1. Chez Vincent
3312 NE 32nd St., vincefrenchwinebar.com
A little slice of Gallic perfection has been carved out on Galt Ocean Mile. Owner Vincent Maurin worked for more than 20 years at the Château Margaux winery in France’s Médoc region. His wine list is complemented by an authentically French menu of charcuterie plates, cheese plates and delectable sweets. For the wonderfully French tradition of a caffeinated beverage and some perfect pastries, also check out the Sunday brunch (and of course, prepare to stay into the wine-drinking hour).
2. Rebel Wine Bar
3520 NE 12th Ave., Oakland Park, rebelwinebar.com
This new entrant takes a decidedly young and fun approach to the wine bar concept. With live music and events, a décor and vibe more in line with a hip cocktail lounge and even some cool merch, this is a place reimagining what the wine bar can do. Their wine list includes sections dedicated to both organic and natural wines, as well as a “captain’s list” of interesting finds. There’s tapas, and the dessert menu includes delectable mini-beignets.
3. Wine + Garden
3115 Terramar St., wineandgarden.com
We bet that the tourists who discover this place tucked away in a Mid-Century Modern building by the beach rave about it as that secret little spot they found in Fort Lauderdale. Whereas us lucky locals can enjoy its outdoor, secret garden charms whenever we want. The food menu, including a highly recommended Sunday brunch menu, is Italian. The wine menu gets around more, although it does also include some choice selections from that country. The eclectically decorated indoor space matches the dreamlike garden for character, making this a real one-of-a-kind spot.
4. Vinos On Las Olas
901 E Las Olas Blvd., vinoswinebars.com
Vinos pulled it off. The longtime local favorite moved across Las Olas and into a larger location without losing the soul and charm that made it so beloved in the first place. (Okay okay, the wine list might have had something to do with it too.) The new location, which now also includes the Sidecar Speakeasy II, offers that same great selection of wines and small plates – and the sort of continental atmosphere that lets you watch Las Olas go by while you slow down and enjoy the finer things.
