The best bars & nightlife in Venice

40 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 40 places · showing the latest additions first

Flying Cork Wine & Beer Bar is a low-key neighborhood hang when you just want a well-poured glass, a cold beer, and actual conversation.…

664 S Tamiami Trl · ✓ checked Jul 28

Flying Cork Wine & Beer Bar is a low-key neighborhood hang when you just want a well-poured glass, a cold beer, and actual conversation. Hop on their list for upcoming events, then text a friend and make this your midweek reset spot.

From the Venice newsletter, August 7, 2026

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Bad Monkey

Nightlife

Bad Monkey is the military-tinged sports bar locals claim as home base, with 20 TVs blasting every matchup, a laid-back patio, and a menu…

1717 E 7th Ave (Tampa) · ✓ checked Jul 31

Bad Monkey is the military-tinged sports bar locals claim as home base, with 20 TVs blasting every matchup, a laid-back patio, and a menu built for impulse orders like burgers, tenders, and mozz sticks. Bring the crew this week, grab a cold one, and actually watch the game.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 9, 2026

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French-owned and right in Downtown St. Pete, Exquisite Bistro pours a handpicked lineup of 75+ bottles from around the world alongside…

397 5th St S (St. Petersburg) · ✓ checked Jul 28

French-owned and right in Downtown St. Pete, Exquisite Bistro pours a handpicked lineup of 75+ bottles from around the world alongside gourmet charcuterie boards, elevated small plates, and artisanal flatbreads made for sharing. Keep an eye on their weekly tastings and pairings...

From the Land O' Lakes newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Whether you’re plotting a low-key weeknight or an overdue catch-up, BellaVino Wine Bar lines up a thoughtfully curated pour for every…

128 W Venice Ave · ✓ checked Jul 28

Whether you’re plotting a low-key weeknight or an overdue catch-up, BellaVino Wine Bar lines up a thoughtfully curated pour for every palate. Think stylish, welcoming vibes, live entertainment and events, and glasses that make conversation flow...

From the Venice newsletter, August 4, 2026

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3 Bridges Brewing is that rare local spot where award-winning craft beer meets groovy eats, from a legendary Bridge Burger to a 3 Pigs…

1765 S Tamiami Trl

3 Bridges Brewing is that rare local spot where award-winning craft beer meets groovy eats, from a legendary Bridge Burger to a 3 Pigs Flatbread, plus weekly trivia, bingo, open mic, live music, and a second-Sunday brunch that turns neighbors into regulars.

From the Venice newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Slide into The Break Room, the local hangout for silky Diamond pool tables, darts, and a beer and wine bar that pours a mean rum punch.…

2252 S Tamiami Trl · ✓ checked Aug 7

Slide into The Break Room, the local hangout for silky Diamond pool tables, darts, and a beer and wine bar that pours a mean rum punch. Smoke-free, friendly regulars, jukebox vibes, plus clutch bar bites like wings and crispy thin-crust pizza... see you on the felt.

From the Venice newsletter, August 12, 2026

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When you want a no-nonsense classic done right, The Burg Bar & Grill brings a cozy, Cheers-like vibe, juicy burgers, and cold draft beers…

1752 Central Ave (St. Petersburg)

When you want a no-nonsense classic done right, The Burg Bar & Grill brings a cozy, Cheers-like vibe, juicy burgers, and cold draft beers to match. Grab the feta fries this week, settle in with a pint, and remember why St. Pete loves its staples.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Equal parts wine bar and American trattoria, Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria channels its grape-inspired name into fine-dining…

241 Central Ave (St. Petersburg)

Equal parts wine bar and American trattoria, Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria channels its grape-inspired name into fine-dining polish and a menu built for lingering. Use it for date nights, small celebrations, or let their team handle your private event without the headache.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 3, 2026

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Think burgers that hit the spot, tacos with personality, and a wide beer lineup you can actually explore while a stack of board games…

7220 Central Ave (St. Petersburg) · ✓ checked Sep 3

Think burgers that hit the spot, tacos with personality, and a wide beer lineup you can actually explore while a stack of board games stares you down. The Wheelhouse keeps it low-key and local, so rally the group chat and make it your default hang when you need easy fun.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Between gothic-chic decor, Romanian lore, and an impressively deep wine list, Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro nails cozy with a twist.…

111 2nd Ave NE Ste 102 (St. Petersburg)

Between gothic-chic decor, Romanian lore, and an impressively deep wine list, Dracula's Legacy Wine Bar & Bistro nails cozy with a twist. Slide in for flights, tastings, and pairings, hang for events or a game on TV, and leave plotting your next St. Pete night.

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Need a nudge to upgrade your weeknight glass? Rumours Wine Bar pours 25 wines by the glass, backs it with a 300-plus bottle wall, and pairs…

1807 Englewood Rd (Englewood)

Need a nudge to upgrade your weeknight glass? Rumours Wine Bar pours 25 wines by the glass, backs it with a 300-plus bottle wall, and pairs it with lite fare, live music, and tastings, so you can discover a new favorite close to home this week.

From the Venice newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Venice Locale

Nightlife

Part sip-and-paint hangout, part artisan marketplace, Venice Locale pairs creative workshops with a cozy, ever-rotating gift shop stocked…

121 Miami Ave W

Part sip-and-paint hangout, part artisan marketplace, Venice Locale pairs creative workshops with a cozy, ever-rotating gift shop stocked by local makers. Bring an idea, get matched with a local artist to craft a custom piece, then stick around to paint, sip, and feel pleasantly smug about supporting hometown talent.

From the Venice newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Set sail without leaving town at Gasparilla Distillery & Cocktail Bar, a relaxed rum bar where the spirits are made in-house and the…

2102 E 4th Ave (Tampa) · ✓ checked Sep 2

Set sail without leaving town at Gasparilla Distillery & Cocktail Bar, a relaxed rum bar where the spirits are made in-house and the pirate-themed tasting areas make every pour feel like treasure, whether you're grabbing a bottle for the home bar or hanging for cocktails with friends.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Feeling like nerding out on indie bottles or just finding a crushable pour? Delicious: An Interactive Taste Experience in the Warehouse…

420 22nd St S (St. Petersburg) · ✓ checked Aug 6

Feeling like nerding out on indie bottles or just finding a crushable pour?

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, August 11, 2026

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Part wine bar, part classroom, Savoir On Central pours thoughtful glasses, light bites, and sommelier-led classes open to everyone. Want…

2531 Central Ave (St. Petersburg)

Part wine bar, part classroom, Savoir On Central pours thoughtful glasses, light bites, and sommelier-led classes open to everyone. Want more depth? Memberships curated by Sommelier Sharon Mahoney bring exclusive selections, VIP perks, and tastings...

From the Wesley Chapel newsletter, September 12, 2026

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MacDinton's Irish Pub blends old-school hospitality with pub grub done right, from Shepherd's Pie to Sausage Rolls and Bangers & Mash.…

405 S Howard Ave (Tampa) · ✓ checked Sep 4

MacDinton's Irish Pub blends old-school hospitality with pub grub done right, from Shepherd's Pie to Sausage Rolls and Bangers & Mash. Expect live music, plenty of soccer on, and a laid back patio scene that's ideal for a casual night with the crew.

From the Homosassa Springs newsletter, September 12, 2026

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When the game matters and your living room couch just isn't bringing playoff energy, Linksters Tap Room Venice is that neighborhood spot…

2127 S Tamiami Trl

When the game matters and your living room couch just isn't bringing playoff energy, Linksters Tap Room Venice is that neighborhood spot where flat-screen TVs, easygoing vibes, and familiar faces make every matchup more fun. Part of a local chain, it's a reliable hangout for watching with fellow Venice folks.

From the Venice newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Trendy bar with disco balls and a dance floor, specializing in 1970s-1980s hits.

16 2nd St N (St. Petersburg)

Trendy bar with disco balls and a dance floor, specializing in 1970s-1980s hits.

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Skip waiting for January to feel the Gasparilla spirit and slip into Morgan’s Cove, a swashbuckler’s den with an expansive cocktail list…

210 N Morgan St (Tampa)

Skip waiting for January to feel the Gasparilla spirit and slip into Morgan’s Cove, a swashbuckler’s den with an expansive cocktail list built around rum, whiskey, and other spirits. Expect a seaside pirate tavern vibe, tall tales, and cocktails that turn even a random Tuesday into a mini adventure.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Wine on Water - Bar & Shop is a modern neighborhood spot with over 150 selections, a rotating by-the-glass list, and a soft spot for…

1057 Water St (Tampa)

Wine on Water - Bar & Shop is a modern neighborhood spot with over 150 selections, a rotating by-the-glass list, and a soft spot for small-production, sustainable wines. Drop in for weekly events like Layover In or sign up for classes and tastings to level up your palate.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 19, 2026

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If your week needs a little elegance without the fuss, Velvet Coupe Wine Lounge is pouring sustainable, organic wines, plus beer and…

25 Dr. M.L.K. Jr St S (St. Petersburg)

If your week needs a little elegance without the fuss, Velvet Coupe Wine Lounge is pouring sustainable, organic wines, plus beer and sparkling wine cocktails, with that just-right sophisticated ambiance.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, August 19, 2026

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Wines, craft beers, small plates & desserts are served at this classy spot with outdoor tables.

1600 E 7th Ave (Tampa)

Wines, craft beers, small plates & desserts are served at this classy spot with outdoor tables.

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Hotel Bar

Nightlife

Watering hole with an old-school, cosmopolitan feel offering craft cocktails & artful bar bites.

200 N Tampa St (Tampa)

Watering hole with an old-school, cosmopolitan feel offering craft cocktails & artful bar bites.

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Trendy venue with cozy atmosphere featuring self-serve wine taps and charcuterie boards.

3100 3rd Ave N (St. Petersburg)

Trendy venue with cozy atmosphere featuring self-serve wine taps and charcuterie boards.

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Stand-up venue featuring local comics and guest appearances.

1745 1st Ave S (St. Petersburg)

Stand-up venue featuring local comics and guest appearances.

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Flashy eatery & bar offering tapas, flatbreads & elaborate burgers amid mood lighting & TV screens.

610 S Armenia Ave (Tampa)

Flashy eatery & bar offering tapas, flatbreads & elaborate burgers amid mood lighting & TV screens.

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Wine bar with charcuterie, flatbread, and other snacks, plus cocktails.

811 N Tampa St (Tampa)

Wine bar with charcuterie, flatbread, and other snacks, plus cocktails.

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Engine No. 9

Nightlife

Chill American haunt featuring creative burgers, hot dogs & lots of craft beer, plus sports on TV.

56 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N (St. Petersburg)

Chill American haunt featuring creative burgers, hot dogs & lots of craft beer, plus sports on TV.

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The Hub Bar

Nightlife

Laid-back 1940s-vintage bar attracts a diverse clientele with strong drinks & an acclaimed jukebox.

719 N Franklin St (Tampa)

Laid-back 1940s-vintage bar attracts a diverse clientele with strong drinks & an acclaimed jukebox.

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Edge Rooftop Cocktail Lounge shakes up crafted cocktails with the freshest fruits, herbs and spices, plus a concise wine list and beers…

1207 S Howard Ave (Tampa)

Edge Rooftop Cocktail Lounge shakes up crafted cocktails with the freshest fruits, herbs and spices, plus a concise wine list and beers from craft microbreweries with four rotating taps. Add popular small plates with an Epicurean flourish and a vibrant mood under the night sky, then call it your midweek upgrade.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 14, 2026

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pour decision

Nightlife

Pour Decision pairs legit craft cocktails with mixology classes that actually teach you something, so your at-home creations stop tasting…

1811 N 15th St B (Tampa)

Pour Decision pairs legit craft cocktails with mixology classes that actually teach you something, so your at-home creations stop tasting like regret. It’s also a solid call for birthdays or group nights since they handle private parties and reservations, letting you focus on the important stuff...

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Whether you're craving a clean, quick lunch or a customizable dinner, Pokehub Venice lets you pile fresh poke, crunchy add-ins, and saucy…

1693 U.S. 41 Bypass S Unit A

Whether you're craving a clean, quick lunch or a customizable dinner, Pokehub Venice lets you pile fresh poke, crunchy add-ins, and saucy goodness over rice or wrap it into a sushi burrito. Local tip, go build-your-own and let them toss it just how you like.

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Cru Cellars is Tampa’s go-to for small‑production bottles with real-deal food to match. Slide in for a glass or snag a new favorite from…

2506 S MacDill Ave (Tampa)

Cru Cellars is Tampa’s go-to for small‑production bottles with real-deal food to match. Slide in for a glass or snag a new favorite from the retail shelves, maybe join their Wine Buying Club, then bask in the glow of your suddenly excellent taste.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Semi-upscale chain for classic Italian fare served family-style in a relaxed, polished space.

203 Westshore Plaza (Tampa)

Semi-upscale chain for classic Italian fare served family-style in a relaxed, polished space.

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Jekyll

Nightlife

Jekyll turns mixology into molecular, table-side theater, brewing and smoking drinks like the Lost in Translation while nostalgic hip hop…

705 S Oregon Ave (Tampa)

Jekyll turns mixology into molecular, table-side theater, brewing and smoking drinks like the Lost in Translation while nostalgic hip hop hums in the background. Tucked in Hyde Park, this speakeasy-feel lounge even runs themed high tea, so your weekend can swing from scones to smoky sips.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 7, 2026

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Hattricks

Nightlife

Downtown Tampa’s Hattricks blends hockey-obsessed sports bar energy with Irish pub vibes, delivering big-screen action, cold drafts, and…

107 S Franklin St (Tampa)

Downtown Tampa’s Hattricks blends hockey-obsessed sports bar energy with Irish pub vibes, delivering big-screen action, cold drafts, and signature wings you can order Dave’s Way. Worth the drive when the Bolts, Bucs, or Rays are on and you want legit pub fare with volume-up atmosphere.

From the Land O' Lakes newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Old-school, locals landmark vibes meet serious comfort food at Wally's Pour House, where homemade pierogis rotate monthly alongside potato,…

1730 S Tamiami Trl

Old-school, locals landmark vibes meet serious comfort food at Wally's Pour House, where homemade pierogis rotate monthly alongside potato, sauerkraut and cheeseburger versions, and the burgers are legit. Grab takeout when you need it, stash some frozen options for later, and pop in for the weekly karaoke chaos.

From the Venice newsletter, September 15, 2026

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L.F.G. Wine Bar is your South Tampa go-to when you want a serious selection without the snobbery, with 2,500+ bottles to explore, 120+…

3225 S MacDill Ave #125 (Tampa)

G. Wine Bar is your South Tampa go-to when you want a serious selection without the snobbery, with 2,500+ bottles to explore, 120+ half-bottles, and a crew packing 150+ years of wine wisdom. Pull up with a buddy and find your new favorite this week.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 13, 2026

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When you want an easy, no-fuss hang close to home, The Old Venice Pub hits the vibe. Part of a local family of pubs, it’s the kind of place…

100 W Venice Ave

When you want an easy, no-fuss hang close to home, The Old Venice Pub hits the vibe. Part of a local family of pubs, it’s the kind of place where you slide into a stool, catch up with neighbors, and let a well-earned pint do its job this week.

From the Venice newsletter, August 19, 2026

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Christiane's

Nightlife

Christiane's is a relaxed neighborhood wine bar where you can explore global varietals via self‑serve tasting machines, then settle into a…

442 2nd St N (St. Petersburg)

Christiane's is a relaxed neighborhood wine bar where you can explore global varietals via self‑serve tasting machines, then settle into a full pour with charcuterie, flatbreads, and other shareable bites. Expect friendly guidance, rotating tastings, themed pairings, and community nights that make St.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 15, 2026

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