Mona's Cocktail Lounge & Lisa's Backyard

Mona's is a friendly neighborhood gay bar in Fort Lauderdale, a quirky, down-to-earth local that's been a gathering spot for the queer community since 1997, cheerfully billing itself as "Cheers, but with a gay twist." Its lovably oddball decor and warm, familiar bartenders set the tone for an unpretentious hangout where regulars and newcomers mix easily over cheap, cold drinks, a game of pool and a packed weekly calendar of karaoke, themed nights and community fundraisers. Out back, the dog-friendly "Lisa's Backyard" patio adds a relaxed open-air spot to settle in; you can even bring your pup. Owned by Jerry Schultz and open daily from noon, it's the kind of come-as-you-are watering hole every gayborhood needs.