Ray’s Hometown Bar Brings The Vibes To Miami Beach

The iconic NYC establishment, Ray’s Hometown Bar, has officially landed in Miami Beach, bringing its unique blend of celebrity-backed glamor and small-town American charm to the heart of Mid-Beach. Nestled within the Freehand lifestyle hotel at 2727 Indian Creek Drive, this effortlessly cool watering hole, originally founded in New York’s Lower East Side in 2019, captures the warmth and laid-back vibe of a classic neighborhood joint—now with a distinctly Miami twist.

Photo Credit: Diana Todorova

The Miami outpost, the third location following the opening of Ray’s Greenpoint in 2023, sits in a two-story house beside the Freehand’s acclaimed Broken Shaker bar. As part of Authentic Hospitality’s curated collection of nightlife destinations—including Pebble Bar, Bar Calico, Jac’s on Bond, and Broken Shaker—Ray’s invites guests to step into an environment where everyone is treated like a local, regardless of where they’re from. At Ray’s, first-timers quickly become part of the “Ray’s family,” thanks to the venue’s welcoming ambiance and devoted community of ‘raygulars.’

Ray’s Hometown Bar has built a reputation as a trendsetting hotspot in just five years, thanks to its legendary collaborations with global brands like Wrangler, Dunkin’, Stetson, and Tommy Bahama. These partnerships have turned Ray’s into a lifestyle brand as much as a bar, with coveted limited-edition merchandise that’s become a cultural staple. Continuing this tradition, Ray’s teamed up with Tommy Bahama to craft custom staff uniforms for the Miami location, infusing its signature laid-back luxury into the beachside experience.

The culinary program at Ray’s Miami outpost is helmed by Michelin-starred chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabian von Hauske Valtierra, who focus on elevated versions of straightforward bar classics. Signature dishes include the spicy and flavorful Ray’s Style Fries, the Hometown Cuban Sandwich packed with spicy mustard, Swiss, and pickles, and the mouthwatering Ray’s Burger featuring a 4oz smashed beef patty topped with onion, pickles, lettuce, and special sauce.

Photo Credit: Cristian Gonzalez

The cocktail menu is a celebration of creativity, drawing inspiration from the fictional and cultural significance of “Ray” throughout American pop culture. Highlights include the Ray Romano, a refreshing blend of Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila, lime, and soda, paying homage to the beloved TV character. The Stevie Ray, a bold mix of Patrón Blanco Tequila, pineapple, lime, and Hellfire Tincture, offers a spirited tribute to the legendary rock guitarist. For fans of modern pop, the Carly Rae Jepsen combines Angel’s Envy Bourbon with peach and lemon for a vibrant, contemporary twist. Finally, the Billy Ray Valentine, a customizable cocktail featuring a choice of Gray Goose Vodka, Fords Gin, or Diplomatico Planas Rum, honors Eddie Murphy’s iconic character from Trading Places , ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Designed in collaboration with Taavo Somer, Ray’s Miami exudes vintage Americana charm. The two-story property is reminiscent of the quintessential dad’s basement bar, complete with wood-paneled walls, vinyl booths, checkerboard flooring, and a well-worn pool table. Neon bar signs and signed photographs—authentic or imagined—add a nostalgic touch. The upstairs space is available for private events, making Ray’s the perfect setting for everything from casual hangouts to intimate celebrations.

Popular events like “Ray’s’n Canes” (fried chicken and cold beer Fridays), “ThursTay’s” (Taylor Swift-themed nights), and “Ray’s Your Banners” (House of the Dragon watch parties) promise a fresh experience with every visit . With its laid-back charm, elevated bar food, creative cocktails, and dynamic events, Ray’s Hometown Bar has found a fitting new home in Miami Beach.