Winter Music Conference is definitely a time to celebrate music, have some drinks and get as little sleep as possible—if you try and catch some shuteye, you just might miss one of the best parties of your life. This is the only time of the year where for one week, there’s something to do at every hour of the day.
But what happens when you need a rest? What happens when you just want to step away and have a drink? For the natives, this isn’t a problem, but visitors may have a tough time finding local haunts. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top ten bars to escape to during conference. Some are low key, while others have a strong following. Whatever your fancy, these spots will whisky you away from the chaos that is WMC, even if it is for one drink.
Barracuda Raw Bar and Grill
3035 Fuller St. Coconut Grove
If you need to step away from the beach or Downtown for a moment, step over to Coconut Grove. Known for its restaurants and shops, the Grove is also big on bars. Barracuda is definitely a nice hide out where you can indulge on nightly drink specials until 3AM. European visitors can also experience a game of beer pong while they’re there. It’s simple really: just toss the ball into the plastic cup and drink, drink, drink. But for a peaceful break, go during the day. At night the zombies come out and play—READ: college students.
Click here for more info on Barracuda Raw Bar and Grill
Zeke’s Roadhouse
625 Lincoln Rd. Miami Beach
Located on the famous Lincoln Road, Zeke’s is a true jewel of a bar. With of a selection of over 80 beers and ciders, you really can’t go wrong. Not to mention that no matter what you choose, the price of $3 doesn’t change. That’s right, $3. The bar itself is small, but the outside tables are comfortable enough to bask in the sun with your brew. Plus, it’s on Lincoln. So you’re able to get back to the WMC events either by a long walk or a short cab. Word to the wise: make sure to take advantage of the Paulaner while you’re there—the only other place you’ll find it is in the liquor store.
Click here for more info on Zeke's Roadhouse Miami
Tobacco Road
626 South Miami Avenue.
This landmark is a must-see. Open since 1912, Tobacco Road is Miami’s oldest bar, surviving hurricanes, prohibition and going through a long list of presidents dating back to William Howard Taft. Even if you stop by not to have a drink, the place itself is a historic attraction. With a full liquor bar that’s open until 5AM seven days a week and a kitchen that opens till 4AM offering NY Strips and one of the best burgers in the city, the Road is a winner to any and all. Located on the outskirts of Downtown makes it a short cab drive from the WMC events on 11th St.
Click here for more info on Tobacco Road
Club Deuce Bar and Grill
222 14th St. Miami Beach
By far the ultimate bar hideout. Being one of the oldest bars in Miami doesn’t stop this legendary hideaway from being open 21 hours a day (8-5AM). The crowd at Deuce is quite the cast of characters and if you happen to stop by and it’s closed, grab some breakfast, then come back and get the party going again. Deuce is said to be a big hangout for premier DJs looking to unwind from the week’s festivities and indulge in Deuce’s jukebox, which offers a dizzying array of classic rock.
Click here for more info on Club Deuce Bar and Grill
Jimbo’s Virginia Key
Duck Lake Road, Virginia Key
Started by Jimbo Luznar, possibly one of the nicest guys in the world, this place has been offering cold beer and the catch of the day since 1954. Although it’s a bit off the beach, it’s a good excuse to get away from Conference and head over the bridge to the Keys. Not only can you lay low and enjoy a cold brew, but you can also play a mean game of bocce ball. If you’re lucky enough, you might even get a round in with Jimbo himself. He may be turning 81 in April, but he’s still got game.
Automatic Slims
1216 Washington Ave., Miami FL
Although all of these bars are purposefully chosen because A) they offer a change of pace, and B) they don’t have anything to do with conference, Automatic Slims does have an event on the first day of the WMC that’s been going strong for four years: Pop Tarts with Danny Howells and Lee Burridge. However, this is their only event and it doesn’t boast the typical WMC trappings—these two huge DJs take over the dive bar and play ‘80s rock and nostalgic records, spoofing the seriousness of conference. This mainstay venue, with its trailer park theme and varying music selection, is located on the beach, making it easy for anyone to take a break from WMC and stop by for a quiet one.
Click here for more info on Automatic Slims
Churchill’s Pub
5501 NE 2nd Ave., Miami FL
The bar of bars is located only a 15-minute cab ride from the Beach. Found in the heart of Little Haiti is Churchill’s Pub, a true rock-and-roll establishment playing host to some of the best local music Miami has to offer. With a great beer selection, live music and a mouth-watering menu that’s extremely well priced, this place is definitely a great change of pace from all the conference events. Word to the wise: check out Sweat Records next to Churchill’s, the only indie record shop in the city that not only offers some great music, but some of the best espressos in the city, which everyone needs come March.
Click here for more info on Churchill’s Pub
