Hunger + Thirst Group founder Stephen Schrutt closed St. Petersburg's nearly 3-year-old Kings Street Food Counter earlier this month, without revealing the new concept he had planned for the space. As of Thursday afternoon, however, the 2,600-square-foot secret's out.
Schrutt has announced that a Florida-inspired bar and restaurant called No Vacancy will take over the former home of Kings at 937 Central Ave. According to a statement from the founder, the EDGE District gathering place — slated to open in fall — will give off "Florida motel vibes."
"No Vacancy will bring customers into a fun place, a vibe of staying and socializing. The food, drinks, service and atmosphere will make this a fun new Downtown St. Pete (DTSP) hangout that we really feel is the right fit into The EDGE district. We always want our concepts to be known for being fun and approachable places," Schrutt said.
Indoor and outdoor full-liquor bars and a patio lounge area are highlights of No Vacancy, which will draw inspiration from Lisa Gilmore Design and Wax & Hive. Guests should also look forward to specialty drinks, alongside the Sunshine State and island-style bites.
Planned hours of operation are 4 to 3 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday through Sunday.
Joining downtown St. Pete's Avenue Eat + Drink and Park & Rec, No Vacancy is the latest member of the Hunger + Thirst family. Schrutt has started filling front- and back-of-house positions at the forthcoming bar and restaurant, and interested candidates should send their résumés via email to [email protected].
