Wilton Winners: The 2026 Insider’s Guide to Wilton Manors
By Christopher Jimenez | Wilton Vida
Planning a trip to Wilton Manors in 2026? You can find plenty of generic "top 10" lists online, but if you want to experience the Drive like a true local, you need to know where the community actually eats, drinks, and unwinds.
At Wilton Vida, we value quality, service, and vibe. We’ve scouted the scene, and for 2026, these are the standout spots that deserve your business.
THE BAR SCENE
Our 2026 top three make for the perfect Sunday afternoon triad.
1. Hunters Nightclub
The Verdict: #1 Best Service & Standards
Hunters takes our top spot for 2026, and it’s not just about the energy—it’s about the operations. The service here is incredible, with superior attention to detail and cleanliness. You’ll notice the difference in the small things, like bartenders using tongs for garnishes rather than bare hands (a detail we appreciate).
• Why we love it: Transparency. There are no confusing on/off/on again happy hours with overpriced drinks masked by catchy BOGO deals to confuse you; just reasonable prices for quality drinks.
• Pro Tip: They run a tab without holding your physical card, so you never have that moment of panic realizing you left your Visa behind the bar, and your tab can be used at any of the bars, not just the one you opened it at.
Meet Vinny
You can usually find Vinny at the main dance floor bar. There’s nothing he can’t curate behind that bar. Stop by and say hello!
Photo Credit: Daniel Jimenez, Wilton Vida
2. Gym Bar
The Verdict: The Friendly Local Favorite
Don’t let the name intimidate you; the vibe here is unfounded friendliness. It feels like a true "local" spot where the staff treats you like a regular from day one.
• Why we love it: Despite having a tiny kitchen, they turn out great daily food specials. Combine that with consistently great drink prices, and it’s a staple for a reason.
3. LIT Bar
The Verdict: The "Can't Go Wrong" Spot
Whether you want to chill or turn up the heat, LIT is the reliable drop-in. When the South Florida weather cools off, the vibe heats up on their outside patio. Inside, you can enjoy good jams, pool, or darts.
• Why we love it: They often feature "food truck" style bites from outside vendors, keeping the food options fresh and fun alongside reasonably priced drinks.
THE CULINARY STANDOUTS
From nostalgic home cooking to the best brunch on the Drive.
1. Tulio’s Tacos and Tequila Bar
The Verdict: The Clear Winner
Tulio’s wins our top spot by a long shot. They might have perhaps the smallest kitchen on the Drive, but they pump out the yummiest and most robust menu. You honestly can’t go wrong with anything you order.
• Must Haves: The Rice Bowl, Enchiladas, or the infamous brunch Breakfast Burger.
• The Deal: You’d be remiss not to hit their weekend brunch (11 AM – 4 PM). They offer bottomless mix-and-match cocktails (Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Aperol Spritz, and Rosé) for around $20.
2. Spencer’s Corner Bar
The Verdict: Nostalgic Comfort
This "not-so-secret" hole-in-the-wall joint is a must-visit for home-style meals. For 70s and 80s kids who grew up with moms cooking hot, hearty dinners, Spencer’s is a nostalgic stroll back in time.
• The Vibe: Fantastic, welcoming energy from the staff. It’s the kind of place where the food arrives hot and ready, and you clean your plate every time.
3. TIE: La Mexicana & Proof
We couldn’t decide on our final 2026 third place, so we’re giving it to two deserving spots.
La Mexicana (Off the Drive)
A vital staple in our city. Located just off the Drive, this spot brings Mexico home to South Florida with an indoor/outdoor setup that is always a party—especially for football games and special events.
• Why go: Reasonably priced drinks, incredible food, and a consistent fiesta vibe.
Proof Wilton Manors
The newest addition to the Drive, filling the space left vacant by the retired Chef Nate. Proof has quickly become a staple for "small plates" dining and over-the-top drinks that will make you happy you didn't drive there!
• Why go: We are excited to see them building our community and bringing fresh energy to a classic location.