On your quest to find the best bars in Miami Beach, you just might stumble. Before you find some of the best cocktail bars in Miami, you’ll accidentally hit a few overpriced duds. You very well might accidentally walk into a few very corny spots after you hit up one of the best beaches in Miami. You’ll probably miss out on some awesome happy hour deals too. That is, of course, unless you just listen to us and stick to our tried-and-true picks. These places range from very pricey cocktail bars to salty dive bars who couldn’t care less what you’re wearing. But they all have one thing in common—they’re great bars.
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A quintessential Miami Beach cocktail bar, the quaint Broken Shaker is a must-visit. Even if you’re not a cocktail fanatic—and the delicious, fresh drinks just don’t do much for you—then go for the ambiance: hip, chic and thoughtfully designed.
Why we love it: Here lies the rare $12 cocktail that is actually worth every single penny.
We know some people lump the Broken Shaker and 27 together (it makes sense since they are both on the same property) but the two are separate concepts with unique personalities. You should really experience both of them. 27’s cozy second-floor bar is as unique a vibe as you’ll find in Miami Beach.
Why we love it: 27 makes us feel like we’re at the coolest house party on planet earth.
The Traymore’s lobby bar is a gin-lover’s paradise. You’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to your preferred gin and how you drink it. From refreshing watermelon juice cocktails to super boozy tiki-inspired drinks—Traymore’s has you covered.
Why we love it: Pair your gin with some live music every Tuesday from 6:30 to 9:30pm and every third Thursday of the month at the Gin & Jazz party.
Everything about the Edition oozes class, design and quality. So would you expect anything less from the hotel’s lobby bar? Of course not. Matador Bar might have “special occasion” prices, but it certainly holds up its end of the deal and makes you feel special.
Why we love it: During the day, you can see the ocean from your seat at the bar.
One of the more gorgeous interiors in Miami Beach, Le Sirenuse does a lush Italian charm that feels right at home on Miami Beach. Maybe it’s the green bar and surrounding palm trees but these Italians make us feel as tropical as anything else on Miami Beach.
Why we love it: From 4 to 6pm, order a Bellini at the bar and receive a free assortment of Italian canapés.
Like everything at the Faena Hotel, Saxony Bar can be summed up neatly in just two words: jaw-dropping. Sip slowly at this classy hotel bar. It’ll help save you from a steep tab and give you time to take in every one of Saxony’s marvelous little details.
Why we love it: It makes us feel like Bond—James Bond.
We know we’ve been throwing a lot of dollar signs at you in this list, so here’s a welcome change of pace. At On the Rocks, you don’t have to worry about pesky things like dress code or, really, any code at all. This day-drinking dive bar welcomes drinkers of all shapes, sizes and degrees of sunburn.
Why we love it: Because dive bars. That’s why.
The Fontainebleau’s bi-level beach club and rooftop bar might not be where the locals go, but if you want to play tourist for a day, La Côte is a solid choice. The view is second to none and the classic Miami Beach hotel will make you feel like a VIP.
Why we love it: It’s the Fontainebleau. Need we say more?
Looking to keep it simple? At Norman’s, you can grab a burger, beer and watch the game or shoot some pool. You’d be surprised how few decent places there are in Miami Beach that’ll let you do just that. Long live Norman’s.
Why we love it: It’s got the support of North Beach locals, so you know it’s a solid choice.
Skip the touristy options and head to these restaurants in South Beach that won’t overcharge and underwhelm your palate.
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