Prepare yourself to remember yet another password you’ll probably end up forgetting, because downtown St. Petersburg just got another speakeasy. Dirty Laundry recently opened in the Grand Central District at 1742 Central Ave., and its kitschy pseudo-laundromat exterior is set to draw speakeasy-lovers from across the Tampa Bay area.
To get in, pay a visit to the inconspicuous pay phone under the neon “Talk Dirty to Me” sign inside of the laundromat, receive the numerical password, and then punch those numbers on the pay phone keypad. A quick push on a washing machine leads you into St. Pete’s newest speakeasy concept.
Dimly-lit and covered in tropical plants, there’s Latin influence in every crevice of this Havana-inspired bar. In addition to its decor, Caribbean flare also inspires its cocktail and tapas menu. Signature drinks include the Havana mule, strawberry jalapeno and mango guava mojitos and the non-alcoholic pineapple strawberry fresca, while small dishes like ceviche, tostones, and lechon sandwiches occupy the tapas menu.
There’s also a stage for performances, so expect some live music radiating from the back when you visit this new speakeasy. It’s outside patio area is populated with daybeds and lounge chairs, in case you have the urge to light up a cigar or something.
And according to ILovetheBurg, Dirty Laundry will also be a Cuban coffee-slinging cafe by day, as well as a cocktail-slinging bar at night. You can hang out amongst the washers and dryers in the front from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., but after that, you’ll be escorted into the speakeasy portion. Alongside coffee and espresso, the daytime cafe will also serve breakfast sandwiches and other grab-and-go food options.
Dirty Laundry is the newest concept from Stephen Schrutt, owner of Hunger & Thirst Restaurant Group—the same folks behind downtown St. Pete heavy hitters The Avenue, No Vacancy, Park & Rec and Tropicana Field’s BallPark & Rec.
St. Petersburg is no stranger to speakeasy concepts. The Saint and Bar Chica are currently leading the secretive bar scene, with Dirty Laundry being the newest competition yet.
Keep up with the latest Dirty Laundry updates on via @dirtylaundrystpete on Instagram.
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