Best Riverfront Restaurant & Bars

While most people think of the beaches when they think of South Florida, the area is also home to two major rivers – the Miami River and the New River in Fort Lauderdale. And wherever a river flows a bar is sure to follow. Here's a list where you can find the best bars with equally great foods and views.

Finnegan's River

401 Southwest 3rd Avenue
Miami, FL 33130-2905
(305) 856-7881
www.finnegansriver.com

This river bar caters to a younger crowd with its popular Sinful Sundaze where boaters pull up to its dock to dine, drink and be merry. DJ's spin the hits. At other times, the bar offers live entertainment with a reggae band. Its website warns revelers to get there early to find a good spot around the pool. There is a cover charge after 4 p.m.

Briny Irish Pub

305 South Andrews Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(954) 376-4742
www.brinyirishpubs.com

Along the New River, this bar allows its patrons to drive up or dock up to its establishment. The boat accessible pub offers more than just drinks. Its serves up traditional Irish fare as well as casual dining options. The riverfront pub also features nightly live entertainment.

The River Seafood & Oyster Bar

650 South Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33130
(305) 530-1915
www.therivermiami.com

Reviewers have said this restaurant could end disputes over where to dine. It's the place that lives up to its name – a place where seafood lovers can find the freshest oysters and down a drink. It also offers a full dinner menu complete with cooked dishes such as a Spanish Paella (seafood rice) or a skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.

Himmarshee Bar & Grille

210 SW 2nd St.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(954) 524-1818
www.himmarshee.com

This bar and restaurant caters to an upscale who prefer their martinis shaken, not stirred. But it's not too stuffy. You can dress up or play it casual chic and dine on delicious seafood. It's also a great after-work stop for the 9 to 5 crowd. Two-for-one drinks are offered from 5 to 7 p.m. and a $2 appetizer menu on Fridays – a great start to the weekend.

Garcia's Seafood Grille & Fish Market

398 NW North River Drive
Miami, FL 33128
(305) 375-0765
Most river bars offer seafood because their location makes it easier for them to receive shipments of fresh fish. But Garcia's offers more than just fresh fish joint. It's an award-winning riverfront restaurant and bar that whets the appetite with its menu selection. Among its most lauded dish is the seafood sampler. The restaurant has also had its share of celebrities dine there including LeBron James.