20 legit Hillsborough County dive bars, and why you should get a drink at all of them

The local watering hole has long been a source of comfort for what ails you. There's just something about the sight of…

By Jourdan Ducat

Retreat 
123 S Hyde Park Ave., Tampa, 813-254-2014
At this long-running bar across from the University of Tampa, you’re likely to be sitting next to a service industry worker who’s either just finished a shift or is having some liquid courage before starting one. It can get pretty packed with the college crowd on nights and weekends, so your best bet is grab a seat at happy hour if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience. This is another spot that allows smoking indoors, plus all day specials and bar snacks to soak up that Rumplemintz shot you just did with the bartender. 
   Photo via Retreat/Facebook
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25 iconic Tampa Bay dive bars everyone should visit at least once

Tampa Bay is home to dozens of hole-in-the-wall watering holes (we’re not kidding, most of these places don’t have their own websites),…

By CL Staff

The Hub
    719 N Franklin St., Tampa
    The Hub is one of the oldest bars in Tampa, founded in 1949. The classic dive bar is casual and easygoing, with a jukebox and graffiti etched on the walls. The pours are famously heavy, and you really never know who will pop in here on any given night. 
    Photo via Brian Mahar
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25 hidden bars in Tampa Bay, and how to find them all

Some of these watering holes are just off the beaten path, some are tucked away in basements and alleys, and some you…

By CL Staff

Ichicoro Ane
    260 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL
    In the basement of Station House you’ll find this Japanese restaurant, offering ramen and cocktails. They also have sake for those interested in broadening their alcohol horizons. 
    Photo via Ichicoro Ane/Instagram
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