St. Petersburg, Florida, also known as The Sunshine City, is not just famous for its art, seafood, and sunny weather, but also for its bustling nightlife and array of bars. From speakeasies and live music bars to casual spots and wine bars, St. Pete has a place for every mood and preference. The author, a long-time resident of St. Pete, has explored these bars personally and has curated a list of the best bars in town, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in this vibrant city.
St. Petersburg’s FL – Best Bars on the Water
1. Pier Teaki
Pier Teaki stands out as a gem among the waterfront bars in St. Pete, located on the top floor of a building at the end of a 3,000-foot pier. The bar exudes a laid-back tiki theme, providing a relaxed atmosphere with tables and lounge seating, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking views. Guests can enjoy a variety of frozen cocktails and a large food menu featuring island-inspired dishes, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Florida lifestyle.
However, it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during the peak seasons of Spring and Summer, as the place can get quite busy. This spot gives off vibes similar to the Huntington Beach Bars, providing a coastal and relaxed experience.
- Timing: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Contact: (727) 123-4567
- Address: 800 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Must Try: The Frozen Mango Daiquiri and the Island Fish Tacos.
- Description: Enjoy a tropical escape at Pier Teaki, with its laid-back tiki theme and stunning waterfront views.
2. Birchwood Canopy
The Birchwood Canopy offers an upscale and chic rooftop bar experience, located on the rooftop of the Birchwood Hotel, right across from the new pier in downtown St. Pete. The ambiance is enhanced by comfortable lounge seating and the option to rent private cabanas, creating an intimate and sophisticated setting.
The bar boasts a large “Bar Bites” menu along with a variety of craft cocktails, wine, and beer, catering to a diverse palate. It’s an ideal spot for a sophisticated night out, possibly after enjoying a dinner along Beach Drive. This place brings a touch of the Beach Bars experience with its proximity to the water and its chic, relaxed vibe.
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Friday and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 123-7890
- Address: 340 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Must Try: The Birchwood Old Fashioned and the Truffle Fries.
- Description: Experience upscale rooftop vibes at Birchwood Canopy, offering a chic atmosphere and panoramic views.
3. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille
Situated mid-way down the new St. Pete Pier, right on the water, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille offers a casual and relaxed setting focused on seafood dishes and a variety of signature cocktails. The bar is renowned for its rum drinks, variations of the mojito, and a full restaurant menu, providing plenty of options for guests to choose from. It’s a great spot to enjoy the waterfront vibes, but it’s wise to bring a jacket as it can get chilly by the water, even in the Florida heat.
- Timing: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Contact: (727) 456-7890
- Address: 610 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Must Try: The Yucatan Shrimp and the Doc’s Beach Mojito.
- Description: Dive into the casual and relaxed atmosphere at Doc Ford’s, with a focus on seafood and rum-based drinks.
4. The Getaway
Located along the bay near the Gandy Bridge, north of downtown St. Pete, The Getaway provides a laid-back, beachy vibe complete with live music, tropical drinks, and seafood dishes. The bar is known for its tropical cocktails and seafood-focused menu, offering a true taste of Florida’s coastal cuisine. While the prices are on the higher side for a beachy bar, the experience is well worth the splurge.
- Timing: Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 234-5678
- Address: 13090 Gandy Blvd N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Must Try: The Grouper Sandwich and the Getaway Piña Colada.
- Description: Embrace the beachy vibes and tropical drinks at The Getaway, a perfect spot for a laid-back outing.
St. Petersburg’s FL Best Bars – Speakeasies
5. Dirty Laundry
Dirty Laundry offers a unique speakeasy experience, hidden behind a functioning laundromat. The bar features a cozy and intimate setting, with dim lighting and vintage decor, transporting guests back to the Prohibition era. The cocktail menu is extensive, featuring both classic and innovative drinks, and the staff is known for their knowledge and passion for mixology.
- Timing: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 555-1234
- Address: Hidden location, entry through a laundromat on Central Ave (look for the neon sign).
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Must Try: The Prohibition Punch and the Lavender Mule.
6. The Saint
The Saint is a speakeasy-style bar that prides itself on its craft cocktails and mysterious ambiance. The entrance is discreet, and the interior is decorated with religious iconography, creating a unique and intriguing atmosphere. The bartenders are skilled in the art of mixology, ensuring that each drink is crafted to perfection.
- Timing: Open Wednesday to Sunday from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 555-5678
- Address: 49 24th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Must Try: The Saint’s Old Fashioned and the Smoked Manhattan.
7. The Mandarin Hide
The Mandarin Hide is a cocktail lounge that combines the allure of a speakeasy with modern mixology. The bar features a sophisticated and relaxed setting, with plush seating and dim lighting. The cocktail menu is innovative, featuring a range of drinks made with fresh ingredients and top-shelf spirits. The Mandarin Hide is known for its attention to detail and commitment to providing a high-quality drinking experience.
- Timing: Open daily from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 231-4007
- Address: 231 Central Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Must Try: The Moscow Mule and the Bourbon Smash.
St. Petersburg’s FL – Best Live Music Bars
8. Floridian Social Club
The Floridian Social Club, formerly known as the State Theatre, has been a staple in the St. Petersburg music scene for decades. The venue has been revamped to provide a more intimate and upscale experience while still retaining its historic charm. Guests can enjoy live music spanning various genres, from jazz and blues to rock and indie. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with energy, making it a favorite among music lovers.
- Timing: Open daily from 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 123-4567
- Address: 687 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Must Try: The Classic Mojito and the Spinach Artichoke Dip.
9. Ruby’s Elixir
Ruby’s Elixir is an iconic live music bar in downtown St. Petersburg, known for its intimate setting and exceptional live music performances. The bar features a cozy interior with a small stage, creating an immersive experience for guests. The drink menu includes a variety of classic cocktails, craft beers, and wines. Ruby’s Elixir is renowned for its nightly live music, showcasing local and touring bands, and creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all who enter.
- Timing: Open daily from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 898-7829
- Address: 15 3rd St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Must Try: The Old Fashioned and the Elixir Martini.
St. Petersburg’s FL – Best Wine Bars
10. Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria
Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria stands out as a premier destination for wine lovers in St. Petersburg. The establishment boasts an impressive wine locker, housing a curated selection of fine wines from around the world. The ambiance is upscale yet inviting, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through their extensive wine list. The food menu features American Trattoria-style dishes, perfectly paired to enhance your wine-tasting experience.
- Timing: Tuesday to Friday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Sunday from 10:30 AM to 9 PM
- Contact: (727) 800-9463
- Address: 241 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Must Try: The Sauvignon Blanc flight and the Truffle Mac & Cheese.
11. Lolita’s Wine Market
Lolita’s Wine Market offers a cozy and intimate setting for wine enthusiasts to explore a diverse selection of wines. The bar features a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating, creating the perfect environment for a casual wine tasting or a romantic date night. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring that every guest finds a wine that suits their palate. In addition to its extensive wine list, Lolita’s also offers a variety of small plates and charcuterie boards to complement your wine choice.
- Timing: Monday to Thursday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Contact: (727) 505-0503
- Address: 16 18th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Must Try: The Spanish wine selection and the Charcuterie Board.
12. Annata Wine Bar
Annata Wine Bar invites guests to indulge in a luxurious wine-tasting experience, set against the backdrop of a chic and modern interior. The bar features a hand-selected assortment of wines, emphasizing quality and variety. The knowledgeable staff is passionate about wine and is always ready to assist in finding the perfect bottle for your taste. The food menu includes a range of gourmet small plates, cheeses, and charcuterie, all designed to elevate your wine-tasting experience.
- Timing: Monday to Saturday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Closed on Sunday.
- Contact: (727) 851-9582
- Address: 300 Beach Dr. NE #128, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Must Try: The Pinot Noir selection and the Cheese & Charcuterie Plate.
St. Petersburg’s FL – Best Casual Bars
13. The Ale and The Witch
The Ale and The Witch prides itself on being a true American craft beer bar, offering an extensive selection of brews in a relaxed and friendly setting. The bar features both indoor and outdoor seating, with a courtyard that often hosts live music and community events. The vibe is decidedly laid-back, making it a favorite among locals looking to enjoy a good beer without the pretense. The staff is knowledgeable about their beer selection and always ready to offer recommendations.
- Timing: Open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 821-2533
- Address: 111 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Must Try: The rotating selection of craft beers and the Witch’s Chicken Wings.
14. The Bends
The Bends stands out as a quintessential dive bar, offering a no-frills atmosphere, affordable drinks, and a welcoming space to hang out. The interior is eclectic, adorned with local art and vintage decor, creating a unique and quirky vibe. The bar features a variety of beers, including local craft options, and a simple yet satisfying food menu. The Bends is known for its friendly staff, diverse crowd, and commitment to providing a genuine and enjoyable bar experience.
- Timing: Open daily from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
- Contact: (727) 202-8931
- Address: 919 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Must Try: The local craft beers and the signature Bends Burger.
Conclusion
St. Petersburg’s bar scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a drink with a view, dive into the world of speakeasies, listen to live music, savor fine wine, or just have a laid-back night out, St. Pete has the perfect bar for you. So, dive in, explore, and enjoy all that The Sunshine City has to offer!
