The Van Dyke - Miami Beach

It was my birthday but I wanted some place classy. The Jazz club upstairs was excellent.

Sat outside with friends Sunday afternoon delicious ceviche, a little spicy but good. Pizzas, crab cakes and shrimp cocktail great. Ordered 2 bottles of champagne which were a little on the warm side, but service erased that. Our waiter André was super! Exciting ambiance, very amusing, relaxed, beautiful people. So sorry I had to catch a plane would've stayed! Definitely will be back!

If you want a relaxing evening, go to Van Dykes. I usually sit down outside, and have one of their pizzas (the one with goat cheese is superb), while enjoying the people walk by (be prepared to see all kinds). Anyway, after eating, go upstairs to enjoy some great live jazz. They have Nicole as the main singer and let me tell you, she has the voice of an angel (a al Diana Krall). But, here is the but, don't try any of their cocktails. I ventured a Cosmo, and was so bad I left it. Then I tried a lemon drop. It joined the Cosmo. Even a vodka tonic was a disaster. Bottom line, stick to non mix kind of drinks (such as Amaretto on the rocks) or simply anything that comes out of a can (beer).

Unlike another reviewer, I found the drinks to be quite good, and I'm quite particular about my beverages. I've tried several different types here—White Russians, Cosmos, and Comfort Manhattans—and they've all been enjoyable. While this isn't my absolute favorite place, I always make a point to stop by at least once during my stay. The bar has a friendly atmosphere, and the bartenders are welcoming and entertaining. It's also nice to sit outside, though I usually prefer other spots along Lincoln Road for that. The jazz is fantastic; I've even run into friends from Rhode Island performing, which was a delightful surprise! One night, I met Scott Hamilton, an alto saxophonist, and I took him to Spris for tiramisu during his break—what a fun experience! The only downside I can mention is that the ladies' room could use a good cleaning. Come on, folks, you've got a lovely venue—show some respect for your customers!

I visited twice and will definitely return. The music is fantastic, and the atmosphere is inviting.