Top Cocktail Bars in Miami
Once upon a time in Miami’s late-night bar scene, the best you could hope for was a watered-down mix of booze and juice sloshing around in a plastic cup. However, over the past decade, the Magic City has ushered in a mixology renaissance that has put the world on notice. Now, handmade tinctures and bitters mingle in crystal coupes with artisanal ice, delivering a cocktail scene that looks and tastes indulgent.
Whether you prefer your drink in a dimly-lit downtown dive or on a Polynesian-themed rooftop 40 stories above ground, you can count on Miami to serve up expertly-made boozy concoctions. Need proof? These eight Miami cocktail bars will supply you with all the evidence you need.
1. Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Company
The fluorescent pink neon sign inside says it all: pursue happiness. That’s easy to do when you’re at one of the top bars in the city. Although Sweet Liberty’s legendary owner, John Lermayer, passed away in 2018, his passion for collecting rare liquors and sharing his extensive cocktail knowledge lives on. This is evident in a cleverly curated drink list that’s divided into “fancy” and “classics.” Rum-and-raisin liqueur, mulled wine, and absinthe all make an appearance in this kitschy local hangout, where DJs spin until 5 a.m. and lobster hot pockets help soak up the happiness.
How to get there: From Downtown, take Biscayne Blvd to NE 15th St, continuing onto the Venetian Causeway. Take the S Venetian Causeway to Dade Blvd, turn right on Washington Ave, and make a left on 20th St.
2. Kaido
James Beard–nominated chef Brad Kilgore has embraced the Japanese drinking den concept, creating a dazzling slice of Tokyo on the Miami mainland. Inside Kaido, shimmering blue and gold floors, vintage pachinko machines, and a chandelier made from 1,200 golden butterfly knives welcome guests to a drinking experience that rivals the best of the East. The cocktail menu features inventive mixes like Kobe beef fat mingling with whiskey; togarashi-infused mezcal; and an audacious pickle back with a fragrant shiitake brine.
How to get there:
Take I-95 North and merge onto I-195 East from exit 4B. Exit on 2A for N. Miami Avenue and head east to NE 41st Street.
3. Broken Shaker
The Broken Shaker may have grown beyond its original location, now boasting outposts in Chicago, LA, and New York, but this lush garden oasis at the Freehand Hotel still calls Miami Beach home. Its wildly imaginative elixirs and vibrant tropical spirit create a delightful recipe for success. The ambience resembles a funky backyard, where patrons sip watermelon caipirinhas poolside during the day and hip locals linger over crystal punch bowls at night.
How to get there: Take I-95 North to I-195 E. Continue onto W 41st St and turn right onto Indian Creek Dr.
4. Jaguar Sun
Located in the lobby of the trendy X Miami apartments, Jaguar Sun pays homage to the city with its tropical and edgy vibe. A Momofuku alum serves a small but mighty menu of eats here, perfectly complementing the refreshing cocktails concocted by a former bartender from Boston’s famed Drink. Tropical fruits accent the cocktail lineup, along with a boozy punch bowl and a thoughtfully curated selection of unusual wines. On Mondays, the bar hosts a wine-and-records night where sommeliers from around the city showcase their new favorite selections and tunes.
How to get there: Head down US 1 until reaching I-95 North, then take exit 2D NE 2nd Ave. Follow NE 2nd Ave to NE 4th St.
5. The ScapeGoat
What The ScapeGoat lacks in space, it more than makes up for with audacious cocktails. This intimate cocktail bar in South Beach’s SoFi neighborhood accommodates up to 40 patrons. While elbow room isn’t guaranteed, what guests can count on is a thrilling sensory experience, thanks to rare American-made liquors, blow torches, wood chips, and artisanal ice that combine to create a unique atmosphere.
How to get there: Take I-95 North to the MacArthur Causeway, then exit on Alton Rd. Turn right onto Alton Rd and make a left on 1st St.
6. The Corner
The Corner is situated on the edge of Miami’s mega-club scene and feels like a nostalgic early 1900s pub. Wood beams, exposed pipes, and oversized vintage mirrors create a warm setting for a relaxed drinking experience, often lasting until 8 a.m. Thanks to its forgiving hours, the bar attracts locals who cap off their nights with intimate conversations and expertly crafted drinks—like a frothy egg-white-and-pisco creation topped with an Inca orchid—enjoyed at the bar or from the patio.
How to get there: Head down US 1 until reaching I-95 North, then take exit 2D NE 2nd Ave. Take NE 11th St to North Miami Ave.
7. Sugar at EAST
If you’re seeking a cocktail accompanied by breathtaking views, Sugar, the rooftop bar at EAST, Miami, is the place to be. The bar offers a 270-degree view of the stunning Miami skyline, perfect for Instagram moments. Surrounding these views, a lush garden envelops an impressive hand-carved wooden bar that serves exotic and tropical cocktails featuring ingredients like Thai iced tea, lychee, tamarind chutney, and Fuji apple bitters.
How to get there: Take US 1 to I-95 North and exit on SW 8th St. Merge onto SW 3rd Ave and turn right on 8th St.
8. Cafe La Trova
The collaboration between James Beard Award–winning chef Michelle Bernstein and iconic Cuban cantinero (bartender) Julio Cabrera has resulted in a standout venue, Cafe La Trova. This 5,000-sq-ft homage to old-school Havana attracts a vibrant crowd clamoring for Cabrera’s expertly crafted classic Cuban cocktails, served in the highly-refined cantinero style. Daiquiris feature prominently, alongside rum-and-tequila creations infused with Cuban ingredients like guava marmalade and Materva, a mate-based soda. If you’re feeling hungry, make sure to order Bernstein’s delicious paella-stuffed croquetas
How to get there: Head west on SW 8th Street until you reach SW 9th Avenue.
