Best Neighborhood Bar, Fort Lauderdale
Kalahari Bar
Venue
4446 NE 20th Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-351-9371
It's the best neighborhood bar in Fort Lauderdale, but it feels like the best neighborhood bar in Johannesburg, South Africa. For 40 years, thirsty patrons have found a home in the Kalahari's cool interior, decorated with zebra pelts, old-man chairs, a mock fireplace, a pool table, antique photos and maps, and a bookshelf. To step inside is to join the secret club that watches rugby, can turn a phrase or two in Afrikaans, and knows a warthog from a wildebeest. To participate in Saturday karaoke or occasional "Bring and Braai" barbeques is to have a really "lekker jol" (nice time). Sadly, current proprietors Hal and Dee Hofmeyr are retiring Hal's turning 80 so the bar is up for sale. But we have faith that the trusty bartenders all of whom have been there for five years or more will keep the place intact. After all, the family that drinks Springbok cocktails together, stays together.