Why Broken Shaker is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Broken Shaker is a celebrated cocktail bar and restaurant brand with popular locations in New York, Chicago, Miami Beach, and Los Angeles. Known for its unique rooftop settings, Broken Shaker offers sweeping city views, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere perfect for social gatherings and meet-ups. Each location features handcrafted cocktails crafted with fresh, exotic ingredients, homemade elixirs, and unique infusions, reflecting innovative mixology and bold flavors inspired by international and Caribbean influences. Patrons can enjoy eclectic menus of small bites and street-food-inspired dishes that complement their drinks, enhancing the overall experience. The Miami Beach location features an elegant brick-lined courtyard and poolside seating with a tropical ambiance and a hidden garden, making it especially appealing for relaxed daytime and evening meetups. In New York, the rooftop bar on the 18th floor of the Freehand Hotel provides sweeping Manhattan views alongside an award-winning cocktail program. Chicago’s River North venue and Los Angeles’ rooftop pool deck both offer inventive drinks and lively atmospheres, ideal for casual socializing or special occasions. Broken Shaker is frequently awarded accolades such as the James Beard Award finalist and Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar, ensuring a high standard of quality and recognition. The inviting settings, creative drinks, and versatile spaces make Broken Shaker a great place to meet friends for memorable nights out or daytime relaxation.

Here's what people think of Broken Shaker

As of recent, Broken Shaker holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2405 reviews.

Reviews of Broken Shaker locations across the US illustrate generally strong positive reception, with an overall rating near 4.5 stars based on thousands of user reviews. Many guests praise the innovative and delicious cocktails, uniquely crafted with fresh and exotic ingredients, along with attentive and knowledgeable bartenders who enhance the experience. The ambiance and scenic rooftop or poolside views are frequently highlighted as standout features that elevate social gatherings. Positive reviews often mention the eclectic food menus that pair well with the drinks, the lively yet comfortable atmosphere, and the skillful mixology evident in every cocktail. Additionally, patrons appreciate the event-hosting capabilities and unique spaces, which make Broken Shaker suitable for celebrations, meetings, or casual meetups. On the other hand, some negative reviews note issues such as seating limitations, especially on busy nights where reservations are not guaranteed, and occasional wait times. In some locations, pricing and minimum spend requirements for certain areas like poolside seating have drawn mild criticism. A few reviews mention inconsistencies in service or crowded environments during peak hours. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, with many guests recommending Broken Shaker for its quality drinks, vibrant ambiance, and memorable rooftop experiences. This balance of overwhelmingly positive feedback with some constructive concerns provides a realistic picture of a popular and reputable bar brand.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Emily Rezek

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Absolutely loved the ambiance. I absolutely loved the string lights. It really set the mood. Easily my favorite cocktails in Miami. Very smooth with sweet and delicious flavors. I would absolutely want to come back again.

Karl Castillo

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This place is a vibe. Came here for a work celebration and the entire area felt just right. The food was delicious, the bar tender was great, and overall it was a great time. I don't have much to say since ours was private function but I would recommend this to any business that wants a top tier place to have an event in.

daniel d'Arbelles

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Their mixed drinks were good, specially a blue one. Great atmosphere and music was good. Disappointed they wouldn’t bring out food literally 1 minute after the kitchen closed, and they also don’t have Buchanan

T __

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Lucas and the staff here are some of the best at providing great customer service and hospitality . They are also very knowledgeable and kind. I love coming to this place because they feel like friends that you invite over for movie night. Great establishment . Great drinks. Lucas a great bartender

Aaron Lane

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This bar/outdoor lounge was a nice surprise! The brick patio is mostly covered, there's ample seating, and the atmosphere is lively without being obnoxious (Friday at 730p). The drinks appear to be well made and the bartenders friendly. The patio contains a fountain with single/couple seating, with larger tables around the periphery. There's a strong tropically whimsical vibe (lush vegetation). Just a few steps away is a small pool, seemingly for hotel guests. But it adds to the secluded feel of the place. Definitely recommend for a non-pretentious experience.

How to reach Broken Shaker

Why rally at Broken Shaker with your friends? Broken Shaker is an exceptional destination that combines vibrant atmosphere, award-winning cocktails, and spectacular rooftop views — the perfect recipe for memorable group meetups. Located 18 floors above Manhattan in New York’s Freehand Hotel, this rooftop cocktail bar offers panoramic cityscapes including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from over 2,400 reviews, the venue boasts commendations including the James Beard Award finalist title and Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award. Its eclectic cocktail menu is crafted with fresh, exotic ingredients and homemade elixirs, expertly shaken by skilled bartenders. You and your friends can enjoy innovative Latin-inspired bites alongside your drinks, making it a full sensory experience. The energy of the space, combined with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating—complete with retractable roofs for year-round use—makes it an ideal place to gather in any season. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual night out, or looking for a lively yet relaxed environment, Broken Shaker effortlessly supports both intimate conversations and festive group vibes.

What makes Broken Shaker ideal for group meetups and social events?

Broken Shaker’s layout and offerings are carefully designed to cater to groups of all sizes, allowing friends and families to enjoy their time together without feeling cramped or overwhelmed. The venue features two indoor bars and two open-air terraces, providing multiple distinct areas, which helps accommodate both smaller circles and larger parties comfortably. The outdoor bars have retractable roofs, ensuring the space remains inviting regardless of weather. Inside, the two bars also contain fully equipped DJ booths that can enhance the atmosphere with live or curated music, elevating the social experience. Furthermore, its location atop the Freehand Hotel brings an exclusive vibe combined with easy accessibility via the hotel lobby. Group sizes from 15 up to 400 guests can be hosted, with private event options available, making it suitable for birthday parties, reunions, or even corporate meetups. The attentive event team is ready to assist with tailored arrangements, ensuring your group feels valued and every detail is managed professionally.

What activities can you do at Broken Shaker for a fun group experience?

Beyond enjoying their famed handcrafted cocktails and Latin-inspired cuisine, Broken Shaker offers an immersive environment ideal for socializing and celebrating. Guests can partake in:

• Cocktail Tasting: The menu features creative cocktails using homemade syrups, infusions, and fresh-pressed juices, enabling groups to sample and compare unique flavors.
• Dining Together: The kitchen serves Latin-style finger foods like ceviche, skewers, and jerk chicken sandwiches, perfect for sharing and complementing drinks.
• Rooftop Viewing: The breathtaking views from the 18th floor rooftop terraces turn casual drinks into a scenic event. Group photos with Manhattan’s skyline create lasting memories.
• Live DJ or Music: The in-house DJ booths mean the vibe can be adjusted to suit your group’s mood, from chill background beats to more energetic sets for dancing.
• Private Events: For more intimate gatherings or celebrations, the venue offers private spaces including a hidden garden area in its Miami location, with similar options in New York. This allows groups to enjoy exclusivity while still benefiting from Broken Shaker’s lively atmosphere.

The variety of activities ensures no group member feels left out, whether they want to relax and chat, enjoy gourmet bites, or dance the night away.

How does Broken Shaker’s ambiance enhance the group meetup experience?

At Broken Shaker, the ambiance strikes an ideal balance between energetic and laid-back, cultivating a space where groups can both unwind and celebrate. The sophisticated tropical and Caribbean-inspired decor, combined with warm lighting and live plants, creates an inviting vibe conducive to social interaction. The rooftop location adds an element of awe with sweeping skyline views that inspire conversation and photo opportunities alike. The ability to transition seamlessly between indoor cozy settings and outdoor fresh-air spaces provides flexibility depending on group preference or weather. The staff’s reputation for excellent service ensures your group is well-attended, adding to the comfort and ease of your gathering. Whether it’s a casual Friday night or a special celebration, the ambiance elevates the mood, promoting good times and strong connections.

Why is Broken Shaker’s location a benefit for group gatherings?

Situated in key urban hubs like New York and Miami, Broken Shaker enjoys prime locations that are easy to reach for locals and visitors alike. The New York venue, perched above the Freehand Hotel in the Flatiron and Gramercy areas, is nestled in vibrant neighborhoods bustling with energy but still feel exclusive thanks to the rooftop setting. This centrality facilitates group coordination since it's accessible via public transit and taxi services, minimizing logistical hassles. The hotel setting also means groups can potentially combine accommodations and social time in one place, ideal for weekend meetups or visiting friends. The rooftop aspect provides a rare open-air experience in the middle of busy city centers, giving groups a refreshing break from typical indoor bars. Access through the hotel lobby during colder months offers convenience and shelter until you reach the rooftop. Broken Shaker’s presence in multiple cities further allows friends who travel or relocate to enjoy a familiar yet fresh environment for gatherings across different locations.

How are Broken Shaker’s food and drinks tailored for sharing in a group?

Broken Shaker understands that group meetups thrive on shared experiences, particularly when it comes to dining and drinking. Their food menu focuses on Latin-inspired small plates designed for easy sharing, such as ceviche, skewers, and sandwiches infused with Caribbean flavors. These dishes are crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, lending a high-quality culinary edge to casual fare. On the drinks front, the cocktail menu is a curated adventure featuring inventive recipes that highlight exotic ingredients and fresh herbs, encouraging groups to try flights or rounds of differing cocktails for communal tasting. The harmonious pairing of food and drink not only satisfies diverse palates but also sparks conversations around flavors and preferences—an excellent icebreaker or point of connection for group members. Happy hour specials daily provide added value, so groups can enjoy premium cocktails and bites at approachable prices, extending quality time without breaking the bank.

What private event options does Broken Shaker offer for groups?

For groups seeking a more personalized and private meetup, Broken Shaker offers tailored event hosting with the support of an experienced event team. The venue can accommodate events ranging from intimate gatherings of 15 to large-scale affairs with up to 400 guests. Private bookings come with access to various spaces including fully equipped bars and DJ booths both indoors and out, allowing customization of ambiance and size. The retractable roofs on outdoor bars ensure year-round usability, perfect for celebrations regardless of season. Whether it’s a birthday, corporate event, fashion show, or photoshoot, the venue adapts to customer needs with professional planning assistance. The Freehand Hotel location permits convenient coordination of accommodation and event space, enhancing guest experience. Those interested in event hosting can contact the team directly to discuss menus, entertainment, seating arrangements, and other logistical details.

What makes Broken Shaker stand out among other cocktail bars?

Broken Shaker’s distinct combination of award-winning mixology, panoramic rooftop views, and culinary excellence sets it apart from typical cocktail bars. Its recognition as a James Beard Award finalist and winner of multiple prestigious bar awards underscores the commitment to quality and innovation. The bar’s creative use of homemade syrups, fresh-pressed juices, and exotic flavors distinguishes its cocktails as both authentic and adventurous. Unlike many bars that focus solely on drinking, Broken Shaker pairs remarkable food offerings that elevate the overall guest experience. The rooftop setting provides a striking contrast to the urban landscape, offering a rare blend of nature, architecture, and city buzz. Its flexibility to serve warm or cold months with retractable roof bars and a seamless indoor-outdoor design ensures a continuously pleasant atmosphere. Furthermore, its approachable yet upscale vibe draws diverse crowds from casual friends outings to more formal gatherings, making it a versatile spot for any group occasion.

These features, combined with highly rated service and a comfortable yet dynamic environment, make Broken Shaker a top choice for rallying with friends or family, ensuring your meetup is both enjoyable and unforgettable.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the Broken Shaker

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g35805-d12079099-Reviews-or30-Broken_Shaker_at_Freehand_Chicago-Chicago_Illinois.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g32655-d12184448-Reviews-Broken_Shaker-Los_Angeles_California.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g34439-d23679145-Reviews-Broken_Shaker-Miami_Beach_Florida.html