Live jazz on Sunday. What better way is there to end the weekend--Sitting and sipping homemade sangria while the band is jamming. (My husband is opting for craft beer on tap.) Sundays they have a big pan of paella that suffices for an afternoon snack or early dinner. Have also ordered off of the Both the red wine and white wine sangrias are great. Both are made with fresh fruit. Weather is not great today so they moved the band inside. Love the old world ambiance inside as much as the paradise-like outdoor patio. One of my favorite ways to finish off the weekend! read more

You don't come here for the food. You come here for the ambiance and the phenomenal dancing. We went on Salsero Sunday and it was literally amazing. If you ever have scene the movie "dance with me" with Chayanne and Vanessa Williams, if exactly like that. Dancers having a blast and smiling. Loved it. read more

Def come see bartender Cesar !!! Very entertaining / welcoming crew. Really enjoyed the time spent there ! Drinks were good and the service is fantastic ! And George ! Jorge ! Thank you guys read more

Ball and Chain was recommended by a lot of people. The place is large and the crowds are big. The bar is very efficient but we came for the music and were not disappointed. On a Thursday night post 10pm it was fairly packed but people were dancing away and some better than professional. I love live cuban music and was so glad I checked it off my list. They also had a table top dance act with a duo doing a sparkler and confetti show - very cool. One of our crew was a little unwell so we didn't stay too long. I would surely go back when I visit the area. read more

The first time I went to Ball & Chain was 3/4 months ago when I met up my boyfriend and one of his friends for drinks after work on a Friday. I had never really been to this part of "Little Havana" before, so I felt like I was in a different world. It also didn't help that it was "Cultural Friday" - which is the last Friday of every month. It's basically a festival where the streets get full of local artists, artists, etc.. The streets were beyond packed and I had trouble just finding parking nearby before 9PM. Once I did arrive (got the last valet spot, thank goodness), I was loving the whole vibe of the place. As soon as you walk in you see a huge bar, open space, plenty of booth and tables around the perimeter of the restaurant/bar, and a live band playing Spanish music. The bar was full of people, but that did not hinder the service one bit. We made friends with a particular bartender right away and he was extremely attentive the entire night. I'm a fan of their old fashioned. Right about when we were getting ready to leave is when we spotted their Tapas menu. After a moment of glancing over it, I knew we had to try practically every item on the menu - each for only $8! We ordered the Cuban Spring Roll, Chorizo Quesadillas, and Queso Frito. The food came out relatively quickly - less than 20 minutes - even when considered the place was jam packed. Holy cow, was everything amazing! Their queso frito blew my mind. And it's not just because I am a cheese freak, but they really were fantastic. Imagine fried cheese injected with guava sauce - yeah, exactly! The quesadillas were equally as tasty, very flavorful. The spring rolls were somehow even more amazing. They literally tasted like exactly like a Cuban sandwich in a crunchy spring roll. We returned to Ball & Chain a two weeks later after not being able to stop thinking about how potentially amazing the rest of the tapas we didn't get to try could possibly be. This time, we went on a "non-cultural" Friday and the experience was much less crowded and hectic. We got a table with two of our friends and ordered all (nine) tapas on their menu. Everything dish was delicious. Their roasted corn with queso fresco and crema was my weakness. I'm a sucker for Mexican-style corn. The congri fritters were were so flavorful and crispy, reminded me of those fried risotto balls at Italian restaurants. During this last visit we ventured to the back of the restaurant where they have an outdoor patio area with a huge stage, live band, and bar. We didn't get to stay long, but it was a great atmosphere and the music sounded good. Can't wait to go back to eat everything all over again and enjoy a nice old fashioned in their back patio. read more

Cool spot with a great vibe and ok drinks. The service is the worst in town. They gave us a table and in middle of meal the told us we had to leave because it was reserved. I hope they get their stuff together or they won't last long. read more

Ball & Chain - The spot is awesome. The location is cool and fun. It's a historic bar in Calle Ocho that does a nice nod to its history. - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

Do you want something new? Check out Ball & Chain. Great atmosphere and unique drinks....google the history of the bar; fun facts regarding the history of Miami. Calle Ocho is back!! BTW, GREAT live music!! read more

Being a tourist and wanting the Calle Ocho experience, guess was looking for a bar full of Cuban's and some guy on a guitar. Ball and Chain was not it but it is a 'sexy' establishment. Had a couple of vodka tonic's and the second one came out all vodka no tonic. hahaha Menu is interesting and have no doubt the food is great. Hence $8 for food we grew up eating but it's just not joggling my better judgement to pay $8 for fried pig fat! (chicharrones) . All drinks are $12. Live music and some history printed on a table cover. Definitely where the hip young generation hang out:) read more

Best salsa dance club and bar in Little Havana! The atmosphere is very vibrant, everyone is happy and having a good time. The live music is phenomenal...early they have live Jazz music and in the Pineapple stage (outdoor area) they have always diff salsa groups playing live! I don't recommend to eat and drink there if you have a low budget because I consider the tapas and some drinks overpriced. Must visit if want to feel like you are in Cuba and dance salsa all night!! read more

Last week I was part of a team hosting a book release party at Ball & Chain. The outside patio is incredible. Our event included sound, light, seating - all of which was politely and attentively accommodate by the owner, manager, and employees. At one point in the night we actually needed a light bulb for a lamp we brought for our table, and the staff of Ball & Chain was kind enough to find us one. Our book release was for two titles inspired by Miami. What better venue than Ball & Chain, a labor-intensive renovation, on Miami's much loved 8th street. We were so grateful to be welcomed there and more grateful to be assisted with the whole party by Zach and his team. That said, they even customized a cocktail for us at our request. We were set on this detail and they kindly saw to our request. That cocktail and all the others were delicious. Given the amount of people we had, service and attention to detail were of the utmost priority. We are all looking forward to returning to Ball & Chain for our next event, happy hour, or big ol' basket of mariquitas. read more

Great music, drinks, staff and good time at Ball & Chain. Fruit juice mixers are freshly squeezed making all the great tasting difference in drinks. I loves their Mojitos and freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. Plenty of fun! read more

Music is great, it's always a great time. But I find drinks to be a bit expensive so have some drinks and home then Uber over. Love that there is an inside and outside area. read more

I was there last night with my girlfriend a ROACH was walking on our couch while we ate and all the manager did was squished it and walked away. Worst service ever, highly disappointed I read good reviews prior. This was a bad experience in little Havana. UPDATE: so I got a email from Yelp corporate saying ppl are "complaining" about my review .. Sorrys kept it to real for the Yelp community ! Bottom line DO NOT EAT HERE! The manager squished the roach as if it was nothing and just Waked away. Not to mention he hit it to the floor with his hand and just wiped his had on his pants and didn't even wash his hands. Didn't say sorry or do anything. I felt disgusted and nauseous after. You would to if the roach was crawling next to you while you ate and it was squashed and left on the floor. AVIOD THIS PLACE!!!!!!!!! read more

Great vibe on a Saturday night at this Miami staple. Jazz inside Latin band outside. If you are local to Miami or just visiting, a must see bar. read more

Ball & Chain - Jazz on a Saturday night - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

It's a great spot to grab a drink and chill with friends. They have great events as well but it gets very crowded.

I went to this bar this past Thursday with my friends and found out that the usual bartender in the back named Victor no longer works there. He was super cool and friendly. He made the best drinks. Now the drinks taste watered down. My friends and I left. We went back again today and the drinks are the same. This was my usual spot, but I guess I got to find another one. read more

THE BEST BAR IN MIAMI- FULL OF HISTORY, MUSIC, & HEAVENLY DRINKS! The service at Ball & Chain is impeccable. Chad Love, a managing partner with over 20 years of experience, really believes in optimizing the experiences of the both the guests and staff. Yesterday my parents and I had a disappointing experience, and Mr. Love responded with lighting-speed. His wife, Joan Love, is equally as impressive and accommodating. The company I work for was able to host a successful Hispanic Heritage Month event with her help made even better with Ball & Chain's daily dose of "Cuban infused jazz with a modern twist." Enjoy a happy hour drink from their creatively produced menu and/or scrumptious tapas. There are a few abuelos who dance during happy hour. They give the venue a true Lil Havana feel by getting patrons up and dancing to the rhythmic Latin beats. The history of the place makes it all the cooler. Originally opened in the 30's, it has been under various owners. Today it boasts a team of local entrepreneurs who believe in preserving the venue's culture and authenticity. This is a MUST-DO for a true Miami experience. read more

Definitely not the same experience than last time. Waiting for a place to sit, waiting for 10-15 minutes for someone to pick our order and nobody shows up. Then I finally decide to go and buy my drinks on the bar just to discover that even if you serve your self you are FORCED to pay 25% of gratuity. Insane read more

I loved my evening here. I definitely need some more Salsa classes though. It's very Latin so it's a different scene, but even as a non-latin you feel very welcome. There was live music outside and it was packed and there were great dancing shows. Whenever I'm back in Miami I'm going back here! read more

The vibe was great, service was great, live music. We danced and had a great time. We will definitely go again. Only reason for 4 star is because I paid $80 for 2 Captain n coke and 3 Cuban coffee. I'm not a cheapskate, and I understand that it's a club, but damn. $30 for each rum n coke? Seems like I got ripped off. read more

I guess if you want to get ripped off for drinks , then you can come here. Other than that, it's fun due to the mixed crowd and music. Just make sure to come in and try not to get a drink because not only are they automatically adding the tip, they will also charge a "service fee" AND the tax. This is a typical ripoff. read more

Ball & Chain - Please look at this rip off...a service fee, they'll add the tip and a tax. Unbelievable. - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

Good atmosphere, live band, amazing strong cocktails. On Saturdays they have a live band on their back terrace. Ambiance is great, friendly and knowledgeable staff. read more

Ball & Chain - Yummy cocktail - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

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It was totally unexpected when I heard this top quality Jazz music from across the street. I had to check it out....and.. of course... I HAD TO order a glass of mojito which was one of the best mojitos I have ever had - I kinda expected that since it's in little Habana ;). their chicharrone was so crispy and light that I couldn't believe I was eating fried pork skin. the bar staffs were very friendly and efficient. Most of all, the music was top notch (NO COVER???!!! no lie) It is crazy that I am giving them five stars without even trying their food but that is how much I liked this place and truly appreciated their music. read more

Ball & Chain - real deal! - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

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The venue is excellent. Live music plays towards the back open space of the club. Great ambiance and the people who attend this place are great. Mixed groups of hipsters, young professionals and locals. The 3 start rating is mainly because of the prices. Even though there is no cover, you will pay an average of 14 dollars per drink. I was surprised to see how expensive the drinks were and I asked for a receipt, the itemized receipt showed a 9 dollar charge for a run and Coke and 11 dollars for a mojito. I asked the bar tender why she charged me 28 dollars and she said that it was the tip. 8 dollar mandatory tip? That is outrageous. I asked my friend to get a drink at the inside bar and they charge him the same 28 dollars with tip included. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have a great night because of the alcohol. Come and enjoy this place. read more

Certainly an institution. This place has been around since 1935 and it brings them in. I love the back patio area, it's super fun for groups and there usually is some kind of live music. Most drinks here are about $12.00 and there is bottle service and pitchers available. Food items are tapas style but don't let the wording fool you: they are larger portions without a doubt. There are reduced drink prices for happy hour and during the daytime just ask and you'll know. Food quality here was way above average for bar bites. Service however the day I went was average to slightly below but it didn't take away from the experience. It's a must stop and do if you are in the Little Havana area. It's right across from the Tower Theatre and no cover charges. Check it out. read more

Had a blast great music and strong mojitos. Parking is not great but worth it. Many good places to eat near by.

This place has exploded in popularity! Since they opened the Pineapple stage and have bands on a regular basis if you don't get here early on the weekend you'll be waiting outside in line for a while... Gets so crowded that one can't even move and getting drinks is a battle. True downer is that they have to stop playing before 1am due to restrictions and when everyone is in the best mood they have to shut the outdoors music down. The DJ is still decent inside but not the same...many flood out soon after...but at the end of the night one realises why this is one of the coolest place to be on the weekend! read more

I just spoke to Chad (General Manager) at length and he provided an explanation for what happened that evening with the bathroom attendant. All a big misunderstanding. Great follow up on the management side! I feel so much better knowing that Ball & Chain is run by those who care about their guests. I've changed my rating & I will definitely return to this venue in the future because it was a blast. Who knows, maybe this time I'll make it to the outdoor stage. I've changed my review to reflect the number of stars I would've left. read more

Miami new times named this place as #4 bar to go to. So I went to go check it out and was extremely disappointed! The bartender took 20 MINS to acknowledge our existence and then another 20mins for our drinks. I had the peppo and Britta Collins and was not impress at all, could have made the drink better at home. To make things worse the waiter forgot to put our food in. Maybe it's better at night but definitely not motivated to come back again. read more

Ball & Chain - Bleh - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

Great place in Little Havana for drinks and some Latin dancing! The outdoor terrace is cozy and you can dance all night under the stars to the live Latin band. We arrived at 11:00 PM on a Saturday night and it was pretty full, by the time we left it was packed and a full line outside of people waiting to enter. Drinks were good and nice crowd of people 25 and older. It's a great place to start the night. read more

great place to hang out & do something different. live Jazz & salsa. Drinks were pricey but good

If nothing else, come here to hang out with the greatest bartender ever. Jorge is the best. Also, salsa night is a blast and karaoke night is entertaining as hell. read more

First time to Ball and Chain last night. Buddies birthday party for a casual meeting up. It's won't be the last we think of meeting up here thanks to a good vibe, nice mix of people and great drinks. Live music was happening most of the time, jazz at first, then a funky trio that gave it their all. Great mix of people and most importantly great mixed drinks. More on that in a minute. NIbbled on a few random tid bits that got close enough to my trap to b pulled in. Yes, all cuban-y diet busting things AND tastier than what most of these things are in other settings. Yes ,it is possible to find fried things in Little Havana that don't taste good. Others in the group reported good stuff about the food even before the drinks were piled on. Drink wise we tried our share: Mojito Criollo--decent, a bit less "mojito-y" than I'd prefer a bit more soda-y. Bananita Daiquiri--first one was awful. By random chance, Zack the owner was roaming the room and inquired about our drinks and he happily had new Bananita's made which were greatly improved. Why don't more bars doe the same. The booze is cheap, the happy customer is likely to tell others, and the tab goes up. Everybody wins by doing the right thing. Kudos to Zack. Pastelito Daiquiri-A+++ You could drink these all not long much like Hemingway was purported to do. Canita--brithday boy had and he gave it an A. Calle Ocho Old Fashioned-A++ Maybe Little Havana is set for a Wynwood like change in status but regardless of the "what if" get in here for some fun drinks, music, and people! read more

We were there today and ordered two mojitos, just finished lunch across the street and wanted to grab a cocktail. Closed out, and before I could even take a sip and got the bill, it was $12 each and they charged me for gratuity. I payed $30 for two small mojitos! Wtf! My lunch for two with appetizers, wine, and coffee at Exquisito was $23. I left with a sugary bad taste in my mouth. What a rip off!!! Great building tho. My question is why do you charge gratuity for two drinks, as a customer that should be my decision. Are you afraid your service is that bad that I won't leave gratuity? I guess you're right, your service is bad. read more

Ball & Chain - Decor - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

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I came to Ball & Chain for a quick drink while visiting the city. We only had one day and were trying to fit in a lot, but I just had to come to Little Havana. The Mojito I had was OUT OF THIS WORLD. Best Mojito I'd ever had, hands down. The bartender was a bit under attentive. We sat for a solid 10 minutes, waiting for him to come back around so we could get our tab. At one point we were ready to just leave money and walk out. But, that mojito made up for it, even though we paid $30 for two Mojitos (why do they automatically charge gratuity? Is that allowed? Oh well, when in Rome...) read more

Great place to relax and have a drink and listen to the salsa band. The Mahi fish tacos are the bomb! We come here every time we go on vacation to Miami Beach. read more

This place has great cocktails, music and food. I was walking in little Havana and stopped in and enjoyed the banana daiquiri and Cuban spring rolls. I would suggest if you order them order two orders as you only get one cut in half not enough to share or get full. The Cuban sandwich was good as well.. more like bar food but good. The hostesses and staff were all very friendly! read more

Super fun dance atmosphere on Friday nights! Awesome dancers performing throughout the night, fun beats, and a great crowd. Be prepared to drop some $ on drinks, though it's still a much more affordable night than the south beach scene. read more

Ball & Chain - Music Venues Near Me - Miami, Florida

This review is purely based on the customer service from the restaurant and not the quality of the drinks or food, which were delicious when received. We showed up with a party of 10 people and were prepared to wait at the bar for the restaurant to accommodate us. We were told the wait would be 20-30 minutes, which was way less than expected! We were seated in that time frame and a waitress greeted us. After placing our orders, we thought that the food was taking a very long time to come out, and soon discovered that our order had been entered completely wrong and the wrong people were receiving food. People received beef quesadillas instead of chicken and were told they were chicken, our drinks were wrong, and items simply were never received at all. When we tried to reconcile these issues the restaurant staff, all the way up to the manager, made it seem as though it was OUR fault that our orders were wrong and refused to bring us out the missing items or take them off of the check. There also was no remorse for the errors. There was a lot of arguing back and forth and on top of the poor service gratuity is added to the check! Will not attend again unless staying at the bar. read more

Wish we had tried the food. The cocktails were really well made. Had the calle ocho old fashioned, the cañita and the jam session. All were well balanced and made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. We were there early in the evening but there was live jazz on the bar stage. The band was good. The bartender let us know that there was a Cuban music/dance show on the pineapple stage in the back starting at nine. Sadly we had gotten to Miami on an early flight and didn't stick around to see the show. Prime weekend hours are 10pm-5am. read more