Best Bars in Miami

Bar Kaiju

A neon-drenched, monster-themed cocktail den hidden on the second floor of the Citadel food hall in Little River, and Miami's most internationally decorated cocktail bar. The inventive, boundary-pushing drinks and bold design have landed it repeatedly on North America's 50 Best Bars. Practical note: it's tucked upstairs and only open evenings (closed Mondays), so it can fill up fast on weekends.

Bars

Broken Shaker

The bar that helped ignite Miami's craft-cocktail movement, set in a lush, plant-filled courtyard inside the bohemian Freehand hotel. Cocktails lean on fresh herbs and house-made ingredients, and the relaxed garden vibe draws an even mix of locals and travelers. Practical note: it's poolside and casual, so come early evening for a calmer scene before the night crowd arrives.

Bars

Café La Trova

A love letter to Havana's cantinero cocktail tradition, where bartenders shake and flair to live Cuban music seven nights a week. Sit at the bar for master cantinero Julio Cabrera's classic daiquiris and mojitos, or grab a table for contemporary Cuban dishes; it consistently ranks among North America's 50 Best Bars. Practical note: it gets loud and lively, especially weekends after 9 p.m., so reserve ahead if you want a table.

Bars

Mae's Room

An intimate mid-century cocktail bar in Coconut Grove from the Ariete Hospitality team, focused on flawlessly executed classics under veteran bartender Tom Lasher-Walker. Go for a perfect martini, spirit-forward old-fashioned, or crisp daiquiri in a warm, conversation-friendly room. Practical note: it's small and grown-up by design, a welcome calmer alternative to Miami's louder party bars.

Bars

Mama Tried

A late-night downtown staple with 1970s gold-and-red decor, a twilight-painted ceiling, and a solid handcrafted cocktail program. It's the kind of place that stays lively until 5 a.m. and rewards both early happy-hour drinkers and after-midnight crowds. Practical note: daily happy hour runs from open until 8 p.m., a good value before the late-night energy builds.

Bars

Panamericano

A hidden second-floor speakeasy in Mary Brickell Village, reached via an unmarked door and a doorbell, serving inventive cocktails built around spirits from across the Americas. The sleek, modern space and rotating guest-bartender nights make it a standout in Brickell. Practical note: closed Sunday and Monday, and seating is limited, so it's best for a small group or an intimate drink.

Bars

Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company

A beloved Miami Beach institution since 2016, known for friendly bartenders, a generous happy hour, and rum-forward drinks like its frozen daiquiris. The big, breezy room balances serious cocktail craft with an unfussy neighborhood feel, and it's been named among the top bars in the U.S. Practical note: open very late (until 5 a.m.), making it a reliable late-night stop after dinner.

Bars

Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery

A speakeasy-style South Beach hideaway with more than 150 rums and sophisticated tropical craft cocktails, voted among Florida's best cocktail bars. The moody, intimate room is a refined contrast to South Beach's flashier nightlife. Practical note: it opens in the evening and runs late, so it works best as a nightcap destination.

Bars

The Sylvester

A vintage-leaning cocktail bar on the Wynwood/Midtown edge with a retro Miami ambiance and a strong, creative drinks menu. It strikes a nice balance between neighborhood hangout and serious cocktail spot, with late hours for after-gallery wandering. Practical note: closed Sunday and Monday, and it gets busy late on weekends.

Bars

ViceVersa

An Italian aperitivo bar with a Miami twist from acclaimed bartender Valentino Longo, just off the lobby of the Elser Hotel downtown. Expect playful, refined cocktails alongside crudos, salads, and pizza; it was a James Beard Best New Bar finalist and sits on North America's 50 Best Bars list. Practical note: an ideal spot for a stylish early-evening drink before exploring downtown or the bay.