Move over, South Beach – there’s another hot Miami neighborhood to explore. Little Havana is hot again, thanks in part to Miami born-and-bred Zack Bush and his revival of historic live music venue Ball & Chain, which has taken the neighborhood by storm.
A musical hotbed from 1935 to 1957, the original iteration of Ball & Chain played host to legendary performers including Billie Holiday and Chet Baker, until it was shuttered. Thanks to his love for jazz music, Zack and his brother Ben decided to reopen the Calle Ocho spot, now once again one of the top venues in Miami.
Earlier this year, Zack undertook yet another project: releasing the children’s book Made For Me, about the devotion and love only a father could know. A father himself to two-year-old son Ace and daughter Ava, Zack says: “My life’s dream is to have written a children’s book and having kids made me finally realize that dream. Writing Made for Me has been an experience that I will never forget.”
Ball & Chain outdoor bar
Zack take us to Little Havana, the neighborhood where Ball and Chain is located and “one of the most exciting and historic areas in all of Miami.”
“Little Havana is the most authentic neighborhood in South Florida,” Zack continues. “The people, the streets, the community, the music – Calle Ocho exudes a magical energy like nowhere else I’ve ever been.”
‘Hood Guide: Little Havana with Ball & Chain’s Zack Bush
Start Your Day:
A cortadito (the Cuban version of an espresso shot) and I’m good to go!
Lunching or Brunching:
Lung Yai Thai Tapas on Calle Ocho
Happy Hour / Sunset Drinks:
Ball & Chain. Great vibe, live music and the world famous Pineapple Stage
Crafty Cocktail Strolling:
Bar Nancy
Late Night Libations:
Taquerias El Mexicano – amazing food (any time of day/night) and incredible cocktails.
Essential Eats for Dinner & Drinks:
Dinner at La Cameronera and Drinks at Ball & Chain for late night Salsa Dancing (try the Pastelito Daquari) and dessert at Azucar – the best ice cream in the world.
Our Best Stories Delivered Daily
