A classic combo

Mac’s Club Deuce & La Sandwicherie, South Beach

BARS • First Round

Transformation is palpable on South Beach. Two exceptions: Mac’s Club Deuce and La Sandwicherie, across the street from each other on the 200 block of 14th Street. Taken together, the venerable institutions offer a one-two punch of cocktails, mood, and food, amid a classic, after-dark scene near the beach. 

All-cash Mac’s serves no food, but you can enjoy one of La Sandwicherie's paper-wrapped sandwiches in the 98-year-old saloon. An eclectic mix of locals, travelers, and pool sharks hang out at the classic M-shaped bar. Friendly barkeeps hustle to mix you a drink, but take heed, they don't have any patience for your impatience. 

La Sandwicherie (above) faces a nameless alley, where a spontaneous beach crowd often gathers. The Italian, the Turkey, and the Frenchie are the featured sandwiches, but pick from a dozen options. Top it off with the house’s French Vinaigrette dressing; buy a bottle or two to take home, it goes with everything.

Ask them to cut your oversized French hoagie or croissant in half, so you can share it with the bartender — or another deserving character at Mac’s. –Brad Inman

→  Mac’s Club Deuce (South Beach) • 222 14th St.
→  La Sandwicherie (South Beach) • 229 14th St.