Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. Photo: Joshua Prezant.

Speak up!

By Elizabeth Stewart

You've never been one to say no to a Happy-Hump-Day night out, but you're getting a little bored with the same old scene -- pretty soon you may start celebrating by going to bed early. Until it dawns on you: when was the last time I ventured to a bar down south or even a good house party? Wednesday night at South Miami spot Bougainvillea's, referred to by locals as Bougie's, is the perfect solution to both, and will have you reminiscing of the good ol' days before you can say "the 'rents are out of town!"

From the front, Bougie's looks like a cabin that would make the Brothers Grimm proud, with dimly lit iron rod tables surrounded by lush greenery and, of course, bougainvilleas. Once inside, in lieu of Hansel and Gretel's cookie crumbs, there's a trail of beer nuts that weaves you through the different sectors of the house (party).

First stop: the music room, where a DJ that could just as easily be the nerdy drama kid from high school is spinning classic '90s favorites like California Love and even some Latin beats. After busting out with your best Roger Rabbit, head over to the bar where drinks and Miller Lite drafts are free for the girls from 10 p.m.-1 a.m. For the guys, there's plenty of booze to prohibit any beer runs, including on-tap choices like Blue Moon, Sam Adams and Stella Artois.

Finally, there's the "back yard," where in typical house party form, the majority of the masses tend to gather. Primarily a locals' scene, the crowd varies from early 20-something college kids to 30-somethings having a low-key brew after work. And although technically a ladies night, there are plenty (if not more) dudes on the prowl. Even the cops might show up to this hassle-free hangout, but don't run for the door, this time they are there to party.

Bougainvillea's, 7221 SW 58th Ave, South Miami; 305-669-8577

Published: 11/08

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