Online dating these days is a strange, complicated and weird alternate universe. Half the people on there aren’t even real and the other half have sketchy criminal records. At first, you may think you matched with someone who seems great only to find out it’s basically the “Tinder Swindler”. I like to think for every 100 or so swipes, there is someone who is potentially normal. So you chat it up and go through all the basic interview questions to see if you can safely move each other into the next phase: meeting IRL.
Meeting someone from the cyber world in the flesh is a whole other series of questions. Where do you both live? Where do you prefer to meet? What’s a good place that isn’t too loud but isn’t awkwardly silent? We obviously don’t want to commit to sitting through dinner just in case you are being catfished or you can just tell rather quickly it isn’t going to work out. So what qualifications did I take into consideration when making this list? Scroll down to find out!
What I Looked For
It goes without saying that a great vibe is a must. It needs to be quiet enough to be able to talk to one another but not too quiet where any potential awkward silence feels extra painful. If you can find a spot with some great people watching to help fill the conversation, that is definitely a plus. The ambiance should be sexy or cool but not the typical Miami scene where it’s packed like sardines and pure chaos. Great lighting would be really beneficial to make that cheek highlighter shine through but we’ll let one fly for now.
The next thing I took into consideration was the type of establishment. I really hope I’m not the only one who thinks it’s weird to sit at a restaurant bar even though you specifically agreed to only having drinks because you secretly did not want to commit to dinner. If I am the only person who thinks this way, please let a sister know. For this reason, I am specifically listing places where the cocktails really shine through and it’s mostly obvious you are there for those delicious concoctions.
My next qualification would be location. You know what they say..location location location! When it comes to meeting a stranger, safety is key which means we want to make sure we choose a place that is centrally located and surrounded by people. It’s also important to be centrally located because sometimes you want to leave your nightmare of a date and meet up with your friends to be consoled. I’m just saying.
Lastly, this list is a summer series which means all of my selections are in air-conditioning because I cannot handle spending one more minute doing my hair for absolutely no reason. I also am sick of seeing my date sweating. Pobresito. Can I get an amen?
Neighborhood: Downtown
Over Under
151 E Flagler St Miami, FL 33131
(Via Overundermiami.com)
Located in the Historic Alfred l. duPont Building in Downtown Miami, Over Under is self-described as a “Hip, brick-lined bar serving cocktails & brunch, plus generous plates of hearty pub fare”. While I can personally confirm their food is tasty, this is definitely a place you can come to for drinks only. Over Under is definitely a locals bar which is great when it comes to wanting to avoid typical Miami scene vibes. You will feel right at home at this kitschy little bar where the drinks are not just strong but are thoughtfully curated. The staff are all super welcoming and friendly as well. (I can neither confirm nor deny the two male owners are single and ready to mingle so if your date goes south keep an eye out!).
The vibe here is more on the casual side so you don’t have to worry about being underdressed. It’s a great option if you are going to meet your date right after work. On the weekends, the vibe does get a little more amped up and rowdy so try to meet on the earlier side to be able to talk and get to know each other. Also, happy hour is every day from 5pm until 7 pm. You are welcome.
Great For: Good drinks, happy hour, casual meet which could turn into a fun night
What To Wear: For my ladies, jeans, cute tops or elevated casual I like to say. I would opt for a wedge over heels. For the gents, you can do a cute v neck and jeans. No shorts because you should never wear shorts on a date so shame on you.
What To Order: Frozen Palomas, Sazeracs
Neighborhood: Coconut Grove
Taurus
3540 Main Hwy Miami, FL 33133
(305) 529-6523
(Via https://thetauruscoconutgrove.com/)
This Coconut Grove staple opened way back in 1969 making it a pretty iconic bar in the neighborhood. Self described as “legendy” and “whiskey aficionados”, Taurus is a sexy little bar that is worth a visit for any occasion. Although some may describe it as a local watering hole, it’s definitely much more than that. Ariete Hospitality Group is the team behind the concept which also includes Michelin starred Ariete right next door( Date #2 anyone?).
The vibe here is dark, moody and casual. On one side you will find a cute little fireplace making you feel all cozy as you sip on your cocktail of choice. I wouldn’t come here right after work since it will likely be a little empty and awkward for you. I would shoot for around 7-8pm.
Great For: Darkness if you want to look vibey, great location surrounded by a lot of other places, easy parking.
What To Wear: Another elevated casual joint where jeans and a cute top would work well.
What To Order: Negronis
Bodega Mezcalaria
3419 Main Highway
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
786-833-9791
(Via https://www.bodegataqueria.com/location/coconutgrove/)
As the newest addition to the neighborhood, you can expect a lot of hype right now surrounding this famous Mexican chain! Commonly thought of as a taco joint by day and a poppin lounge by night, the vibe here never disappoints. Just like their South Beach property, this location also includes a secret speakeasy with a full bar, music and more. I recommend this for a fun night with friends but that’s not what this mention is for. We are here to specifically discuss their secret Mezcaleria tucked away on the second floor!
This incredibly sexy little secret is the perfect spot to meet a date. It’s dark, vibey and is strictly drinks only so you don’t have to worry about potentially shoving tacos down your throat in front of your handsome man(here’s hoping…). This spot opens at 6 pm which I would normally say head on over around 7 pm so you aren’t the first people there but due to its newness I would recommend getting there on the early side.
Great For: Super sexy vibe, moody, great location
What To Wear: Since you’re in the grove, elevated casual always works. Since this little bar is a sexy secret, I would personally go for a sexy top with jeans and heels. Guys, don’t be afraid to wear a button down here to match the sexy vibe. Though a nice t-shirt would be just fine as well.
What To Order: Mezcal…duh.
Neighborhood: South Beach
Bay Club
1930 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(Via https://www.facebook.com/bayclubmia)
As a former Miami Beach resident, I can confirm that Bay Club is indeed a great local’s bar and good spot for a first date. It’s connected to and run by the star studded pizzeria Lucali in the Sunset Harbor neighborhood. As a big wine drinker myself, this is a great place for that delicious grape juice as their wine list is extensive and wonderfully curated.
There are no frills here. It’s a small, simple and casual little joint but the vibe is always great. The people watching is usually top notch and the cocktails are strong and great quality which is one of my personal favorite combos for a date. Another amazing detail is that Bay Club hosts two popular events: Karaoke Thursdays and Comedy Monday’s. Check out their Instagram for more information on that.
The only parking in the area(other than limited street parking) is the parking garage right on top of it so it’s pretty convenient. It starts to get going around 6 pm so you can easily meet your date after work. Happy hour is 5 to 7 pm.
What To Wear: Casual. If you aren’t a big fan of wedges/heels, you can wear flats here.
Great For: People watching, wine lovers, maybe you hit it off and want to eat some of the best late night pizza of your lives together.
What To Order: Red Wine, Old Fashioned
El Salon
1438 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(Via https://www.esmehotel.com)
Tucked away into the brand new Esme Hotel, this hidden little cocktail bar is truly a gem. Despite being located on one of the busiest streets in South Beach, you will feel secluded, intimate and a bit luxurious at this spot. What makes this place so special is that they have their own blended spirits which means you won’t find your typical big brands of liquor here. If cocktails are your thing, you are in for a unique experience.
This is a great place to choose if you automatically want to both be intrigued and impressed upon arrival. It’s dim, intimate and interesting. Parking in the area is not great so I would recommend Ubering. This spot opens at 6 pm and you can come at any time.
What To Wear: Something interesting, a little sexy but don’t go over-board.
Good For: Gin Lovers, potentially taking a stroll down Espanola Way after, mixology aficionados
What To Order: Martinis
Monterrey Bar @ The Standard
40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(Via https://www.standardhotels.com)
Monterrey Bar is intimately tucked away inside The Standard Hotel located right off of the Venetian Causeway on Belle Isle. This spot is self described as an “ intimate bar which celebrates unique twists on classic cocktails and elevated bites”. Guys, it’s fancy schmancy. The decor here is absolutely stunning and I’m kind of obsessed with it.
The lighting is dim but not dark which is a good thing because you seriously want to appreciate the overall vibe going on here. Parking is valet only so I would recommend taking an Uber. The downside to this spot is the location. You aren’t in walking distance to anything else so this is basically your stop for the night(unless you two love birds hit it off and get an Uber together somewhere else.. Wink wink).
What To Wear: They specify a dress code of ‘cocktail chic’. Guys, button downs please. Ladies, bring the heat.
Good For: fancy bar lovers, interior design aficionados, willing to try something new
What To Order: Champagne, shaken cocktails like the Root Chakra. Skip the wine.
Neighborhood: Brickell
MO Bar and Lounge
500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131
(Via https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/miami/brickell-key/dine/mo-bar-lounge)
Located in the fancy schmancy Mandarin Oriental, this lounge is self described as “ Miami’s quintessential bar offering a selection of innovative classic cocktails, gourmet plates and live music in a spectacular waterfront setting”. Honestly, that really does sum it up. This is the lobby bar for the hotel and it’s a really great option for a first date for multiple reasons.
First things first, it goes without saying its an upscale vibe. Since it is located in the main hotel lobby, it is rather lit up compared to some of our dimmer options. Sexy and sultry are not the words here. This is a classy and bit of a more quiet option except for Fridays when they bring in an incredible Cuban jazz trio for some great background music so I definitely recommend coming then. Daily happy hour is from 5 pm to 7 pm.
Parking is valet only but you do get it validated so it’s $15 which isn’t bad at all. The downside is the hotel is located on Brickell Key which is right off of Brickell meaning it’s essentially the only thing located in that area. To get back to the bustling neighborhood, you have to cross a bridge which definitely requires a car so that’s a little annoying if you would like to continue the night with your date.
What To Wear: Something classy, heels
Good For: Hotel lobby bar lovers like myself, classy crowds, if you want to impress your date
What To Order: Spicy Samba, Champagne
8Street Brickell
86 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130
(Via https://8streetbrickell.com/)
Located right in the heart of Brickell, this spot has quickly become known as the upscale neighborhood bar. I can personally vouch for the quality of their drinks and tell you they are freaking good. The decor and overall vibe here is kind of like a very small and intimate nightclub. The upholstery! The lights! The cool ceiling!… there is alot going on here. And I am here for it.
8Street is definitely more of an upscale vibe. I have to warn you it’s a little on the smaller side so depending on the day and time you come it could be a little hard to get a seat. BUT they do offer reservations! They have happy hour every day from 5 pm to 7 pm and a DJ starts playing at 10 pm. You want to avoid the time when the DJ is playing because then you guys can’t hear each other. I would say 8 pm is the sweet spot. I’m sure by now you know the headache that is Brickell and parking.. Uber here!
What To Wear: They do monitor the dress code especially with men. No shorts or sandals gents! Ladies, you can wear heels here.
Good For: Walking to other spots, not casual but not luxury, good quality drinks
What To Order: Guava Nice Day Margarita, Smoked Old Fashioned