According to Free the Cork's website, the concept has over 150 international wines by the bottle and over 50 by the glass. Chef Nelson Perkins will be in the kitchen creating internationally-inspired small plates with wine pairing recommendations.
“We heard about the historic transformation taking place at Water Street Tampa and wanted to be a part of the city’s ongoing renaissance,” sommelier Kristene Pommrehn told TBBJ. “Nearby Tampa’s top cultural and entertainment destinations and just steps from the waterfront, Sparkman Wharf is the perfect place to share our passion for incredible food and wine with the local community.”
Thankfully, you won't need to need to brave the Sparkman crowds to get into the wine bar; Free the Cork's layout includes an indoor, air-conditioned central bar surrounded by seating and a private room to host events, wine tastings and special wine-pairing dinners. Wanting to get a taste while letting your kid get rid of some energy on the shuffleboard court? Free the Cork has a grab and go window serving up wines by the glass and bottle, craft beer, European-style sandos, cheese and charcuterie, breakfast biscuits, and coffee
Safe to say this spot won't be safe from the signature Sparkman lines riddled with eager parents wanting to get their buzz on.
More details to come as the opening date approaches.
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This article appears in Oct 10-17, 2019.