The Wilder – Best Cocktail Lounge in FLL?

One of our favorite cocktail lounges in the area – The Wilder Fort Lauderdale, is a great place to get a drink after dining on Las Olas or anywhere in the area for that matter! Whether you’re stirring up a night with innovative cocktails, indulging in a one-of-a-kind burlesque brunch, or unwinding at a charming happy hour, this spot lights up Fort Lauderdale’s dining scene with unforgettable experiences.

Today I’ll share with you what makes this venue one that’s entrenched in our rotation for cocktails, and more, in Fort Lauderdale.

The Wilder Ft Lauderdale

Experiencing The Wilder Fort Lauderdale

  • The Wilder Fort Lauderdale offers a sophisticated dining and cocktail bar experience with an extensive menu of uniquely crafted drinks, suited for lively parties and intimate outings.
  • Unique dining offerings include a distinct brunch experience with live burlesque performances, along with a diverse menu of both savory and sweet gourmet bites to cater to different tastes.
  • The Wilder also provides an upscale happy hour called ‘The Proper Happy Hour’ from Tuesday to Saturday, featuring great deals on drinks and small plates, set in a cozy and sophisticated ambiance.

Sipping in Style: The Wilder’s Cocktail Bar Experience

The Wilder's Cocktail Bar Experience

Known for its diverse cocktail menu, The Wilder excels in the art of mixology with standout drinks like:

  • Grove Street
  • Good Fortune
  • Virgo’s Groove
  • Lolita

Each cocktail blends unique and sometimes exotic ingredients that cater to various palates, from the adventurous to the classic. The ambiance is sophisticated and stylish, with a unique aesthetic that creates the perfect backdrop for lively parties or intimate date nights.

Although The Wilder generally delivers warm, attentive service, some critiques have pointed out slow drink service and inconsistent live music as areas for potential enhancement. Patrons can choose their seating from high booths in a smaller bar area to a spacious territory outfitted with sofa chairs and low tables, catering to various group sizes and occasions.

Craft Cocktails & Mixology

Signature cocktails at The Wilder include unique creations like:

  • Pistache
  • YO!
  • Sincerely, The Wilder
  • Kiss This
  • Playmate

These cocktails are acclaimed for their balance, distinctive flavors, and engaging presentations. Expert mixologists, like Nelson, are praised for their exceptional expertise in drink crafting, enhancing the guest experience through engagement and the presentation of each cocktail.

In addition to alcoholic beverages, The Wilder’s cocktail menu also boasts creative mocktails with complexity akin to their alcoholic counterparts, ensuring varied and satisfying options for all.

Date Night Done Right

The Wilder fosters an atmosphere of sophistication and intimacy, ideal for romantic encounters and fostering a sense of exclusivity and personal connection. This emotional engagement is heightened by an ambiance that evokes the feeling of beautiful life experiences, from the thrill of discovery to the joy of intimacy. The carefully crafted ad experience further enhances this atmosphere, seamlessly blending with the overall theme.

With live music and a thoughtfully curated ambiance, The Wilder provides a vibrant setting that enriches the date night experience, ensuring every moment feels special. Couples can bond over shared cocktail presentations like the Garden Punch Bowl, which not only delights the palate but also adds a playful and interactive touch to the evening.

Toasting to love is made exceptional with a selection of romantically-themed cocktail options, such as the elegant French 75 or the indulgent Bottomless Spritzers.

A Brunch Unlike Any Other: Burlesque and Bites

Burlesque and Bites

The Wilder serves up a distinctive brunch experience that pairs gourmet bites with engaging burlesque performances, marrying culinary art and live entertainment. Each burlesque performance at the brunch is carefully choreographed, providing guests with a spectacle of dance and sensuality that complements the vibrant and chic atmosphere of The Wilder.

Ranging from classic eggs benedict to inventive dishes that delight both the eyes and taste buds, The Wilder’s brunch menu offers a wide array of culinary options. Some highlights include:

  • Classic eggs benedict
  • Avocado toast with poached eggs
  • Pancakes with fresh berries and whipped cream
  • Breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese
  • Smoked salmon bagel with cream cheese and capers

This combination of a lively burlesque spectacle and delicious brunch offerings makes The Wilder’s brunch a can’t-miss experience for locals and visitors looking to spruce up their weekend routine.

The Brunch Menu Delectables

The breakfast menu at The Wilder includes a variety of delicious options:

  • Blueberry French Toast Bread Pudding: a favorite among customers, topped with a berry compote and finished with a velvety crème anglaise
  • Omelet of the Day: filled with a variety of fresh ingredients
  • Steak & Eggs: a classic dish featuring a succulent 6 oz filet and poached eggs

Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, The Wilder has something to satisfy your breakfast cravings.

Patrons seeking a savory brunch or an enticing dinner with a creative twist can indulge in unique offerings such as a flavor-packed Sweet Corn Tamale Cake or the Avocado Hummus Toast adorned with charred scallion and pickled red onion, all made possible by the use of similar technologies in the kitchen.

For those focused on health-conscious or extraordinary culinary options, the Moroccan Lentil Salad serves as a refreshing choice, blending baby kale, red onions, and heirloom tomatoes with a mint lemon vinaigrette.

The Burlesque Show Spectacle

The burlesque brunch at The Wilder, featuring interactive and visually captivating performances, is a hit among guests. Visitors have noted that the burlesque show contributes significantly to a lively and vibrant atmosphere, making it a distinctive and fun dining experience.

The burlesque brunch at The Wilder serves as an adult-only entertainment option, adding a unique and unconventional twist to a date or outing.

Happy Hour Happenings

Happy Hour Happenings

‘The Proper Happy Hour’ at The Wilder offers:

  • Great happy hour deals
  • An upscale drinking experience
  • Available from Tuesday to Saturday between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM
  • Catering to both intimate and group clientele

The Wilder provides a sophisticated drinking experience every weeknight.

With half-off bottles of wine, $5 wine by the glass, and $7 sangria, The Wilder’s happy hour assures a range of options to cater to all tastes. Complementing the drink specials are $7 small plates, making The Wilder an ideal backdrop for relaxing after work as much for its great vibe as for its deals.

Sips and Small Plates

Happy hour at The Wilder offers $7 well spirits, including New Amsterdam Vodka, Bombay Sapphire Gin, Bacardi Rum, Cazadores Blanco and Reposado Tequila, Old Forester Bourbon, and Jack Daniel’s Whiskey. The wilder also provides a selection of wines during happy hour for $7 per glass, including Pinot Grigio from Torresella, Veneto, Italy, and Pinot Noir from Silver Peak, Sonoma County, California.

Classic cocktails, offered at the tantalizing price of $7 during happy hour, include favorites like Mules, Margaritas, Old Fashioneds, Collins, and Daiquiris. For $5, patrons can savor delicious small plates like Sweet Corn & Cheddar Croquettes, Moroccan Lentil Salad, and Yuca Frita. The $7 small plate options expand the choice with items such as French Dip Empanadas, Crispy Mushroom “Cheetos,” and Gochujang Guava Chicken Drumettes.

Additionally, The Wilder serves $9 small plates, offering gourmet selections like Tuna Tataki, Mojo Jerk Ribs, and Red Pepper & Feta Dip.

Vibe and Ambiance

The Wilder’s happy hour ambiance strikes a balance between playful and sophisticated, offering an experience that goes beyond the average bar or lounge setting. The lounge area, characterized by its coziness and great music, sets a tone that encourages patrons to unwind and socialize.

The Wilder boasts:

  • A speakeasy and garden ambiance
  • Practical venue features such as free parking behind the establishment
  • A European inspired outdoor patio
  • Friendly service
  • An adventurous cocktail menu

With these features, The Wilder becomes a favored spot for locals to visit after work.

Private Events and Celebrations

Private Events and Celebrations

The Wilder presents an opportunity to host private events, with the added benefit of exceptional service. Potential event hosts can inquire about private events via a dedicated contact form on The Wilder’s website or by contacting the Knallhart Group directly through email.

The Wilder provides versatile spaces for private events, including a cozy interior atmosphere, a spacious outdoor patio, and a private room to cater to guests’ varying preferences.

Booking Your Bash

Within its establishment, The Wilder provides private event spaces, encompassing a cocktail bar, terrace, and a large room for celebrations. To book an event, patrons must fill out an online form on The Wilder’s website, providing details about the event, including its type, date, start and end time, and expected number of guests.

The Wilder does not specify rental fees or the reservation process for private events on their website, suggesting potential clients should contact them directly for this information. Catering for private events at The Wilder can be tailored, with options such as handcrafted cocktails and a four-course menu that can be curated to enhance the event experience.

Personalizing Your Party

The Wilder’s website features an image gallery that can assist clients in visualizing the space for their private events. There is no detailed information provided on the website regarding the customization of parties, including specifics on decorations, music, or menu options. To better information manage, clients may need to contact the venue directly for more details.

For detailed personalization options of decorations, music, and menus for events at The Wilder, it is suggested to contact the venue directly.

The Local Foodie’s Point of View

As an avid local foodie, I can vouch for the unique combination of exceptional dining and immersive entertainment offered by The Wilder. The unique combination of a sophisticated cocktail bar atmosphere, an innovative brunch experience with burlesque performances, and a playful yet elevated happy hour makes The Wilder an exceptional gastronomic destination.

The Wilder truly stands out among the myriad of dining options in Fort Lauderdale, offering an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s a casual brunch, a romantic date, or a vibrant happy hour, The Wilder offers a distinctive fusion of flavors, ambiance, and entertainment that will leave you eager for your next visit.

We like to eat at The Katherine restaurant right next door, and then hop over here for some post-dinner drinks. It’s an unbeatable 1-2 punch in Ft Lauderdale in terms of not having to drive between venues.

Summary

From the extensive cocktail menu to the unique brunch offerings, The Wilder perfectly marries culinary artistry with immersive entertainment. The atmosphere is always vibrant, whether you’re in for happy hour, date night, or a private event. With a team of dedicated professionals ready to cater to your needs, The Wilder ensures a memorable experience that goes beyond just food and drinks. So why wait? Embark on a culinary adventure and let The Wilder elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique features does The Wilder offer?

The Wilder offers a unique blend of fine dining and immersive entertainment, including a cocktail bar, a unique brunch experience with burlesque performances, and a playful yet elevated happy hour. Experience a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment experience at The Wilder.

How can I book a private event at The Wilder?

To book a private event at The Wilder, simply fill out an online form on their website with event details. For specific rental fees, reservation process, and catering options, it’s advisable to contact The Wilder directly.

What kind of atmosphere can I expect during happy hour at The Wilder?

During happy hour at The Wilder, you can expect a playful yet elevated atmosphere, with cozy lounge areas and great music, as well as a European-inspired outdoor patio. Enjoy!

Do I need to make a reservation for brunch at The Wilder?

It is recommended to contact The Wilder directly to inquire about the need for reservations for brunch.

What is the food like at The Wilder?

The food at The Wilder offers a diverse menu with options for brunch, happy hour, and dinner, featuring both sweet and savory items for brunch and small plates and discounted drinks for happy hour. It’s a great place to explore different culinary options.

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About 

Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.

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