Traveling this summer? Forget overcrowded tourist destinations, here at Drinking In America we believe that there’s no better way to get a true taste of a city’s culture than by immersing ourselves in it’s bar scene. Don’t waste another second picking through (oft-hilarious) multi-paragraph Yelp reviews to find your drinking destination for the night. If your summer travels take you to Florida, be sure to float over to Miami—the 3rd city featured in our Summer City Sips Series.
Nicknamed the “Capital of Latin America” due to its large Spanish-speaking population, Miami is known for its unique and vibrant culture. Originally settled by Spain in the 1500s, Miami lies along the shores of Biscayne Bay, with beautiful barrier islands that are home of famed Miami and South Beaches. The climate is warm and mild year round—making it the perfect spot to soak up a little sun and get some R&R.
Where better to enjoy yourself than the hopping—and historic—Ball & Chain bar in Little Havana. First opened as the Ball & Chain Saloon in 1935, it hosted jazz legends like Billie Holiday and Count Basie.The bar and nightspot lasted through the turbulence of prohibition and World War II–though the location and name have changed over the years. From the retro sign out front to the cozily lit interior, Ball & Chain is the perfect place to soak in some history while enjoying the unique Calle Ocho culture. With mouthwatering tapas and dancing, it’s no surprise that Ball & Chain fills up when the sun goes down.
An Old Fashioned may seem out of place at this Latin inspired joint, but the Calle Ocho Old Fashioned is a must-have. Made with aged rum instead of bourbon, demerara sugar, tobacco bitters, and tobacco leaves, this drink is perhaps not for the faint of heart. If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, the Bananita Daiquiri is the way to go. White rum is blended with crème de banana, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and bananita, and coffee beans add a fun and fragrant twist. With a rich history, lively atmosphere, and killer drinks made from fresh and unique ingredients, Ball & Chain should be at the top of your Miami bucket list.