It has been a hot minute since Tampa hosted a dueling piano bar.
In 2012, Channelside said goodbye to Howl at the Moon, a dueling piano bar chain that has locations scattered throughout the nation including Orlando. Those who enjoy the excitement and energy of pianists finessing the keys don't have to road trip any longer to get their fix thanks to Showbar Ybor.
The new piano bar made its debut last weekend at 1613 E. 7th Ave., within the former Tequilas space.
The roughly 8,000-square-foot space is designed to connect guests with the live local talent. That means pianos stationed throughout the bar - one at the entrance to welcome guests, two on stage to perform, and another fixed to the wall that is to be played between sets. Damn, talk about showmanship.
When it comes to layout, the piano bar is set up in sections. The stage, which is surrounded by eight tables, seating six guests each. Followed by the middle section, hosting a VIP booth as well as a handful of tables. The back area provides standing room as well as tables for guests to dine or lounge. If you want to enjoy your tunes with some fresh air, Showbar also has a partially covered outdoor seating area for guests.
Showbar boasts a full bar, allowing guests to choose from a lineup of signature cocktails or snag a classic sip of their choosing. Some cocktails are even adorned with little rubber ducks.
A representative from Showbar shared that the piano bar is looking to be a casual joint, ideal for date night, a music lover's hub or a girl's night out. No need to pop on your slacks.
The food menu is comprised of bar bites like the tableside nachos. "Tableside" means the server arrives at your table with a bucket of nachos and pours the entire contents on your covered table to be devoured. The dish is made to feed a party of four or a couple with a big appetite.
Showbar Ybor is open four days a week, Thurs.-Sun. On Thursdays, you can slide by for a cocktail from 7:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m. to enjoy a live band. On Friday and Saturday, Showbar opens at 5 p.m. for happy hour and hosts dueling piano performances from 7 p.m.-2:30 a.m. The bar transforms for Sundays to host a drag queen brunch.
To ensure the safety of guests and staff, Showbar Ybor is following all Hillsborough County ordinances in relation to COVID-19. Tables are socially distanced, masks are required for entry and when moving about the bar.
Support local journalism in these crazy days. Our small but mighty team is working tirelessly to bring you up to the minute news on how Coronavirus is affecting Tampa and surrounding areas. Please consider making a one time or monthly donation to help support our staff. Every little bit helps.
Want to know everything going on with Tampa Bay's food and drink scene? Sign up for our Bites newsletter.
