Discover Florida's Top 11 Must-Visit Bars: Unique Vibes Await!

Discover Florida's Top 11 Must-Visit Bars: Unique Vibes Await!

Florida’s vibrant bar scene is brimming with an eclectic mix of establishments that cater to every taste, whether you’re after a casual beach shack or a chic speakeasy. Recently, the USA TODAY Network’s food and dining team zoomed in on 11 must-visit bars that have captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. From St. Augustine’s sophisticated offerings to the seaside charm of Daytona Beach, these bars showcase what makes Florida’s nightlife quite special.

In St. Augustine, Florida Today highlights Chez L’Amour, a transformed 1800s house turned into an elegant dining space. Patrons can savor craft cocktails paired with global tapas while tapping their feet to live jazz from world-class musicians. This spot definitely redefines the bar experience.

Head down south to downtown Fort Myers, where the Escondido Lounge stands out as a charming speakeasy. Tucked behind a taco joint, this hideaway features velvet seating and a grand piano, serving both classic and signature cocktails. It’s a cozy sanctuary away from the bustling streets, perfect for those who crave a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere.

Local Highlights and Unique Experiences

While each of the bars mentioned possesses its own unique character, some have special accolades worth noting. Hardwick’s Bar, the first major LGBTQIA+ club to open in Jacksonville in decades, is making waves with its custom bar and dynamic monthly events featuring DJs and dance parties. Over in Tallahassee, the Liberty Bar is a casual haven known for its excellent drinks and comfort food, ensuring that there’s something on the menu for everyone.

Do you have a taste for the nautical? Little Jim Bait & Tackle in Fort Pierce, once a Navy guard shack, now doubles as a live music venue. Its menu features quirky items like pimento cheese spread and refreshing frozen drinks, adding to the laid-back, fun-loving vibe.

• Mary Lou’s | West Palm Beach: A glamorous speakeasy teeming with A-list patrons and adorned with a large mirror ball.
• Old Hickory Whiskey Bar | Pensacola: A whiskey lover’s paradise, boasting over 750 varieties in a sleek setting.
• Ocean Deck | Daytona Beach: A classic beach bar since 1957, serving up island-inspired dishes and live entertainment.
• The Old Salty Dog | Sarasota: Combining a British pub feel with beach casual, known for its fish and chips and well-loved deep-fried hot dog.
• Rebecca’s | Naples: A new gem in the Bayshore Arts District featuring a curated wine collection and crafted cocktails.

The Allure of Hidden Speakeasies

Florida’s bar experience is not complete without mentioning its hidden speakeasies, which offer unique late-night escapades. Places like Lourdes Library in Melbourne have taken the concept to new heights. Hidden behind bookshelves, this gem serves refreshing gin and tonics amidst a literary backdrop. Another fantastic spot is the Red Phone Booth in Miami, where you’d need a secret phone number to enter. It’s a vintage-feel haven for craft cocktail enthusiasts.

Orlando’s Hanson’s Shoe Repair is a nod to the Prohibition era, requiring a password for entry. Meanwhile, Taco Kat offers a laid-back ambiance behind a taco shop, specializing in tequila-infused cocktails. If fortune favors the bold, don’t miss Mama Hank’s Speakeasy + Kitchen in Fort Lauderdale, where comfort food meets a cozy, family-friendly vibe.

With bars catering to diverse moods and tastes, Florida’s drinking scene continues to innovate. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail in a revamped historic home or discovering hidden delights behind unassuming doors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.