Jimbo's

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2010

The future of Jimbo’s fish shack on Virginia Key was not in doubt Friday afternoon, judging from the throngs of patrons hanging out, buying beers and enjoying the sunshine on weathered picnic tables overlooking the lagoon. 

This, despite the City of Miami’s ominous warnings to clean up or get out and that the electricity was cut off after a fire erupted. Plus, there’s the matter of the $5 “parking fee- no exceptions” that was reinstated at the toll booth entrance to Virginia Key. 

“We’re still in business,” said the gentlemen dispensing beers, a fistful of dollars in his hands collected from a group of construction workers who had stopped in after work. 

The place is ramshackle and some like it that way. There’s no admission price. There’s no dress code. And there’s no one asking where you came from nor when you’re leaving. Hell, there’s not even a roof to the place. Most people just hang out on whatever piece of furniture they can find. Others are just happy to mingle around, taking pictures, admiring the cats and the found art. 

Jimbo’s has been called “The last refuge from urban sprawl.”

Yes, Jimbo’s is still hanging on. And apparently thriving. So come out this weekend. And enjoy.