Miami is known as the “Magic City,” and staying true to this title isn’t a challenge when there are so many great lounges. As university students, we’re always looking for great spots around the city to unwind after a hard day of studying. Here’s a roundup of some of the best lounges our city has to offer.
Cantina La Veinte
495 Brickell Ave. Miami
This Latin-inspired watering hole is the place to indulge in Mexican cuisine. Known for stiff margaritas and delectable guacamole, Cantina La Veinte even attracted A-list celebrity David Beckham.
Whether you’re gawking at the decorated bottles at the bar or relaxing at a quiet table overlooking the always-soothing Biscayne Bay, grabbing some afternoon drinks is a just-as-fun alternative to Monty’s happy hour without denying yourself the gorgeous waterfront view.
The Drawing Room
1801 Collins Ave. Miami Beach
Fresh off a multimillion dollar renovation, the Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach houses The Drawing Room, a modern take on an apothecary. Rather than serving typical drinks, The Drawing Room offers carefully designed “elixirs,” which are classified into different categories such as Health and Beauty, Aphrodisiacs and Pharmaceuticals.
Given its location inside an Art Deco masterpiece of a building, it boldly reminds its patrons that “too much is never enough.” After an elixir or two, customers of this apothecary are rejuvenated and ready to conquer whatever comes their way.
The Regent Cocktail Club
1921 Collins Ave. Miami Beach
Marked by an antique car parked outside, this small lounge is a throwback to what speakeasies used to be. Its dim lighting and wood paneling create the perfect environment for enjoying the live band or 20th century recorded tunes as you sit back and enjoy the ambiance.
Allow yourself to be transported back in time as you listen to the songs of Ol’ Blue Eyes (aka Frank Sinatra) and Dean Martin. Once you’re consumed by its laid back yet elegant atmosphere, you’ll be further impressed by the handcrafted cocktails and perfectly poured brews.
Area 31
270 Biscayne Blvd. Miami
16 stories above Downtown Miami with a panoramic view of Biscayne Bay and Brickell Avenue, Area 31 offers an Insta-worthy sunset view. A D.J. playing EDM and Top-40 hits provides ear candy while your taste buds are occupied with their popular Champagne cocktail.
Area 31 is a great place on Fridays because of its now famous “Chase the Clock” drink menu. When you chase the clock, drinks are priced by the hour from 5 p.m. to midnight. This means that drinks cost $5 at 5 p.m., $6 at 6 p.m. and so on.
It has become UM custom to pregame at least three hours prior to actually going out and this is the perfect place to indulge in an amazing view of the illuminated city before braving the crowds at Blackbird Ordinary and American Social.
words_george read. photo_olivia stauber.