When the summer days drift away to reveal those summer nights, follow Danny and Sandy’s advice and have a blast! Stumble upon a bar that’s a bit hard to find, experience a New York speakeasy, and have a slice of pizza while watching a gator wrestling match! There’s always an adventure in a SoFlo Summer.
A GRAMPS OLD TIME
176 NW 24th St., Miami
gramps.com
Despite its name, Gramps is not really for the old-school, chess-loving crowd. Located in Wynwood, this bar carries a hipster vibe, attracting music lovers, cocktail cravers, and craft beer connoisseurs alike. The venue has a large patio, and a small stage that is lent to local bands, DJs spinning vinyl, live comedy acts, karaoke enthusiasts, and yes, even a gator show, because Florida. The indoor area switches up the feel a bit with arcade games, colorful club lights, and booths, where you can sit down and have a brew. If you’re hungry, grab a pizza slice from Gramps’ very own restaurant, Pizza Tropical. You know what? Invite Grandpa anyway, Gramps is for everyone!
ATTENTION: RUM LOVERS
1 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
ritzcarlton.com
One of the best perks of living in South Florida is waterfront dining. There are few things more relaxing than feeling the ocean breeze as you enjoy a delightful meal. Feel that same bliss, but with a cocktail in hand at Burlock Coast Seafare & Spirits, a seafood restaurant that has an enticing rum bar. Inspired by Prohibition-era rumrunners, this indoor/outdoor bar offers an endless amount of drinks to sip on seaside. Choose between “O.G. Cocktails” like Mai Tai, or more specialty ones like Burlock Ponche, a “Saeson punch” made with Wray & Nephew rum. If you’re feeling creative, you can even craft your own Old Fashioned as you experiment with different spirits, syrups and bitters.
#IFOUNDFOXHOLE
1218 14th Ct., Miami Beach
foxholebar.com
This mysterious Miami bar is notoriously semi-hidden, which prompted a celebratory hashtag to arise when guests finally stumbled upon it. Foxhole Bar popped up in 2011 as South Beach’s first speakeasy, and it’s gained a stream of loyal clientele since then. There’s no cover (ever), and it stays open until dawn, meaning that when the party ends elsewhere in Miami, it keeps raging all night here. Why would you want to go elsewhere? You’ll be thoroughly entertained with their dartboard, pool table, jukebox, free photo booth, and…an unbeatable happy hour!
MI CASA ES SU CASA
1201 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale
casa-d-angelo.com
The new bar and lounge inside the Casa D’Angelo Ristorante in Fort Lauderdale is both classy and sleek, a must-go when you desire a calming nightcap. The Casa Bar was completed a couple of months ago, revealing a 1,200 sq. ft. bar that includes cozy lighting, a relaxing booth, additional bar seating, and a swanky/chic vibe. Over 100 wines are offered at the sophisticated bar, and all were handpicked by Chef Angelo and their wine steward. With fine selections of Italian and American wines, it’s guaranteed that you’ll find one to gladly sip on.
NYC TO MIA
1030 Washington Ave., Miami Beach
employeesonlymiami.com
New York’s beloved speakeasy, Employees Only, opened its Miami location just last year, but it is already one of the hottest places to drink in the whole city. Its dim lit, posh interior gives off Big Apple vibes, but a sense of familiarity is also prominent with Miami Art Deco décor throughout. An aura of elegance hangs in the air, possibly due to the white-jacketed bartenders and red-clothed candlelit tables. The menu is split into four parts: “EO Classics,” “Fancy Cocktails,” “Cocktails & Long Drinks,” and “Apertifs.” Don’t forget to find out if you will return to EO in the future with their ongoing psychic readings!
SWAY ON OVER!
111 SW 2nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale
swaynightclub.com
Sway Nightclub is known for big DJs, impressive performers, and of course, their hypnotizing LED ceiling. It’s almost impossible to spend a night here without giving into the urge to dance the night away! Their Function One sound system provides the tunes, their three bars serve up the drinks, and their stage spotlights entertaining acts. Sway dancers, and aerialists take turns putting on the show, and events are always being held, so check their calendar to plan the perfect time!
By Aaliyah Pasols