The Broken Shaker

The Broken Shaker – Miami, FL

The Broken Shaker, nestled within the Freehand Miami hotel, has firmly cemented itself as a sanctuary for cocktail aficionados and travelers looking for a slice of paradise in Miami Beach. Established in 2012 by Gabriel Orta and Elad Zvi, the bar originally launched as a pop-up experiment that quickly gained a devoted following. Its success made The Broken Shaker one of the defining players in Miami’s cocktail resurgence, bringing mixology to the forefront of a city better known for beach parties and neon-lit nightclubs. It wasn’t long before the bar’s reputation spread, solidifying its place as a must-visit spot for anyone passionate about innovative cocktails.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by an ambiance that feels both homey and exotic. The bar’s decor is an eclectic mix of bohemian and tropical elements, perfectly suited to Miami’s breezy, relaxed vibe. Twinkling string lights, colorful woven furniture, and lush greenery create an atmosphere that feels like a hidden backyard oasis. Yet, this inviting space isn’t just about aesthetics—every detail seems curated to foster a sense of community. Locals and tourists alike gather here, drawn by the reputation of the bar but staying for the warmth and energy of the place.

The Broken Shaker’s approach to cocktails is both inventive and rooted in local flavors, with a menu that constantly evolves based on seasonal ingredients and the bartenders’ creative impulses. The bar’s team crafts cocktails using a wide array of fresh herbs, fruits, and homemade infusions, with many of the ingredients harvested directly from their own garden. This connection to Miami’s tropical landscape gives every drink a sense of place, making each sip a reminder of where you are—sunny, sultry Miami.

One of the Shaker’s trademarks is its use of unusual combinations that evoke the essence of Miami. Drinks might include fresh guava, spicy chilies, or fragrant basil, mixed with top-shelf spirits and homemade syrups. Take their famous Dusk Til Dawn cocktail, for example—a smoky blend of mezcal, passionfruit, and grenadine, with a touch of habanero for a kick. It’s a drink that embodies Miami’s vibrant, bold personality, and like many other cocktails here, it’s full of complex flavors that unfold with every sip.

Beyond the drinks, the sense of community at The Broken Shaker is what truly sets it apart. From the bartenders who greet regulars by name to the patrons who chat across tables, the bar feels less like a business and more like a gathering spot for people who appreciate the art of hospitality. This warmth has become a defining part of the Broken Shaker experience, and it’s a quality that has earned the bar multiple awards, including a spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars list. For Orta and Zvi, The Broken Shaker is more than just a cocktail bar—it’s a place where people come together, share stories, and enjoy the magic of a well-made drink.

Links: