The Mermaid Tavern’s perfect balance of ingredients has kept it popular since opening in November 2011. An exceptional wine list, beer selection and homemade sangria specials get people in the door, and the super-friendly staff, vintage “Under the Sea” decor and nightly events — including the popular BYOV (Bring Your Own Vinyl) Wednesday nights — keep people coming back. It is also one of the few bars in the neighborhood open until 3 a.m. If you visit, please don’t insult the bar and the neighborhood by saying “This belongs in South Tampa.” It belongs to Seminole Heights. 6719 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-238-5618.
This article appears in Sep 20-26, 2012.