Best Bars in Fort Lauderdale 2024

Looking for the top bars in Fort Lauderdale? Expect a diverse selection, whether it’s sipping a cocktail on a rooftop or enjoying a fresh pour by the ocean. Skip the guesswork – you’re about to get my personal round up of bars that stand out for their distinctive ambiance, flavors, and experiences exclusive to our home town of Fort Lauderdale.

Takeaways from the Ft Lauderdale Bar Scene

• Fort Lauderdale is buzzing with diverse bars ranging from cocktail lounges to craft beer spots, each providing a unique vibe and specialty drinks.  I enjoy Lauderdale’s range of high end establishments all the way down to dive bars!
• For those seeking more than just a drink, many establishments offer engaging activities like axe throwing, gaming, live music, and even yoga sessions.
• Whether you’re into chilling at a beach bar, partying at a gay club, or enjoying rooftop views, there’s an array of places to enjoy along with fantastic late-night food options to keep the party going.

Since many people tend to gravitate to the Las Olas region of Fort Lauderdale, I also made a page specifically for bars on Las Olas!

Crafted Concoctions: Fort Lauderdale’s Finest Cocktail Bars

Fort Lauderdale is a cocktail lover’s paradise, acclaimed for its inventive mixology that caters to connoisseurs. Handcrafted cocktails like the Berry Beauty epitomize the creative spirit of the local bartenders. But it’s not just about the drinks, some bars also offer unique food options like the Kobe Beef Hot Dog, adding an extra layer of flavor to your bespoke beverage experience.

Rhythm & Vine

We start with Rhythm & Vine, a chic bar renowned for its meticulously concocted cocktail menu. The bar’s standout drink, the Chapos Tunnel, is a testament to the skill of the master mixologist behind the bar. This cocktail, featuring:

• tequila
• sweet serrano hibiscus
• orange flower water
• passion fruit
• lime juice

This spring break is sure to delight your taste buds.

The bar’s vibrant ambience, complemented by live music, promises more than just a drink.

The Wilder

Moving on to The Wilder, This cocktail bar and lounge offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, blending modern and vintage elements in its decor. The Wilder is home to The Cocktail Club event, an exclusive occasion where guests can enjoy a four-course menu paired with handcrafted cocktails.

Happy hour specials further elevate the boutique bar experience.  I highly recommend you visit the Wilder and see for yourself, as the cocktails are elevated and the music and venue are always fun!

Stache Drinking Den

Let’s not overlook the Stache Drinking Den. This speakeasy-style bar is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, recognized for its craft cocktails and live music. Known as the ‘den’, its cozy and intimate atmosphere is a hit among patrons.

The air-conditioned den ensures comfort while you enjoy your drinks and a spirited DJ sets the evening tone, with outdoor seating available.  I often get coffee here in the AM, and if you are into boozy coffee, it’s a great place to start your day, even if you ended up finishing your previous one there late night enjoying their incredible whiskey selection.

Hops Heaven: Top Craft Beer Bars in Fort Lauderdale

Worry not if cocktails aren’t your cup of tea. Fort Lauderdale also boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. From local to international brands, the city’s beer bars offer a wide variety of flavor profiles to suit every palate. Whether you’re a fan of tropical citrus notes or prefer a bittersweet finish, you’re sure to find a brew that hits the spot.

Certain bars like the LauderAle Brewery even take it a notch higher by offering brewery tours.

Laser Wolf

A visit to Laser Wolf, a local craft beer bar, is highly recommended. With its motto ‘No Jerks, Yes Beers’, this bar offers a welcoming vibe coupled with an impressive range of American craft beers. From rotating drafts to bottled and canned beers, the selection here is extensive.

Unusual brews like the Brunch Weasel, an imperial stout infused with civet-digested coffee beans, and the EvilTwin Apricot IPA, ensure a unique tasting experience.

LauderAle Brewery

In contrast, LauderAle Brewery offers an experience beyond craft beers. Here, you can enjoy:

• A diverse tap list that spans a range of beer styles
• The option to opt for a flight to sample any four of their brews
• Weekly limited releases of new and experimental brews

There’s always something fresh and exciting to look forward to at LauderAle Brewery.

Riverside Market

Last but not least is the Riverside Market. This bar is celebrated for its dedication to craft beers. Unique selections like the vanilla and coffee-infused Ballast Point Victory at Sea Imperial Porter and the American White Oak-aged version of Cigar City’s Jai Alai India Pale Ale distinguish Riverside Market from the rest.

The bar’s offerings extend beyond beer. You can also enjoy options like wines, sakes, and meads.

Beachside Bliss: Must-Visit Beach Bars in Fort Lauderdale

Switching gears from craft beer and cocktails, we now head to the beach. Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront bars offer the perfect blend of sun, sand, and spirits. With their unobstructed ocean views and lively atmospheres, these bars are a paradise for beach vacationers.

Be it relishing a frozen cocktail or experimenting with an oversized drink served in a unique container, the experience promises to be memorable.

Elbo Room

The Elbo Room, located right on Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, is famous for its energetic vibe. As one of Fort Lauderdale’s most iconic beachfront bars, the Elbo Room offers an unobstructed view of the ocean, allowing you to soak in the beach vibes while enjoying your favorite drink.  This is perhaps the party headquarters that put Ft Lauderdale on the map during their famous spring breaks back in the 1980’s and 1990’s. This is a high grossing bar that is a must visit when you are near Fort Lauderdale Beach.

McSorley’s Beach Pub

On our list next is McSorley’s Beach Pub. This two-story establishment boasts stunning ocean views from its rooftop deck. With its lively weekend scene and convenient location next to the Sonesta Hotel, McSorley’s is the perfect spot for an evening of fun and relaxation.  It’s also the best Irish Pub near the beach, and you can watch soccer games at McSorley’s and find Guiness beer, which isn’t all that popular overall in South Florida.

Rock Bar

Completing our selection of beachside bars is the Rock Bar, a multi-level beachfront establishment known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a drink on the beachfront patio or trying out one of their Arabian hookahs, the Rock Bar offers a unique beachside experience.

Elevated Experiences: Best Rooftop Bars in Fort Lauderdale

Leaving the beach behind, we now turn our attention to the city’s rooftop bars. Offering panoramic views of the city and the ocean, these bars provide an elevated drinking experience. Whether you’re sipping on a specialty cocktail at the Sparrow Rooftop Bar or enjoying the pool scene at The Easton Rooftop Pool & Lounge, these bars are sure to impress.

Rooftop @1WLO

Nestled in the corner of Las Olas Boulevard, Rooftop @1WLO offers panoramic views of the Fort Lauderdale skyline from its sophisticated location. Here, you can enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and chef-driven small plates while soaking in the stunning city views.

Whether it’s a post-work drink or a relaxed Sunday brunch, this upscale bar, known as one of the best bars, never fails to impress.

Blue Martini

Next on our list is the Blue Martini, a chic and modern bar located in Fort Lauderdale’s upscale shopping and dining district. Known for its live music and impressive cocktail menu, this spot offers a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out. And don’t forget about their happy hour deals, which are sure to make your visit even more enjoyable.

A Taste of Europe: Fort Lauderdale’s Irish Pubs and Wine Bars

If a cozy retreat is what you’re after, the Irish pubs and wine bars in Fort Lauderdale bring a slice of Europe to South Florida. From the laid-back atmosphere of the Village Well Pub to the intimate setting of the 33rd Street Wine Bar, these venues offer a unique experience that’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s more lively establishments.

Village Well Pub

The Village Well Pub is known for its laid-back and comfortable atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed night out. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet pint or challenge your friends to a game of darts or pool, this pub offers a classic Irish pub experience right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

33rd Street Wine Bar

On the other hand, 33rd Street Wine Bar offers a cozy and intimate setting for wine lovers. With a diverse selection of wines ranging from effervescent rosé to full-bodied cabernet, you’re sure to find something to suit your palate. Beyond wine tasting, this bar also offers live music events, providing both entertainment and educational experiences for wine enthusiasts.

Alternative Entertainment: Unique Bars with Fun Activities

For an unconventional nightlife experience, Fort Lauderdale presents a variety of unique bars with engaging activities. Whether you’re challenging your friends to axe throwing at Chops + Hops or enjoying a game of pool or darts at the Village Well Pub, these bars offer a unique twist on the traditional bar experience.

Chops + Hops | Axe Throwing Lodge

Chops + Hops presents an intriguing fusion of a bar and an axe-throwing lounge. Here, you can enjoy the thrill of axe throwing in a safe and lively setting, all while sipping your favorite drink.

The venue also hosts a variety of special events, including brunch gatherings and even yoga sessions, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.

Tenth Level Tavern

Tenth Level Tavern promises a distinct experience for gaming enthusiasts. This gaming-themed bar features a variety of video games from retro to modern, and even hosts karaoke nights.

While the tavern doesn’t have a liquor license, you can still enjoy a selection of wine and beer, along with a range of bar food suitable for late-night cravings.

YOLO Restaurant

Rounding out our selection, YOLO Restaurant provides a distinctive bar experience. This popular spot features a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse menu, making it a great destination for those seeking an exciting night out in Fort Lauderdale.

LGBTQ+ Friendly Spaces: Best Gay Bars in Fort Lauderdale

The city of Fort Lauderdale is also a hub of lively gay nightlife. From drag shows at The Pub Wilton Manors to the leather community at The Eagle, the city offers a diverse range of experiences for the LGBTQ+ community. These bars not only serve as safe spaces but also offer a variety of entertainment options, from live music to themed nights.

Infinity Lounge

Located in the bustling gay district of Wilton Manors, The Infinity Lounge is celebrated for its intimate setting and specialty cocktails. Whether you’re looking to relax with a drink or catch up with friends, this lounge offers a comfortable space to enjoy your evening.

Mona’s

Mona’s Cocktail Lounge, a beloved local haunt, has been an integral part of the Fort Lauderdale gay community for over 20 years. Known for its warm reception and friendly locals, Mona’s hosts a variety of events, from bingo and karaoke nights to charity events and fundraisers.

With its quirky decor and pet-friendly environment, Mona’s offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere, from what I’ve heard and gathered online. I’ve never been in here, but there is no question this is a popular spot.

Wilton Manors

Wilton Manors, often referred to as the Island City, is widely recognized as the epicenter of the gay community in South Florida. This vibrant area offers a diverse range of experiences, from casual drinks and comfort food at Village Pub to lively entertainment and themed events at The Manor Complex.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or a lively party, Wilton Manors has something for everyone.

Late-Night Eats: Bars with Great Food Options

To satiate your late-night cravings, numerous bars in Fort Lauderdale feature excellent food options. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos at Tatts & Tacos Beer Garden or a full meal at Milk Money Bar & Kitchen, these establishments ensure that you won’t go hungry during your night out.

Sidewalk Bottle Shop

Despite limited online information about its late-night food selections, Sidewalk Bottle Shop offers a broad assortment of:

• beer
• wine
• cocktails
• food

This makes it a diverse hangout spot in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

America’s Backyard

In contrast, America’s Backyard offers a more detailed food menu. Although specific information about their late-night offerings isn’t readily available online, the bar’s extensive menu suggests that it caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Oakland Park

Lastly, establishments in Oakland Park, such as Tatts & Tacos Beer Garden and Milk Money Bar & Kitchen, are renowned for their late-night food offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for savory tacos or a versatile menu paired with creative cocktails, these establishments have got you covered.

Summary

In conclusion, whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a craft beer enthusiast, or just someone looking for a fun night out, Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife scene has something to offer you. Its diverse range of bars, from beachfront establishments to cozy Irish pubs, ensures that there’s a spot for every taste and preference. So why wait? Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Fort Lauderdale and discover the city’s best bars for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Fort Lauderdale have a strip of bars?

Yes, Fort Lauderdale does have a strip of bars and restaurants along 2nd Street, making it a party paradise for locals. So, you can definitely enjoy the vibrant nightlife there!

Are there beach parties in Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, you can attend the Great American Beach Party on Memorial Day weekend in Fort Lauderdale to kick off the summer.

Does Fort Lauderdale have nightlife?

Yes, Fort Lauderdale has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of entertainment options, including dancing, gaming, bars, restaurants, and live music. So, you’ll have plenty of options to keep you entertained from sunset to sunrise.

Is it legal to drink on the beach in Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, it is now legal to drink on the beach in Fort Lauderdale after the ban on alcohol was lifted. Enjoy your favorite cocktail on the sand!

What is the oldest bar in Fort Lauderdale?

The Elbo Room, established in 1938, is the oldest bar in Fort Lauderdale, located at 241 South Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Florida. It’s a must-visit landmark for Fort Lauderdale Beach.