Now that summer is upon us, enjoying an ice cold drink at the top of Miami’s tallest buildings with the breeze blowing by, seems just right. The question is, where? Miami, like New York, is home to some pretty sweet rooftop bars. And they’re not all that expensive or exclusive. One simply needs to do some research, figure out a time, and make moves.
Here at Brickell Living, we give you the tools and knowledge you need to live your best life and make the most of the Brickell and downtown areas of Miami. That being said, sit back and enjoy learning about some of the best rooftop bars that the magic city has to offer.
1. Bloom Skybar at the Langford Hotel
Bloom Skybar is the swanky rooftop bar and lounge atop the Langford Hotel in Brickell. It will forever be known as Pawn Broker to some Miami residents. The former Pubbelly owned bar is back with the same views and lounge feel, just under a different name. They are even continuing the legacy of the famous bathtub cocktails and have added a Sunday brunch. The indoor/outdoor bar boasts some of the best views of downtown and has 2 for 1 happy hour deals every day. Open seven days a week, it’s a great place to sit back and enjoy a much needed drink.
2. Area 31 at the EPIC Hotel
Did you know this restaurant/bar is named after the sustainable fishing area in the Atlantic designated by the UN’s Food & Agriculture Organization? We didn’t either. With one of the most popular happy hours in Brickell and a renowned, locally sourced seafood menu, Area 31 never disappoints. Sitting on top of the EPIC Hotel, Area 31 offers beautiful views of the Miami skyline, Biscayne bay, and Miami river. It is both restaurant and bar, with indoor elegant seating, and a laidback terrace lounge. Every Friday they welcome a crowd hungry for snacks and drinks priced according to the hour. Meaning $5 drinks and snacks at 5pm, $6 at 6pm, and so on. An affordable night out (or pregame) with spectacular views, you can’t beat it.
3. Rooftop at E11EVEN
E11EVEN, the notorious risqué nightclub and bar that stays open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. That’s right, the party never stops at E11EVEN. Who needs sleep anyway? If you’re not into the dancers and/or nightclub vibe, their rooftop is actually quite nice. It is a whole other world, with comfortable couches, a retractable roof, fire pits, a fully stocked bar, and indoor/outdoor dining. The restaurant offers everything from tapas, to pizza, to sushi and elegant dishes. In fact, Rooftop at E11EVEN is one of the Brickell/downtown restaurants featured in Miami Spice 2018 offering a discounted three-course fix-prixe menu. Grab some tapas and a drink and enjoy the view of downtown Miami. It’s great for both a night out at full throttle or a laid back happy hour.
4. Sugar at the EAST Hotel
You might have heard of Sugar, the two-year-old stylish bar atop the EAST hotel in Brickell. It may look more like a botanical garden at first but this unique bar is an awesome place to enjoy a drink. The plants add an element of comfort and privacy that is unlike most rooftop bars in Miami. The 360-degree views of the city, 40 floors up, is another reason to visit. Just don’t get there at 6 or 7pm on a Friday if you don’t want to wait in a big line. Drinks will typically go for $12-$15, including their popular Asian-themed cocktails. You can also indulge in their excellent menu inspired by Hong Kong and Chinese roots as you watch the sunset. For information on the best happy hour deals in Brickell, click here.
Other notable rooftop bars in the area:
- Whisper Cocktail Lounge at the W Hotel – Super nice
- Edge Steak & Bar
- Dolores but you can call me Lolita
- The Bar at Level 25 – Conrad Hotel