St. Patrick’s Day won’t take place until Thursday, March 17, but South Florida’s Irish community can’t wait that long to drown us all in green beer and shepherd’s pie. Beginning this Saturday, cities from Hollywood to West Palm Beach will host Irish festivals and parades, and they’ll continue partying until the holiday finally rears its Guinness-besotted head. Check this space next week for a list of day-of parties and events.

IRISH FEST ON FLAGLER

The Screaming Orphans (pictured above), four self-described music-obsessed sisters who left their dear old Donegal to bring their pop-rock quartet to New York, will be among the featured acts at Irish Fest on Flagler. Despite the name, they’re not a screamo band. A friend of drummer and lead singer Joan Diver proposed the name at a pub one night. The sisters found the moniker appropriate since striking out on their own as a band meant leaving behind their former lead singer (a.k.a. their mom) and their manager and sound engineer (their dad). They also attended school in a former orphanage and, like many people who come from big families, are accustomed to screaming to be heard. “I’ll scream a little louder until ya hear me/I’ll push a little harder so make room for me,” Diver sings in one song. The Screaming Orphans will perform 9 p.m. Saturday and 6 p.m. Sunday.

The sisters form just one of more than a dozen bands performing throughout the weekend. Others include the Prodigals, Seven Nations, The Young Wolfe Tones with Derek Warfield, and Irish Fest veteran Noel Kingston. Irish dancers will supplement all the mad drunken jigs that will take place after everyone has filled up on Guinness. Festival hours are noon-11 p.m. Saturday and noon-8 p.m. Sunday at Meyer Amphitheatre, 104 Datura St., in West Palm Beach. Admission is $5. Call 954-946-1093 or visit Irishflorida.org.

FINNEGAN’S WAKE

The shenanigans at Barrett’s Sly Fox Old Irish Pub will kick off about 6 p.m. Tuesday, when Tim Finnegan’s coffin (complete with a dummy that has a bottle of Jameson in its pocket) will arrive in a hearse with a police escort. Actors posing as the pope, a priest and a nun will follow the casket, along with weeping mourners (including a mysterious lady in black) and the Police Pipe and Drum Band. Once inside the pub, the coffin will be opened, an Irish tenor will sing “Danny Boy” and the mourning, singing, dancing and drinking will begin.

In true Irish-wake fashion, Finnegan’s farewell party will continue with “Practice Day” on Wednesday and roll right on through St. Patrick’s Day at 3537 N. Ocean Blvd., in Fort Lauderdale. Because they’re expecting a big turnout, the pub will set up extra bars, tables and chairs under a big tent. Call 954-383-2285.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

Fort Lauderdale’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival will begin noon Saturday and feature live music, Irish step-dancers, bagpipers, Irish cuisine and a noon parade in which Wini Amaturo (as in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts) will serve as grand marshal. The parade — which will have more than 100 entries, including floats, high school marching bands, NYPD Pipe and Drum Corps, bagpipers and street performers — will progress from Southeast Eighth to Southeast First avenues along Las Olas Boulevard and end at Huizenga Plaza, where the party will continue until 9 p.m. Admission is free. Call 954-828-5985 or visit Ftlaudirishfest.com.

DELRAY BEACH ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

A party will take place before and after this annual parade, a tradition late pub owner Maury Power started 43 years ago. After moving from Chicago to Delray Beach, Power was disappointed by the city’s lack of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Egged on by friends and Irish whiskey, he strolled down Atlantic Avenue in a top hat and deemed it a parade — the first of many. Power died in 1996, but his parade marches on.

The party at Old School Square will begin 11 a.m. Saturday and the parade will run from 2 to 3:30 p.m. along Atlantic Avenue from Gleason Street to Swinton Avenue in Delray Beach. The after-party will feature Living on a Prayer: the Ultimate ’80s Tribute to Bon Jovi (3:30 p.m.) and Don’t Stop Believin’: A Tribute to Journey (5:15 p.m.). Admission is free. Call 561-279-0907 or visit Festivalmanagementgroup.com.

DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

The Hibernians of Hollywood have been presenting this parade for 13 years. It will begin 1 p.m. Sunday, but the party will get rolling at noon and will include corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, green drinks and music by Joe Dougherty (12:15 p.m.), Celtic Bridge (2:15 p.m.), Tricianne Garrihy and Avalon (3:15 p.m.) and UV: the U2 Tribute Show (4:40 p.m.)

The festivities will take place along Hollywood Boulevard, west of Young Circle between 18th and 21st avenues. The parade will start at 21st Avenue and Harrison Street and travel north to Hollywood Boulevard, east to Young Circle, south to Harrison and back to 21st Avenue. Admission is free. Call 954-921-3404 or visit St. Patricksparade.com.

Contact Colleen Dougher at cdougher@citylinkmagazine.com.

The spacious, indoor-outdoor Polo Club in Pembroke Park is located in the space formerly occupied by Casey’s Nickelodeon, a storied late-night venue that closed in 2004. Since the Polo Club’s opening this past November, manager Bill Mosher says many nostalgic patrons have come in and recounted memories of times at Casey’s.

The new club deliberately associates itself with the former establishment through its Facebook page name (“The POLO CLUB — Formerly Casey’s Nickelodeon”) and with an onsite tribute wall to Casey’s and its charismatic owner, Casimir Sucharski, a.k.a. Butch Casey, who was murdered in 1994 during a home break-in. In keeping with the tradition of Casey’s, the Polo Club pumps out 1970s, ’80s and ’90s dance music until 7 a.m. Friday and Saturday. It’s in these wee hours, Mosher says, that the Polo Club draws its youngest clientele, an in-the-biz and late-night party crowd that heads over when other clubs have closed. During happy hour and the early evening, the Polo Club’s patrons range in age from mid-30s to mid-60s.

The venue’s gated entrance opens to a sprawling, brick-floored courtyard, where tables surround a bar top, two pool tables, flat-screen televisions and a massive oak tree. Inside, the softly lighted establishment splits into two distinct areas. On one side, a massive bar, surrounded by an array of antiques and polo mallets, hosted a mostly middle-aged crowd of 30 people on a recent Wednesday night. A small, curtained VIP area in the back of the bar offers booth-style seating and bottle service (from $100 to $250). The other side of the venue is a one-room dance club with flashing, multicolored lights and table seating on its fringes.

The Polo Club serves a full menu with simple pub fare such as chicken tenders and calamari ($7) and more-elaborate entrées such as a 10-ounce sirloin steak served with a lobster tail ($33) and sautéed or fried shrimp ($15).

Specials: Members of the service industry get a 25 percent discount at all times. From 5 to 8 nightly, happy hour offers two-for-one domestic beer, wine and well cocktails.

Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday; 5 p.m.-7 a.m. Friday and Saturday

Address: 5590 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Pembroke Park, 954-322-7656, Thepoloclub1.com

by Courtney Hambright

Named after Pineapple Grove, the Delray Beach Arts District in which it’s located, Pineapple Groove is an 8,000-square-foot venue that presents live music five nights per week. In the minds of people unfamiliar with the neighborhood, the club’s name may conjure images of a waterfront tiki bar with oversize tropical drinks. So let’s clear up that misimpression.

Lit up by an old-fashioned-movie-theater-style marquee, the front of the stand-alone venue (most recently the home of City Limits) opens to a brick-walled, high-ceilinged 500-capacity music hall. The vibe is mellow, and the understated décor consists of elegantly framed pictures of rock ‘n’ roll greats such as Jimi Hendrix, the Who and the Beatles. From the tables clustered on the club’s main floor to the stools at the two long bar tops that flank the room, to the second-floor balcony, all vantage points are directed at the stage. A layer of cork beneath the vinyl-tiled first floor deadens the room’s sound, allowing the music to dominate. More than a bar or a nightclub, Pineapple Groove is a high-tech performance venue with state-of-the-art video, sound and lighting systems.

The wide stage sits front and center, beneath three enormous screens displaying graphics. Prominent local artists such as Fusik, Mike Mineo, and the Heavy Pets have performed there. Executive producer Randy Grinter says the club, which opened this past November, is starting to align its booking with the schedules of national touring acts.

Grinter and three other members of the club’s staff appeared focused on presentation and production during a recent Acoustic Thursdays, a weekly open-mike-style showcase of local singer-songwriters. Owner Mitch Clarvit, a musician himself, took the stage to introduce Es Oh, Paul and Matt Baker, and Paul Bellantoni to an attentive crowd of about 35 people.

“We try to be as generous with our time as possible with local artists,” Grinter says. “How can you catch a break in life if no one makes you look like a rock star?”

Other weekly events at Pineapple Groove include Cowabunga, a surf-and-reggae party Sunday nights; and ITB Wednesday, when members of the service industry receive 50 percent off well drinks and domestic beer. A Wednesday night college party is in the works. Drink specials are available, but vary from night to night.

Hours: 8 p.m.-1:45 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday

Address: 19 N.E. Third Ave., Delray Beach, 561-450-7953, Pineapplegroove.com

At 2 a.m. on a Friday, Anthony Pisano, the resident DJ and musical director of Fort Lauderdale’s SHO Nightclub, is spinning a fusion of electronic, pop and hip-hop that includes Daft Punk’s “One More Time” and Benny Benassi’s “Satisfaction.” Elektrik Karma is both the name of the Thursday-night party and a fitting description of the energetic scene at SHO.

The 150-plus partyers furiously bump fists and other body parts that tend to collide on dance floors. For the most part, however, SHO’s atmosphere cultivates lighthearted mingling and constant dancing rather than prowling among the 20- and 30-something crowd. When Pisano plays a few snippets of Cali Swag District’s “Teach Me How to Dougie,” for example, males and females alike break out into the silly dance with playful, selfless abandon.

The young, dark-haired Pisano spins from the front of a red-velvet-walled VIP booth, situated at the club’s back wall, that’s packed with lookers-on and writhing dancers. More VIP seating lines the side and front walls of the club, and all booths face a long, white chandelier on which psychedelic shades of red, blue, yellow and green are projected.

SHO is located in the old Automatic Slim’s spot in the Riverfront plaza, but nightclub designer Andy Kostas redesigned the interior beyond recognition in what Scott describes as a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired look with “strong woods and brilliant silvers.” The club straddles, physically and culturally, the divide between the upscale nightlife offerings of Las Olas Boulevard and the unbridled party action of Riverfront and Himmarshee. With bottle service that starts at $200, Las Olas prices and a well-to-do vibe color the atmosphere.

But rather than taking cues from swanky area lounges, Scott says SHO aims to attract and educate clubbers by offering a venue with a “California vibe and Miami party style.” Citing New York-based DJ David Berrie, who took the turntables during the club’s opening weekend in November, Scott says, “We’re flying DJs in and out who would never step foot in Fort Lauderdale and booking real talent for people who appreciate music.”

DJs spin house Fridays and an open format Saturdays. Ladies drink free call-caliber well drinks, such as Bacardi rum and Three Olives vodka, from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays. Beginning Tuesdays in February, SHO plans to offer an industry night.

Hours: 11p.m.-4a.m. Thursday through Saturday

Address: 15 W. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-609-4342, Shonightclub.com

With its Chicago-brick walls, tall, black booths and list of craft beers, ROK:BRGR brings a decidedly urban vibe to subtropical Fort Liquordale’s most-debaucherous party strip. The latest nightlife (and dining) establishment to arrive in Himmarshee is what’s called a gastropub, which means that while it is the kind of place where you can pull up a chair and down a few pints while recounting the high- and lowlights of your fascinating life to a patient stranger (“pub”), it is also the kind of place, according to managing partner Mark Mughabghab, that specializes in serving select entreés “to a gourmet caliber” (“gastro”).

Craft beer, meet Himmarshee Village. ROK:BRGR’s list includes more than 30 craft beers, such as Brooklyn Lager ($5), Seadog Raspberry Wheat ($5), Avery White Rascal ($5.50) and Dog Fish Head 90 Min IPA ($7). The gastropub’s signature cocktails, which cost from $7 to $12, include flavored martinis and mojitos as well as creative bourbon mixes, such as the Black Cherry, a union of cherry-infused bourbon, lemon juice, muddled mint and syrup. Adventurous drinkers may enjoy the ROK “Old Fashion,” which consists of bacon-infused Maker’s Mark, bitters, maple syrup and an orange slice garnish. Then again, they may not, but won’t it be amusing to watch them try it?

As its name suggests, ROK:BRGR’s kitchen staff showers its attention on the hamburger, giving it identities that transcend its all-American reputation. Take, for example, the royal trappings of the King burger ($20), a 10-ounce kobe burger topped with foie gras and red-wine reduction. Then, there’s the Mediterranean, a lamb burger with cucumber mint yogurt and Middle Eastern spices ($13.50). Other options include variations on chicken, ahi tuna and turkey burgers, but you can play it mainstream with the Classic ($9), a cheeseburger with standard fixings. You also can build your own burger, adding cheese, grilled pineapple, fried eggs, avocado, beets and, of course, foie gras, until the burger suits your taste.

ROK:BRGR offers a daily happy hour from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., when premium wells, wine and noncraft beers are half-price. The in-the-biz crowd receives 50 percent off premium wells, house wines and domestic and import beers all day Monday and every other day from 11 p.m. to close.

Hours: 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-4 a.m. Friday and Saturday
Address: 208 S.W. Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-525-7656, Rokbrgr.com

Thursday nights at Solita Restaurant and Ultra Lounge are going off. Well past midnight, the Italian venue on Las Olas Boulevard is the scene for a wild, dinner-dance party. The trendy, shoulder-to-shoulder crowd doesn’t swing from the upscale restaurant’s chandeliers, but its most-enthusiastic members dance on their chairs. DJ Anthony Pisano spins a high-energy mix of 1980s and ’90s pop hits and modern dance songs that resonate with these partyers, who appear to range in age from the late 20s to late 40s. Next to the DJ booth, a drummer with crazy hair undulates and plays along to the music.

Cut to the Friday happy hour, when all drinks are two-for-one and a deep-voiced crooner named Chenzo cultivates a classy vibe in the Ultra Lounge. The crowd is smaller and tamer than it is on Thursday nights, and most of the patrons engage in intimate conversations. The purple lounge offers a mix of classic and modern design with an onyx, back-lit wall, booth seating and a long, high-top table. A lone flat-screen television is tuned to sports.

The dining room, which houses long, party tables and smaller, intimate ones, stretches past the open kitchen to a few white booths at the back, where a smaller bar can be found. Before DJs arrive to crank up the party at about 10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, diners feast on small and large plates of home-style Italian cuisine. Once the dinner hours are over, the party spills over from the Ultra Lounge into this space.

Typically, cocktails cost from $8 to $10. During the weekday happy hour, which runs from 5 to 7 p.m., single liquor pours are half-price. On Wednesday night, couples can partake in Dinner With Benefits, a fixed-price dinner for two ($49.50) that comes with half-price bottles of wine. Also, SoLita pays special attention to the kids during Sunday Gravy, when a family-style, four-course dinner is served at a fixed price ($19.95 adults, $9.95 kids), and curious children are allowed to peek inside the kitchen.

Hours: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday; 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday

Address: 1032 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-357-2616, Solitalasolas.com

Ryan Sentz of the Funky Buddha Lounge and Brewery (photo by Beth Black)

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by Dan Sweeney

As you get older — say, about the age when it’s actually legal to drink — you begin to appreciate beer for more than just getting righteously tanked on a Saturday night while playing Mario Kart in your room while the parents are out of town. And for some people who don’t give up the hops for wine or cocktails as they go through their 20s, that appreciation becomes something akin to love as time goes on, the old love of a happy marriage or a lifelong friendship.

Soon, you’re trying all sorts of beers, made with wondrous accouterments, whether it be Trappist ales or raspberry lambics or milky imperial stouts. Other folks will stick with Bud or Coors their whole lives, but these are hard men, embittered against the wonders a finely made ale may offer, and you eschew their darkened world view for the enlightenment of craft beer. For a select few of these adventurous folk, love of beer leads them to manufacture their own.

Ryan Sentz, proprietor of the Funky Buddha Lounge and Brewery in Boca Raton, is such a man. In celebration of City Link’s upcoming BeerFest, we talked with Sentz, a former employee of the magazine, about the local brewing scene, his favorite beers and all other things lager and/or ale.

So how long has it been since you attached “and Brewery” to the end of “The Funky Buddha Lounge”?
The grand opening of the brewery was Sept. 25. I’ve been brewing a lot longer than that, but that’s when we sold to the public.

Was it tough getting through all the red tape to open a brewery?
It’s a pretty exhausting process — all these state and federal rules you have to follow. Especially on our level, as small as we are, when you try to talk to these people, they just don’t understand. One lady was asking me, “How many barrels are you brewing a year?” And we said, “500,” and she said, “OK, 500,000.” And I’m like, “No, no. Just 500.” Technically, we’re not really a brewery — we’re a brewpub, which means we can’t sell off-premise.”

Any other brewpubs out there that you enjoy?
Corner Café in Tequesta. They started off similar to us. In fact, we patterned our system off what they use. They’ve actually done so well that they’re expanding into an actual brewery soon.

So you have to actually go to the Funky Buddha to sample your creations?
Yes, but people sometimes buy and then take them off-site. We’ve already been rated by the No. 2 beer-rating group in the world, which is in Denmark. They’ve rated close to 19,000 beers. If we can continue to get the ratings we’re getting in our category — sweet stout — we’ll be right up there with the top 10 beers in the world for our category.

That seems like an awful lot of beers to sample.
Oh, ridiculous. You’d have to drink a half a dozen beers a day for a decade. [Editor’s note: Sentz’s guesstimate is surprisingly accurate. At a half-dozen-beers-per-day rate, it would take about 8 1/2 years.] But it’s easier with things like BeerFest, where you just sample a beer, just get a taste, and so you can maybe get through 100 beers if you pace yourself.

Aside from your own beer, what are some local ones that you like?
Well, I do like all of ours in a way. I like imperial stouts, strong IPAs and all that, so there are some beers we do that aren’t my cup of tea. But I’m still proud of them as far as being a good example of their kind. As far as other places, Matt Webster over at Corner Café makes Gnarly Barley, a pale ale. Really tasty beer. … And anytime [Webster] does seasonal beers or brewmasters’ specials they’re good. Matt Cox at Big Bear does a great imperial milk stout. Incredible. He does it on nitrogen. Most beers, the draft system is on CO2, but he does his darker beers the way Guinness does theirs, on a combination of CO2 and nitrogen.

It sounds like you and the rest of the local brewers all know one another.
The beer community down here is really cool. I would imagine most businesses, it’s very competitive, but down here, all the craft brewers all look out for each other. Instead of competing against each other, we all sort of look at it like we’re all together, fighting against Budweiser, so it’s a good, tight community. Anytime I’ve ever had questions about brewing, they’ve all been superhelpful.

So just how many of your own beers do you offer at the Buddha now?
We have eight on tap, but we rotate, so we have 16 different beers or so, about five that we try to keep constant and 11 that we’re constantly changing up. We try to brew a beer in a new style at least once a month, if not twice a month. The next one will be a black IPA, and it should be ready by the beginning of December. We’ll try to have it at the BeerFest, along with the Espresso Piiti Porter, Floridian Hefeweizen, Red Dawn Red Ale and Hop Gun IPA.

“Hop Gun”? Seriously?
A lot of our beers have ’80s movie references. One, Doc Brown’s 1.21 Jigawatts Brown Ale, has a flux capacitor for a beer tap. It’s pretty awesome.

City Link BeerFest will feature more than 100 beers from around the world, along with local bands Kill Miss Pretty and Russell Mofsky’s Gold Dust Lounge, food and sundry other festivities. It will take place 6-11 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3 at Huizenga Plaza, 32 E. Las Olas Blvd., in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets cost $20 in advance, $25 at the door, or $35 for VIP, which includes entrance to a private area with free food and additional, VIP-only libations. To purchase tickets, visit Citylinkmix.com/beerfest.

Contact Dan Sweeney at dfsweeney@citylinkmagazine.com.

Two draws of Gordon Biersch in Miami: craft beer and garlic fries

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by Dan Sweeney

If City Link BeerFest’s offerings give you a taste for finely honed craft beers and you’re thirsty for more, here’s a rundown of South Florida’s brewpubs and breweries.

BREWERIES

Inlet Brewing Company
Makers of Monk in the Trunk, South Florida’s own Trappist-style ale, which is now available at many Publix locations as well as discriminating bars from Miami to Jupiter. For locations, visit Inletbrewing.com.

Native Brewing Company
Although the company was founded more than a decade ago in Fort Lauderdale, its beers are now brewed at the Florida Beer Company in Melbourne. Still, Native was doing craft-brewing in South Florida way before anyone else who’s still around, and the company’s staying power and delicious beers are worth a mention. Patrons of dives and bars across South Florida are likely familiar with the No. 11 billiard ball on a tap head, and the company’s Native lager has supplanted even No. 11 in popularity. Its Thunderhead Red ale is an admirable addition to the lager and brown ale already on tap. Visit Nativebrewingco.com.

Gordash Brewing Company
Makers of Holy Mackerel and its imperial stout cousin, Mack in Black, this company is the newest on the block, but it has expanded quickly and is now available in bars, restaurants and stores throughout the South and even in Pennsylvania. Visit Holymackerelbeers.com.

BREWPUBS

Palm Beach County

Brewzzi
2222 Glades Road, Boca Raton, 561-392-2739 and 700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach, 561-986-2739, Brewzzi.com
Combining Italian-influenced fare served in massive portions with its mostly German-influenced beers, Brewzzi is the only local brewpub with more than one location — at least since national chain Hops shuttered its Florida locations a few years back. Generally speaking, we find their seasonal Brewmasters selections to be superior to their regular beers, though with the Boca Blonde lager, the place even offers a craft beer for the domestic-beer set. If you can’t convince someone to abandon their Coors Light and try a Boca Blonde, there’s no hope for them.

The Corner Café and Brewery
289 N. Federal Highway, Tequesta, 561-743-7619, Cornercafeandbrewery.com
Located in the far-northern reaches of Palm Beach County, the Corner Café offers several varieties of craft beer, including the Kaiser, a German kölsch; Julio’s Jefe Weizen, a German wheat beer; Terminally Ale, a brown ale; and Gnarly Barley, a pale ale that gets high marks from other local brewers and won a gold medal at the 2009 Florida Beer Competition.

The Funky Buddha Lounge and Brewery
2621 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, 561-368-4643, Thefunkybuddha.com
As evidenced by our interview with the venue’s proprietor, we have a special place in our heart for the Buddha. Its combination of hookah bar, live-music venue and brewpub is unmatched in South Florida. The Espresso Piiti Porter is the best porter made in South Florida, and the So Thank You Music Ginger Wheat, the name a nod to semiregular Buddha stage performers the Heavy Pets, is as refreshing a beer as you’ll find.

Broward County

Big Bear Brewing Company
1800 University Drive, Coral Springs, 954-341-5545, Bigbearbrewingco.com
Old-timers among the bar crowd tell us that the location currently occupied by downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Voodoo Lounge was, at one time, a brewpub. But Voodoo has stood at that location throughout the 21st century, and Big Bear, out in Coral Springs, has been the only game in Broward. In fact, the Big Bear Brewing Company has served its ursine-themed ales since 1996. Like Brewzzi, Big Bear offers an American lager for the novice, the Polar Light, but more-refined drinkers will want to try the Kodiak Belgian Dubbel. The best of its kind in South Florida, it also packs a good kick at 7.5 percent alcohol by volume.

Miami-Dade County

The Abbey Brewing Co.
1115 16th St., Miami Beach, 305-538-8110, Abbeybrewinginc.com
As the name suggests, the Abbey’s creations owe a great deal to the Trappist ales created by European monks for centuries. Still, despite the Abbey’s Brother Dan’s double and Brother Aaron’s Quadruple offerings, we actually prefer its Immaculate IPA, which is quite heavenly.

Gordon Biersch
1201 Brickell Ave., Miami, 786-425-1130, Gordonbiersch.com
Miami may be the place’s only Florida location, but Gordon Biersch is one of the largest chain brewpubs in the country for a reason — it makes really good beer. Although the chain is known for its German brews, such as its hefeweizen and schwartzbier, we actually prefer its Czech pilsner, which reminds us of the creamy, delicious pilsners of the old country.

Titanic Brewery and Restaurant
5813 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Miami, 305-667-2537, Titanicbrewery.com
Of all the brewpubs on the list, Titanic may be most accurately called a gastropub rather than a brewpub, as the emphasis here is on high-quality food, not simply brewing great beer. Still, what Titanic does, it does well, especially in the darker range of ales, such as the Shipbuilders Oatmeal Stout and, especially, Captain Smith’s Rye Ale.

Contact Dan Sweeney at dfsweeney@citylinkmagazine.com.

CENTRAL BROWARD

America’s Backyard: Breezy outdoor playground for clubgoers who prefer bar-top body shots, barbecue and rowdy bachelorette parties instead of the stale velvet-rope experience. Ladies drink free after 9 p.m. Wednesdays, and Broward and Palm Beach county residents receive free admission on weekends. Happy hour takes place 5-9 p.m. Fridays. 200 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-727-0950; Myamericasbackyard.com).

Bamboo Beach: Sunny, thatch-roof tiki bar in back of the Ocean Manor Resort. Ladies night takes place Thursdays, two-for-one drinks are served 4-7 p.m Monday through Friday and a pig roast is held Sundays. 4040 Galt Ocean Mile, Fort Lauderdale (954-566-2053; Bamboobeachtikibar.com).

Best Cellar: Meeting place for serious oenophiles. Winetastings are offered Wednesday through Saturday in a venue outfitted with row after row of wine racks, a living-room setup and dark-wood dining tables. 1408 N.E. 26th St., Wilton Manors (954-630-8020)

Bill’s Filling Station: Gay watering hole with a neighborhood clientele. Happy hour is 2-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 2209 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-567-5978; Billsfillingstation.com).

Blue Martini: A classy place to drink and mingle. Happy hour takes place 4-8 p.m. daily and includes discounted drinks and half-price appetizers. Wednesday is ladies’ night. 2432 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-653-2583; Bluemartinilounge.com).

The Brick: Open-air bar in Riverfront that attracts few people older than 25 and the male-to-female ratio is fairly balanced. Indie-rock fans frequent the Society Wednesday party, and ladies drink for free Thursdays. 21 W. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-525-9004).

Briny Irish Club: Sister venue to the Briny Irish Pubs in Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. This is one is located across the street from Dicey Riley’s in Himmarshee Village and is decorated wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling with model airplanes, surfboards, musical instruments and, curiously, photos of notable non-Irishmen such as Ozzy Osbourne and Dave Matthews. 220 S.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale (954-759-6502).

Buccaneer Lounge and Package: A character-rich dive bar popular with the locals, partial to the New England Patriots and flat-out hopping with young bar-hoppers in the wee hours of Friday and Saturday mornings, after the other bars have closed. 2470 N. Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point (954-941-2938).

Cafe Bluefish: Open-air bar and restaurant near State Road A1A and Sunrise Boulevard that serves first-rate seafood and chicken wings, and an array of tropical drinks. Happy hour is 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Live music is featured Tuesday and Friday. 3134 N.E. Ninth St., Fort Lauderdale (954-563-3474; Cafebluefish.com).

Cafe del Mar: Beach establishment with two bars, live music nightly and a kitchen serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. 213 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-767-8233; Cafedelmarbeach.com).

Cheers: Venerable music club that hosts local rock and blues bands, acoustic artists and DJs until 4 a.m. nightly. Ladies drink for free 8-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 941 E. Cypress Creek Road, Fort Lauderdale (954-771-6337; Cheersfoodandspirits.com).

Club Bar 13: With a late-night three-for-one happy hour, this club is designed for cutting loose, pounding shots and dancing until you’re covered in someone else’s sweat or the clock stricks 4 a.m., whichever comes first. 213 S.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale (954-768-0840).

Club Euro: Hip-hop, dance and Caribbean music nightclub that enforces a strict dress code (no baggy clothes, sunglasses, shorts or hats). 120 S.W. Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-530-0648).

Crazy 8’s Sports Lounge: Late-night downtown sports bar with indoor and outdoor seating and flat-screen TVs throughout. Women drink for free 10 p.m.-4 a.m. Saturday. 4 W. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-523-7159; Mycrazy8s.com).

Cubby Hole: Intimate Levis-and-leather gay club. Happy hour is noon-9 p.m. daily. 823 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-728-9001; Thecubbyhole.com).

Culture Room: Dark and moody venue presenting hard-rock, metal and indie-rock acts. 3045 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-564-1074; Cultureroom.net).

The Deck Restaurant and Bar: Pirate-themed restaurant at the Sea Club Hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this place harnesses the ocean breeze and captures flip-flop-wearing folks who can’t see mixing air-conditioning with ocean views. 619 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-537-1722; The deckftl.com).

The Dive Bar: Nautical-themed bar with live local and national acts nightly. Karaoke is featured Mondays, an open jam is held Tuesdays and happy hour is served 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. 3233 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-565-9264).

Downtowner Saloon: Waterfront eatery and saloon. Happy hour is 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 408 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-463-9800; Downtownersaloon.com).

Elbo Room: Beach landmark and local hangout. 241 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-463-4615; Elboroom.com).

Exit 66: A 20,000-square-foot beachfront club by the people behind Miami’s Crobar. With a pool, restaurant and themed lounges, Exit 66 exudes a retro cool and boasts less velvet-rope drama than at most clubs. 219 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-357-9981; Exitsixtysix.com).

Frog and Toad: Tudor-style pub owned by an Irish-American from Boston and her British husband. Happy hour is 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 5782 Powerline Road, Fort Lauderdale (954-491-3697).

Georgie’s Alibi: Classic gay hangout popular with the preppy crowd. Happy hour 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Friday. Long Island iced teas are served in a 22-ounce Mason jar for $3 after 9 p.m. 2266 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-565-2526; Georgiesalibi.com).

Grady’s Bar: One of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest watering holes. Happy hour is 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 905 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-761-9416).

Himmarshee Bar and Grille (Sidebar): A classy accouterment to the gourmet restaurant. Happy hour is 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ladies night takes place 7:30-10 p.m. Wednesdays. 210 S.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale (954-524-1818; Himmarshee.com).

The Hut: A casual juke joint filled with character. The Hut doesn’t serve fancy draft beers or frozen drinks, but it does boast a full liquor selection and bar games including tabletop shuffleboard. Happy hour is 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1021 Seminole Drive, Fort Lauderdale (954-563-2232).

J’s Bar: Hip-hop and old school merge at this multicultural lesbian dive bar. Drag shows are held Saturdays. 2780 Davie Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-581-8400).

John L. Sullivan’s: An Irish pub that serves as the public house for its community, a place where you go to settle in for a few pints, gab with the regulars, listen to bands and play organized games. 4460 N. Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point (954-781-9669)

Kalahari Bar: Long-standing South African bar. Exotic cocktails, such as the Springbok and Lion’s Breath, are served indoors and on the patio. Pool tables are indoors, as are televisions that show American sports and rugby matches. 4446 N.E. 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-351-9371; Kalaharibar.com).

Kahuna ‘Awa Kava Bar: A drinking establishment where you won’t have to worry about humiliating yourself or waking up in a gutter; the venue only serves kava. 3104 N.E. Ninth St., Fort Lauderdale (Myspace.com/kahunaawa).

Kim’s Alley Bar: Timeless hangout for locals with two bar areas, pool tables and a wicked jukebox. Happy hour is 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1920 E. Sunrise Blvd. (Gateway Plaza), Fort Lauderdale (954-763-2143; Kimsalleybar.com).

Lips: South Florida’s only dinner theater with a drag show, the theme of which changes nightly. 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-567-0987; Lipsusa.com).

Living Room: Gay-friendly house-music venue in Fort Lauderdale’s Riverfront. Open Fridays and Saturdays only. 300 S.W. First Ave., Fort Lauderdale (888-992-7555; Livingroomnightclub.com).

Lucky’s Beachside Bar: A neighborhood bar with a sophisticated edge providing a variety of nightlife elements in a relaxed environment. 3074 N.E. 33rd Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-564-3782).

Maguire’s Hill 16: Cozy place for regulars of all ages who keep coming back for the live Irish music. Punk bands perform Sundays. 535 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-764-4453).

Mai-Kai: Palm-fronded landmark that serves tropical drinks, such as the Moonkist Coconut, Pina Passion, Shark Bite, Cobra Kiss and the world-famous Barrel O’ Rum. Happy hour 5-7 p.m. every day save Monday. 3599 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-563-3272; Maikai.com).

The Manor: A 16,000-square-foot gay bar that features six themed areas, including a coffee shop, restaurant and late-night dance club. 2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-626-0082; Themanorcomplex.com).

McGuinness Bar and Restaurant: Irish pub with a cozy, dark-wood interior and warm service. Live music is featured on weekends. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 3537 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale (954-561-8444).

McSorley’s: A beachside Irish pub where patrons can chug pints and play beer pong in their swimsuits. The two-story venue features a respectable wine list, a handful of draft beers and sipping whiskeys such as Tullamore Dew. 837 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-565-4446; Mcsorleysbeachpub.com).

Mickey Byrne’s Irish Pub and Restaurant: Sports-loving venue for people who have had their fill of quaint Irish pubs. The bar is named after a record-holding Irish champion of the ancient Gaelic game of hurling, but Mickey Byrne’s caters to fans of more-contemporary sports, particularly football and soccer. 1921 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (954-921-2317; Mickeybyrnes.com).

The Monterey Club: Located at Orange County Choppers and Bourget’s Bike Works, the Monterey Club may be the coolest waiting room in South Florida. The lounge features a pool table, a stage for live music and $1 Pabst Blue Ribbons. It’s open from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily. 2608 S. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-467-1169; Themontereyclub.net).

National Lampoon Underground: Three-story comedy club that doubles as a beachfront restaurant and bar with a rooftop lounge. Wicked drink specials are offered throughout the week. 900 Sunrise Lane, Fort Lauderdale (954-306-2689; Underground.nationallampoon.com).

New Moon: Gay and lesbian bar that is as much a community center as a pickup joint. The wine list is extensive, and the menu includes oysters and panini sandwiches. The Flashback Happy Hour takes place from noon to 9 p.m. Fridays. 2440 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-563-7660; Newmoonbar.com).

Nightclub 954: Hip-hop, soca and reggae venue located in the former home of the Sea Monster. 2 S. New River Drive W., Fort Lauderdale (954-767-6200; Nightclub954.com).

Oasis Pub: Small neighborhood pub known for an early open at 7 a.m. seven days a week and in-the-biz specials. Texas Hold ‘Em tournaments are held Thursdays and Saturdays. 3224 W. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-733-6688).

Off the Hookah: Waterfront bar and restaurant filled with belly dancers, perfumed hookah smoke and comfy beds. Happy hour takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays. 300 S.W. First Ave., Suite 103 (Las Olas Riverfront), Fort Lauderdale (954-761-8686).

Parrot Lounge: Veteran beach-area bar known for its laid-back atmosphere, good pub food and dedication to the Philadelphia Eagles. Best of all, beer is served by the yard. 911 Sunrise Lane, Fort Lauderdale (954-563-1493; Parrotlounge.com).

The Pirate Republic: Skull-and-crossbones flags and the “walk the plank” bartender’s command rule at this theme bar near State Road A1A. Beer and sake are the favored libations. 234 Almond Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-779-7677; Myspace.com/thepiraterepublic).

The Poor House: Downtown venue featuring rock and blues bands till 4 a.m. No cover. 110 S.W. Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-522-5145).

Posh: Intimate, upscale wine bar and lounge in the downtown condo space The Waverly. Ladies’ night is Thursday, and a DJ performs on the weekends. 110 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-763-3553; Poshlasolas.com).

Ramrod: Gay club dedicated to leather and leather-related wear. Happy hour is 3-9 p.m. nightly. 1508 N.E. Fourth Ave., Wilton Manors (954-763-8219; Ramrodbar.com).

Red Zone Café and Sports Theatre: A sports bar whose mega-media system wouldn’t seem out of place at the home of a multiplatinum rap star. Thirteen approximately 7-by-8-foot screen panels encircle the bar, showing all manner of sporting events. The drink menu includes libations with names such as Touchdown, Slam Dunk and MVP and the kitchen serves burgers, baby-back ribs, raw oysters and other bar fare. 1804 Cordova Road, Fort Lauderdale (954-467-3535; Redzonecafe.com).

Revolution Live: Cavernous club featuring national acts and plenty of room for dancing. The outside patio area is perfect for breezy conversations. 200 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-727-0950; Jointherevolution.net).

Rosie’s Bar and Grill: Gay bar and restaurant frequented by shiny, happy people. Martini Mondays features $3 martinis beginning at 7 p.m. Live music is presented Friday through Sunday. 2449 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-563-0123; Rosiesbarandgrill.com).

Shooters Waterfront Cafe: Longtime bar and restaurant that’s accessible by boat or car. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 3033 N.E. 32nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-566-2855; Shooterscafe.com).

Sidelines Sports Bar: A self-described “sports-themed gay bar” that exudes a throwback quality that will make you want to sing, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” Flat-screen TVs have been mounted throughout the room, and guests are invited to play pool, darts or board games. Two-for-one drinks are served 2-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and all day Wednesday. 2031 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors (954-563-8001; Sidelinessports.com).

Smarty Pants: Gay club with a happy hour 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. 3038 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-561-1724).

Tarpon Bend: Downtown bar catering to people looking to make a love connection. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, until 9 p.m. Friday and 6-9 p.m. Saturday. 200 S.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale (954-523-3233; Tarponbend.com).

Top Hop Garden: A getaway for fans of Caribbean culture. Top Hop features live Jamaican and Haitian bands, popular DJ nights and a host of expatriate patrons. 4340 State Road 7, Lauderdale Lakes (954-257-3966).

Ultimate Sports Bar: Loud and dance-friendly nightclub that still allows patrons to relax at the bar with a beer or watch sports on one of 30 flat-screen TVs. Three-for-one drinks are served 5-10 p.m. Fridays. 310 Himmarshee St., Fort Lauderdale (954-467-5867).

VooDoo Lounge: Upscale dance club. Ladies’ night is Wednesday and boasts a high girl-to-guy ratio. Friday’s VIP party allows patrons to download a pass from the club’s Web site for free admission and drinks till 11:30 p.m. Sunday offers a drag queen show with a mostly straight audience. 111 S.W. Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale (954-522-0733; Voodooloungeflorida.com).

Walsh’s Pub: Smoker-friendly, sports-loving Irish Pub that features live music Wednesdays. 2217 N. Federal Highway, Hollywood (954-920-5479).

Waxy O’Connor’s: Irish pub that offers broadcasts of soccer and rugby matches from around the world. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 1095 S.E. 17th St., Fort Lauderdale (954-525-9299).

The Wayward Sailor: Club that welcomes anyone who comes knocking in search of fish and chips, bangers and mash, and beer and cocktails. Happy hour 3-7 p.m. daily. 3045 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale (954-630-2856).

Whiskey Blue: Beachfront bar in the W Fort Lauderdale hotel that adds the right amount of class to after-hours on the ocean. The intimate bar serves more than two dozen specialty drinks and draws a diverse crowd that includes businesspeople, fashionistas and tourists. 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (954-414-8308; Whotels.com)

NORTH BROWARD

All Stars Sports Bar and Grill: Popular spot for live music, DJs, sporting events, food and, of course, drinks. Karaoke is performed Wednesday. Ladies’ night is Wednesday and Friday. Blues and rock bands perform Saturday. 2201 W. Sample Road, Pompano Beach (954-968-7777; Allstarssportsbarandgrill.com).

American Rock Restaurant Bar and Grill: Deerfield Beach bar that pays homage to rock ‘n’ roll with a decor that includes vintage record sleeves, concert posters and an indoor motorcycle. Ladies’ night is Tuesday and Friday. Bands perform Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Three-for-one drinks are served 4-8 p.m. daily. 1600 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach (954-428-4539; Myspace.com/americanrockbar).

Circus Bar and Grill: Sports bar featuring pinball machines, dartboards and pool and foosball tables. Open since 1978, the Circus Bar is known for its chicken wings, which can be served extra wet or slathered with garlic. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 1461 S.W. 30th Ave., Pompano Beach (954-973-1483; Circusbar.com).

The Cove: Professional hot spot where making new acquaintances is the rule of thumb. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1754 S.E. Third Court, Deerfield Beach (954-421-9272; Thecoverestaurant.com).

Crabby Jack’s: Popular bar featuring tasty fare and cold libations. 1015 S. Federal Highway, Deerfield Beach (954-429-3770).

Kahuna Bar and Grill: The theme is Hawaiian at this laid-back beachside bar that caters to surfers, in-the-biz workers and seasonal visitors. Live music Tuesday-Sunday. 249 N. Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach (954-725-0244).

Korrigan’s Irish Pub: A strip-mall bar that won’t transport you to Ireland but packages just enough lucky charm to overcome its suburban setting. Korrigan’s takes great strides to ensure its status as a cozy neighborhood bar. The kitchen prepares typical Irish fare and the bar boasts the expected range of imported drafts. 2301 W. Sample Road, Pompano Beach (954-974-0251; Korriganspub.com).

Muddy Waters: Restaurant and raw bar tailored to Jimmy Buffett fans. Frozen tropical drinks are served in hollowed-out coconut shells, and more than a dozen international beers are offered. Snapper, grouper and burgers highlight the menu. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. daily. 2237 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach (954-428-6577; Muddywaters.biz).

Paladium: Latin dance club that offers Disco Night Tuesday. Friday is ladies’ night. 5688 W. Sample Road, Margate (954-977-7752; Paladiumnightclub.com).

Roy’s Sports Bar and Grill: Neighborhood hangout that features live bands, good grub, TVs, pool tables, dartboards and electronic games. 8000 W. Sample Road, Margate (954-255-8108; Royssportsbar.com).

Singers Karaoke Klub: Featuring karaoke from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. nightly, this venue offers lifetime memberships for $30. 3521 N.W. Eighth Ave., Pompano Beach (954-785-1945; Singerskaraoke.com).

Wings ‘n’ Ale: Award-winning wings-and-beer operation for more than a decade. 4685 N. University Drive, Coral Springs (954-344-6644; Wingsnale.com).

World of Beer: A staggeringly large and varied selection of craft and imported beers helps this bar live up to its name. 4437 Lyons Road, Suite E-101, Coconut Creek (954-984-0300; Wobcoconutcreek.com).

Yucatan Mexican Bar and Grill: Festive bar and grill that gets even livelier when the dinner crowd clears and the DJ starts spinning. Reggae Night is Wednesday, karaoke is featured Thursday and DJs spin every weekend. 525 S. Federal Highway, Deerfield Beach (954-481-9933; Myspace.com/yucatangrill).

SOUTH BROWARD

Ballers Rock ‘n’ Roll Sports Bar: A slick, high-energy local bar that specializes in dance music, rock bands and barbecue. 3200 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Pembroke Park (954-985-3870; Ballersrocknrollsportsbar.com).

Beach Betty’s: Laid-back lesbian bar. Karaoke night is Sunday. Wednesday features free pool, Thursdays offer free poker beginning at 8 p.m. and the Friday Funfest offers free hors d’oeuvres 4 to 7 p.m. Happy hour noon-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 625 E. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach (954-921-9893; Beachbettysbar.com).

Café Iguana Pines: Giant dance club with eight separate bars and live radio broadcasts. Happy hour 4-8 p.m. Friday. Two-for-one martinis are served Monday. 8358 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines (954-433-8787; Cafeiguanapines.com).

Chocolada: Sidewalk cafe with a European flavor, tantalizing desserts and live music every weekend. 1923 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (954-920-6400).

Cloud 9 Lounge: Gay-owned bar open to all features pool tables, dartboards and a dance floor with a pole. Two-for-one drinks are available noon-8 p.m. daily. 7126 Stirling Road, Davie (954-499-3525; Thecloud9online.com).

88’s Dueling Pianos: Two pianists lead audiences in singalongs of popular rock and pop tunes at this drinking establishment in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Happy hour is 6-9 p.m. Fridays. 5721 Seminole Way, Hollywood (954-584-8819).

Gaby’s of Pembroke Pines: Neighborhood hangout with a large-scale bar, nightclub, restaurant and liquor store. The jukebox has something for everyone, and live music is featured several times a week. Happy hour is 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 11226 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines (954-431-0918).

Gryphon Nightclub: Upscale discotheque delivering a European-style clubbing experience. An elevated VIP area overlooks the dance floor, and the bottle service saves big spenders the trouble of ordering drinks by the glass. Inside Seminole Paradise at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 5711 Seminole Way, Hollywood (954-581-5454; Gryphon-club.com).

Harrison’s Wine Bar: A self-proclaimed “meeting place for sexy couples” fashioned after a sophisticated European wine bar. Harrison’s boasts a dark and moody ambiance that lends itself to smart fashions and intimate conversations. The list of wines and champagnes is extensive. 1916 Harrison St., Hollywood (954-922-0074; Harrisonswinebar.com).

The Hurricane Sports Bar and Grill: Laid-back bar across from Dania Jai-Alai offers pool tables, TVs, karaoke and good food and drinks. Smoker-friendly. 368 E. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach (954-926-0176).

Jake’s: Fun hangout where the motto is “world peace through hard liquor.” Happy hour runs from open to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Karaoke is featured 9 p.m. Thursday and bands perform 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Smokers are welcome. 812 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale Beach (954-455-1244).

Le Tub: Rustic, dockside watering hole with a great jukebox, pool tables, excellent fish sandwiches and hamburgers, and a beautiful view of the Intracoastal. Don’t expect stellar service, though. 1100 N. Ocean Drive, Hollywood (954-921-9425).

Murphy’s Law Irish Pub: Late-night pub featuring live music and good times in a casual setting. The daily 4:30-8 p.m. happy hour features a buffet, $1 off draught beers, and wine and martini specials. Inside Seminole Paradise at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino, 5703 Seminole Way, Hollywood (954-791-4782; Themurphyslaw.com).

Pangaea: A stylish hot spot that boasts an enormous African tent, authentic tribal artifacts, torches, spectacular dancers and world-famous DJs. Next to sister club Gryphon, which shares the same bathroom. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 5711 Seminole Way, Hollywood (954-581-5454; Pangaea-lounge.com).

PRL Euro Café: Cool downtown Hollywood hangout serving an award-winning variety of exotic Belgian beers, including Delirium and Belzebuth. Open till 2 a.m. nightly. 1904A Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (954-922-9775).

Shenanigan’s: Local hangout with good food, live music, indoor and outdoor seating. Happy hour 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. 3303 Sheridan St., Hollywood (954-981-9702).

Spice-Resto Lounge: Lively Latin club at which bartenders double as salsa dancers and live music spills from the doors until 4 a.m. 1934 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (954-923-3888; Spiceresto-lounge.com).

Sports Rock Lounge: A smokers’ bar with limited food but big-time poker action. This neighborhood hangout offers free games of pool from noon until midnight daily and a two-for-one ladies night from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesdays. On Thursday nights, Jäegermeister shots cost $3, which can make for a bad day at work Friday. 1828 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines (954-704-0290).

Sushi Blues Cafe and Blue Monk Lounge: Comfortable, upscale restaurant and lounge with retro furniture and live jazz and blues. Happy hour 5-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 2009 Harrison St., Hollywood (954-929-9560; Sushiblues.com).

The Talent Farm: A storefront venue in a warehouse complex where young musicians play to an all-ages crowd in an alcohol-free setting. A typical show features five bands and charges $10 to $12 for admission. 20911 Johnson St., Suite 111, Pembroke Pines (954-438-3488; Thetalentfarm.com).

Trixie’s: Gay bar featuring drag queens and oh-so-hot male dancers Wednesday-Sunday. 600 S. Dixie Highway, Hollywood (954-923-9322; Trixiesbar.com).

Twelve O’Clock High Lounge: Neighborhood bar that offers live music, pool tables, satellite TVs and two-for-one drinks. 327 Johnson St., Hollywood (954-921-4938).

Whiskey Tango: Self-described “white trash chic” bar for people who favor Pabst Blue Ribbon and hot wings. Two-for-one drinks are served 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Ladies drink free 9 p.m.-midnight Tuesday. 1903 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood (954-925-2555; Whiskeytangofl.com).

WEST BROWARD

Beyond Billiards: Pool hall with a kill-the-keg night Sunday and $13 domestic buckets nightly. 5705 S. University Drive, Davie (954-434-3487).

Bokamper’s Sports Bar and Grill: Big, powerful restaurant and watering hole named for former Miami Dolphins defensive player Kim Bokamper. The multileveled venue offers abundant seating, features three bars, numerous TV screens and a large drink selection. 1280 S. Pine Island Road, Plantation (954-533-7152; Bokampers.com).

Buzz’s Bar: Neighborhood sports bar with dartboards, pool tables, an abundance of TVs and live music. Ladies drink free during the Wednesday open mike. Happy hour is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily and two-for-one martinis are served at all hours. 8931 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise (954-749-1337; Buzzsbar.com).

Congas Nightclub and Restaurant: Latin dance club set to an international, Caribbean and Colombian rhythm. Fridays, men get in free before 11 p.m. and ladies before 12 a.m. Ladies get in free till 11 p.m. Saturday. 2079 N. University Drive, Sunrise (954-749-9669; Congasclub.com).

Daisy Dukes Saloon: Southern, Dukes of Hazzard-themed sports bar with “Moonshine” served in mason jars and bartenders in shorty-shorts and cowboy boots. Ladies receive half-priced drinks on Tuesdays. Best tattoo competitions are held Wednesdays during Stewed, Screwed and Tattooed. 10060 Pembroke Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines (954-430-9930; Daisydukessaloon.com).

Duffy’s Sports Grill: The 20th location in the South Florida sports-bar chain, which has been named the official sports bar of the Miami Dolphins. With about 70 flat-screen television onsite, Duffy’s offers prime viewing for sports fans. The venue offers two happy hours every evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and from 9 p.m. until closing time, during which cocktails, beer and wine are two-for-one. 811 S. University Blvd., Plantation (954-473-0477, Duffyssportsgrill.com).

Inn Field Pub: Casual neighborhood hangout offers good food, live music, televised sports, pool tables, darts, karaoke and a smoking section. Happy hour 4-8 p.m. Monday-Friday. 11439 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise (954-741-2100).

Landlubber’s Raw Bar and Grill: Popular restaurant and sports bar known for its ribs, chicken wings, shellfish and 25-ounce beers. There are enough TVs to cover every sporting event, but the Cleveland Browns take precedence on NFL Sundays. Happy hour is offered afternoons and late nights. 1851 N. Pine Island Road, Plantation (954-473-2884; Landlubbersrawbar.com).

Rosey Baby: The closest thing to a New Orleans-style bar in South Florida features blues and rock bands, delicious crawfish and several TVs for the sports fan. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 4587 N. University Drive, Lauderhill (954-749-5627; Roseybaby.com).

Round Up: Mammoth country-western bar with a large, circular dance floor. Wednesday is ladies’ night. Thursday is all you can drink for $10. Nashville recording artists perform monthly. 9020 State Road 84, Davie (954-423-1990; Roundupcountry.com).

Ye Olde Falcon Pub: British pub that serves meaty barbecued ribs and plump fish and chips. Happy hour 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 2867 S. University Drive, Davie (954-424-0300; Yeoldefalconpub.com).

SOUTH PALM BEACH

Blue Anchor Pub and Restaurant: Nineteenth century-style British pub with Zagat-rated food, good drinks and good company. Happy hour 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 804 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach (561-272-7272; Theblueanchor.com).

Boardriders Bar and Grill: Surfer-, skater- and even snowboarder-friendly bar and grill. Endless Summer Sundays features beer pong, $1 beers, $3 tacos, mojitos and margaritas. 231 S.E. First Ave., Boca Raton (561-392-0044; Myspace.com/boardriders08).

Dada: Great hangout for hipsters, featuring an open-mike Monday, a poetry-slam Tuesday, free movies Wednesday, live music Thursday, DJs Friday and live indie rock Saturday. 52 S. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach (561-330-3232).

Delux: A laid-back dance club and lounge from the group behind Respectable Street and Dada. The weekends cater to the college crowd with house and dance music. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. 16 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach (561-279-4792).

The Duck Tavern: Packed neighborhood bar with more than 90 bottles of beer on the wall. 5901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton (561-998-8288; Myspace.com/theducktavernbocaraton).

Funky Buddha Lounge: Cushy lounge decorated with deep-red walls and pillow-lined booths. The bar offers beer, wine, pear cider and a laid-back atmosphere. 2621 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton (561-368-4643; Myspace.com/funkybuddahlounge).

Kevro’s Art Bar: Free-spirited artists’ hangout. Tuesday is open-mike night and Saturday is filmmakers’ night. 166 S.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach (561-278-9675; Kevroart.com).

The Lodge Beer and Grill: Subtropical Boca Raton may not seem to be the ideal place for a winter lodge, but this inviting refuge specializes in hard-to-find brews such as White Rascal and Double Bastard Ale. Live acoustic acts perform Friday and Saturday nights. 200 S. Federal Highway, Boca Raton (561-392-5003; Thelodgeboca.com).

Murphy’s Downtown Saloon: One of the best bars in Florida, according to Maxim magazine. It offers pool tables, virtual boxing, video games and bare-bellied barmaids. Tuesday is College Night. 36 S.E. Third St., Boca Raton (561-447-6617).

Tricky Dick’s: A country bar open 22 hours a day. Live music is featured Friday and Saturday. Pool tournaments take place 9 p.m. daily. Smokers are welcome. Happy hour 2-9 p.m. daily. 9900 Sandalfoot Blvd., Boca Raton (561-482-7400; Cricketclub1.com).

Turn 3 Sports Bar: Neighborhood bar with live music nightly. Happy hour 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. 23032 Sandalfoot Plaza Drive, Boca Raton (561-483-1964, Turn3sportsbar.com).

The Wishing Well: Bustling and trendy neighborhood pub with an Irish accent. Open mike takes place Monday. Tuesday is college night. Live music is featured four nights a week. Happy hour 3-7 p.m. Monday-Friday. 111 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton (561-750-5208).

MIAMI-DADE

Bardot: Swanky but accommodating to those people with thin wallets, this nightclub and live-music venue brazenly scales the brow from low to high. It is hip, smart and comfortable. 3456 N. Miami Ave., Miami (305-576-5570; Bardotmiami.com).

B.E.D.: The restaurant and nightclub features beds acting as tables as guests dine on decadent dishes such as lobster seviche and pan-seared foie gras. DJs spin anything but lullabies, and bed-hoppers can hang out till 5 a.m. 929 Washington Ave., Miami Beach (305-532-9070; Bedmiami.com).

Buck 15: A combination gallery and lounge situated one floor above Miss Yip’s Chinese Café. Works by local artists adorn the walls, and action figures are posed in glass cases. Specialty nights include the hip-hop-infused Takeout Tuesdays and Foxx Roxx with DJ Foxx on Saturday. 707 Lincoln Lane, Miami Beach (305-538-3815; Buck15.com).

Bella Rose: Old-school South Beach bar conceived in part by Cocaine Cowboys filmmakers Alfred Spellman and Billy Corben that eschews chandeliers and stripper poles for disco balls and chalk-scrawled walls. 423 16th St., Miami Beach (305-673-8634; Rakontur.com).

Cabana One: Cozy, poolside lounge located atop the Mayfair Hotel and Spa. No matter where you are sitting or standing at this venue, you can take in a stunning view of the Miami skyline along Biscayne Bay. 3000 Florida Ave., Miami (305-441-0000; Mayfairhotelandspa.com/cabana_one).

Churchill’s Pub: Legendary rock and punk club that specializes in rowdy shows by local and national acts. The kitchen serves British food, stray dogs sometimes run through the front door and punk icon Iggy Pop is occasionally sighted at the bar. 5501 N.E. Second Ave., Miami (305-757-1807; Churchillspub.com).

Grand Central: A 10,000-square-foot space that hosts weekly parties Friday and Saturday nights and books some of the biggest emerging bands in the country. 697 N. Miami Ave., Miami (305-377-2277; Grandcentralmiami.com).

Heathrow Lounge: British-inspired nightclub that has no tolerance for wankers. The venue is divided into four rooms: the elegant Wilde Manor, the burlesque salon Hyde Park, the mod Milk Bar and the sleek Spy Bar. 681 Washington Ave., Miami Beach (305-534-7583)

Jazid: An unpretentious, two-story South Beach lounge. The Spam Allstars and other funk, Latin and hip-hop acts take the stage regularly. DJs spin mood music upstairs while couples get close on couches in the dimly lit room. 1342 Washington Ave., Miami Beach (305-673-9372; Jazid.net).

The King Is Dead: Open only Friday and Saturday, this anarchy-themed nightclub is located among the galleries, boutiques and furniture shops along the Design District’s 40th Street. The music is a mellow mix of funk, jazz and soul Fridays, and the club features live bands and DJs Saturdays. The drink prices are steep, but the venue doesn’t charge a cover. 28 N.E. 40th St., Miami (305-573-3355; Kingisdead.com).

Lucky Strike Lanes: Retro bowling lounge that serves custom martinis, features sleek lanes and projects images of artwork on the walls. At night, the alley offers a sporty and laid-back alternative to clubbing. 1691 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach (305-532-0307; Bowlluckystrike.com).

Mac’s Club Deuce Bar: The 83-year-old venue is the oldest bar in Miami Beach and features an 11-hour daily happy hour from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 222 14th St., Miami Beach (305-531-6200; Deucers.com).

Mansion: Renovated art-deco theater that attracts celebrity hosts and South Beach revelers. The dress code is strictly enforced, and the wait to get in can be extremely long. 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach (305-532-1525; Mansionmiami.com).

The News Lounge: 55th Street Station lounge perfect for socializing with friends or minding your own damn business while nursing an import draft beer. The kitchen stays heated until 2 a.m. and serves European-inspired fare. 5580 N.E. Fourth Court, Suite 4A-5A, Miami (305-758-9932).

Nikki Beach: Lounge where international DJs, fashion shows and sushi help patrons tune out the outside world. 1 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach (305-538-1111; Nikkibeach.com).

Park West Nightclub: Club from the same people behind Miami hot spots such as Space and Cameo. The signature night is Friday’s Stereo. 30 N.E. 11th St., Miami (305-350-7444).

Strike Miami: Sporty nightspot offering bowling and booze. This alley, inside the Dolphin Mall, stays open late with a full-liquor bar and glow-in-the-dark bowling. 11401 N.W. 12th St., Miami (305-594-0200; Strikemiami.com).

Tobacco Road: A Miami landmark that opened in 1912 and has the oldest existing liquor license in Miami-Dade County. The two-story venue presents live music, from blues to jazz to punk and a kitchen that serves excellent fare. 626 S. Miami Ave., Miami (305-374-1198; Tobacco-road.com).

Upper Eastside Garden: Hidden lush garden and mini-golf course in Miami’s historic Upper Eastside. Thursday is movie night. 7244 Biscayne Blvd., Miami (305-984-3231; Uppereastsidegarden.com).

The Vagabond: A downtown collaboration between Backdoor Bamby’s Carmel Ophir and Respectable Street owner Rodney Mayo. 30 N.E. 14th St., Miami (305-379-0508; Thevagabondmiami.com).

White Room: Three-room space that has a breezy courtyard, an intimate red lounge and the center of attraction in the white room. Saturday is indie dance party Poplife. 1306 N. Miami Ave., Miami (305-995-5050; Whiteroommiami.com).

America’s Backyard bartender Alexi Black. Photo by Beth Black (no relation).

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by Jake Cline, Terra Sullivan and Dan Sweeney

During tough economic times, when the unemployment rate reaches double digits, corporations lay off employees like fat guys lay off salads, and the American dream loses touch with reality, people more readily turn to the so-called vice industries for relief. Chief among these are bootlegging, grifting, safecracking and jitterbugging. Wait — that’s what people turned to during the Great Depression. Today, aside from engaging in Internet pornography (whether as consumers or production assistants) and reality television (ditto), we mostly stick to good, old-fashioned drinking. And by “we,” we mean “you.” We, and here we mean “us,” would never watch reality television. And by “never” we mean “often.”

Clearly, though, we do drink. (And by “we,” we mean the royal we.) And while the country is not suffering quite as much as it did during the Depression era, we still have a host of sorrows to drown. Really, then, this is the perfect time to present the annual Happy Hour Guide, which is culled from our weekly roundup of drink specials, cocktail parties and after-work decompression sessions that take place nightly throughout South Florida. Fifty of these soirées are included in the following list, and represent a rather wide swath of tastes, tolerances and temperaments. We’re sure you’ll find something that, as they said during the Great Depression, will make you feel like eggs in the coffee or send you over the edge with the rams. Bottoms up.

AMERICA’S BACKYARD
The self-described home of “grillin’ and chillin’,” America’s Backyard kicks off a three-day run of happy hours every Wednesday, when drinks are two-for-one and a special $5 happy hour menu is provided. Guests may bring their dogs to the venue on Thursdays for Yappy Hour, perhaps the only party in South Florida at which it’s acceptable for your date to drink from a bowl and relieve him- or herself on the ground. Canine treats and poop bags are provided. Drink and food specials mirror those offered on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Happy hour: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday
Recommended drink: Rum and Coke
Location: 100 S.W. Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-727-0950, Jointherevolution.net

AREA 31 AT EPIC HOTEL
The upscale Epic Hotel’s restaurant provides the perfect post-work, pre-nightlife gathering with classic cocktails revamped with ingredients such as fresh pears, cucumber and cilantro. All cocktails are half-price during happy hour.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. Fridays
Recommended drink: The Pear Manhattan, made with Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon and pear liquor
Location: 300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-424-5226, Area31restaurant.com

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BANANA BOAT
An oasis on the Intracoastal, the Banana Boat is accessible by foot, car or boat. It offers indoor and outdoor seating, a buffet from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and live music four nights a week.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Rumrunner, made with Bacardi rum, banana and blackberry liqueur, lime juice, grenadine and a floater of Myers rum
Location: 739 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach, 561-732-9400, Bananaboatboynton.com

BARU URBANO
Earlier this year, this eco-conscious Brickell neighborhood spot began a cocktail campaign titled “Have a Drink, Plant a Tree.” With each Veev cocktail you buy, a tree will be planted in your honor. Not up for the challenge? You can still take advantage of a decent happy hour at which drinks are half-price.
Happy hour: Noon-8 p.m., Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: The Treetini, a martini made with Veev Açai Spirits
Location: 1001 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 305-381-5901, Barurbano.com

BISTRO MEZZALUNA
With this restaurant’s no-reservations policy and its delectable menu of fresh fish, pastas and steaks, Bistro Mezzaluna’s bar is a popular spot to wait for a table with a tasty drink in hand. Specially priced appetizers and two-for-one well drinks, house wines and draft beers are available during happy hour.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Chianti Classico
Location: 741 S.E. 17th St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-522-9191, Bistromezzaluna.com

BLUE ANCHOR
Stepping through the doors of the Blue Anchor is like traveling back in time to foggy old London, when Jack the Ripper prowled the streets and Queen Victoria ruled the empire. Good thing times have changed. This lively and friendly British pub serves excellent food and an impressive selection of beers. The wait staff is cheery, and live music is played four nights a week by bands such as the John Cat All-Star Band and Mad Cow. For happy hour, the pub offers $1 discounts on pints, $2 Coors Light bottles and $3 house Chardonnays.
Happy hour: 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Fullers, a hand-drawn British ale
Location: 804 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/272-7272, Theblueanchor.com

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BOKAMPER’S BAR AND GRILL
Former Miami Dolphins player Kim Bokamper opened this suburban sports bar in the onetime home of Kavanaugh and Morrisey’s. Happy-hour specials include $2.50 drafts, $2.75 well drinks and $3.50 house wines.
Happy hour: 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: $3.50 Dos Equis or $4 pints of Newcastle
Location: 1280 S. Pine Island Road, Plantation, 954-533-7152,
Bokampers.com

BREW URBAN CAFE
You may know this independently owned coffee shop for serving a tasty cup of direct-trade Joe, but Brew Urban Cafe also offers an unconventional happy hour. Skip the well-trekked Himmarshee pub crawl and stop into this laidback café for specially priced wines and two-for-$6 microbrews during happy hour.
Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Microbrews from Rogue Ales or Lost Coast Brewery
Location: 209 S.W. Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-523-7191

BROTHER TUCKERS
Beer-and-wine garden for true beer lovers. A list of more than 50 available beers is scribbled on the wall.
Happy hour: 4-6 p.m. Fridays
Recommended drink: Dog Fishhead 60-Minute IPA.
Location: 3332 E. Atlantic Ave., Pompano Beach, 954-785-1984, Myspace.com/brothertuckers

CAFE IGUANA PINES
This 25,000-square-foot dance megaplex features 88 televisions and eight bars, including the exclusive VIP Martini Bar. The Red Zone boasts a 25-foot-long bar made of ice surrounded by big-screen TVs. Happy hour features $3 cocktails and $5 menu items, and other events include Wednesday’s Latin night.
Happy hour: 4-10 p.m., Fridays
Recommended drink: Apple and watermelon martinis
Location: 8358 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, 954-433-8787, Cafeiguanapines.com

CAFÉ PRIMA PASTA
Satisfy late-night cravings during this Italian restaurant’s Dining After Dark: When Midnight Munchies Attack. Cocktails and entrées such as black linguini and chicken parmigiana are discounted 50 percent.
Happy hour: 11 p.m.-midnight Tuesday through Saturday and 10-11 p.m. Sunday
Recommended drink: A glass of Chianti classico
Location: 414 71st St., Miami Beach, 305-867-0106, Primapasta.com

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY
While most visits to the Factory are an exercise in gluttony, happy hour at the restaurant is less daunting. Slink up to the skinny barstools for cheap, tapas-style dishes and discounted specialty drinks, draft beers and wines.
Happy hour: 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Typhoon Punch, made with Stoli Raspberry vodka, passion fruit, pineapple and orange juices
Location: 600 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-463-1999, Thecheesecakefactory.com

COFFEE DISTRICT
This intimate coffee shop and full-service bar serves more than 85 different microbrews, several wines and a variety of coffees that pair perfectly with their homemade cupcakes and desserts. Thursday nights are reserved for a popular open mike from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Happy hour offers discounted drinks.
Happy hour: 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Dogfish Head beer
Location: 325 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach, 561-455-0541, Mycoffeedistrict.com

COPAS Y TAPAS
On the corner of Galiano Street and Miracle Mile, this gourmet Spanish tapas restaurant and bar serves half-price beers, wines and homemade sangria during happy hour and delectable dishes of chorizo, manchego cheese and cured serrano ham all other hours of operation.
Happy hour: 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: House sangria
Location: 98 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 305-774-0927, Copasytapas.com

DORAKU SUSHI
Quite possibly the best deal on the Lincoln Road crawl, Doraku’s nightly happy hour gives visitors a peek into the normally decadent sushi experience at about half the cost, with affordable eats and cocktails in the $5-or-less range. Choose from $3 sakes, wines and beers or $4 margaritas, martinis and sangrias. The happy-hour menu boasts items such as $3 Doraku California rolls, $2 edamame and $5 salmon carpaccio.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: $4 Lychee martini or house sangria
Location: 1100 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, 305-695-8383, Sushidoraku.com

FLANIGAN’S
You may not find an umbrella in your drink or a fancy spread of complimentary eats at this no-frills sports bar, but you will find cheap drinks and fresh seafood. Flanigan’s nighttime happy hour offers half-price specialty drinks, wines and beers.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 p.m.-close nightly
Recommended drink: The Flanitini made with smooth mixture of vodka, Godiva chocolate liqueur, Frangelico, Bailey’s Irish Cream and caramel
Location: 1479 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-493-5329, Flanigans.net

FLORIDA CIGAR COMPANY
A smoker-friendly atmosphere and more than 100 premium cigars on hand make this spot a puffer’s paradise. Each night offers something new, from lingerie shows to games on the big screen. Happy hour presents two-for-one house wines, well drinks and beer.
Happy hour: Noon-7 p.m. and midnight-close Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Heineken Light
Location: 1527 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-4677,
Floridacigarcompany.com

GERONIMO’S CASUAL GOURMET GRILL AND BAR
While the food at this Greek-leaning gourmet spot would please any palate, drinks at the bar sound more like a double dare. Adventurous types can take a chance on drinks with names such as Sour Smurf, Purple Hooter, Bubble Gum or the Fruit Salad. Average drinkers can choose from imported beers, wines, champagnes and standard well drinks. Beers and most cocktails are half-price during happy hour.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Killer Kool-Aid, made with vodka, Triple Sec, Southern Comfort, Midori, Amaretto and cranberry juice
Location: 3528 S. University Drive, Davie, 954/474-9998, Geronimosbar.com

KANSAI
This Japanese steakhouse and sushi bar offers a different deal each day of the week. Happy Tuesdays is a day-long happy hour featuring two-for-one drinks. On $1 Wednesdays, sushi and sake go for a dollar each. Meanwhile, on Sushi Sundays, guests can enjoy two-for-one sushi.
Happy hour: All hours of operation Tuesdays.
Recommended drink: Sake bomb
Location: 7140 Beracasa Way, Boca Raton, 561-395-8862, Kansaiboca.com

LA GUARACHA
Step into a living tribute to the salseros of the 1970s and ’80s at this Latin bar and restaurant. Live salsa bands, DJs spinning Caribbean classics and customers surrounded by dishes of fufu, tostones, ropa vieja and mofongo are all familiar sights here. During happy hour, all well cocktails cost $4 while house wines and bottled beer sell for $3.
Happy hour: 4-6 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Mojito or Cuba Libre
Location: 801 Brickell Bay Drive, No. 2, Miami, 305-375-7474, Laguaracha.net

LANDLUBBER’S RAW BAR AND GRILL
At this popular restaurant and sports bar known for its ribs, chicken wings, shellfish and 25-ounce beers, there are enough TVs to cover every sporting event. Happy hour offers discounts on domestic bottles and drafts, well drinks, clams and oysters (when in season).
Happy hour: 3-6 p.m. and 10 p.m.-close Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Yuengling on tap or house margarita
Location: 1851 N. Pine Island Road, Plantation, 954-473-2884, Landlubbersrawbar.com

THE LODGE BEER AND GRILL
This downtown Boca hangout offers more than 100 beers and a hefty wine selection. Each day, the bar serves $2 draft specials, while happy hour features two-for-one select draft beers and discounted appetizers.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Strongbow cider
Location: 200 S. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, 561-392-500, Thelodgeboca.com

LOU’S BEER GARDEN
Life is too short to live on Budweiser alone. That’s what makes a visit to this new beer garden and gastro pub an easy decision. With more than 12 microbrews on tap, eight in bottles, and wines such as Lazy Lizard Merlot, Lou’s isn’t dull. Happy hour offers discounted beers and live music.
Happy hour: 5-8 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Left Hand Brewing Company’s Left Hand Milk Stout
Location: 7337 Harding Ave., Miami Beach, 305-704-7879, Lousbeergarden.com

LUCE ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR
At this downtown Hollywood favorite, guests can choose from a wide array of Portuguese wines, house sangria, champagne and Italian options such as a glass of Luce. Two-for-one drinks are served during happy hour and bottles of wine are half-price with dinner every Monday.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. at the bar only
Recommended drink: House sangria or the Lucetini, made with pineapple-infused vodka and fresh pineapple juice
Location: 1906 Harrison St., Hollywood 954-920-2500, Lucehollywood.com

LUCKY STRIKE
Part of a national chain of upscale bowling alleys — how’s that for an oxymoron? — the South Beach Lucky Strike doubles as a nightclub and art gallery, featuring works by lowbrow and graffiti artists. Patrons also will find real works of art at the bar, where drinks are half-price during happy hour.
Happy hour: 9 p.m.-midnight Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Lucky lemonade made with Bacardi Razz, Dekuyper schnapps and a splash each of Sprite and cranberry juice
Location: 1691 Michigan Ave., Miami Beach, 305-532-0307, Bowlluckystrike.com

MAI-KAI
Fort Lauderdale’s Polynesian-themed landmark is more than just a tourist trap. It has a wicked bar that serves more than 50 frozen tropical drinks. Live music is performed nightly and the venue never charges a cover.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Barrel o’ rum
Location: 3599 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-3272, Maikai.com

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MAMBO ITALIANO’S MEATBALLS AND MUSIC
A comfortable Italian eatery by day and party bar by night, this downtown spot caters to all types. The kitchen is known for giving traditional Italian dishes a modern twist, evident in items such as meatball sliders and Italian nachos. Happy hour offers $3 Three Olives vodka cocktails, $3 domestic beers and house wines paired with appetizer specials. Stay late for DJs and dancing until 3 a.m.
Happy hour: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: $3 house wine
Location: 308 Clematis St., West Palm Beach, 561-659-1414

MARENAS RESORT
Complimentary valet, a pristine view of the Atlantic and $5 deals on cocktails and appetizers make this weekend-only happy hour party a welcome respite from the madness. During the Friday through Sunday party 5@5, Marenas Resort offers $5 well drinks, $3 domestic beers, $4 imports and $7 house wines paired with $5 eats such as cheeseburger nachos, chipotle boneless wings and ham croquettes.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. Friday through Sunday
Recommended drink: House wine
Location: 18683 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, 305-503-6000, Marenasresortmiami.com

MEXCHINO SPORTS BAR N’ GRILL
If you ever get the hankering for a bowl of comforting menudo, followed by a boisterous game of pool, this traditional Mexican restaurant-sports-bar hybrid will have just what you need. Choose from a list of global beers, such as Cusquena, Modelo, Peroni and Asahi Dry, or pucker up for a handmade margarita at the bar. Happy hour features two-for-one drinks at the bar only.
Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and all day Thursday
Recommended drink: The Bramble martini, made with Hendricks gin, Chambord black raspberry liqueur, simple syrup and fresh lemon juice, or the blueberry margarita, made with Cazadores Resposado, fresh blueberries, lime juice and a splash of grenadine.
Location: 1828 Harrison St., Hollywood, 954-251-1654, Mexchino.com

MIA AT BISCAYNE
Executive chef Gerdy Rodriguez’s keen culinary touches translate to the drink menu, where run-of-the-mill drinks are replaced by dewy nitrogen cocktails with ingredients such as blackberry purée and coconut milk, and edible cocktails made of dark rum gelee and Pop Rocks. Friday night’s happy hour offers half-price seviche and sushi, well drinks, wines, beers and $5 martinis.
Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 4-9 p.m. Friday
Recommended drink: Mojito, sangria or caipirinha
Location: 20 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-642-0032, Miabiscayne.com

MONTY’S RAW BAR
A welcome touch of ruggedness on South Beach, this casual raw bar offers 35 percent off beer and cocktails and affordable tropical drinks, she-crab soup and conch fritters.
Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: The Miami Vice, a mix of frozen rumrunner and piña colada
Location: 300 Alton Road, Miami Beach, 305-672-1148, Montyssouthbeach.com

THE NEWS LOUNGE
Located in the same popular nook of MiMo restaurants that includes Andiamo Pizza and Soyka, News Lounge offers creative cocktails with accouterments such as edible carnations, cucumber, egg whites and agave nectar. The generous happy-hour menu includes $3 Heinekens and Coronas, $4 house merlots, Pinot Grigios and well drinks, $5 proseccos, $6 caipirinhas and dirty martinis, and on the food side, $3 bruschettas and $6 sliders.
Happy hour: 5-9 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Peach Pisco Sour made with Peruvian Pisco, peach nectar with a touch of egg whites and nutmeg or a bottle of Delirium Tremens
Location: 5580 N.E. Fourth Court, at the Courtyard at 55th Street Station, Miami, 305-758-9932, The55thstreetstation.com

OCEANS 11 ON THE BEACH
This open-air bar has everything you’d expect and want from a beachside establishment — friendly staff, outside seating, a cozy inside bar, fresh seafood and the occasional classic-car show. During happy hour, guests receive $2 domestic beers, $3 imports and two-for-one well drinks.
Happy hour: 2-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Yuengling or Sam Adams beer
Location: 3111 N. Surf Road, Hollywood, 954-927-5549, Oceans11beach.com

OCEANS 234
This popular Deerfield Beach grill boasts an oceanside view and delectable dishes, including lobster mac and cheese and macadamia dolphin with blackberry butter sauce. Happy hour includes $1 off beer and wine and half-price well drinks at the bar only.
Happy hour: 3-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 3-10 p.m. Fridays
Recommended drink: La Francesca Pinot Grigio by the glass
Location: 234 N. Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach, 954-428-2539, Oceans234.com

ONE BAR
While a one-night stay at the Regent Bal Harbour starts at $750 a night, happy hour at the hotel’s bar is surprisingly cost-effective for partiers. During One Bar’s happy hour, guests can unwind with $10 martinis after taking advantage of the free parking or free valet.
Happy hour: 5-8 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: RBH Martini, the View Bar’s signature martini, made with Grey Goose vodka la Poire, pear nectar and Ruby Porto
Location: The Regent Bal Harbour, 10295 Collins Ave., Miami, 305-455-5400

101 OCEAN BAR
The staff behind this Lauderdale-by-the-Sea operation takes its beer seriously. When designing the space, they placed the chilled cellar and beer tap close enough to one another to keep the more than 12 beers on tap frosty. Wines are also prized here, with selections costing from $23 to $99 a bottle. Fresh seafood, flatbreads and steaks round out the experience. All drinks and select appetizers are half-price during happy hour.
Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Corona and lime, or a cantaloupe martini made with orange vodka, watermelon liqueur, pineapple and orange juice
Location: 101 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-776-8101, 101oceanlbts.com

RACKS DOWNTOWN EATERY AND TAVERN
The food at this new Boca Raton eatery comes with serving suggestions such as “three napkins” or “fork and knife.” But you are left to your own devices when it comes to the drinks. Several signature cocktails and martinis are served at the bar alongside a handful of craft beers in bottles and on tap. The daily happy hour is good for half-price drinks and half-price appetizers.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Avery White Rascal ale or a Rack-o-Rita, made with Patrón Silver, Creme de Cassis, lime and ginger beer
Location: 402 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 561-395-1662, Facebook/racksmiznerpark

THE RALEIGH
Host to several Mercedes Benz Fashion Week parties and Art Basel bashes, the historic oceanfront pool at the Raleigh has become a new favorite for summertime happy hours. Stop by as the staff celebrates 70 years in business with a happy hour at which hors d’oeuvres and specialty cocktails are available for $7.
Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Rogue’s Delight, made with Hendrick’s gin, grapefruit juice and a splash of grenadine
Location: 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305-534-6300, Raleighhotel.com

ROSEY BABY
This long-running New Orleans-style bar features blues and rock bands, delicious crawfish and several TVs for sports fans. During happy hour, Rosey Baby offers $1 bottled beers, drafts and house wines and two-for-one well and call drinks and some premiums.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Alabama slammer, a potent mix of alcohol that will slow your Southern drawl to a crawl
Location: 4587 N. University Drive, Lauderhill, 954-749-5627, Roseybaby.com

ROY’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL
A neighborhood hangout, Roy’s features live bands, good grub, TVs, pool tables, dartboards and electronic games. All drinks are two-for-one during happy hour.
Happy hour: Noon-7 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: Draft beer
Location: 8000 W. Sample Road, Margate, 954-255-8108, Royssportsbar.com

SALSA FIESTA URBAN MEXICAN GRILL
This neighborhood joint serves fresh-and-quick Mexican fare in the vein of spots such as Lime Fresh Mexican and Chipotle, without the mass-produced feel of its competitors. Two-for-one domestic and imported beers are offered during happy hour. Complimentary chips and guacamole are delivered alongside the beers.
Happy hour: 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Negra Modelo or Corona
Location: 2929 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-400-8245, Salsafiestagrill.com

SOUTHPORT RAW BAR
This seaside raw bar is steeped in Old Florida history, including its own. Southport has been serving fans of seafood for generations. Its happy hour specials include $1.75 draft beers, $6.50 domestic pitchers, 10 wings for $5.95 and Old Bay shrimp for $6.75.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 p.m.-close Saturday and Sunday
Recommended drink: Yuengling, Stella Artois or Blue Moon on tap
Location: 1536 Cordova Road, Fort Lauderdale, 954-525-2526, Southportrawbar.com

SPORTSZONE 84 BAR AND GRILL
Like any good sports bar, Sportszone 84 boasts a menu heavy on fried food — including pickles! — burgers and sandwiches. But it also offers unusual daily specials such as all-you-can-eat St. Louis barbecue ribs for $14.99 Wednesdays and all-you-eat fish and chips for $12.99 from 3 p.m. to close Fridays. During happy hour, domestic beers, well drinks and house wines are two for one.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Beer, glorious beer
Location: 2440 W. State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, 954-734-2424, Sportszone84.com

STAGE 84
Stage 84’s weekend kickoff, Fun Fridays, includes all the elements of a perfect happy hour: free buffet, live music, half-price appetizers and two-for-one drinks. Drop a business card in a bowl for a chance to win a $30 bar tab and spend hours at the bar knocking back a series of beers on tap and nicely priced wines.
Happy hour: 5-8 p.m. Fridays
Recommended drink: Holy Mackerel on tap
Location: Stage 84, 9118 W. State Road 84, Davie, 954-474-5040, Stage84fl.com

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TAZA MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN AND LOUNGE
The standard happy hour gets an upgrade with the addition of belly dancers and hookahs at this Mediterranean-themed space. The fully stocked bar offers a wide selection of wines, beers and well drinks that are half-price during happy hour.
Happy hour: 4-7 Monday though Friday
Recommended drink: Draft beer, house wines
Location: 1430 S.E. 17th St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-530-7064, Tazamediterranean.com

TIM FINNEGAN’S IRISH PUB
Home-style Irish food, 20-ounce drafts and the occasional fiddler playing atop the bar make a visit to this pub one for the memory banks. Happy hour equals $2 domestic beers and pints, $3 house wines, well drinks and import bottles, and $4 import pints and call drinks.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: The Flying Dutchman, made with Beefeater’s dry gin and Hiram Walker Triple Sec shaken and served over ice
Location: 1725 S. Federal Highway, Delray Beach, 561-330-3153, Timfinnegansirishpub.com

TRINA RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
Happy hour at this pristine seaside destination features $3 domestic beers, $4 imports, $5 signature martinis and $6 well drinks and specialty cocktails. The tapas menu includes truffle-and-lobster mac and cheese, gorgonzola-topped Trina chips, buffalo shrimp and assorted flatbreads.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: The Trinatini, made with vodka, fresh lemon juice, lavender syrup and pomegranate molasses
Location: 601 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-567-8070, Trinarestaurantandlounge.com

WAXY O’CONNOR’S
At this popular Irish pub with indoor and outdoor seating, patrons crown in to watch broadcasts of soccer and rugby matches from around the world.
Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: A fine stout
Location: 1095 S.E. 17th St. Causeway, Fort Lauderdale, 954-525-9299, Waxys.com

WHISKEY TANGO
If you favor Pabst Blue Ribbon and hot wings over champagne and caviar, you’ll feel right at home at this self-described “white trash chic” Hollywood bar. Nights are reserved for beer pong, live bands, darts and poker. Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks.
Happy hour: 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday
Recommended drink: Shot of Southern Comfort
Location: 1903 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 954-925-2555, Whiskeytangofl.com

WINGS ’N’ ALE
Raspberry, “hot ’n’ honey” and “volcano eruption” are just some of the ways wings are served at this popular, decade-old chicken haven. Happy hour features inexpensive draft beers and $1 discounts on appetizers.
Happy hour: 3-6 p.m. daily
Recommended drink: $1.25 draft beer
Location: 4685 N. University Drive, Coral Springs, 954-344-6644, Wingsnale.com

ZUCKERELLO’S
Tightening the purse strings in this economy doesn’t mean brown-bagging it. At this neighborhood Italian restaurant, guests can feast on deeply discounted specials and enjoy a decent happy hour at the same time. Two-for-one drinks and reduced-price martinis are served during happy hour.
Recommended drink: Italy’s Peroni beer or the Lemon Drop martini, made with Ketel One Citreon vodka, fresh lemon juice and sugar
Happy hour: 4-6 p.m. daily
Location: 3017 E. Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-776-4282, Zuckerellos.com