Hidden Hotel Bars and Other Gems on South Beach

 

After a couple of rocky visits during the pandemic, we decided to give South Beach in Miami another chance. We’re glad we did! The street parties are gone, and Ocean Drive is back to the lively and fun vibe that brought us there.  We have lots of favorite spots here already, but there’s always room for more…

South Beach is a destination that puts hotel bars in the spotlight. We’ve been to others like New York, Nashville, and Las Vegas, but we found some real hidden gems on our most recent visit to South Beach!

If you think the scene is all about Latin music and tropical drinks, let us introduce you to Medium Cool! This is an underground speakeasy in the Gale Hotel with amazing cocktails and live jazz most nights. Yes, live jazz on South Beach! Their food menu is also worth a try. Check their website for schedules, as the program often changes to live DJs later in the evening. But this is one spot we will return to again! #Tipsypick

Hotel bars in Miami often cater to the festive crowd. But Water Lion is a wine lovers’ dream! An intimate space inside the Sagamore Hotel, it’s not hidden by any means. But the owners seem to like to keep it low key so you can take your time with their extensive wine selection, including tasting flights. The bartender (and wine expert) was very friendly, knowledgeable and attentive during our visit. This is a great spot for a date or to just escape the hustle of Ocean Drive!

Speaking of escape … how about a hidden getaway to the South Pacific? The Bamboo Room is a tiki room by Trader Vic’s tucked behind the Esme’ Hotel that feels like it’s an ocean away! It’s the first location of the group’s upscale concept. The drinks are creative and strong… perfect for sipping in a lattice chair below a tribal mask. Their version of the classic Mai Tai aka the “Miami Tai” is notable. It’s a fun stop for a drink or two!

For a break from the shopping on Lincoln Road, Privilege is an upscale cocktail spot in the Albion Hotel just off the main shopping avenue. They have a great happy hour and a solid Old Fashioned. It’s a bit #offthetipsypath so be sure to keep your eyes peeled when you enter the hotel lobby!

What would you call a lovely natural wine bar tucked on the “backside” of a French Bistro? Bar Derriere of course! Despite the cheeky name (see what we did there?) Bar Derriere is a great place for a glass or bottle of wine and bites of food under the stars. They have an impressive list of natural wines from around the world. Those are wines made without additives or preservatives. It’s like kicking back by your garden shed with wine that won’t give you a hangover (but we make no guarantees).

And finally, there’s a new game in town for craft beer at the beach!  While not in a hotel, South Beach Brewing Company is located in the heart of South Beach just steps from Ocean Drive! They have a shaded patio where you can try all their brews along with wine and fantastic food options. Welcome aboard!

And don’t forget, our previous trips (link) include some details on other South Beach hotel bars including The Betsy, MiniBar, and Swizzle!

Our #tipsypicks for this trip… Medium Cool and Water Lion! Though you can’t go wrong with any of these options.