511 Bar & Lounge is the newest hotspot in Fort Lauderdale’s trendy Flagler Village, catering to whiskey aficionados and cocktail lovers. Since its discreet launch this past Spring, it has quickly become a favorite among locals. It boasts a stylish industrial interior and a chic backyard patio with lawn games, twinkling lights, and plenty of seating under umbrellas.
“We have all been a part of the Fort Lauderdale bar and hospitality scene for over 30 years, collectively, so when we decided to open 511 Bar & Lounge together, it was truly more of a passion project than anything else,” says co-owner Digby Nothard. “It was important for us to create a space that reflects and compliments the Flagler Village community with great quality cocktails, each made with a two-ounce pour of love, lots of local brands and brews, and a welcoming atmosphere where guests can kick back with friends, their dogs and just enjoy.”
Crafted by co-owner Trent O’Connor, renowned from Maryland’s historic “The Horse You Came In on Saloon” and Fort Lauderdale’s “Whiskey Neat,” the cocktail menu embodies his affection for Fort Lauderdale, offering a mix of classic and inventive concoctions. Notable selections include the Mimi, featuring Don Julio Blanco, fresh mango, lime, muddled jalapeno, and a Tajin rim; Pretty in Pink, composed of Partida Reposado Tequila, Aperol, freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice, finished with Q Mixers club soda; KB Special: made with Espolon Reposado Tequila, Orange Liqueur, agave, freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, cream of coconut, and orange zest; and a variety of freshly prepared Margaritas, available with flavor enhancements such as mango, peach, prickly pear, passion fruit, strawberry or watermelon.
The bar also offers the Crush Cocktail, a Baltimore favorite made with the fresh juice of a whole orange or lemon. Guests can choose between the traditional Orange Crush, made with Deep Eddy’s Orange Vodka and freshly squeezed orange juice over crushed ice, topped with Sprite, or the Peach Lemonade Crush, featuring Bulleit Bourbon, peach nectar, freshly squeezed lemon juice over crushed ice, topped with Sprite.
The 1,500-square-foot space features artwork by local artists, including a striking pixelated Everglades landscape by Peter Nolan that serves as the bar’s focal point. The indoor bar seamlessly transitions into a 2,500-square-foot outdoor patio, accommodating up to 30 people. Here, guests can indulge in delectable offerings from a rotating selection of food trucks such as BMC Smash Burger, La Condensa Tacos, Mambas Pizza, Duck Fat Dogs, Mr. Meatball, Bohemian Grill, Carlo’s and Pepe’s, and more. This diverse array of tempting street food perfectly complements the beverages served at 511.
During happy hour, which runs every Wednesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., patrons can enjoy special deals such as $6 Premium Well Liquor, $7 Fresh Margaritas, $8 Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit and John Daly Crushes, along with discounted beer and wine by the glass. Additionally, live music takes the spotlight every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with local bands and DJs performing a variety of genres, including classic rock, blues, 80’s classic rock, soul and electronic music.
“We strongly believe that live music and entertainment is the heartbeat of Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife,” O’Connor says. “It brings our community together, creating unforgettable moments and an electrifying atmosphere that reflects the spirit of our city. This is why we are committed to showcasing incredible local talent and providing a stage where local artists can shine.”
511 Bar & Lounge not only features an outdoor patio but also boasts a 13,000 sqft event space behind the restaurant for hosting large-scale events. This space will host recurring monthly themed events such as Jazz & Blues Nights, Country Nights, and more. These events will feature themed food truck vendors, sponsors, and live music talent.
For more information follow along on social media via @511bar.
Photo Credit: 511 Bar & Lounge
