Amid the megaclubs and tourist traps that dominate South Beach, it's tough to find a cool, laid-back bar where you can enjoy a few brewskies, chow down on some tasty grub, and jam to live music.
But Hush Bar & Lounge hopes to change that.
"We're definitely catering to industry people and locals," says nightlife vet and business partner Bobby Brandt.
See also: Sidebar Opening in Former PAX Space
Although already open for business, SoBe's newest boozing establishment and music venue will host its official grand opening on Friday, November 14.
Just about a block from Lincoln Road, the Fillmore Miami Beach, and the Miami Beach Convention Center, this project from the owners of Oolite Restaurant & Bar has taken over a 2,500-square-foot space at 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue that was most recently occupied by the short-lived Artist in Residence.
"We are in the same space as A.I.R.," Brandt says. "We have the same layout and same stage, but we changed some stuff around and added TVs.
"I think the food and location gives us better advantage, and the space is beautiful," he adds. "We have a great bar menu. We will have a pool table, live music, DJs. We have a jukebox coming in."
The lounge will serve food from Oolite. Grub will be available seven days a week till closing time, which is 5 a.m., but the menu will change as the night progresses.
As for the music, Brandt says: "We're a non-hip-hop establishment. We'll have a little open format. We also have a great live music stage with a Dynacord sound system and LED lighting."
And though its doors have barely cracked open, Hush is already booking some notable local music nights, like next week's listening party for the debut album Snob Rock by King's Head Records' Ben Wash.
"We're still growing," the Hush mastermind admits. "But with live music, a great sound system, and great lighting, it should be a good, local spot.
"The concept is basically, 'Can you keep a secret?' Nobody can," he laughs. "We wanna make it word of mouth, a secret everybody has to tell."
Crossfade's Top Blogs
Hush Bar & Lounge's Grand Opening Party. With DJ Ollie Sanders and guests. Friday, November 14. Hush Bar & Lounge, 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., Miami Beach. The party starts at 8 p.m. and there is no cover. Call 786-540-4874 or visit facebook.com/HushBarLoungeMiami. Ages 21 and up.
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