Classic Miami Dive Duffy's Announces Major Change to Tabs

Duffy's Tavern has made a major change for the first time since 1955, marking the end of its 70-year tradition in Miami.

By Olee Fowler

July 24, 2025

Image: After nearly 70 years as a cash-only joint, Miami’s iconic Duffy’s Tavern now accepts credit cards, marking the end of an old-school era of beers, bar food.

After nearly 70 years as a cash-only joint, Miami’s iconic Duffy’s Tavern now accepts credit cards, marking the end of an old-school era of beers, bar food. Duffy's Tavern photo

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Duffy’s Tavern has accepted only cash since opening in 1955. This week, that changed.

In an Instagram post shared on Thursday, July 24, the longtime Miami bar and restaurant announced that it now takes credit cards. A photo shows the tavern's marquee sign, located along Red Road just west of Coral Gables, updated with the message: "Yes, credit cards at Duffy's!"

The caption reads: "If you've ever said, 'I'd love to go but I never carry cash...it's your time." Comments poured in from customers past and present. "Welcome to the '90s!" one wrote. "End of an era," said another. Some insisted they'd keep paying in cash out of habit.

click to enlarge

A photo shows the tavern's marquee sign, located along Red Road just west of Coral Gables, updated with the message: "Yes, credit cards at Duffy's!"

Screenshot via Instagram/@duffystavernfl

Burgers, Beers, and Ballgames

Duffy's opened inside a 1929-built residence at 2108 SW 57th Ave. Originally run by Martin Duffy, the business has been owned by Wayne Russell since 1984. It's known for its no-frills food, sports-heavy décor, and a loyal crowd of locals, including many University of Miami and Miami Dolphins fans.

The bar has long been a Friday night standby, a college football hangout, and a reliable go-to spot for burgers, hot dogs, wings, and chili. The walls are lined with sports banners and memorabilia, and the menu has stayed largely the same. In many people’s minds, the cash-only rule was a fixed part of the experience.

click to enlarge

Duffy's Tavern has welcomed generations of Miami residents.

Duffy's Tavern photo

Still Open, Still Operating

In July 2024, New Times reported that the Duffy’s property had sold for $4.5 million to Greenway Point, LLC. Russell and his business partner, who own the building and land, are staying on as tenants for now. At the time, Russell said he had no plans to relocate or reopen elsewhere.

"I talk to God, and I say, 'God, you want me here, and I'll stay here. If I can do better, then you'll let me know," he said.
Since the sale, the tavern has continued to run as usual. The same staff, same menu, same regulars. Nothing on the surface has changed, aside from the sudden appearance of a card reader. There has been no announcement about redevelopment or a timeline for any changes to the site. For now, Duffy's remains in place and open daily.

Duffy's Tavern. 2108 SW 57th Ave., Miami; 305-264-6580; duffystavernmiami.com.

A fourth-generation Miamian, Olee Fowler knows every corner of the city. She spent a decade as the editor of Eater Miami, and now as a freelance writer, she captures the stories that make Miami unique. When she's not exploring Miami's newest restaurants and bars, you can find her at home with her dogs, Foster and Peanut, or cheering on her beloved Florida Gators. And yes, that's probably a Coke Zero on her desk.

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