One night stand: Vagabond

Photo: Tomas Loewy

 

By Nikki Novo

You don't like to admit it, but you've done your fair share of waiting in line to get into the latest see-and-be-seen South Beach club. The next morning, all you really remember -- other than watching the sun come up from Gino's Pizza's patio -- is crying on the way home when you realized you just spent this month's rent at a club.

The gentlemen behind Downtown's latest attraction remember when the Miami nightlife was more than just about making a buck. With that in mind, power trio Carmel Ophir, Rodney Mayo and John Digweed opened Vagabond in hopes of giving a home to locals looking for their place in this city's scene.

Making its presence known on Northeast 14th Street with a giant outside mural of original vagabond Bob Dylan, Vagabond's best quality, perhaps, is the fact that there's something for everyone. The first room - the actual lounge portion of the venue - is where you'll find the skinny jean-wearing indie peeps, lounging on inviting black leather couches and listening to the sounds of a DJ spinning anything from old-school house to indie rock. Insuring top-notch sound, the DJ booth is surrounded by stonewalls and acoustic panels along the exposed ceiling.

Pass the petite guy wearing the Debbie Gibson hat and make your way toward the impressive-sized dance floor and join your fellow dancing queens for an evening of booty-shaking to favorite indie hip-hop beats. With stripper polls and an elevated, state-of-the-art DJ booth, this dance room is destined for some rowdy nights.

Take it outside for a breath of fresh air on the patio. Adorned with bougainvilleas, tiki torches and beds, all surrounding a fire pit complete with waterfall (a favorite attraction of Erykah Badu), the patio begs you to chill and partake in some old-fashioned conversation with the eclectic group.

No bottles, no VIP, just come as you are.

30 NE 14th St; Downtown Miami; 305-379-0508

Published: 4/08

Speak up!

Average rating based on 2 reviews.

3

What you said

99

JosephQ86

3

Posted on Thu, 05.01.2008 @ 10:50

I am going here tonight for Money Shot Thursdays. I went for the opening night party so I am interested to see how good it is on a normal night.... Read more

60

glitterati

3

Posted on Tue, 04.22.2008 @ 20:27

I really love the environment at Vagabond. The music is always packed with indie hits, always taking my booty to the dance floor. The patio is oh-so-pretty! I can't wait for the Back Door Bamby party this Saturday!... Read more

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