Woodys West End Tavern

When I was in high school, friends and I -- spurred by the Curtiss Mansion legend -- made our way across Curtiss Parkway about once a month hoping to catch a glimpse of that weekend's poltergeist only to be turned away by an apoplectic security guard. Since then, I haven't much ventured into Miami Springs. Really, I've had no cause to.

Until now.

Now, that's not to say that, since discovering Woody's West End Tavern sometime in 2012, I'm looking to buy property on the other side of the river. However, knowing that Woody's is there makes what I've always considered to be a rather dark and bland little corner of South Florida much more palatable.

Woody's was constructed employing a really inviting open concept: the interior is devoid of any walls or counters (outside of the bar and bathrooms, of course), and the entryways lead to a ton of outside seating, including a very cool little patio area with a giant TV.

I've only ever had the wings (shouldn't surprise you if you've read any of my other reviews), which are tasty and, while not cheap, are moderately priced. I think a basket of about ten is a little over ten bucks. Not great, but certainly not expensive.

Woody's also has a broad selection of beers and comes equipped with a full bar over which (and really, in all directions) a number of TVs play just about every sport at every skill level.

My only gripe (keeping me from giving it five stars) with this place is how early it closes (12:00 AM Sunday through Thursday and 1:00 AM Friday through Saturday), though I'm sure that's on account of its being located on a residential corner in Vanilla Miami Springs.

Top notch and accommodating dive bar that proves great for a quick drink before heading elsewhere.

I love this place, perfect to watch a game with friends, been there a couple of times... Simple, down to earth people. The perfect hole in the wall (neighborhood) bar...
If you go with a low key, open mind... this will be your place.

Really good food, drinks and atmosphere. Nice servers too.