Medium Cool Cocktail Lounge

Plenty of places on South Beach lay claim to "cool" status, so you have to hand it to a joint that classifies itself as merely "medium cool." Located in the subterranean space once occupied by the dear-departed Rec Room (ah, nostalgia!), this lounge oozes sophisticated '70s Miami glam. Once you make it past the velvet rope, you'll be escorted downstairs into a dark bar illuminated by a disco ball and a roving spotlight or two. Banquettes line the room, and there are plenty of places to rest your drink if you're of a mind to dance. A handful of Miami's best-known bar vets (Dan Binkiewicz, David Martinez, Josh Harris, and Naren Young) created Medium Cool as a place for those who seek the night-owl clubbing vibe without the hassle and cover charge. Table reservations are allowed, but you're not compelled to buy bottle service. Looking to drink with a crew? Opt for a large-format cocktail served tableside just like bottle service. There's also a jazz night and fun guest DJs — you never know when Diplo might drop in for a surprise set.