Ah, Miami. A city filled with such history and culture that it’s hard to keep up. Among its many famous sites, one of the most extraordinary has to be Happy's Stork Lounge and Liquor. Established in 1952 by renowned underworld figure Stefano Randazzo, Happy's quickly gained a reputation for being “the place” for celebrities like Judy Garland, Jackie Gleason, and Frank Sinatra. However, 1967 marked the tenth bombing in the city— Today, Happy's is one of the last remaining places from the era, and it is a beloved mecca for those who enjoy affordable drinks and a throwback ambiance.
Sadly, Happy's is set to move from its current strip-mall location :
Happy's is moving from its current location to a more spacious and brighter retail space, where it will offer standard bar snacks and appetizers. For some regulars like Kelly, who began frequenting the bar in 2002, this change is unsettling. However, Steven Inerfeld, who acquired Happy's in 1993, promises that the new location will be "newer, better, and cleaner" than the previous one.
While the move to a new location may bring some improvements to Happy's Stork Lounge and Liquor, it is important to note that the reason behind this relocation is not necessarily voluntary. The Strip Mall where the bar has been located for over 70 years is set to be demolished, making way for a new development project. This is part of a larger trend in Miami of gentrification and redevelopment, which often results in the displacement of long-time residents and small businesses. Happy's is just one example of many beloved establishments that are being forced to relocate or shut down due to rising rent and real estate prices in the city. As Miami continues to grow and change, it is important to recognize the impact that this has on the community and to advocate for the preservation of cultural landmarks and local businesses.
Happy's is more than just a dive bar; it's a place where everyone knows your name, and the staff takes care of its patrons no matter how inebriated they become. The cozy atmosphere and regulars make Happy's a "100 percent neighborly bar," according to Patrick Harrington, the bar's operations manager. While Miami has many bars, it's the dive bars like Happy's that offer a unique experience and reminds us of the city's history and culture.