BALL & CHAIN — Restaurant in Miami

Title: A Historic Gem with Fantastic Food and Music - Ball & Chain Delivers an Unforgettable Experience

Ball & Chain, a historic Cuban restaurant in Miami, continues to captivate visitors with its incredible food, lively music, and rich heritage. Stepping into this iconic establishment is like stepping into a time capsule, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Miami.

During our visit in early May, celebrating my husband's and my mom's birthdays before another cruise, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a sense of nostalgia. As we settled in, we noticed that the service was a little slow. However, the ambiance and overall experience at Ball & Chain made it easy for us to be patient and understanding.

The food at Ball & Chain is nothing short of phenomenal. We couldn't resist ordering their delicious plantain fries, which were an absolute delight. The flavors were exquisite, and it was clear that great care and attention were put into every dish. The menu offered a wide variety of Cuban specialties, ensuring there was something to please every palate.

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the live music. The talented musicians created an electrifying atmosphere, filling the air with infectious rhythms. What made the experience even more special was the interaction between the musicians and my son. They generously shared their instruments and taught him how to play, creating cherished memories for our family.

While we noticed that the back area of the restaurant seemed to be closed during our visit, it added an air of mystery and intrigue. We weren't sure if it was due to renovations or if it was only open in the nighttime. Nonetheless, we thoroughly enjoyed our time inside, surrounded by the vibrant decor and historical charm.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the outside area with water spritzers offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the music, take in the atmosphere, and unwind. It's a great option for those who simply want to stand, listen, and immerse themselves in the lively energy of Ball & Chain.

In conclusion, a visit to Ball & Chain is a must for anyone in Miami or exploring Florida. The combination of fantastic food, captivating live music, and a rich historical backdrop creates an unforgettable experience. While the service may be a little slow at times, the overall ambiance and the joyous atmosphere make it easy to embrace and enjoy. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Miami and create lasting memories at this iconic...

As we got there, the staff seemed hesitant to let us in, but ended up accepting. It seems that we were expected to choose and order our food quickly because our waitress came back three times in ten minutes to get our order. Then we tried to order a main course to share and two cocktails, and the waitress said that it wasn't enough, and that we had to order more. She let us know that she had another 3 person table coming up, which, to be fair, isn't exactly our problem. I get that they have limited seating and that the restaurant pushes their waiters to be profitable, but that is none of our concern and wasn't a super professional move. So we ordered two appetizers and our two cocktails. There was some form of miscommunication because we were brought the main course we asked for initially but cancelled. They didn't charge us for it, and it was sent back. One of the waiters tried to take our plate away as we weren't finished but nicely back down when he noticed. Our waitress was watching us from far away and came as soon as my friend had finished his drink. That normally wouldn't bother me but in addition to the rest, it again felt like we were being hurried out.

Overall, it just kinda felt like we were being pressed to leave because we were not being profitable enough.

Also, the restaurant automatically puts an 18% gratuity (tip) that you need to remove or adjust. They say it on the menu (bottom, small font) and on the receipt (idem), and not orally of course. Since they were pressing us hardly, and were dissimulating half the receipt in a box, (probably casually but didn't feel super transparent) we didn't think to remove it. To be fair it was our responsability to ask it be removed but, the context kept us from doing it. On top of these charges, they still suggest another tip. I read that this gratuity is common practice in Miami and sometimes put as a service tax 🤷🏻 Just letting anyone, tourists like us, know, just so you are aware of it.

The food was really good, the setting is cool, and the music was nice (the little we got to hear of it. The waiting time between the bands took some time, and we got to hear two songs from the initial band, the next one was getting ready on stage as we left, we stayed for almost an hour). Service and transparence just weren't great. Probably a good place to go if you are planning to have a long meal and several drinks, if not, I would avoid, at least during the night. When we went by the place during the day, it...

I loved coming here with my friend. The place has an amazing band and atmosphere. The band was made of 3 very talented people which created a very happy and upbeat feeling. The dancer was also very fun! We chose this place because of entertainment. Unfortunately for us, the service was very lacking and frustrating. We placed our order, and from the very beginning we were asked if we wanted water, to which we replied "yes, tap water is fine please". There was a cocktail that we were asked if we had order, and no, of course not, we had just arrived. Later on, our food and drinks came. No water yet, so we requested some. Then someone approached us to see if we had requested some sauces. And once again, we said no, we wanted some tap water. Since it never came, I was trying to get the server's attention. She was just standing by a chair and pretended not to see me. So I got up, talked to another person and requested water. Later, someone brought a pitch of water but no cups. Then finally, someone came with 2 glasses of water and removed the pitch someone had previously brought (by this time, we had already finished eating). The server approached us just one time, asking me with an attitude if everything was fine. Barely heard my response and walked away. At the end, on my bill I saw there was a "service fee" and "tip" added. And I said I wanted to modify the TIP. So she said that the "service fee" was for the band and if I wanted, she could remove THAT. Of course I said "no, you could leave that as it is, what I want to modify was the TIP". (for obvious reasons). She took my card, I asked for receipt in the machine and since I didn't receive it. I got up and requested it. By the time I left, I realized she had removed both service fee and tip. If the service fee really is for the band, thats upsetting. The band was GREAT, as entertainment, and the actual reason why we chose this place!!. They deserved but the service? The service was really bad, at least to us, and the only thing I would actually...