Miami is a city known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and one of the most exciting aspects of that scene is the abundance of speakeasy bars. These hidden gems offer a unique experience for those looking to step back in time to the Prohibition era. From intimate listening lounges to pirate-approved cocktail caves, Miami has a speakeasy bar for every taste.
If you’re looking for a night out that’s a little more adventurous than your typical bar crawl, the speakeasy scene in Miami is definitely worth exploring. Some of the city’s best speakeasies are tucked away in unexpected locations, like behind taco shops or busy restaurants. These hidden bars offer a sense of exclusivity and excitement that can’t be found at your average watering hole.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Miami, checking out one (or several) of the city’s speakeasy bars is a must-do activity. With so many options to choose from, there’s sure to be a speakeasy that matches your personal style and taste. So put on your best flapper dress or fedora, and get ready to step back in time to a bygone era of cocktails and clandestine gatherings.
Best Speakeasies in Miami
Miami is known for its nightlife, and one of the most exciting experiences you can have is visiting a speakeasy. Here are three of the best speakeasies in Miami that you won’t want to miss.
1. Prohibition Restaurant and Speakeasy
Prohibition Restaurant and Speakeasy is a hidden gem in Miami Beach. It’s located in the basement of the Albion Hotel and is accessed through a secret entrance. Once inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the era of Prohibition. The decor is dark and moody, with vintage photographs and antique furniture.
The cocktail menu at Prohibition is extensive, with classic drinks like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, as well as some creative twists on old favorites. The bartenders are skilled and knowledgeable, and they’ll be happy to make a recommendation based on your preferences.
2. The Blind Pig Miami
The Blind Pig Miami is another speakeasy that’s worth checking out. It’s located in the heart of Downtown Miami and is accessed through a hidden door in a storefront. Once inside, you’ll find a cozy, intimate space with dim lighting and a vintage vibe.
The cocktail menu at The Blind Pig Miami is focused on classic drinks, but with a modern twist. The bartenders are skilled and creative, and they’re happy to make a custom cocktail based on your preferences. In addition to the drinks, The Blind Pig Miami also serves a small menu of bar bites, like sliders and truffle fries.
3. Employees Only Miami
Employees Only Miami is the Miami outpost of the famous New York City speakeasy. It’s located in the heart of South Beach and is accessed through a discreet entrance. Once inside, you’ll find a stylish, sophisticated space with a vintage vibe.
The cocktail menu at Employees Only Miami is extensive, with classic drinks like the Martini and the Negroni, as well as some creative twists on old favorites. The bartenders are skilled and knowledgeable, and they’ll be happy to make a recommendation based on your preferences. In addition to the drinks, Employees Only Miami also serves a small menu of bar bites, like oysters and steak tartare.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a unique and exciting nightlife experience in Miami, be sure to check out one of these speakeasies. Each one offers a different vibe and cocktail menu, but they all share a commitment to quality and creativity.
Speakeasy Culture in Miami
Miami has a thriving speakeasy culture that has become increasingly popular over the years. These hidden bars are often difficult to find, but once you do, you are rewarded with an intimate, cozy atmosphere and some of the best cocktails in the city.
One of the reasons speakeasies have become so popular in Miami is that they offer a sense of exclusivity. These bars are often hidden behind unmarked doors or secret entrances, giving them an air of mystery and intrigue. Once inside, you’ll find dimly lit rooms, plush seating, and a selection of expertly crafted cocktails.
Another reason for the popularity of speakeasies in Miami is the creativity of the bartenders. Many of these bars have a rotating menu of cocktails, featuring unique ingredients and flavor combinations that you won’t find anywhere else. From classic cocktails to modern twists on old favorites, there is something for everyone at a Miami speakeasy.
If you’re looking to experience the speakeasy culture in Miami, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular speakeasies in the city include Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery, Kaona Room, and The Mad Butcher. Each of these bars has its own unique atmosphere and cocktail menu, making them worth a visit.
Overall, the speakeasy culture in Miami is thriving, and it’s easy to see why. With their hidden entrances, cozy atmosphere, and expertly crafted cocktails, these bars offer a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Speakeasy History in Miami
Miami has a rich history of speakeasies, which were secret bars that operated during the Prohibition era in the United States from 1920 to 1933. During this time, the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol was illegal, but many people still wanted to drink. As a result, speakeasies emerged as hidden places where people could drink and socialize without fear of being caught by the police.
The speakeasies in Miami were often located in basements, backrooms, or hidden behind secret doors in buildings. They were known for their secrecy and exclusivity, with only a select few people knowing about their existence. Many of these speakeasies were run by organized crime syndicates, who made a fortune by supplying alcohol to the thirsty public.
One of the most famous speakeasies in Miami was the Tobacco Road, which opened in 1912 as a bakery and later became a speakeasy during Prohibition. The bar operated for over 100 years before closing in 2014. Other notable speakeasies in Miami included Club Deuce, which opened in 1926 and is still in operation today, and The Regent Cocktail Club, which opened in 1941 and was recently renovated.
Despite the dangers of running a speakeasy during Prohibition, many people were willing to take the risk in order to enjoy a drink with friends. Speakeasies became a symbol of rebellion and freedom, and they played an important role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of Miami during the 1920s and 1930s. Today, many of these historic speakeasies have been restored and transformed into modern bars and restaurants, but their legacy lives on as a reminder of Miami’s rich history.
How to Find a Speakeasy in Miami
Miami is home to a variety of speakeasies, but finding them can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to help you discover these hidden gems:
-
Do some research: Look online for lists of speakeasies in Miami, such as those from Eater Miami, Thrillist, and Time Out. These lists often provide information on the location, ambiance, and drink menu of each speakeasy.
-
Keep an eye out for hidden entrances: Many speakeasies in Miami have unmarked or hidden entrances, such as behind a bookcase or inside a taco shop. Look for clues like a small sign or a doorman to help you find the entrance.
-
Ask locals: If you’re out and about in Miami, ask locals if they know of any speakeasies in the area. They may be able to point you in the right direction or even give you a secret password to get in.
-
Attend events: Some speakeasies in Miami host events, such as live music or burlesque shows. Check their social media pages or websites for upcoming events, and attend one to get a taste of the speakeasy experience.
Remember, speakeasies are meant to be hidden and exclusive, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t find one right away. Keep exploring and asking around, and you may just stumble upon the perfect speakeasy for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find a speakeasy in Miami?
Miami is full of hidden bars and speakeasies, but they can be tricky to find. Many of them are tucked away in unmarked buildings or behind secret doors, so it’s important to do your research before heading out. Some popular areas to look for speakeasies include Wynwood, South Beach, and Downtown Miami.
What are the top speakeasies in Miami?
Miami has a variety of speakeasies to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and drink menu. Some of the top speakeasies in Miami include Kaona Room, Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery, and Dante’s HiFi.
Are there any hidden bars in Miami?
Yes, there are many hidden bars in Miami. Some of them are located in unmarked buildings, while others are hidden behind secret doors or disguised as other establishments. These hidden bars often have a speakeasy vibe and offer unique drink menus and atmospheres.
What is the best speakeasy in Miami Beach?
Miami Beach is home to many great speakeasies, but one of the best is the Broken Shaker. This speakeasy is located in the Freehand Miami hostel and offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails.
Which speakeasy is located in Wynwood?
Wynwood is home to many great speakeasies, but one of the most popular is the Dirty Rabbit. This speakeasy is located behind a hidden door in a graffiti-covered alley and offers a fun, lively atmosphere with great drinks and live music.
Is there a speakeasy in Coral Gables?
Yes, there is a speakeasy in Coral Gables. The Blind Pig is located in the back of the popular restaurant, the Local Craft Food & Drink, and offers a cozy, prohibition-era atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails and live music.
