Miami Beach bars, clubs, and restaurants could be hit with a 2am curfew, as an upcoming vote could put an end to late night partying. The proposed ban on alcohol consumption after 2am could cost $227 million per year, according to an economic study.
The proposed Miami Beach alcohol ban will not only hurt the city to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars per year, it will also drive tourism away from the city, which remains a cornerstone of its economy. A study commissioned by the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce revealed the move would result in more than 4,000 job losses in the hospitality sector, and would cost bars and clubs US$29 million in liquor sales annually, plus a US$14.6 million loss in tax revenue to the city.
“The issue is not just the loss of sales at that time,” said economist Hank Fishkind, who authored a similar study relating to Ocean Drive in 2017. “It’s the loss of those customers who like to party late into the evening.”
“This study by the Chamber should be alarming to everyone who loves and believes in Miami Beach,” said Joshua Wallack, chief operating officer of local business Mango’s Tropical Cafe.
Miami’s Mayor, Dan Gelber, meanwhile supports the ban as he envisions South Beach to be awash offices, residential buildings, and cultural spaces. “It is difficult to attract that kind of investment, when more than 120 businesses have the ability to serve alcohol until 5 a.m,” he said. “Because who’s going to want to put a home office or a condo or a gallery in an area that is a 24-hour party zone?”
Currently, Miami Beach has plenty of office space, residential space, and art galleries.
Nearby, The Champagne Bar at The Surf Club has introduced Reflections, a new collection of eight cocktails inspired by the iconic celebrations once held at the bar’s location, also home to Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club. Developed by The Champagne Bar team under the direction of Head Bartender Valentino Longo, the menu showcases today’s interpretations of these themed parties that celebrated different cultures and life that started back in 1930.