Come one, come all

Miami's egalitarian-style club scoffs at the red rope

By Terra Sullivan

City Link
May 7, 2008

Come one, come all
In a past life, nightlife impresario Carmel Ophir worked at and promoted some of Miami Beach's notoriously elite clubs, with parties such as the long–running Backdoor Bamby at Crobar to his credit. But with his new project at The Vagabond, he's presenting a more egalitarian attitude toward clubgoers scene these days.

Operating under the concept of "You Are No One, You Are Everyone," Ophir's new venture with well–known club owner Rodney Mayo drops the velvet–rope veneer and welcomes people from all walks of life. Located on the site of the former hipster hangout I/O, the club features a mural of a young Bob Dylan greeting guests at the door. The earthy tones, hanging wicker lights and river–stone accents help foster the down-to-earth vibe. Outside, Vagabond's lush garden offers canopied wooden beds flanked by tiki torches. Nearby, a fire pit provides the main source of light and a place for soft conversation. The space also marked the perfect location for the recent La Quinceañera party with host José el Rey (pictured), complete with a full barbecue.

Stop by for: Moneyshot Thursdays, with free entry before midnight, drink specials all night, and resident DJs Contra and Induce spinning hip-hop, electro and indie dance; The JeanMarie will perform live this Friday with DJs Lolo, Mike Deuce and Ray Milian spinning indie dance, pop and electro afterward

Load up on: Absolut vodka and club soda with lime

Tunes: Tone-Loc's "Wild Thing," 2 Live Crew's "Hoochie Mama," The Cars "Shake It Up"

Leave the house in: Skinny jeans and graphic T-shirts

How to find it: 30 N.E. 14th Street, Miami, 305-379-0508, Thevagabondmiami.com

Terra Sullivan is a freelance writer for City Link.

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