Top Spots For Summertime Vodka Cocktails In South Florida

On these hot summer-y like days (and nights), what's a group of friends to do to keep cool? The ideal solution is to find a comfortable bar stool, next to an air conditioning vent, and sip on one of these flavorful, scary good vodka cocktails. Try to sit away from a window as you won't want to get a sunburn. We prefer to get that nice glow from a little 'liquid sunshine' and these cocktails are like summer in a cup, or martini glass.

Meat Market
915 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 532-0088
www.meatmarketmiami.com

If you've never heard of a Fresca Pepino, you are not alone. But to get your hands on one, head over to Meat Market as fast as you legally can and have a seat at the bar at this sexy, glamorous steakhouse. It's a delightfully refreshing blend of Beluga vodka, cucumber puree, lemon, ginger and mint. Yes, it tastes as good as it sounds. It takes refreshment to a new level of wow. It's perfect for warm summer days with that bite of ginger and it will definitely add a little sizzle to your hot summer nights.

Earl's Kitchen & Bar
Dadeland Mall
7535 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 2510
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 667-1786
www.earls.ca

Come for the Mad Hatter and stay for the Thai prawns. With over 65 locations around the nation, this restaurant and bar that started in Canada is finally on the East Coast and it's packed with savory experiences. Now, about that Mad Hatter — mix Skyy vodka, St. George Poire Williams, black tea, kaffir lime and coconut water together. It will make you swoon with tropical delight and it's as pretty to look at as it sounds. Even with all of the distractions around you, the Mad Hatter will keep you focused on having fun.

Living Room At W South Beach
2201 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 983-3000
www.wsouthbeach.com

Heat up summer with a Cucumber Collins that features Square One cucumber vodka, yuzu juice (that's Japanese citrus), fresh lemon and blueberry-stained cucumbers pickled in mirin, sake and rice wine vinegar. We know you'll never recreate this beverage beauty at home so come find your spot in the velvety and chic lobby bar and chill with one. There's another lovely cocktail ideal for summer here, and it's the Crimson Cooler. This vodka cocktail is infused with essential oils of ginger, shiso and galangal, and it's served with marinated blueberries and a fresh mint leaf.

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Lazuli Lounge
Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
3300 S.W. 27th Ave.
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
(305) 644-4680
www.ritzcarlton.com

This is thee place to escape urban life and melt in the soft, purple décor while the scent of fresh flowers lulls you into submission. Yes, I'll have another. And make it a Spice of the Ritz-Carlton. Sip, don't swill this blend of spicy pepper vodka, St-Germain, a squeeze of lime and some red pepper flakes for the right amount of heat. There's no better way to glisten from summer sweat. Or maybe it's just that you're sitting too close to the fireplace.

db Bistro Modern
JW Marriott Marquis
255 Biscayne Blvd. Way
Miami, FL 33131
(305) 421-8800
www.dbbistro.com

What pairs better with BBQ and summer? Not much. Here's a refreshing idea — how about a finger-licking-good selection of BBQ dishes from around the world served at the bar by Chef Jason Pringle? And wash it all down with a "Bardot," made with Ransom vodka, Yellow Chartreuse and cucumber. The vibe here is cool and once the sun goes down, the atmosphere turns even more chill with candles and music. And the food bites available will keep you coming back for more, actually begging for more.

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Jill Martin is a family travel expert, appearing on numerous television and radio shows. She spent five years as the VISIT FLORIDA Family Insider, has penned children's books, and is the creator of Sunshine Brain Games – trivia cards about Florida. A Miami native, Jill resides in Redland. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.