Here’s a look at Red Mesa’s new rooftop bar, DeSanto. Go see it for yourself in person. Credit: James Adair PA

'Member when CL covered what Red Mesa Events had planned for downtown St. Pete earlier this year? Well, a portion of the events venue has quietly opened above its older sibling, Red Mesa Cantina, at 128 Third St. S.

According to Cantina general manager Andy Jay, Red Mesa Events' kitchen and bar — plus the rooftop bar, which is really its own experience, not a part of the new venue — are now open to the public from 5 p.m. on. There's no soft or grand opening planned, but the hours of operation may soon be adjusted.

At the Cantinita Balcony Bar, expect small-plate items that complement the space. Credit: James Adair PA

"We stay open as long as the business is dictating," Jay told CL in a message. "We now have three unique bars on three different floors, with three distinct food menus. It is a VERY exciting time in downtown St Pete!"

The outdoor, second-level balcony bar, Cantinita, offers a range of craft beer and spirits, paired with a one-of-a-kind menu of small plates, while the full-service DeSanto Rooftop Bar, where different small-plate items are served, features a carefully curated selection of cocktails and wine.

Red Mesa Events consists of Cantinita and the elegant, versatile main ballroom called La Florida (also on the second floor, but still in the final stages of completion). The multipurpose Cantinita can be booked with — or without — La Florida, and when it's not reserved for a private event, it will act like a pop-up-style bar for downtown revelers.

As for the rooftop DeSanto, it's a chill, low-key place where the Red Mesa folks could see themselves hanging out off the clock.

"It's an adult bar where we serve amazing cocktails that have been dialed in by a crew of amazing palates that can work with a half-dozen gins the way a painter works with shades of blue. The differences are huge in the final outcome," said marketing director Edgar Veytia. "So, we have a really nice space on the roof with great cocktails and a menu of small plate items that are different again from what is served at Cantina or Cantinita."

Red Mesa Events has been scheduling bookings for some time now, and the first ones — which include corporate Christmas parties and wedding receptions — begin in December. Veytia said the final touches will be installed over the next few days.

Editor's note: This story has been updated since its original publication.