National Dive Bar Day falls on July 7, and this year it happens to be on a Sunday, which is arguably one of the better days to imbibe at your favorite hole in the wall.
In recent years, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay has published lists for both Pinellas and Hillsborough dives, including ones that often get overlooked. Many of the beloved haunts have been around for years, and remain staple must-tries everyone should visit at least once.
Some watering holes, however, have rebranded, including Barefoot Billy’s Friendly Tavern, now known as The Friendly Tarpon Tavern. The nearby Tapper Pub changed ownership and went non-smoking at the beginning of the year, and more recently got rid of the nostalgic red booths and added outdoor seating.
Others have sadly closed, including both of Tampa’s Elmer’s locations, plus South Tampa’s I Don’t Care Bar & Grill, meaning Gandy Boulevard’s Warehouse Liquor Store and Bar is the last place in Hillsborough County where you can still smoke inside and order food in house.
Ybor City also lost First Chance, Last Chance and Boneyard, but Dirty Shame and Reservoir Bar are thankfully still going strong.
Pinellas didn’t escape changes to its dive scene either, with Steve’s going non-smoking and Abbey Road permanently closing. Though it’s not recent news, all dive bar enthusiasts are encouraged to pour one out for the bygone Wilson’s, which is sorely missed by regulars and casual fans who may have recognized the spot as the exterior shots for the original “Magic Mike” movie.
As always, bring cash and check your expectations at the door, but most importantly, get ready for a damn good time. Cheers to the Tampa Bay dive bars that have lasted through the years.
Photo via Google Maps
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