This bar in Miami Beach is a local favorite — and now it’s closing after 20 years

Brace yourself for bad bar news, Miami: Purdy Lounge in Miami Beach is closing.

Call it the price you pay for building million-dollar condos and a Trader Joe’s in the neighborhood — they’re the enemy of after-dark good times.

Beloved by locals, Purdy Lounge — which got a facelift two years ago — opened in 2000 and was the scene of many loud and late parties and the kind of poor decisions that turn into great stories when you’re Netflix-and-in-bed-by-10 p.m.

As Sunset Harbour grew and changed, the 5 a.m. closing time championed by patrons was no longer welcomed by the affluent neighbors in new buildings around the area. The Miami New Times reported last summer that gentrification was threatening the lounge and its future.

Owner (and Miami Beach native) Dan Binkiewicz announced the news on Facebook, thanking guests, staff and entertainers.

“They say all good things must come to an end,” he wrote. “In this case something truly great is coming to an end.”

“There is a lot you can do in 20 years, begin a new century, build a new business, develop a neighborhood, make new friends, strengthen bonds, dance, celebrate, cry, fall in love, and drink a few happy meals. We’ve covered all of it, but like we said all good things must come to an end.”

The Purdy team offered this statement on the closing:

“Things were coming to a close in regard to the lease expiration and a renewal was not fiscally possible. The Purdy team is beyond grateful for the love and support received over the last 20 years and are extremely proud to have been a part of such a great community.”

Purdy Lounge will host its final party on Feb. 8.

This story was originally published November 18, 2019 at 3:26 PM.