Bacardi and Captain Morgan are fine when youre yelling across a crowded bar for a rum and coke, but there is much more to taste and enjoy in the wonderful world of rum. Being among so many Hispanic and Caribbean migrants, Miamians have been fortunate in the rum department. Most of us are already familiar with Haitis Barbancourt, Jamaicas Appleton, and Trinidads Old Oak. If you really want to taste it all, you can get to know more obscure varieties at Miamis newest specialty bar, RumBar at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.
Were generally skeptical of establishments that focus on one specific drink (were talking to you, Martini Bar), but this place looks classy with a capital C. Think subdued lighting, palm-frond-shape ceiling fans, and dark wood accents. There are appetizers and main plates (order the sugar cane prawns or roasted duck and goat cheese quesadilla -- you wont be disappointed) and, of course, lots and lots o rum -- 53 varieties from 18 countries, to be precise. The five-piece Latin band Nostalgia adds to the sultry ambiance from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.
Starts: Aug. 15. Daily, 2007