Carolyn DiPaolo
The bars in Brightline train stations are named Mary Mary for two of Henry Flagler’s three wives. “Why not order a double?” a sign suggests.
Many free-spending passengers do just that, toasting the evening ahead and proceeding to the rails with drink in hand.
On the best nights, anyone who pulls up a chair at the bar can savor a convivial moment with the staff and fellow patrons before they catch the next train, which also deposits a new cast of characters.
West Palm Beach
The vibe: Cordial but businesslike with big-city prices to match. Mingle with after-5 pm commuters and revelers who are mentally already somewhere else.
The drink: Spritz: St-Germain, Gambino Cuvee, club soda, fresh rosemary. $14. Palm Beach effervescence in a glass.
Of note: Bring your plastic, Brightline does not accept cash.
On the train
The vibe: Similar to in-flight service with refreshments from a cart. Your enjoyment will have more to do with your traveling companion than your brief interaction with the friendly train attendant.
The drink: Tres Generaciones jalapeño margarita. $12. Potent, but too sweet. Save four bucks, and buy a beer or get a drink at the station.
Fort Lauderdale
The vibe: Best chance for a meaningful conversation thanks to bartenders who know how to engage without being intrusive. You might hear someone’s life story.
The drink: Barrel of Monks on tap and served ice cold. $9. A straightforward beer, just like Fort Lauderdale.
Miami
The vibe: Lots of phones come out at the bar as fun-seekers document and share their Miami moments at the largest of the three Brightline bars. Conscious of train departures, staffers offer to close the tab just before it’s time to go.
The drink: Old-Fashioned: Jim Beam, bitter, orange slice, maraschino cherry. $12. Imbibe like a 19th-century financier planning a railroad to the Keys.
Of note: I don’t recommend you plan to “dine” at the Brightline bars, but Miami has the most inviting offerings. A charcuterie plate ($18) — decked with prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, a selection of cheeses and crackers and olives — was generous enough for four travelers.
Next stop: Orlando, by the end of June.
Controversy in Boca Raton: Passengers want more trains.
I am a co-founder, writer and editor for Stet News. I am also a former senior editor at The Palm Beach Post. For 20 years, I oversaw some of the most consequential stories published by the paper, including the “Corruption County” reporting project that led to multiple arrests of elected officials. I am a member of the Leadership Palm Beach County Class of 2013. I live in West Palm Beach with my husband, Bill DiPaolo.
