As a serious nightlife destination, Miami knows how to throw a party.
But for cocktail enthusiasts looking for something beyond mediocre mojitos and boozy slushies, look no further. The vibrant cocktails found at these 4COP license bars and lounges are inspired and have a reverence for fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
If this your first or 10th visit to the Magic City, here are some of Miami’s most irresistible cocktails you need to try right now. You can thank us later.
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The Spice of Love at the SUGARCANE raw bar grill
Since opening its doors in 2010, SUGARCANE has garnered widespread recognition from publications like Eater and the illustrious James Beard Foundation. The restaurant’s focus on the “shared experience” translates exceptionally well to the cocktail menu.
A sure favorite among SUGARCANE’s patrons is the Spice of Love.
Fresh ingredients like fresh jalapeño, passion fruit purée and mango essence is masterfully mixed with premium vodka to create a cocktail that perfectly balances heat and sweetness.
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Haru at Azabu Miami Beach
April showers might bring May flowers, but at Azabu Miami Beach, Haru does just splendidly.
A spring-inspired cocktail, Haru is citrusy and bright, thanks to ingredients like Mizu Lemongrass shochu, umeshu, yuzu and matcha tea. This well-crafted cocktail is mixed with egg white and topped with an edible flower for that undeniable spring feeling.
Thirteenth Moon at Broken Shaker
Having made the prestigious list on the World’s 50 Best Bars, Broken Shaker is a must-mention on any cocktail list. While the cocktail menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients, try the Thirteenth Moon.
This Absolut Elyx Vodka and Bobby’s Gin-fueled cocktail is crafted with Chinola passion fruit, coconut water, fresh citrus, lemon oil and egg white, creating a bold, refreshing cocktail that is undeniably tropical yet with a Miami twist.
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Blackbird at Blackbird Ordinary
Those looking for a chill, never-a-cover cocktail bar will find solace in Blackbird Ordinary. The bar at this Brickell Area favorite is fully stocked, with expert bartenders ready to mix your favorite libation.
The Blackbird may be eponymously named after the bar, but the cocktail is anything but ordinary. Unbelievably simple yet complex, Blackbird is made with sweet tea vodka, blackberries, and lemonade, confirming that all good things come in threes.
Noel Leon at The Palace
While it may be most famous for its weekly sidewalk drag performances, The Palace has more to offer than just this iconic entertainment.
Take the Noel Leon, for example. This mix of Rumhaven coconut rum, grapefruit juice and watermelon schnapps makes for a fruity, citrusy cocktail that’s an enjoyable, sippable affair. It’s certainly the perfect celebratory drink to enjoy The Palace’s iconic shows with.
Be My Wine at Habitat
A recent addition to Miami’s still-young cocktail scene, Habitat masterfully fuses modern techniques with classic favorites to create a menu that respects the elements and farm-fresh ingredients.
To complete the sea-to-table dining experience, order the dynamic yet agreeable Be My Wine cocktail. Made with rum, white wine reduction, lavender water and basil, Be My Wine brings the grape to glass idea to life.
Pastelito Daiquiri at Ball & Chain
If there was ever one drink to describe Little Havana, the clear favorite would be Ball & Chain’s Pastelito Daiquiri. This Cuban-inspired cocktail is one worth ordering, again and again.
Made with Bacardi rum, guava puree, house-made honey syrup and lime juice, this rather delicious cocktail is garnished with a pastelito, a traditional Cuban pastry. The daiquiri and its side garnish are definite crowd pleasers. You can never have just one.
Pain Removers at Monty’s Raw Bar
Few settings in Coconut Grove rival Monty’s Raw Bar when the sun is setting. And fewer cocktails still rival Monty’s Pain Removers. This heady cocktail, made from Virgin Island Rum, coconut, pineapple and orange juice is guaranteed to cure what ails you.
With three different degrees to soothe what ails you, a quick conversation with Monty’s experienced bartenders will melt away the pain of a tiresome work week in no time.
Golden Rose at Rose Bar
A cocktail aficionado’s enclave, Delano’s Rose Bar is a glimpse at how the other half lives. Offering a relaxed setting, Rose Bar has undeniably glamorous and sophisticated cocktails, with the most distinguished one being the Golden Rose.
An indulgent, celebratory drink, the Golden Rose is made from Moët & Chandon Champagne, Grand Marnier, rose water, and Peychaud’s bitters. Topped with flecks of real gold, this is one drink you’ll want to savor.
Cocktail, anyone?
Miami may be hot all year round, but when the temperature reaches boiling point, what better way to cool off than with one of Miami’s refreshing cocktails? The vibrancy of cocktail culture in Miami means that you’re never too far from a cool and refreshing summertime libation.
Whether your preference is al fresco sipping or something a little more indoors, each bar on this list meets Florida’s liquor license requirements, meaning they can make whatever merry drink your heart desires.
AUTHOR BIO
Richard Bantock is the President of Liquor License Consultants, Inc. (formerly known as The Liquor License Guy) which specializes in the purchasing and selling of Florida liquor licenses. For 20 years, he successfully operated liquor store, nightclub, bar and restaurant companies, gaining first-hand knowledge of business planning, financial negotiations and the liquor licensing process. Liquor License Consultants, Inc. reflects his insight and expertise.