Beyond the sun-kissed skin and the relentless thump of bass from Ocean Drive, the real magic of Miami Beach happens at the bar. Whether you’re chasing the perfect mojito to match your sunset or seeking a dark corner for a serious conversation over whiskey, these establishments don’t just serve drinks—they craft the evening’s first, and most important, memory. And we’ve found the ones that do it best.
Ted’s Hideaway
$ | (305) 532-9869 | WEBSITE
If you’re at Ted’s Hideaway any night before 5am, just raise your glass—you’re doing it right. This beach dive bar is a dark-wooded, local-filled gem, and we love every single minute of it.
The Piano Bar
$$$$ | (305) 531-6100 | WEBSITE
With its rooftop bar and live piano music, The Piano Bar at the Betsy Hotel is exactly what you imagine when you hear the words ‘Miami Beach upscale restaurant.’ But that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially when wagyu is involved.
The ScapeGoat
$ | (786) 275-6488 | WEBSITE
The ScapeGoat is a bar and lounge that’s always a chill time, whether you’re there at 5pm or midnight. They’re open for drinks and vibes throughout the week, but what’s really significant here is their handcrafted cocktails. From the perfectly shaped ice, to the amazing music, to the laid-back atmosphere, you know you’re not at The ScapeGoat for a fancy meal, but for a good time.
Drift
$$ | (305) 604-1000 | WEBSITE
We hate the name of this place as much as you do, but once you get past that, you realize this informal bar and restaurant in Miami Beach is actually pretty great. The food is solid, with a Wagyu burger and truffle fries that are highly praised, plus kid-friendly options like wings. The drinks are impeccable, with well-crafted cocktails that are amazing.
The people are nice, with servers like Jailyn who are sweet, efficient, and charismatic, and staff like Edgar who are friendly and put a lot of effort into their work. The vibe is very chill, and the hotel patio at least makes you want to visit the 1 Hotel Miami for bites and good service.
Palace Bar & Restaurant
$$$ | (305) 531-7234 | WEBSITE
Palace Bar & Restaurant is right in the heart of Miami Beach’s vibrant scene, and that’s exactly how they like it. This is a lively, entertainment-focused spot with a devoted crowd who are there for fantastic drag shows and an inclusive, non-judgmental atmosphere.
STK Steakhouse
$$$$ | (305) 604-6988 | WEBSITE
Three words: Miso Sea Bass. STK Steakhouse has locations across the country, but the Miami Beach spot is a Florida icon and one of the best ways to spend your evening. Just get reservations beforehand as it’s packed every weekend.
That’s Amore 🇮🇹🍕Italian Restaurant Miami Beach
$$ | (786) 278-5533 | WEBSITE
One of the more underrated restaurants in Miami Beach, That’s Amore is the type of place every neighborhood wishes they could call their own. A nice, relaxing atmosphere, and Italian food that has no business being as good as it is.
Segafredo L’Originale
$$ | (305) 673-0047 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of great drinks and dishes to choose from at this Miami Beach spot, but you should visit on weekends for two standout features: the fantastic music with a good DJ and the sensational atmosphere that brings back memories for many. It’s a vibrant, energetic space with attentive staff ensuring everyone feels taken care of. Grabbing a drink or aperitivo here feels both exciting and comforting, like reuniting with an old friend or rediscovering a favorite song.
Deal: $15 aperitivo specials. Weekends 5pm-9pm.
Living Room
$$$$ | (305) 938-3000 | WEBSITE
Thanks to its location inside a hotel, Living Room transforms from a standard hotel bar into a sophisticated Miami Beach cocktail destination. The space itself has all the essentials—dim lighting, comfortable seating, and good music—plus a beautiful, low-key ambiance that gives the whole place a sexy, inviting vibe perfect for relaxing with a few well-crafted drinks before moving on to another spot.
South Beach Rooftop Pool Party & Open Bar
One of our favorite all-around spots on South Beach, Miami Open Bar is the cool, unpretentious place you see less and less of in Miami Beach. The food is good, the people are nice, and there are plenty of good vibes if you want to catch the amazing atmosphere.
Il Bolognese🍝🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant Miami Beach
$$ | (786) 443-3165 | WEBSITE
Il Bolognese is an Italian restaurant in Miami Beach where they serve standout dishes like the ravioli, pizza, and fettuccine bolognese. Plus, they have a beautiful atmosphere perfect for a summer evening, which (we assume) is for when you like to entertain the notion of lingering over a meal with friends.
Sazon Cubano
$$ | (305) 861-4727 | WEBSITE
We love Sazon Cubano because, in a part of town where Cuban food can feel overpriced and touristy, we always seem to find genuine flavor and generous portions here. There’s nothing pretentious about it—it’s just a nice, casual spot for the neighborhood, with a chill atmosphere that’s perfect for families or a relaxed meal. The Bacalao Crockets and Ham Crockets are delicious, and the Tres Leches Cake is a must-try.
We appreciate the kid-friendly touches like drawing books and crayons, and the Ventanita in the morning offers a perfect spot for coffee and pastries with a view of the bandshell and beach. Server Mateo provides polite service and helpful recommendations, making the experience even more special. Located near a huge parking lot, it’s highly recommended for a delightful dining experience.
La Mulata 🇨🇺 Cuban Restaurant Miami Beach
$$ | (786) 745-7854 | WEBSITE
Whether you savor every bite or dive right in, La Mulata is a fantastic spot to experience authentic Cuban flavors. The menu is vibrant—Scottish salmon, seafood lobster, and crispy tostones all shine brightly on it—so it’s a perfect pick for any occasion. The service is consistently excellent, with attentive staff like the phenomenal hostess Bertha and the knowledgeable Alfredo, who crafts outstanding kiwi mojitos and sangria.
The warm atmosphere, filled with traditional decor and rhythmic music, makes you feel like part of the family. From tender ropa vieja to fantastic empanadas and breakfast options like fried plantains with eggs, every dish is a culinary gem. Overall, it’s a top choice for a taste of Cuba in Miami Beach.
Taquiza
$$ | (786) 588-4755 | WEBSITE
Nestled right on the beach in Miami, where the vibe is always boho and the margaritas flow freely, is Taquiza, a spot that serves up tacos and blue corn tortillas that have visitors raving. Their menu features solid staples with standout surprises, like the “Best Chips You’ll Ever Have”—those warm, puffed totopos made from blue corn—and the simply perfect “Fish Taco” that’s a local favorite.
Mango’s Tropical Cafe South Beach
$$ | (305) 673-4422 | WEBSITE
One of the best spots on the whole beach, Mango’s Tropical Cafe South Beach nails just about everything. Lively atmosphere, electric vibe, and surprisingly good food. It’s been known to get a little wild, though.
Tiki Bar
$ | (305) 763-8483 | WEBSITE
Tiki Bar feels like one of those places you only go to if your kids are finally napping by the pool, and you want to sneak in a quick drink while pretending to supervise. But the fact is, this poolside spot at Amazing Castle Beach gets it right. Unpretentious, lively, and with snacks that never disappoint.
Havana 1957 Cuban Cuisine Espanola Way
$$ | (305) 503-3828 | WEBSITE
Havana 1957 Cuban Cuisine Espanola Way has one of the best atmospheres in Miami Beach, making it a no-brainer for dinner. The Cuban spot does a fantastic culinary experience for around $45 per person, which comes with vibrant salsa music, attentive service, and delicious dishes like the Havana 57 coffee and Ropa Vieja Empanadas.
Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company
$$ | (305) 763-8217 | WEBSITE
Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company is a Miami Beach bar restaurant, which is to say it’s a bar restaurant you can definitely stand to be in. The food is solid, with lots of kid-friendly options, and everything is pretty reasonably priced.
Wet Willie’s
$$ | (305) 532-5650 | WEBSITE
Deal: $12 frozen drink specials. Flavors include the Bob Marley, triple play, and call a cab. The vibe is very chill, and the view from the patio is great. The server was friendly and attentive, allowing for drink samples to find the perfect mix. The chicken ceaser wrap is a tasty food option, and customers can also enjoy Baja tacos and burgers with curly fries, which tasted hot and fresh. Weekends are especially busy, so service may take a while to get back to you.
Saxony Bar
$$$$ | (305) 534-8800 | WEBSITE
This fantastic speakeasy spot in the Faena Hotel captures the spirit of the roaring 20’s with a sexy, cool aesthetic. Drink-wise, there are great music and good but slightly overpriced cocktails that you should absolutely get involved with. The intimate and cozy vibe is perfect for a girls’ or date night, making it a gem with friendly doorman Daniel. A must-visit for a stylish night out.