Profile of the Cleat Bar in Miami: A Comprehensive Guide

The Cleat bar in Miami is a hidden gem located inside Bill Baggs State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne. Despite its somewhat secluded location, it has gained a reputation as one of the best waterfront bars in the city. The bar offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the adjacent marina, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while watching sailboats pass by under the palm tree canopies.

The Cleat is a family-owned and operated establishment that has been serving locals and tourists alike for many years. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious drinks. The bar specializes in mojitos, which are made using fresh ingredients and the family’s secret recipe. The menu also features a variety of other cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as a selection of tasty snacks and small plates.

Visitors to The Cleat can enjoy the beach-style lounge chairs, which are perfect for soaking up the sun and taking in the beautiful views. The bar is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm, and there is a park entrance fee to access Bill Baggs State Park. Overall, The Cleat bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience in Miami.

History of the Cleat Bar in Miami

The Cleat Bar is a popular waterfront bar located inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Miami. The bar is owned by the same family that operates the adjacent Boater’s Grill.

The Cleat Bar has gained popularity over the years due to its unique location and stunning view of the ocean. The bar is situated right on the beach, allowing patrons to enjoy their drinks with their toes in the sand.

The bar has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was originally a fisherman’s shack. Over the years, the shack was transformed into a small bar, which was eventually replaced by a larger structure in the 1950s. The current building was constructed in the 1980s and has undergone several renovations since then to improve its amenities and overall appeal.

The Cleat Bar is known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, which attracts both locals and tourists alike. The bar offers a variety of food and drinks, including seafood dishes, sandwiches, and cocktails. Some of the bar’s most popular drinks include the El Farito Mojito, named after the nearby Cape Florida Lighthouse, and the Cleat Punch, a refreshing rum-based cocktail.

Overall, the Cleat Bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Miami’s waterfront bar scene. Its unique location, rich history, and stunning views make it a popular spot for both daytime and nighttime activities.

Location and Atmosphere

The Cleat bar is located inside Bill Baggs State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, Miami. Visitors will need to make a bit of a trek to get there, but it is definitely worth it. The natural harbor of No Name Harbor, where the bar is situated, was once a food-rich rookery for herons, egrets, and other species of wildlife. Today, it is a popular anchorage among boaters and a one-of-a-kind destination for visitors with a spectacular scenery and stunning views of Biscayne Bay.

The bar’s location inside the state park gives it a unique and tranquil atmosphere that sets it apart from other bars in the city. The park’s lush greenery and the sound of waves crashing against the shore create a relaxing and peaceful ambiance. The bar itself has a beachy vibe, with beach-style lounge chairs and umbrellas set up on the sand. Visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink while taking in the breathtaking view of the bay.

The Cleat bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, but it never feels overcrowded or overwhelming. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a welcoming place for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a drink. Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset or a casual hangout with friends, The Cleat bar is the perfect place to be.

Signature Drinks and Cuisine

The Cleat is a family-owned and operated waterfront bar and restaurant that has been serving authentic and traditional Cuban food for over 20 years. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh ceviche, shrimp scampi, and grilled fish. Customers can also enjoy classic Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and lechón asado.

One of the standout features of The Cleat is its signature drinks. The bar offers a variety of mojitos, including the classic mojito, strawberry mojito, and passion fruit mojito. Customers can also enjoy a refreshing piña colada or a margarita made with fresh lime juice.

In addition to its signature drinks, The Cleat also offers a selection of craft beers and wines. Customers can choose from a variety of local and international beers, including IPAs, lagers, and stouts. The wine list features a selection of reds, whites, and rosés from around the world.

Overall, The Cleat offers a unique dining experience in a beautiful waterfront setting. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink or a delicious meal, The Cleat is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of No Name Harbor.

Entertainment and Events

The Cleat Bar in Miami is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy drinks with a stunning view of Biscayne Bay. While the bar itself is relatively small, it offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.

In terms of entertainment, The Cleat Bar does not offer live music or other performances, but it does have several televisions that are usually tuned to sports games. This makes it a great spot to catch up on the latest games while enjoying a cold beer or cocktail.

In addition to its regular menu, The Cleat Bar also offers a variety of events throughout the year. For example, it hosts a Super Bowl party every year, complete with food and drink specials and giveaways. It also offers special menus and events for holidays such as Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Eve.

Overall, The Cleat Bar is a great spot for those looking for a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with a stunning view. While it may not offer live entertainment, its events and specials make it a great spot to check out for those looking for something a little extra.

Clientele and Dress Code

The Cleat is a popular waterfront bar located inside Bill Baggs State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne in Miami. The bar attracts a diverse clientele, including locals, tourists, and boaters, who come to enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and the Miami skyline.

The dress code at The Cleat is casual, and patrons are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the beachy atmosphere. The bar is known for its relaxed and laid-back vibe, so guests can feel comfortable wearing shorts, t-shirts, and sandals.

While the dress code is casual, it is important to note that The Cleat is still a popular bar in Miami, and guests should dress to impress if they want to fit in with the trendy crowd. Patrons should avoid wearing anything too revealing or inappropriate, as the bar has a family-friendly atmosphere.

Overall, The Cleat is a great place to enjoy a casual night out with friends or family. The bar’s relaxed dress code and diverse clientele make it a welcoming spot for anyone looking to enjoy the beautiful views and delicious drinks that Miami has to offer.

Reviews and Testimonials

The Cleat bar in Miami has received positive reviews and testimonials from its customers. Many people have praised the bar for its stunning waterfront view, delicious drinks, and friendly staff. Here are some of the reviews and testimonials:

• According to The Infatuation, The Cleat is “the best waterfront bar in the entire city,” and it is “incredibly worth it” to visit the bar despite its location inside Bill Baggs State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne. The reviewer also mentioned that the view from the bar is stunning.
• A Yelp reviewer described The Cleat as having “the best sunset in South Florida” and “delicious frozen pina colada.” They also praised the outdoor seating and takeout options.
• Miami New Times named The Cleat as the “Best Waterfront Bar 2022” and praised the bar for its “quaint oceanside” location and “beach-style lounge chairs.”
• Another reviewer on Yelp said that The Cleat has “the best view in Miami” and is “great for a romantic date or just hanging out with friends.”

Overall, The Cleat bar in Miami has received positive reviews and testimonials from its customers, with many people praising the stunning waterfront view, delicious drinks, and friendly staff.

Reservations and Private Parties

The Cleat is a popular destination for private parties and events due to its beautiful waterfront location and picturesque views. The bar offers indoor and outdoor seating options, making it a versatile venue for any occasion.

For those interested in hosting a private event, The Cleat offers reservation options for parties of all sizes. The bar can accommodate up to 200 guests for a full buyout, or smaller groups can reserve a section of the bar for a more intimate gathering.

The Cleat also offers a variety of catering options for private events, including traditional Cuban cuisine and fresh seafood. The bar’s experienced staff is available to help plan and execute every aspect of the event, from menu selection to decor.

In addition to private events, The Cleat also hosts a variety of public events throughout the year, including live music performances and holiday celebrations. These events are open to the public and are a great way to experience the bar’s lively atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.

Overall, The Cleat is a versatile and accommodating venue for both private and public events. Its prime location and experienced staff make it a top choice for those looking to host a memorable event in Miami.

Community Involvement

The Cleat is not just a bar, it is a part of the Key Biscayne community. The establishment has been actively involved in community events and has supported local causes.

One of the ways in which The Cleat has demonstrated its commitment to the community is by hosting events that bring people together. For example, the establishment celebrated its third anniversary with a community celebration. The event was attended by many locals who enjoyed live music, food, and drinks.

The Cleat has also supported local causes. In 2022, the establishment was recognized as the Best Waterfront Bar in Miami by Miami New Times. The recognition was not just because of the stunning view but also because of the bar’s involvement in the community.

The establishment has also been involved in environmental initiatives. The Cleat is located inside Bill Baggs State Park, and the owners have taken steps to ensure that the environment is protected. For example, the establishment uses biodegradable straws and cups to reduce waste.

Overall, The Cleat has demonstrated that it is not just a bar but a part of the Key Biscayne community. The establishment has supported local causes, hosted community events, and taken steps to protect the environment.

Contact Information

The Cleat is located inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on the southern tip of Key Biscayne. Here is the address and contact information:

Address	Phone Number	Website
Unnamed Road, Key Biscayne, FL 33149	N/A	https://instagram.com/thecleatmia

The Cleat does not offer dine-in, takeout, or delivery services. The hours of operation are as follows:

• Monday (Labor Day): Closed
• Tuesday: 3-8 PM
• Wednesday: 3-8 PM
• Thursday: 3-10 PM
• Friday: 3-10 PM

For those who are interested in visiting The Cleat, it is important to note that it is a bit of a mission to get there due to its location inside the state park. Visitors should plan accordingly and be prepared for a scenic drive through the park before arriving at the bar.

For additional information or questions, visitors can reach out to The Cleat via their Instagram page.