Mona's — Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale

Stopped in tonight because I passed this place a few days ago and their sign and colorfulness caught my attention ... the reviews are so positive and so accurate! This establishment is 100% positive vibes and chill....I came by myself but forced my corgi to tag along....we hung out on the patio - just us two- and enjoyed the peacefulness of the night (it was midnight) and the good music playing. Jason, the bartender, was so cool and welcoming! The other guests in there were so chill and friendly. This place deserves all the hype it receives. I can honestly say that I really will be coming back just because the vibe is so chill and I felt welcomed. 🤍 Important piece of info that I had no knowledge of until it was too late - if using a card to pay, $10 min payment which is 100% normal BUT TIP CANNOT BE LEFT ON CARD PAYMENT. So please have cash on hand to tip your bartender. I felt so embarrassed and Jason totally tried to make it a non-issue but to me it is an issue...that's his livelihood and he deserves all the tips! This is a great little spot and I'm really so glad it exists! (straight gal here - don't think this is really a crutial piece of info but for the sake of skeptics out there just...

I visited Mona's based on Google review's and think it was definitely the place for my husband and I to go — it felt local, and immediately there was a sense of community when we walked in, even though we're stringers. The top shelf liquor was extremely reasonably priced, and the bar staff was extremely friendly.

All that being said, it's really a let down — especially when a space has a patio — to walk out smelling like cigarette smoke and needing to shower and air our or wash clothes when getting back to the hotel. Smoking in bars may be legal but doesn't have to be allowed by the bar. I have lived all over the country and in places where smoking isn't allowed in even bars, smokers have no problem popping outside for a cigarette (even when it's below freezing). This is a community bar that knows its local clientele, for sure, but Fort Lauderdale is a hub of tourist and vacationing activity. If you're visiting from out of town, prepare...

Just left a few minutes ago, so I do NOT remember the bartender's name but what I can say is... he's AWESOME!!! Cute guy, platinum/blonde hair, in his 50s but fly personality like he's in his 30s. Super dope, super informative and very friendly. Mad we didn't come sooner but for him my wife and I will definitely be back!!! #HisPhillyFamily THANKS you so much! Definitely a beautiful way to spend a birthday that was trying to be a catastrophe! Also the drinks were GREAT, the patrons were nice and welcoming, and the atmosphere was super DOPE overall. Looking for a cool, chill spot for a great time that's price worthy??? COME HERE!!!! Thanks again from Meech and BeBe 😘🤩 P.S. rub the kitty coming in OR on your way out, and if the kitty isn't what you like then look up above it!! There's a masterpiece hanging!!!...