The best bars for business: Miami

Miami’s best bar for . . . 

Professional networking 

Rao’s Miami Beach 

There’s something about talking business over red sauce Italian that just feels right. This New York transplant is faithful to the Harlem original, minus the impossible-to-get reservations and the fact that—in true Miami fashion—it’s just steps from the sand. Its large-format family-style menu encourages hours of rewarding interaction. 

Sipping alfresco 

Bay 13 Brewery & Kitchen 

After a long day at the office, make haste to Bay 13 for a relaxing cocktail on its expansive outdoor patio. This quaint brewery also features a full cocktail bar (and plenty of Scotch whisky). Elevated pub grub—bone marrow with grilled ciabatta, lamb burger with dill spread—will tempt you to stay for dinner. 

Confidential conversation 

Casa Tua Cucina  

Located in an historic beach house, Casa Tua offers a variety of options to engage with associates. Huddle for a private tête-à-tête in the Club, the cozy upstairs lounge area; strategize with key colleagues in the private chef’s table adjacent to the open kitchen; or simply kick back on the lush patio. The choice is yours. 

Showing off stellar views to a client 

Oro 

Oro’s rooftop aerie offers unrivaled vistas of Miami Beach and the city’s skyline. True to the venue’s name, gold abounds, from the 24-karat leaf walls to the shimmering outfits of the performers (who appear hourly). A place to see and be seen, it’s ideal for treating clients to a unique Miami Beach experience. 

IYKYK experiences 

Presidente Bar 

The real magic here occurs when you open a door disguised as a bookshelf and step into La Biblioteca, a sanctuary surrounded by floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with rare spirits. The flair of bartender extraordinaire Christian Delpech—the 19-time world champion who runs the cocktail program—may transport you to the set of Cocktail. 

A team happy hour 

Zucca  

For happy hour with a side of sprezzatura, gather the troops here for genuine Italian aperitivo. With two different bar areas, it’s easy to claim a spot for cocktails from the well-stocked bar. Feeling peckish? Stick around for a dinner of house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and steaks. 

A nightcap after a business event 

Surf Club Restaurant  

Tucked into the Four Seasons at the Surf Club, one of the city’s best hotels, Thomas Keller’s swanky restaurant is the perfect way to punctuate a successful dinner with clients. The dimly lit restaurant bar boasts an impressive array of wine and spirits—all which pair well with the dessert menu’s warm chocolate-chip cookies. 

Photography by Gabriel Sanchez