As we approach May, it generally means two things for Tampa Bay: The snowbirds start to head back up North, and the Tampa Bay Lightning playoff run begins. If you can't make the games in person, we have you covered with some great options to catch the game outside of your home. Here are Shane and Jeramiah's favorite places to catch a game, and for this purpose, we are including downtown Tampa because of the proximity to South Tampa, and the arena.
Shane's Favorite South Tampa Sports Bars:
- Hattricks (Downtown Tampa)
Why?
"Friendly bartenders + Multiple Big TVs + Good Food = Great sports bar. The formula is not complicated. This place is a natural through, as it's a hockey themed sports bar with probably the best wings in town."
- SoHo Backyard (SoHo)
Why?
"See above formula. Located on SoHo, this place is locally owned and operated, and I can always appreciate an owner who is actively involved in their business. Great staff and management."
- SoHo Saloon (Soho)
Why?
"Located just one block away from SoHo, but just far enough to keep the riff-raff away. Locally owned and operated, it's a great neighborhood bar straight out of an episode of Cheers. No one is going to care if you are a neighbor or a celebrity. Not a large menu, but everything they do, they do it well.
- The Dog Saloon (Palma Ceia)
Why?
"It's a South Tampa classic, I don't know how else to say it. Great wings, you can play pool, darts, or golden tee. Parking is limited, but who cares."
- Bel Mar Saloon (Bel Mar)
Why?
"Another great neighborhood bar. A little on the smaller size, but there is an outdoor patio and an abundance of TVs. Locally owned an operated with a hands on approach, and great bar food."
- Dead Bob's
Why?
"Just get the burger, plenty of TVs, good prices. A hidden gem."
- Anchor Bar (Downtown and Davis Islands)
Why?
"I don't know if it has any affiliation with the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY, but it reminds me to the time I spent in Buffalo and how I don't have to deal with cold weather anymore in Tampa."
Jeramiah's Favorite South Tampa Sports Bars:
- Ducky's (North Hyde Park)
Why?
"It's a more modern version of a sports bar with some healthier food options."
- Sparkman's Wharf (Downtown Tampa)
Why?
"They project the games on big screen, and if you're not sure what you want to eat there are about 15 different options. They usually do pre-game parties here as well."
- Hattricks (Downtown Tampa)
Why?
"Ditto what Shane said, and I know the owners."
- Press Box (South Tampa)
Why?
"It's another South Tampa classic like the dog saloon. I think they have 100 TVs in there."
- SoHo Backyard (SoHo)
"Ditto what Shane said again, and I went to school with the owners."
- Irish 31 (Hyde Park)
Why?
"There is a patio with TV's, and if it's too hot we can go inside. It's in Hyde Park Village, so we can either pre-game or post game at another location within walking distance."
Posted by Shane Vanderson on
Leave A Comment