History & Wine

Happy Birthday to Miami! Incorporated July 28, 1896.

Miami, known today for its vibrant nightlife, flourishing bar scene, and rapidly growing wine community has a history deeply intertwined with one of the most tumultuous periods in American (drinking) history: Prohibition. The era, spanning from 1920 to 1933, saw the rise of speakeasies and bootlegging across the country, with the new city of Miami playing a pivotal role in the clandestine activities that defined that time.

Central to this narrative is Tobacco Road, Miami’s first bar, which has become a symbol of resilience and rebellion against the restrictive laws of Prohibition.

Pour a glass of wine and enjoy a bit of Magic City history…

The Prohibition Era in Miami

The 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, enacted in 1920, prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. This gave rise to a shadowy underworld where speakeasies flourished, bootleggers thrived, and the law struggled to keep pace. Miami, with its strategic coastal location, became a hotspot for smuggling operations, as rum-runners transported illegal alcohol from the Caribbean. This new tropical paradise in southern Florida became a popular destination for gangsters and mob bosses to conduct illicit activities.

Miami’s proximity to the islands made it an ideal entry point for smuggled liquor. Boats laden with rum, whiskey, and other spirits would navigate the waters under the cover of darkness, unloading their contraband along the coast. These operations were often protected by well-organized crime syndicates, adding a layer of danger and intrigue to the city’s Prohibition history. The reputation as a haven for the shady underworld would be hard for the city to shake, and it would become a major part of Miami’s notorious history in the decades to come.

Tobacco Road: Miami’s First Bar

Amidst this backdrop of secrecy and defiance, Tobacco Road emerged as a legendary establishment. Opening its doors in 1912 (some say as a bakery), just a few years before Prohibition, Tobacco Road quickly adapted to the new era. It seamlessly transformed into one of Miami’s most infamous speakeasies, offering patrons a hidden refuge where they could indulge in forbidden spirits.

Located on the south side of the Miami River (626 South Miami Avenue in what is now Brickell), Tobacco Road was more than just a bar; it was a cultural institution. It became known for its gritty charm, live music, and eclectic clientele. Patrons included everyone from locals seeking a drink to high-profile figures, all drawn by the allure of its illicit offerings and colorful atmosphere.

The Resilience of Tobacco Road

Tobacco Road’s ability to withstand the pressures of Prohibition is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. The bar’s owners and staff were adept at evading law enforcement, often employing ingenious methods to conceal their activities. These tactics ensured that, despite numerous raids and crackdowns, Tobacco Road continued to serve its loyal patrons.

Legacy and Revival

When Prohibition ended in 1933 with the ratification of the 21st Amendment, Tobacco Road emerged from the shadows, reclaiming its status as a legitimate bar. It continued to thrive, becoming a cornerstone of Miami’s nightlife and music scene. Over the decades, it hosted countless musicians, artists, and storied locals, solidifying its place in Miami’s cultural history.

Sadly, the original Tobacco Road closed its doors in 2014, and was ultimately demolished by a developer, but its legacy lives on through a new establishment just a few doors down. Thanks to local restaurant group, Kush Hospitality, and owner, Matt Kuscher, Tobacco Road lives on in spirit in a new (more modern) location in the former River Oyster Bar spot (650 South Miami Avenue).

However, the stories of its Prohibition-era escapades and its role in shaping Miami’s bar culture continue to captivate the imagination. Today, the spirit of Tobacco Road is celebrated by those who remember its provocative past and by new generations who appreciate the rich history of Miami’s first bar.

A Toast to 128 Years of Magic City History (1896-2024)

The history of Prohibition in Miami and the enduring legacy of Tobacco Road serve as a reminder of the city’s resilience and ingenuity – with a touch of tantalizing drama. As we raise our glasses on our next Miami outing, let’s toast to the daring spirits of the past who defied the odds and paved the way for the Miami of today with its vibrant and dynamic bar scene that so many of us get to enjoy.

Cheers to the history that shaped us and the stories that continue to inspire!

Please share with us your favorite piece of Miami history in the comments.