When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Shores with a group of friends or family, consider
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop
Why Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is a distinctive wine and craft beer lounge located in the heart of Miami Shores, Florida. This neighborhood gem offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere that makes it an ideal place for friends and neighbors to gather and enjoy quality boutique wines, craft beers, and carefully curated small plates. The lounge has a 37-seat capacity, providing an intimate setting for socializing, sipping, and savoring. Highlighting a selection of approximately 30 wines alongside artisanal cheese, charcuterie, and other tasty bites, Flight Wine Lounge offers a menu designed to complement its beverage offerings. The establishment focuses on uniting the local community, presenting high-quality yet moderately priced food and drinks in a friendly and relaxing environment. Beyond on-site enjoyment, Flight also offers wine and beer to go, catering to take-home needs. This venue is unique in Miami Shores, being the first bar of its kind after 85 years, symbolizing a significant development in the area's dining and nightlife scene. Flight Wine Lounge hosts special wine tasting events, such as themed tastings on wines from regions like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, enriching the customer experience with education and entertainment. The lounge operates primarily in the evenings, with weekend hours extending later to accommodate social gatherings. Its dedication to quality and community has made it a beloved spot for both novice and experienced wine aficionados.
Here's what people think of Flight Wine Lounge & Shop
As of recent, Flight Wine Lounge & Shop holds a 4.7-star rating based on 72 reviews.
Reviews of Flight Wine Lounge & Shop reflect a strong positive consensus, as demonstrated by an average rating of approximately 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 70 reviews. Patrons appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere fostered by owners Kim Flower and Andy Wagner, noting the personal and attentive hospitality. Positive reviews highlight the diverse and well-curated selection of boutique wines and craft beers, making it suitable for both novices and experts alike. The quality and taste of small plates, especially charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, and snacks like croquettes, receive consistent praise for complementing the beverage choices. The venue’s ambiance, intimate seating, and community-friendly vibe also garner recognition as excellent for social gatherings and casual meetups. Additionally, customers commend the lounge for hosting informative and enjoyable wine tasting events, which contribute to its appeal as a destination beyond just a bar. On the downside, some reviewers mention the limited seating capacity and relatively early closing hours as minor drawbacks, potentially restricting availability during peak times. A few guests also noted that the city’s restrictions related to alcohol sales and the absence of live music shape the overall experience, albeit this is understood as part of the local regulatory environment rather than a failing of the lounge itself. Overall, Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is widely regarded as a standout establishment in Miami Shores, filling a long-standing void for quality wine and craft beer venues, and earning a reputation as a friendly, approachable, and high-quality lounge for appreciating fine drinks and food.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hotze
What an absolute gem in Miami Shores! 🥂 The cheese board was beyond delicious—every bite perfectly paired with wonderfully smooth wine that’s truly top quality at an amazing price. This cozy spot is honestly one of the best places to enjoy a night out in Miami Shores. Sorry, I couldn’t snap a pic of the chorizo & manchego croquetas… they disappeared too fast! 😋 If you’re looking for great wine, incredible bites, and the perfect vibe, this is the place to be.
Gayan Poovendran
I love this place. It is truly a local gem. Each time I come, it feels like reuniting with family. Kim and Andy are splendid hosts. It is a nice and intimate atmosphere, with definite "Cheers" vibes where everyone knows your name. Kim's French onion flatbread is the best around, and is even better than some of the other French onion soup pizzas that I have tried recently. I am not well versed in wine, however the friendly service does not allow you to be intimidated by the selection. They have many tasting events which allow you to learn more about the eclectic wine selections they have. There are no big box wines here, they are focused on growers vineyards, which just adds to the "shop local" charm.
Geetha Poovendran
Flight Wine Bar is an absolute gem that has become my home away from home. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a warmth and kindness that sets the tone for an unforgettable experience. The owners, Kim and Andy, are incredibly welcoming and make every guest feel like part of their extended family. The ambiance at Flight Wine Bar is both chic and comfortable, striking the perfect balance for a relaxing evening out. The stylish decor and cozy seating create an inviting atmosphere that encourages you to sit back and savor the moment. The wine selection is nothing short of spectacular. Each wine is carefully curated, and the staff’s knowledge is impressive. They provide detailed descriptions and fantastic recommendations for pairings with the delectable bites on the menu. The snack menu, crafted from scratch by Kim, is creative and absolutely delicious. Each item is a testament to her culinary prowess and dedication to quality. One of the highlights of Flight Wine Bar is the reasonable price point, making it an accessible luxury. The value you receive for the quality of wine and food is outstanding. Plus, their wine tasting events are a delightful experience. These events are not only educational but also a lot of fun, providing the perfect opportunity to meet fellow wine enthusiasts. Since moving to the Shores, I’ve met all my friends at Flight Wine Bar. It has truly become a community hub where wonderful memories are made. For anyone seeking a welcoming, stylish, and enriching wine bar experience, Flight is the place to be. Highly recommended!
Anton Mendez Guzman
A nice little spot for great wine and food ! Love the atmosphere here, the service was fantastic and lovely. It’s a nice spot for a nice out with friends or a loved one. Highly recommend!
J R
So glad FWL is here! Beautiful atmosphere, great wine selection and some tasty bottled beers I had not known about. Tempting small plates menu. Looking forward to plant-based items in the near future. :) The owners and staff are very pleasant, fun and knowledgeable. Great neighborhood place and a total gem. Bottles for sale to go too.Does not stay open late. New! 8/2023 Angry Tots (not the little kids but) tasty mini tater tots with a delicious bravas sauce. If you are drunk or going to go there to get drunk, please don’t bother.
How to reach Flight Wine Lounge & Shop
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Why Flight Wine Lounge & Shop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop with your friends?
For anyone seeking the perfect spot to gather with friends, Flight Wine Lounge & Shop in Miami Shores offers an unmatched combination of atmosphere, quality offerings, and conviviality. With a superb 4.7-star rating from over 70 reviews, this boutique wine lounge immediately stands out as a welcoming haven where guests of all experience levels, from novice wine drinkers to direct connoisseurs, can feel at home. The venue’s mission—to unite neighbors and communities through quality food and drinks in a friendly, relaxed setting—makes it an ideal place to unwind and reconnect. Whether you’re planning a casual evening, a special celebration, or just a leisurely night out, Flight’s inviting ambiance encourages conversation, laughter, and lasting memories. Its mix of boutique wines, craft beers, and artisanal small plates creates a diverse and engaging tasting experience that caters to varied palates, ensuring everyone in the group finds something to enjoy. The intimacy of the 35-seat interior along with the well-curated flights of wine transforms an ordinary outing into a shared sensory journey worth savoring.
What activities can you enjoy at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop?
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop excels at providing more than just a place to drink; it offers an experience centered on exploration, education, and enjoyment. One of its hallmark activities is the wine tasting flights, which let you sample a selection of boutique wines served in small pours, allowing you and your friends to discover new favorites without committing to an entire bottle. The lounge regularly hosts themed wine tastings—such as Italian Wine & Pizza nights, Down Under (Australian, Tasmanian, New Zealand) tastings, and Spanish wine journeys—where participants can enjoy guided explorations of regional varieties paired with light bites, enriching your tasting experience through education and interaction. These events cultivate a spirit of conviviality and shared discovery, perfect for groups eager to engage in more meaningful and fun gatherings. Additionally, the wine and craft beer shop on site makes it easy to pick up bottles to go, so you can continue the enjoyment with your friends beyond the walls of the lounge. The artisanal cheeses and charcuterie boards served complement the drinks beautifully, offering a perfect bite to accompany your sips and stimulate your palate as you socialize.
Why is Flight Wine Lounge & Shop perfect for group meetups?
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop’s design and offerings are inherently group-friendly, making it a prime choice for meetups with friends or family. The intimate yet spacious layout encourages casual mingling or more focused conversation among groups without the distraction of a noisy or overcrowded environment. The communal nature of wine flights and tastings provides a natural conversation starter, setting an interactive tone that helps break the ice and keeps everyone engaged. Its moderately priced menu of wines, craft beers, and small plates means groups can enjoy sampling without the pressure of large expenditures, making it inclusive for a wide range of budgets. The staff’s knowledgeable and approachable service further elevates the experience, guiding guests through wine selections and sharing insights that can enrich the group’s appreciation of each pour. Known for its warm and friendly vibe, Flight is a place where guests feel a relaxed sense of belonging, ideal for catching up, celebrating milestones, or simply sharing quality time.
When is Flight Wine Lounge & Shop open for visits and events?
Understanding when the lounge is open can help groups plan meetups or special events seamlessly. Flight Wine Lounge & Shop typically operates Wednesday and Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM or later, and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 PM to 9 PM or later. On Sundays, the venue is open from 12 PM to 2 PM exclusively for retail shopping, allowing patrons to purchase their favorite wines and craft beers to enjoy at home. The kitchen closes about an hour before the lounge closes, ensuring your tasting and snacking needs are met while giving ample time to savor the atmosphere. The Thursday through Saturday evenings are particularly vibrant with wine tasting events that are often ticketed, such as the upcoming Italian Wine & Pizza or Down Under tasting series, which require advance reservations and appeal especially to groups looking for structured, educational, and entertaining experiences together. Planning around these timeframes will maximize your visit and group experience.
What kind of food and drink selections are available at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop?
The menu at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is thoughtfully curated to complement its wine and craft beer offerings. Guests can expect a selection of boutique wines ranging widely in style and variety, alongside a rotating roster of craft beers for those who might prefer hops over grapes. The lounge specializes in pairing these beverages with high-quality small plates, including artisanal cheeses and charcuterie boards featuring carefully chosen ingredients, which enhance the tasting experience. For food lovers, there are also options like gourmet pizzas served during special events that combine fine wine with comfort food, adding a playful and satisfying dimension to your visit. All offerings are moderately priced, emphasizing approachability without sacrificing quality—allowing groups to indulge in a diverse range of flavors without hesitation. This balance of well-sourced, artisanal food and drinks sets Flight apart as a venue that honors both the craft of winemaking and culinary excellence, creating a perfect playground for food and drink enthusiasts alike.
How does Flight Wine Lounge & Shop cater to both novices and experts?
One of Flight Wine Lounge & Shop’s strongest appeals lies in its ability to welcome guests regardless of their wine knowledge. Novice wine drinkers appreciate the approachable menu and friendly service staff who are eager to guide selections and share tasting notes tailored to beginners’ curiosity and tastes. This nurturing environment helps demystify wine, making it accessible and enjoyable rather than intimidating. For more experienced tasters, Flight offers an exciting variety of boutique and rare wines from global regions such as Italy, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain, often showcased during themed tasting events that present unique varietals and vintages. These offerings provide seasoned wine lovers with opportunities to deepen their knowledge, discover new producers, and enjoy nuanced tastings enriched by educational commentary. The flight format itself encourages exploration in small increments, making it easy to compare styles side-by-side, which benefits everyone equally. This dual appeal fosters diverse groups where everyone can feel included, engaged, and inspired to expand their palate together.
What makes the atmosphere at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop uniquely inviting?
The ambiance at Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is crafted to be as inviting as its wine list. The interior is cozy yet stylish, with a comfortable seating arrangement that balances intimacy with sociability, encouraging both quiet chats and lively group interactions. The lighting is warm and thoughtfully designed to create a relaxed vibe conducive to savoring both drinks and company. The venue’s decor and the curated soundtrack contribute a subtle energy that feels sophisticated but never stiff or pretentious. A commitment to friendly, personable service ensures patrons feel like welcomed guests rather than just customers, enhancing the sense of community that Flight strives to build. This combination of physical comfort, thoughtful design, and hospitable staff distinguishes Flight as a lounge where people can truly relax, connect, and celebrate moments big or small with friends or family. It’s not just a place to drink wine—it’s a place to belong.
How accessible is Flight Wine Lounge & Shop for organizing private or special events?
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is well-suited to hosting private gatherings or special group events, from casual celebrations to more structured wine tastings or parties. While relatively intimate with about 35 seats, the lounge offers enough space to gather groups comfortably, making it viable for birthdays, anniversaries, or meetups. Its experience conducting curated wine tasting events demonstrates its capability to deliver organized, memorable experiences tailored to groups. Those interested can contact the team to inquire about reserving space or tailoring events with special menus or educational components, ensuring the occasion feels personal and well thought out. The location within Miami Shores is conveniently accessible, adding to its appeal as an event venue for local communities. Offering both retail and lounge experiences in one location also means your group can extend the enjoyment by taking home favorite wines or craft beers discovered during the visit. This flexibility makes Flight an attractive, easy-to-coordinate choice for diverse private functions.
What customer feedback reveals about Flight Wine Lounge & Shop’s quality and service?
Customer reviews consistently praise Flight Wine Lounge & Shop for its exceptional quality, whether in drinks, food, or service, highlighting it as a standout in the Miami Shores dining and drinking scene. Many guests emphasize the knowledgeable and friendly staff who enhance the experience with personalized recommendations and wine education, which adds value to every visit. Patrons often mention the welcoming atmosphere, noting that it strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated and approachable, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves regardless of their wine expertise. The quality of the boutique wines and craft beers consistently receives high marks, alongside the thoughtfully prepared small plates that complement the tasting experience perfectly. Reviewers also appreciate the sense of community that Flight fosters, calling it a go-to spot for both casual meetups and special occasions. This consistent positive feedback, backed by the strong 4.7 rating from many reviewers, confirms that Flight Wine Lounge & Shop delivers not only on product quality but also on creating memorable social experiences.
Why choose Flight Wine Lounge & Shop over other wine bars in Miami Shores?
Flight Wine Lounge & Shop sets itself apart through its dedicated focus on community, education, and a curated, boutique selection presented in a truly inviting environment. Unlike many generic wine bars, Flight prides itself on sourcing unique wines and craft beers that are moderately priced yet high quality, allowing patrons to explore without the intimidation or expense often associated with boutique tasting. The lounge doubles as a retail shop, which offers added convenience and value, enabling guests to continue their tasting journey at home. Its frequent themed wine events provide ongoing opportunities for discovery and social connection, fostering a regular culture of engagement rather than a one-off visit. The genuine hospitality from staff and the mission to unite neighbors elevate Flight beyond being just a drinking venue—it becomes a hub for social interaction and wine appreciation. For groups seeking a place that combines excellent beverages, delicious food, education, and a warm atmosphere, Flight Wine Lounge & Shop is a standout choice in the Miami Shores area.
How does Flight Wine Lounge & Shop support continued wine education?
Education is central to Flight’s ethos, making it an ideal place for groups interested in deepening their wine knowledge together. The lounge hosts regular themed tasting events focusing on wines from specific regions or styles, each guided by a knowledgeable host who shares stories, history, and characteristics behind the wines. These structured tastings are designed to be interactive and fun, often paired with complementary bites to enhance the tasting notes and provide a fuller sensory experience. This learning environment encourages questions and discussion, making wine education accessible and social for all levels. Flight’s staff also offer personalized recommendations and can suggest flights that guide guests through diverse wine profiles, turning each visit into an informative journey. By combining education with enjoyment, Flight empowers guests to become more confident and enthusiastic wine drinkers, fostering a community built on shared appreciation and discovery. This integrity and dedication to learning truly enrich the experience of meeting up at Flight with friends or family.