When working the grind we're all looking forward to something at the end of the day...and if these local bars and restaurants haven't crossed your mind, then you definitely need to head out to one soon! After all, it's summer, and it's prime time to treat yourself to a drink after a long, hot day. No need to search for where to head to--we've compiled a list of ten Tampa bar favorites.
1.) Sunova Beach
Divulge in this little slice of paradise in SoHo--Sunova Beach is the newest beach-styled bar and restaurant to hit Hyde Park. Everyday from 6-9pm there is live music and daily half-price happy hour is from 3-7pm--perfect timing to go after your workday. Plus, on Friday's, there is Bacon Happy Hour--which means free bacon from 6-8pm! There is a great seafood selection and a drinks menu with endless possibilities. Enjoy your beachy summer paradise without the scorching heat and long drive.
2.) Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Looking for that perfect pint? Featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Drives, this is one hot spot worth checking out. Tampa Bay Brewing Company doesn't serve the typical beers you can find just anywhere--rather than the standard lineup of Budweiser and Miller Coors, they make their own craft brews, nine pretty amazing ones to boot!
3.) MacDinton's Irish Pub
You may know of MacDinton's as Tampa's biggest hot spot during the World Cup--they are known for being "Tampa's home for everything soccer". Even now as the World Cup has ended and even if you're not a soccer fan, this is one bar you'll want to head to. The atmosphere is warm and friendly with great service, great food, and great drinks. There are fantastic drink specials such as $10 open bar on Fridays! There are also some traditional Irish dishes available such as Shepherd's Pie and Sausage rolls, as well as other not so traditional foods like Philly Cheese Steaks and burgers.
4.) The Bricks of Ybor
If you like a place with a chill, trendy vibe, this is where you need to head off to! This bar was opened by Skatepark of Tampa and they definitely brought along a youthful, cool exuberance. Conveniently located on Ybor's 7th Ave, this hipster haven has vegan/vegetarian friendly food options, a vast selection of drinks, and on occasion live music. Mondays are half off house wines and select draft beers, Thursdays are half price maritnis, and all other drink specials can be found here.
5.) The Patio
If you want to grab a drink outdoors, then this is where you'll want to go! The Patio is a beautiful outdoor bar that is perfect for kicking back with co-workers, friends, and family. Stop by for a meal and stay for their drink specials--like Tuesday hospitality night(for anyone in the business including police, fire department, nurses, and military) for half off your bar tab!
6.) Pete's Place
If you're on a budget, Pete's Place is a great choice--get the cheapest drinks in Tampa without sacrificing quality or atmosphere. There is an extensive fresh seafood menu, Happy Hour everyday from 11am-8pm (all day on Sunday), $4 craft beers everyday of the week, and karaoke nights Thursday-Saturday!
7.) Mermaid Tavern
A quirky gem kept in the Seminole Heights neighborhood of Tampa; this may just be considered one of Tampa's "Best Kept Secrets" when it comes to great neighborhood bars. They have a wide selection available with over 24 beers on tap (local, import, and regional brews), 35 wines by the glass, and 100 by the bottle. Their food is highly rated and they also have vegetarian options-- truffle fries and their famous pretzel buns are crowd favorites. Friendly atmosphere, creative menu, live music, great drink selection--what more could you ask for?
8.) Fuma Bella
Cozy, charming, and low-key. If you want to stray from the crowd, this will be your new favorite hangout--even regulars have debated leaving an online review in order to keep this special bar "sacred and safe". A mystical (and odorless) blue smoke lingers in the air of Fuma Bella, making it quite the enchantment. The staff is welcoming and personable (absolutely no snobbery here) and for a true cocktail connoisseur, this place is heaven.
9.) Gaspar's Grotto
Come swing by if you're up for a little mayhem and fun! Gaspar's Grotto is Ybor's famous pirate themed bar (which happens to be pet-friendly!) with one of the largest outdoor patios in town. Make sure to start off your visit with their popular $2 Shot & Beer! There is also Trivia Tuesdays, Prize Night Wednesdays, and Karaoke Fridays. All complete with tons of drink options and tasty pub grub.
10.) The Hideaway
Not yet open, you'll still want to keep this is one on your radar. The Hideaway is a well-known spot in Safety Harbor for their craft beers, spirits, and chill atmosphere. Projected to open mid-August, is another location in Channelside! Everything that customers rave about, such as drinks and live music, will be passed over along with a Sushi bar. Make sure to follow them on Facebook for updates on their opening!
