The 411 On 511: Innovative Spirits, Live Music, Food Trucks, and More

“We have all been a part of the Fort Lauderdale bar and hospitality scene for over 30 years, collectively, so when we decided to open 511 Bar & Lounge together it was truly more of a passion project than anything else,” says co-owner Digby Nothard. “It was important for us to create a space that reflects and compliments the Flagler Village community with great quality cocktails, each made with a two-ounce pour of love, lots of local brands and brews, and a welcoming atmosphere where guests can kick back with friends, their dogs and just enjoy.”

Created by co-owner Trent O’Connor – known from Maryland’s historic “The Horse You Came In on Saloon,” and Fort Lauderdale’s “Whiskey Neat” – the cocktail menu is his love letter to Fort Lauderdale, filled with traditional and unique creations. Among them, the Mimi: Don Julio Blanco, fresh mango, lime, muddled jalapeno with a Tajin rim; Pretty in Pink: Partida Reposado Tequila, Aperol, freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice topped with Q Mixers club soda; KB Special: Espolon Reposado Tequila, Orange Liqueur, agave, freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, cream of coconut and orange zest; and a bevy of freshly made from scratch Margaritas available with a flavor upgrade of mango, peach, prickly pear, passion fruit, strawberry or watermelon.

The bar also serves the Baltimore-originating Crush Cocktail made from the fresh juice of one whole orange or lemon; perfect for combating the SoFlo heat! Guests can order the traditional Orange Crush: Deep Eddy’s Orange Vodka and fresh squeezed orange juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite or Peach Lemonade Crush, made with Bulleit Bourbon, peach nectar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite.

Additional 511 Bar signatures sure to please include the 511 Seasonal Whiskey Smash, made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, fresh seasonal fruit, lemon, and mint; and the OG Woodford Reserve Rye Old Fashioned with Filthy cherries, cane sugar, and black walnut bitters. 511 Bar is a whiskey lover’s paradise with an extensive bottle list as well as various tasting options. You’ll also find several local spirits on hand as well as regional craft beers on tap. Of course, red, white, and sparkling wines are also available.

The 1,500 sq ft space is filled with work by local artists, including an eye-catching pixelated Everglades landscape by Peter Nolan that anchors the bar. The inside bar flows seamlessly into the 2,500 sq ft outdoor patio that seats 30 people. There, guests can enjoy awesome bites from a rotating roster of food trucks, including BMC Smash Burger, La Condensa Tacos, Mambas Pizza, Duck Fat Dogs, Mr. Meatball, Bohemian Grill, Carlo’s and Pepe’s, and more; a diverse range of tempting street food artisans that pairs perfectly with 511’s pours.

Patrons visiting every Wednesday through Friday from 4PM to 7PM can look forward to Happy Hour specials, including $6 Premium Well Liquor, $7 Fresh Margaritas, and $8 Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit, and John Daly Crushes with discounted beer and wine by the glass. Live music takes center stage every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, featuring a bevy of local bands and DJs playing everything from classic rock and blues to, 80’s classic rock, soul, electronic, and more. Add O’Connor, “We strongly believe that live music and entertainment is the heartbeat of Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife. It brings our community together, creating unforgettable moments and an electrifying atmosphere that reflects the spirit of our city. This is why we are committed to showcasing incredible local talent and providing a stage where local artists can shine."

In addition to the outdoor patio, 511 Bar also owns the 13,000 sqft space behind the restaurant where large-scale events are held. 511 Bar promises to be an activated space bringing recurring monthly themed events such as Jazz & Blues Nights, Country Nights, and more with corresponding themed food truck vendors, sponsors, and live music talent. Stop by 511 Bar on Friday, July 5th, from 7PM to 10PM for “Flagler Goes Country,” partnered with Garrison Bros Whiskey. Guests can look forward to live country performances, great BBQ, cigar rollers, quality whiskey, and more.

511 Bar is open Fridays and Saturdays from 4PM to 1AM; and Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 4PM to 12AM. 511 Bar & Lounge is located at: 511 NE 3rd Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Telephone: (954) 401-0450. For more information follow along on social media via @511bar.