Bolivar Colombian Restaurant Bar Lounge

My first visit to Miami was made unforgettable by Bolivar! It was the first restaurant we tried, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. We literally got a little bit of everything to try, and I was "yumming" all the way, especially the tapas and appetizers — they were incredible! The food was delicious, prepared with care, and the drinks were on another level. The restaurant’s decor created an atmosphere that was truly out of this world. Juan Carlos treated us so kindly, and we’re definitely coming back. Highly recommend

This is my very first time at Bolivar in Miami Beach! Could not ask for a better place to enjoy a reminiscence of my beloved Cartagena! Thanks to Agustina and Laura for making the best cocktails and offering the most wonderful experience possible!

Only passed through here for a beef empanada, ceviche and refajo — all were quite tasty!! The atmosphere was inviting! I would definitely return for a full meal!!

Definitely one of my favorite places to frequent when I’m in South Beach! Laura was a fantastic server and made great suggestions!!

Absolutely amazing!!! Fresh, clean, and beautiful ceviche. We got the Ceviche Shots, which were one of the best things I have ever eaten. The arepas were out of this world. And every other dish was a treat!! The sangria had freshly cut fruit, and was refreshing (and strong!) the cocktails are amazing. The bartender and server Mabel is my favorite person I have ever met in Miami. Despite our language barrier she is informative, accommodating, and an absolute gem. We LOVE Bolivar, and Mabel is phenomenal. Don’t skip Bolivar!!!

Stopped by for food. Lomo saltado amongst other things. Had a great time. Good food. Great service with Mabel. As a local, would definitely go back

We came here on a Sunday night, only 3-4 tables of people and manager had to stand in front the restaurant to grab some business. The prices has gone up and portion has gone down compare to some menu photos from a few month ago. For example the combo plate by choice drop from 7 items to 6. Overall food tasted great, full of flavor, freshly made. Service was average, nothing special, as they default to 18% service charge pre tax.

We went to Bolivar Restaurant Bar to watch the Copa América, and it was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere was lively, and the owner was very welcoming. The beer selection was excellent, and despite the place being busy, the servers ensured we were well taken care of. Overall great experience

Food was delicious! Very filling. Ambiance great. Service also was quick. A quiet night for Miami, but always a great time.

We went to Bolivar during happy hour. They had BOGO drinks! Everything we ate was amazing. Steaks were not tough at all and had good flavor. I loved the chimichurri sauce. The Yuka fries were the best I've had. Good beans, rice and plantains. Laura was our waitress and bartender and she made the best suggestions and drinks. She was attentive and friendly. Definitely ask for her! The vibes were good, nice music and not too packed at 4pm.

OVERPRICED Went in late on a weekday night and the place was dead. We were the only table when we walked in. We ordered two "platters." The word platter leads one to believe there will be a large amount of food. The platter is far from large and far from worth the price. The two platters came with Colombian Patties, Grilled Steak Strips, Grilled Chicken Strips, and Coconut Rice. The items were good but not worth it. $10 for about 2/3 cup of rice is insane. Overall, try and find something else worth the price.

1 star taken off because they were out of chicken empanadas so I got cheese however they were fried too hard and the grease tasted old. Also because it took a few minutes for someone to notice I was inside the restaurant. It was so empty, I questioned if they were open although only 40 minutes in. I love the decor. Bar had a decent selection of premiums. My waitress did not speak English however she used her phone to communicate and make recommendations. The 6 shot ceviche was good but too much lime juice. I love the sweet potato, nuts and beans it's paired with. $45 for 1 person, no drinks. Automatic 18% gratuity.

My boyfriend and I stopped by Bolívar for a little afternoon snack and some drinks. It was a nice day out so we opted for the patio seating. Since it was earlier in the day, there were plenty of seats and the service was quick. The nice thing was that it happened to be happy hour so we got two drinks for the price of one! We got the maracuya (passion fruit) margarita and the sexapiloso with tequila and watermelon purée. I will say both drinks were pretty good! Since we checked in, we each were given a free shot of aguardiente and that was my first time having it. It definitely has that star anise taste/scent. It was also my first time trying Colombian empanadas. First impression was that it was decent. The outside was crunchy which is different than ones I've had in the past that were Argentinian empanadas. We got some sauces on the side and there were decently spicy. I definitely liked the chicken empanadas more than the beef. I could taste the chicken more than the beef and the flavor was slightly better. Overall, the restaurant was cute and they played some good music. I have a feeling this is a great place to visit for dinner so I will have this on my list the next time I am back in town.

Waitress here stole multiple credit card numbers from our party and used them to buy clothes..... Definitely do not recommend.

First time visiting bolivar . Food , service and ambiance were amazing ! Definitely recommend it and I will be back ! Thank you !

Great divey restaurant. Doubles as a club at night. I can particularly recommend the Colombian chorizo that comes with the Bandeja Paisa, which also included an excellent skirt steak. Also recommended is the Arepa de maiz blanco with marinated chicken. Had it all with Cervesa Aguila which is an excellent beer.

Amazing authentic food. My new death row meal is the Bandeja Paisa! Mabel was the best!!

Ambiance was perfect, I'm always wary about going into places who have dive bar feel, as music is usually too loud but it was perfect. Some nights this venue offers live music and salsa dancing so if that's what your into its to be noted. The fresh ceviche was really good they marinated it in aji Amarillo which is a yellow pepper that has a citrus feel to it. Not something I'm used to but now I'm hooked. Went home and bought items to make with aji Amarillo

I hate that this place wasn't better. It had so much potential on paper. Making a reservation was easy through Yelp but not required nor did they care that I had a reservation. Pros: -Mojito was tasty -Check in on Yelp and get a free shot -Food came out quickly but see con #2... -Ambiance added one star to this review -Cute spots throughout for cute photos Cons: -Our service wasn't great. And I say Ours because the table right next to us had great service. They came after us and left before us. We waited and waited to get a to go box and the check. -Food was cold! -TVs were frozen on a soccer game -Music was loud to the point table conversation couldn't be enjoyed

This is without a doubt one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. Everything was impeccably fresh, the service was outstanding, and the drinks were not only delicious but delightfully potent! The empanadas, shrimp, and yucca fries were utterly addictive.

Man oh man! When I think of quintessential Spanish food, this place ticks every single box! Popped in here for a random lunch as I was deeply craving Pescado Frito and luckily this place had just that. Upon entrance to this funky. Colombian spot, you almost think you're in the wrong spot, because it is very quirky. That aside, the food is insanely good, and the drinks, Hella strong. For my dish I ordered the "mojarra cartagenera" - the whole fried fish and BABYYYY I ate the whole thing fo sho! The only slight disappointment was the coconut rice - they may have scraped too far to the bottom of the pan so I got a few burnt pieces which wasn't that great. My carib people know what mean from the rice and peas lol. I still have dreams about how incredibly delicious that fried fish was. It was perfectly seasoned and perfectly fried without the slightest hint of oiliness - God bless the hands of that chef! I also ordered the Maduros and red beans, which all were absolutely divine! We also ordered the "Bandeja Paisa" which she said was good but the chicharron was cooked a little too hard. The chorizo was her favorite. One thing to note, if you get a platter, make sure to read all that it includes. We didn't realize with the Bandeja included Maduros and red beans so our table was overflowing with food. My margarita was strong as hell but smooth so slip slow and a Shot of aguardiente which will surely put some hair in your chest! This is a standout spot in a sea of flavorless restaurants in SoBe.

I had dinner on a super slow Tuesday night. I should have turned around and found another place to eat as just maybe two couples were eating here which was not a good sign. Slow service. Server was kind and polite but I could barely hear her and her English wasn't great (my Spanish is worse). Ordered arepa with shrimp and a seafood coconut with rice. It was obvious the seafood was frozen and rubbery. Arepa sauce on the shrimp was dry. As I picked at the seafood stew the pieces of seafood tasted fairly bad and I ended up eating half of the dish then gave up. Just bad. Avoid.

The food here is excellent and definitely unique. I love that they have the sampler platter if you are interested in trying different things. My husband and I both chose that as well as the shrimp ceviche bolivar. The ceviche was the best I've ever had!! The steak had a wonderful charred taste, the fried white cheese was perfectly chewy and salty. Calamari was perfectly fried and i love the light green cream sauce with them. The mussels we had excellent flavor but were slightly overcooked. The corn is a bit spicy so ask to hold the heat if you don't like it hot. The coconut rice has coconut flakes in it - i loved the sweet flavor but my husband (who doesn't like coconut) wasn't a fan. If you like coconut or sweet rice go for it! Valeria was our server and she was amazing!!

RUN... DONT WALK HERE!!!! Carolina was our waiter. She was AMAZING! She was patient and knowledgeable of the menu. She gave us time to look at the menu and answered all of our questions with no issues. It was karaoke night so we enjoyed the performances while eating good food and drinks. We ordered the 6 item platter. Which was a great idea. Along with an order of empanadas, several drinks and a delicious chocolate cake for dessert. ***see pictures*** Y'all!!! Every single thing was served HOT, FRESH and was full of flavor!! This place gets 10/10!! The ONLY issue I have is that they add a Miami Beach tax AND Florida tax with a 18% service fee to the bill..... which is ridiculous.

This was a great little restaurant in South Beach. There was a huge soccer game (it was a playoff, actually) so the place was packed and people were watching the screen. It was a lovely environment and the service was pretty quick considering the circumstances. There was great music and spontaneous dancing as well which was fun. I ordered the mojarra fish and it was delicious--I don't know what seasoning they used for it but I would go back just for the fish. Great spot!

Food was excellent. I had the shredded beef dish (forgot the name) and it was amazing. Very flavorful. Would definitely recommend. They have hookah, drinks, and music, what more could you ask for?! The hostess and waitress were very welcoming and attentive. Great customer service.

Was great. Went here with a group. Everyone seemed to really enjoy their meals and drinks. No complaints!

Went here for a bachelorette party back in 2018. The environment was fun! The workers were nice. Food was pretty good for bar/lounge! I have not come back, but recently when I was in Miami, it brought back some good memories.

I like the idea of having various South American dishes on the menu, although, it did make it a bit difficult to decide what to try. I appreciated the waitress letting me know that this Peruvian dish was a bit salty in advance because of the soy sauce the dish is made with. Although, a bit salty- the food was ok and it was a big portion. I've never had this dish before, so I'm unsure if that's what it should've tasted like. I will probably go back just to try dishes from other countries, however, not too keen on the menu prices.

Just amazing. We came here as the first stop on the Miami Culinary Tour and had to come back for the ceviche. That octopus dish stole the show today. Highly recommend these dishes.

Cool Latin spot in South Beach a short walk from Ocean Drive. I had the Colombian dish. It was pretty good. The restaurant itself is really nice for casual.

BEWARE!!! On a Sunday evening with nearly zero customers present my family and I decides to give the Restaurant a try. BIG MISTAKE!!! To compensate for the lack of customers the music was blasting to the point we kindly had to ask them to turn it down as it was deafening. To make matters worse the steak we ordered was extremely chewy, as was the chicken tacos. When we asked to be compensated for the extremely disappointing meal that was returned, they only removed the mandatory 18% gratuity. Trust me when I say that nobody should have had to pay anything for the garbage we were served, only that which was not returned.

Bolivar was fantastic! The music, the vibes, the staff and most importantly the food was fantastic. Our waiter Camilo was so nice and attentive, he made sure we felt comfortable and was very attentive. We ordered the pabellón, bandeja paisa and the link salteado. The food was phenomenal! Authentic Latin flavors, the chicharrón was nice and crispy but not overly cooked. The beans were delicious. Overall a great experience. We look forward to visiting Bolivar on the near future!

$30-40 bottles of wine and excellent food. The Cartegena plate tasted juuuuust like the food I ate when I was there. Colombian coconut rice is legitimately thr GOAT and they make it riiiiight here. Like, I love me some rice and peas but thiiiiiissssss, this right here?!?!?! We came on a non-busy day so I will say not sure how the service would be if it were packed. I'll be back.

I would have rated this place 5 stars after the first time I came here in 2018, but after returning yesterday, 4 stars. The reason why, is the drinks. We ordered a pitcher of white sangria, which was too sweet and mainly juice. I watched the bartender make it, and our suspicions were right: they poured 4 shots of wine, and the rest was juice and something that looked like simple syrup. If I wanted just juice I would have ordered it. Otherwise, the food is as good as I remember it being when I first came here. The showstopper really is the croquetas de yuca -- the best yuca I've had! I love how you can build your own platter -- either 2 items or 6, which is perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is lively -- they played music and later on in the night, people were dancing. Definitely a fun spot right in South Beach!

We were wandering around the neighborhood checking out buildings and such when we stumbled on Bolivar's sign out front that said 2-4-1 happy hour margaritas. We walked in and this place was quite a sight. There is so much to look at and take in. The building is beautiful decorated and has a bunch of seated going straight back to an elevated stage. We were greeted by a server/bartender and we mentioned the happy hour special. She made us some delicious margaritas and then went over their food menu. We weren't hungry but the menu looks incredible. Their Columbian Picada de Bolivar looks amazing. You can pick from a long list of dishes and make you own platter of 6 items to share for $58. I wish we were hungry so we could try items such as sautéed garlic shrimps, cassava fries croquettes, and Venezuelan cheese sticks. There is a total of 22 items to pick from to make your own platter. Some day when we go back to Miami, we will stop in for this platter and try a bunch of dishes. The margs and the server are worth stopping in for a drink at least.

The food is great here! Really liked the grilled octopus. My waitress Maria Camila Fabiola was super nice and attentive. Recommend this restaurant if you're in the area.

The atmosphere in this place was nice. the music was great. The food was ok. i had the Bandeja Paisa. The steak was tough and the pork belly was bland. The sauces the came with the food was good. The server was ok. I don't think it was worth 18% service charge. My drink was empty and she walked by me a few times and didn't even ask if I wanted anything or more soda. That's why i gave this place a 3 star.

This restaurant is excellent! Very good food and fun atmosphere. I came here on a Friday afternoon with my boyfriend for happy hour. Our server Miguel was very friendly and kind! We got ceviche and Picanha which were both excellent! The Caipirinha's were great! Highly recommend coming here for food and drinks, they did not disappoint.

Love the tapas! They're so cute and taste great, I got the mussels and arepas. They also had karaoke on a Monday night

The food here is always great and consistent. Friendly service and cool vibe. Rosita es una belleza y nos atendió con muchísima amabilidad y profesionalismo.

First time coming to this restaurant, overall the ambiance is friendly, there's good music playing, located on Miami Beach, ( street parking available). Place is pretty clean, was kinda empty when we arrived, later picked up mostly tourists. For starters when we checked in on the Yelp app we received a free shot of aguardiente!!! My favorites things to eat were the tequenos, very cheesy and well fried. the picaña steak was soft and cooked perfectly, and Colombian empanadas were pretty nicely stuffed and filling. I didn't care too much for the calamari and chorizo. I did not have dessert this time. The Staff was pretty friendly and efficient. Our waitress was nice but a bit pushy at times, trying to get us to order more stuff. Drinks could have been better. Prices are high but you are on the beach! If I decide to go back I'll keep you guys posted.

Amazing service, ambience and great food. Nice spot in south beach with late night kitchen and drinks. Our server was Valeria, she was so friendly and nice.

Bolivar has become one of our favorite stops when in South Beach. Maria B was an excellent server and the food is incredible, very tasty and perfect portions. The space is very cozy and enjoyable. Will definitely be back again!

Real authentic south american cuisine, everything is made fresh and with flavor. Service is good and the waitress had good recommendations. Came here for the ceviche and exceeded my expectations. 10/10

Yummy food and great service! Rosita was really good. She asked the cooks about the food because I am gluten-free. Yummy empanadas GF!

It was pretty empty when we went, but there was live singer that was giving it her all even though it was just us and a few other tables. She made our time here worth it! The arepa was really dry...not sure if it's supposed to be like that, but not a fan. A smaller piece came with my meal too so I think it's just supposed to be like that. Would not get it again as an appetizer. I was hoping it'd be more softer and a bit sweeter, but it was dry and hard. For drinks, I got the Saudade which was super spicy! Really liked this, but not for the faint of heart. Definitely more heat than sweet. For our meal, we got the Bandeja Paisa and Pabellon Sifrino. The entrees were delish! A good amount of food and very flavorful. Good presentation too!

It was a wonderful experience. That include the food the ambiance and overall the service. For a city that lacks customer service, this restaurant and his people did an excellent job. I try the rib soup and it was phenomenal, the empanadas were also delic. I will return to this restaurant

I would definitely go back here. The food was on point and service was surprisingly exceptional. The waiter had a very professional way of communicating. Almost like he had served at a Michelin star establishment. The octopus was my favorite.

There are better restaurants than this one. It was too dark; you could barely see the menu. Try the ones on the main street.

Such a hidden gem!! Sister and I came in for a quick bite before hitting the beach and got some empanadas and ceviche. Okay, I have to admit, I usually NEVER order empanadas because I think they're too doughy... and I usually NEVER order ceviche because the thought of raw fish makes me feel gross. But. Let me tell you, never will I judge so harshly again! The empanadas here were so crunchy!! The green sauce that comes with it is SO MUCH YUM. You won't know what comes over you. There's a kick, but it's one that's totally worth it. I also learned that ceviche just means it's cooked with lime! So there's that! I'm a fool and am so glad that Bolivar was there to prove me wrong

Food: The food here was amazing! Ordered the empanadas, patacones, and ceviche and each dish was delicious! Besides the food the drinks were also made so well- highly recommend the classic mojito for sure- super refreshing! Cost: Reasonable average cost out here! Don't let it stop you from stopping by to enjoy some Columbian food- you won't regret it! Environment: it doesn't seem like it but there are plenty of tables inside to accommodate small to large parties! A little dim but the AC is strong and the music makes the atmosphere enjoyable. Service: This is the best part- Miguel was our server and besides his enthusiasm, he is an A+ waiter! Super friendly, he makes you feel like you're home the moment you step in with his bright smile and warm personality! Uniqueness: authentic mojitos and columbian food- you can't go wrong!

Post Caribbean cruise, we stayed on Southbeach, Miami for two nights. Since we are new in Miami, we asked the store clerk a good restaurant. She recommended Bolivar, a Colombian dish. And of course, she's from Columbia. After eating a lot on the cruise, we just ordered appetizers; mussels, empanadas, ceviches & calamari. Followed by mixed cocktails. Wow, they were so so delish! I recommend this restaurant and shall come back when I visit next time.

A little taste of Columbia that any visitor to Miami Beach must try. Each plate was a beautifully balanced, blend of spices and herbs that stimulated the senses. The sensations with every bite traveled through the body and momentarily transported me to Columbia. The hostess Rosita was lovely, attentive, engaging, and ever so sweet. My wife and I highly recommend you to come have a plate.

Amazing traditional and really good hookah! Rare to find a spot with Latin food AND good hookah, 5/5 would recommend again.

La comida muy buena 100% recomendada!! Abril fue muy amable y nos brindó un muy buen servicio

The food was better than expected but the service was non-existent. Arrived and was promptly seated by a hostess, but then the hostess, bartender, and waitress all were huddled around a cash register forever. Even though we kept making eye contact with them no one would come over to our table until we literally put our hands up and wave them over after 15 minutes of their hanging together. When we did that the bartender came over and said he would help us out while the waitress was finishing when she was doing on the computer. He took our orders and got us everything, and then we would only see the waitress about every 10 or 15 minutes after that, and she would just walk up to the end of the table and smile and not say anything. It was a very awkward and weird experience.