Is This South Florida’s Most Exclusive Arena Suite?

If South Florida stadium experiences had a secret menu, this would be the item that perhaps no one admits exists. Tucked away on the suite level at Amerant Bank Arena, the Panther Bar is a members-only speakeasy where Florida Panthers games unfold behind a brick wall, guarded by a security detail and accented by a set of vintage payphones that feel more Lower East Side than Sunrise.

The Panther Bar quietly opened just in time for the 2023 NHL All-Star festivities and has since become one of the most exclusive tickets in Florida sports. Two former suites were merged into an intimate, 1,100-square-foot hideaway inspired by New York’s renowned Monkey Bar. Inside, tufted red-leather booths, red-and-white checkered tablecloths, and a mahogany bar set the scene, while murals by local artist Grant Gruenhaupt place cocktail-slinging panthers into swampy vignettes.

Membership is invitation-only and lands firmly in five-figure territory. There are just 35 members, structured like a country club, each with access for themselves and one guest per game. On any given night, up to 70 people fill the space, provided the right relationships are in play. 

The crowd comprises owners, executives, VIPs, celebrities, and athletes. Founding member Wayne Gretzky has his own personalized liquor locker, as does team owner Vincent Viola. Recently, NBA legend Charles Barkley and golf star Brooks Koepka have been guests.

Panthers Vice President of Sales and Service Taralynn Reburn tells New Times that the exclusivity results in a tight-knit club. “It is very much a group of individuals who have become a family, a group of support, and they take pride in this space. They really appreciate being here, and they want to show it off to their friends as well.”

Game nights begin early with wine tastings or a hot chocolate bar — depending on the evening — before sliding into passed appetizers and a full menu available at its core bar, inclusive of a signature Panther Bar. Seating is first-come, first-served, and the smoked old-fashioned, theatrically prepared and nearly mandatory, is the star of the experience. Nearly every member renews annually, and there is a waitlist for those hoping to crack the inner circle. 

Additional member perks include garage parking, a member gift, Pantherland, concession discounts, and more.