We love “mom ’n’ pop” as an idea, don’t we? It connotes community, neighborliness, authenticity. But when it comes right down to it, most of us don’t want to pay more or travel out of our way to support our locally based, non-corporate merchants. But here’s the thing with 4th Street Liquor Mart: You don’t have to pay more. The beer and the hooch and the wine carry roughly the same price tag as that of ABC or other warehouse-type outlets. As for location: The place is right on one of the main thoroughfares in St. Pete. And at big box liquor stores, you don’t get proprietors like long-time local residents John and Kris Milewski, Polish natives who’ve retained a hint of an accent from their homeland. The husband and wife are two of the most charming, friendly, helpful shop-keeps you’re ever apt to encounter. They know their stuff about alcohol, too, and can make helpful suggestions. 7208 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg, 727-522-5372.
