olas, the restaurant-retail mashup is fitted with a casual, tropical environment, a menu with favorites like coconut shrimp and ahi tuna mini tacos, and a cocktail menu with beach-perfect libations like mai tais, pineapple coconut mojitos, and piña coladas. Right next to the bar is the Tommy Bahama store, where you can shop while sippin’ on those aforementioned delicious cocktails.
A LOCAL’S PLACE
1103 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
hollywood.beer
Whenever a new brewery opens up in South Florida, it’s a great reason to celebrate. Our state has so many delectable, unique brews that it’s impossible to try all of them! At Hollywood Brewing Company you can attempt to though. Here you’ll find intricate and smooth brews like the Mango IPA, Locals Only Lager (LOL), Bushka Stout, and Fresh Hop Pilsner. If you need some mouthwatering bites to chase down with the beer, their menu has plenty of offerings. Appetizers include fried shrimp, chicken wings, quesadillas, and more, while entrees are craft burgers and sandwiches, grilled salmon, seafood pasta, pizza, salads, soup, and a variety of others!
By Aaliyah Pasols