Samba Room
350 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954/468-2000, Sambaroom.net
The undulating wooden bar of the Samba Room echoes the sensual pulse of the Latin and Caribbean music that emanates from the sound system or the bandstand, not to mention the swaying hips such a soundtrack inspires. A lively crowd of downtown professionals packs the place, especially Fridays after work, when live bands provide the soundtrack. From 4 to 7 p.m. daily, select drinks are half-price, including the Samba Room's signature mojito, a tart and potent concoction of rum, lime and muddled mint leaves that could leave you muddled, as well. You don't have to drink on an empty stomach, however, as the restaurant also provides some tantalizing eats, from arepa and empanada appetizers to expertly prepared Cuban and Caribbean favorites such as arroz con pollo and rum-teriyaki-glazed salmon. The place is so sexy, you may leave with more than a full belly and a slight buzz; a drinking buddy met his current girlfriend there when she offered to drive his drunk ass home.
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