Friday night drinks, light bites and live music at The Commodore — where nightlife oozes class and sophistication. Think “The Fabulous Baker Boys” (sexy nightclub movie) meets “The Dead Rabbit” (famous NYC bar known for its great vibe.)
I don’t miss the NYC weather, but MAN I miss the nightlife. When I lived there, it was all about finding the right bar with just the right amount of personality. I was always attracted to amber-lit lounges drenched in dark wood decor, featuring live jazz or cool cover bands. It was an intoxicating environment and part of what made my time in the city really special. Once I moved back to Miami, though…
My evening hours would never be the same. If I wasn’t working, I was busy coercing one of my co-workers and/or friends into finding a fabulous bar where we could let the day melt away. Family commitments, long commutes or that laid-back beach lifestyle always put a wrench in my invites. Even worse, if I wasn’t into dancing & debauchery on South Beach — I wasn’t getting any after-dark action, unless it was dinner & a movie 😭😴
My sad social life went on this way for years — until just last week, when I caught wind of “The Commodore” inside the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove. FINALLY, a place with the finesse of Miami and the familiarity of New York. Named after Ralph Middleton Munroe, an early settler of The Grove and a distinguished yacht designer, “The Commodore” specializes in live music, craft cocktails and flavorful small plates. The intimate space is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a good conversation or spend some alone time.
After work, on a rainy Friday night, I tucked myself into one of its yummy leather chairs right in front of the fireplace and sipped on their namesake cocktail, “Commodore Old Fashioned” — the smooth and spicy mainstay is made with Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Amaro Nonino and Vanilla simple syrup. I also tried the “Spicy Raspberry Collins” mixed with vodka, lemon juice, jalapeño syrup and fresh muddled raspberry. #FreshAndFruity.
Both paired perfectly with the gorgeous Cheese & Meat Board. The fresh Parmesan and prosciutto were my favorites along with the cornichons and marinated olives. The Ahi Tuna Tacos were just the right size and tasted clean & delicious, served with avocado, candied radish and roasted nori aioli. If you like sweet drinks…
The “Apple Basil Smash” is calling your name; made with vodka, lime juice, simple syrup and St. Germain. My favorite of the night, “San Remo”, is made with Bulleit Burbon, sweet vermouth, OJ, St. Germain, Campari and lemon juice. It’s not just unusual, it’s got a sexy taste that transports you to an exotic place. I also loved the grilled taste of the dry-rubbed Shrimp Skewers, served with cilantro and aioli. I’ve never tasted Arancini balls and boy, have I been missing out. Stuffed rice balls, coated with bread crumbs and deep fried. Yes, please. It’s a #musttry served in tomato jam and doused in Grana Padano (an Italian cheese that’s similar to Parmigiano.) Enhancing the deliciousness of the dishes, a glass of full bodied spanish red wine. The 2015 Torres Salmos Priorat to be exact. Hmmm…
If you’re looking for a place that’ll make you feel special in more ways than one, stop by the new, chic cocktail lounge and have a drink and a nosh, listen to some live music and remember, a quality nightlife experience doesn’t have to be a sweaty club-hopping, half-naked evening out drowned with overly loud music and that’s why “The Commodore” is one of my Favorite Things.
Sunday – Tuesday 5pm-11pm
Wednesday & Thursday: 5pm-12am
Friday & Saturday: 5pm-1am
Live music is on Friday & Saturday: 9pm-12am
Happy Hour daily from 5pm-7pm
The Commodore
inside The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
3300 SW 27th Avenue
Miami, Florida 33133
dress purchased at Etiquette Boutique
earrings: @vchicstore
vintage clutch: @FlyBoutique
shoes: @betseyjohnson
Hair & Make-up: Odett Hernandez
Digital Editor: Jessie Neft-Swinger
Editor: Matthew “The Third Baker Boy” Auerbach
