Harvey’s By The Bay

I had a going away party here 3 years ago. I told everyone to show up without knowing that it was goth night and there was a $ 10 cover. The manager felt bad, so he set us up in the arts and crafts room. He brought in a juke box and a cooler of beer. Shit got crazy. You can do some serious shit in an arts and crafts room. I still go back every now and again. I stand in the entrance to that arts and crafts room, spill a bit of beer and remember the drinking game we played with glitter and safety scissors.

This place is CLOSED!

Harvey’s By the Bay has been submitted to the Unilocal Obituaries.
Harvey’s By the Bay, a bar located in an obscure municipal building, died Friday. The birth certificate could not be found, thus the age is unknown.
Harvey’s location and ambiance was its charm. It was by the bay and in up and coming area of little Haiti. This bar was well hidden and had the potential to be a secret hideout for many.
Unfortunately, on this night they decided to hire the worst DJ on the planet. He brought back old school jams, lost in history and that should have remained lost in history, such as Master P’s «Uh nah na na na» and Juvenile’s «girl, you look good, back that azz up». Patrons ran to the cute bartender for drinks and refuge.
The bartender was Harvey’s last hope and not even her attentive service and cute booty dancing could not save the day. Sadly, her drink making skills were not enough on this night. The music was at ear ringing and conversation killing levels. The only patrons able to communicate were the ones who knew sign language. Harvey’s ambiance and appeal had officially died from wrongfully booking a horrendous DJ.
As a patron who cares, my condolences go out to the Harvey family and to the cute bartender stuck dancing to bad music. On another night, Harvey’s might have been worthy of spending more than one drink.

Ok, there are a lot of reasons why this place may not have lived up to the rave reviews from friends & trusted Unilocalers — wrong time, wrong day, wrong season?! We headed to Harvey’s at 7 on a Friday — right on the tailend of happy hour. Walking in, I was totally a fan of the old school American Legion building. What’s better than drinking in a piece of Miami history?
However, once inside, we were stared down by the three patrons at the bar — obviously regulars wondering why the hell we were there, which was slightly awkward. To be fair, one gentleman was very nice — greeted us, asked how we were doing, etc.
I love the layout of the place, the view and the huge lawn — but there was no one on it, this particular day, as the weather was iffy.
The bartender was a sweetheart, and the drinks were stiff — although they came in pretty small little cups. I was expecting them to be cheap, given everyone’s reviews, but when we closed our tab, they were $ 6+ each … granted, not expensive, but not that cheap given the size of the drink and the fact that it was bottom-​of-​the-​barrel vodka. We thought maybe they jack up the prices during the UFC fights? There was one on that day, although no one was watching it.
Also — the place is cash only, which is to be expected in this kind of joint. But the ATM charges a $ 4 fee, so be warned.
All in all, we came away like Ralphie on Christmas without his Red Ryder — disappointed. We’d definitely give it another shot with friends in tow.

This is a great secret place since its hidden away. Great music, free pool tables and huge backyard outside to drink and smoke if needed to. The place’s décor is hippie with art work, and is a great place to head out on Tuesdays with a group of friends or on a date!

I get asked all the time «why do you like Harvey’s» and for me the answer is simple becuas ewhen I go I feel at home. I play the music that I want on the juke box, free pool, cheap cheap cheap did I say cheap drinks! The bartender’s are nice and welcoming, and the best part is if I have had one too many I can walk home!

Lots of cool things happening at this place, more often called The American Legion.
Tuesday nights are my favorite! The drinks are cheap, the atmosphere cozy, people are nice and unpretentious, not to mention the great music these guys play. DJs: Salami Fingerz, Stravinsky, Moshe, and Patrick spinning the best disco, funk, hip hop, dance, and everything with a whole lot of soul. There’s live music once a month with the awesome sounds of Kabuki Iron Colors (NYC), Deaf Poets, Melted Mandarin, etc etc. It’s a night of friendship where you’re likely to make a new friend or two since everyone looks pretty happy!
Thursdays nights are Drop Dead, Gorgeous where the promoters’ goal is to make a night where you chill and hear a different kind of sound. David and Faelan play everything from punk rock to motown and live for you to ask them who that track was by or to share a new one with them.

Not only is this place extremely laid back and serve Stella and Yuengling on draft, but they show every UFC fight! Need I write more?
The place is a little out of the way and it’s comical walking into this American Legion location looking for a drink. I can’t help but think as I walk in — is this how bad I’m trying to avoid paying 9 bucks for a beer?
You enter this large hall area and you’re met with a lot of people that just want to drink and hang out. There are a few screens up and on this night they were showing the UFC fight. We ordered chicken nachos and fries. I ordered a Stella and as it’s served in a plastic cup I smile and reminded yourself of the price.
The chicken nachos come out and they are Tostitos served on a toaster oven tray covered in aluminum foil. The salsa served with is Pace Picante, but what do I care? I have the munchies and so do my drinking buddies. The fries taste great and we don’t have a care in the world. There’s plenty of seating along the bar and along the wall. After some drinks and munchies I go outside to explore. There’s a large cannon outside on the grass facing the water. Sweet! How many watering holes in Miami can say they have one of those bad boys? As you stumble out of this place, you can catch up on some history if you can get your eyes to focus.

I finally got my Harvey’s cherry popped, and unlike some other cherry-​popping past experiences, this one was pleasantly surprising. I’ve read and heard all things about it so of course I was prepared to walk into the American Legion beforehand. I love that old South Florida musky wood smell, its always welcoming. This welcoming feeling increased immediately as I crossed the doors into the actual bar and my nostrils were quickly swarmed by the smell of beer… the dive watering hole kind of beer smell. Am I home? nah, just Harveys.
Since it was early in the afternoon, the place was pretty empty, with a couple of regulars wondering around. We got our beers and headed outside to enjoy the nice weather. The writings on a tree outside and other particular clues sent me in a whirlwind down memory lane when I recognize certain things that reminded me of my punk-​rock show days… tis’ a good sign! I’m always a friend of any venue that allows this kind of crowd… and surely, before departing the lovely place, crowds of faces from the past started to surface; there was a show that night.
What? FREE pool? yes please, time to hone those shark pooling skills (or lack thereof) add an amazing jukebox and some kick-​a$$ bartenders (kudos to Jamie) to the mix and what was supposed to be a one-​beer stop, turned into an «I kinda lost count» ordeal. I love it when a place has that kind of effect on me. Another no frills and no BS joint to add to my favorites. check.

By far the best bar in Miami! None can top this one!
This bar offers good, reasonably priced drinks. We all know that is impossible to find in Miami. They also have a very large parking lot where you can safely park for free right in front of the building.
If you are a resident of Nirvana Condos this is an even better place for you since you can throw a stone at it from your balcony.
Harvey’s has free pool, a large backyard, a excellent view of the bay, and friendly bartenders and customers. If you are looking for a laid back place where you can go to hang out with friends and watch sports then this is the place for you.
Not to mention they have ladies night which serves drinks for free for the ladies from 8 – 10. Who could say «no» to that?!
Don’t let the building scare you off… it is in the American Legion building… in the back. So yes, you do have to walk through the front part of the building before you will see the bar. Just follow the good music and you will find yourself in bar heaven!

Magic City for $ 800 Alex
Cheap drinks, friendly staff, bbq on Sundays, free pool, plenty of parking, cheap drinks, a cannon, a yard to throw a football or kick a futbol, music
What is Harvey’s By The Bay

My fellow Unilocalers, you are right on about Harvey’s. This place Rocks! Got invited by a friend last night to meet up and mingle. Pulling up to the place was a bit shocking and comical. If it was not for my fellow Unilocalers we probably would have left… hee hee So glad we didn’t!
Large room, some art work on the walls from local artist that are for sale, pool table, juke box, DJ stand, great view out back of the bay. The AC was out of order so no doubt it was HOT… But that did not keep me from staying. We figured we would meet up have a quick drink and leave. Four hours later, quite a few drinks later, we were still partying…
From the moment we arrived Sean (Owner/​Bartender) was Amazing! So accomodating, friendly, awesome drink mixer, and a delight to talk with. He made you feel like you were family.
He made us two Harvey’s special drinks to try…
Harvey’s Sweet Tea– tasted just like sweet tea, daughter loved it… but I can see how these would sneak up on ya later…:)
Harvey’s Lemonade– sour, made with fresh squeezed lemons, yummy, again keep drinking them and they will hit ya later…
As a fellow Unilocaler stated the drinks are so good and so cheap, that you can walk out of their pretty tipsy if your not careful…
In pure amazement, I could not get over their prices and quality of drinks. GREAT news starting next week, they are OPEN 7 days a week. Wednesday is Ladies Night, we drink FREE…:)
Sean stated they are working on getting the kitchen up and running to offer some good food.
Happy Hours everyday from 4−7p.m. 2 for 1 on all well drinks, $ 2 drafts
Wow, what a very very cool place, chill, cheap, friendly, just a fun, fun place to hang…
Love this place, and can’t wait to go back. My daughter said we have to go there next week before she goes back to college on Friday… O.K. No prob…:)
A TRUE HIDDEN TREASURE!!!

Harvey’s works for me. Great spot to start your night. Too bad they’re only open Thursday — Sunday.
It looks to be a work in progress at this point. The décor is kinda sparse and could use a lady’s touch a lil bit, but it’s not too much of an issue. Acoustics in there are bad too, but the drinks are soo cheap and the staff is very friendly.
On Sundays they have a big grille set up out back like at around 2pm and you can bring your own grillables to have them grilled for you.
Come support these guys. Do I hear UYE anyone?!
:)

Best neighborhood bar, hands down. Awesome bartender/​owner who will always remember your name, friendly regulars, laid-​back vibes, great jukebox, big backyard, free pool table, cheap drinks, free and ample parking. What more could you want?
I was conflicted about writing this review because I’m almost afraid of this place blowing up and it becoming too much of a scene, but I’ll risk it because I want it to be a huge success. Go. You won’t be disappointed.

Are you looking for a trendy bar? Well, you won’t find that at Harvey’s.
Harvey’s is a chill spot. Though you wouldn’t think of it when you pull up in front of the building. Your expression might read «WTF?» and you are right.
Scenario, if you will:
You park and step out of your car and into the American Legion building. Once inside, you’re still thinking «Wtf?» but now you hear music. So you follow it. You move to the left with the never-​changing «WTF?» expression on your face. You finally see it, a LARGE room with a bar in the middle, a jukebox in one corner and a DJ in the other. «It’s a bar», you say to yourself, the «WTF?» expression slowly diminishing. You hear some familiar tunes and begin to relax. You stroll up to the bar, take a seat and order a Stella Artois. $ 3 you say? Well, give me another!!!
That played in my head the entire time I was at Harvey’s. The bf, his sister and myself went for the 4^th of July celebration. We watched the fireworks, first, from across the Bay. Three different sets of shows. Then, we walked back to what can only be described as the yard and watched the staff light up fireworks. It was really nice. It had a family feeling to it.
When that was over, we went back inside and had some drinks with fellow Unilocalers. We ended up having a lot of fun. The bartenders were all really cool and very attentive.
Harvey’s is not the type of bar I’d be initially attracted to but I’m glad I found it!

I was expecting a place like Sharkey’s… disappointed I wasn’t, surprised, a bit. Had a good time — definitely.
Arrived at The Legions building, and couldn’t believe there’d be a bar inside, so we drove out back to the marina, saw the lights and figured «oh well» drove back up to the building, parked and walked in.
Emptiness — no frills or thrills, just a huge bar, a large room divided into the bar area, and closer to the bay a sitting area — but there was no food (currently gas gages are being replaced, so expect food as soon as they are).
We went for their fourth of July celebrations, and I have to admit, it was so homey it definitely felt like I was in a neighbor’s backyard, eating bar-​b-​q, listening to the kids screaming and running, and just waiting for it to be 9 o’clock. Once the shock of the unexpected hit, it was quite nice.
The fireworks were awesome. The people hanging out equally great. The main bartender is one of the owners who personally invited us to head out back and grab some food. After the show we went back inside, it’s such a «family» place, Emilio even requested some music and got a whole medley of songs played. The DJ was part, fireworks man, part DJ, part bar tenders, and I think that’s what describes this bar best — the people working there are fully involved in the workings of this bar, and their customers — super nice people i tell you.
Harvey’s will never be what I call out if someone asks me where I want to go hang out for the night. But if Emilio ever says he wants to grab a couple of beers, and get away for a little bit, I don’t mind spending some time with the awesome bar tenders in this off the way little big place.
pluses:
1. smoking outside only
2. $ 2 & $ 3 drafts
3. free parking
4. nice people
5. good music

I’ll tell you up front that this bar will not be everyone’s cup of tea (though you’ll notice a few of us Unilocal regulars gave it 4 stars). You pull up to the front of the American Legion building, pass hand-​painted and stenciled signs for parking and for Harvey’s and pull into the chain-​link fenced in lot. You’ll enter the somewhat formidable looking American Legion building (the building was originally intended to be a prison according to this Legion post’s history), walk past the walls that are lined with years of Legion and military memorabilia and history, and in the back you’ll arrive at Harvey’s.
Here’s what you’ll find: Incredibly cheap drinks ($ 2 domestic/​$ 3 imported drafts, $ 3 domestic/​$ 4 imported bottles and cheap mixed drinks… I bought 2 beers and a mixed drink, gave the bartender $ 10 and got $ 2.50 change!), unpretentious bartenders who more often than not are wearing shorts, t-​shirts and jogging shoes, unpretentious patrons and some members of this Legion Post who proudly sport ball caps, pins and military tattoos that symbolize their service to this country. The place is relatively new looking inside, clean and freshly painted with modern light fixtures, a new bar and stools, there are a few plasma TVs for watching sporting events or whatever happens to be on, they have a jukebox, a pool table that you can play for free, and on the night we were here they had a DJ playing tunes as well. On this night the kitchen was closed due to some renovation work they were doing (they offered to have food delivered here from any nearby restaurant that has delivery, and also offered us some sausages they were cooking on the grill out back), but from what I understand the regular menu at Harvey’s consists mostly of typical bar food (wings, fries, jalapeño poppers, burgers, etc.). The large room behind the bar itself is set up as a dining area with tables and chairs and has full length windows on 3 sides of it with an excellent view of the boat ramp, the bay which is a few hundred feet away, and a distant view of the city.
If you’re looking for a SoBe club atmosphere with people who are dressed to impress, a line at the door to get in, expensive cover, exorbitantly priced drinks and a dance floor where people go to be seen and show off their best moves, this ain’t it. If you’re looking for a laid back bar with cheap drinks, 8 kinds of beer on tap, a pool table and jukebox, genuine people and maybe some interesting conversations, Harvey’s could be the place for you!

For a chill Miami in bar, this is as good as it gets. It has a great Key’s feel to it. It is right on the water, so you get an amazing view of the Miami Beach Sky Line. Easy to park at, cheap drinks, nice staff and free pool (billiards). It is a great place to pre-​party or to hang out with friends. Harvey’s is located inside the American Legion Building, through the lobby out towards the back. Just follow the music. If you aren’t looking for it, you wont find it.
They are open Thursday through Sunday from 3 pm til 2 am. Sometimes later depending on the crowd. From 4 to 7pm is happy hour, so the cheap drinks turn into 2 for 1’s. If you are in the Military, Police, Teacher, Union Member or a Fire Fighter you get extra drink specials.

love at first glenlivet on the rocks. harvey’s deserves an essay for a review but really you just need to come check it out. harveys is by the water, east of biscayne on 64^th street. theres a large parking lot. free parking. cheap alcohol. down to earth bar. friendly service. really cool guys.
expect a new cult. we are all going to adore harveys.

Love at first sight is to many, an old-​fashioned idea.
Luckily, Harvey’s by the Bay is an old-​fashioned, good-​lovin’ kind of bar.
Harvey’s is old, salty Miami.
Not perfect, not impossibly beautiful or overly flashy.
Instead Harvey’s is simple, hardworking, relaxed, and hospitable.
I knew I liked this place the moment I turned onto a quiet old street in the heart of MiMo. A homemade sign hangs outside and parking is free, right in front of the bar. This is the antithesis of velvet-​ropes, there is no pretension here.
Walking up to the entrance one can instantly feel the history. Named after Harvey Seeds, the first Miamian killed in combat during WWI, there is a rebelliously, quiet spirit about the place. Once inside you realize a few things: Harvey’s is easy to adore if you like simplicity and believe less is more. The owners are definitely enamored with their labor of love. This quality gives them and the venue an air of laid-​back excitement.
Harvey’s has a kitchen cooking up classic, bar fare; a free pool table in the main bar area and outdoor hut reminiscent of something from a friend’s backyard. Look forward to live music and shows in the ballroom/​auditorium next door. Adjacent to Legion Park and steps away from the Bay this place is more than just a fleeting affair.
Prices we all love:
$ 3.50 wells & wine
$ 4 calls
$ 6.50 premiums
$ 2/​$ 3 taps
$ 3/​$ 4 bottles
Based on the low prices and amazingly generous pours any and every one can, might, and should get trashed here. (Don’t say you weren’t warned)