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25 lounges, speakeasies and hidden bars in Tampa Bay, and how to find them all

By Sofía García Vargas

From speakeasies where a password is always required, to laundromats that are actually great watering holes, and no-frills lounges that are way off the beaten path, here are a few hidden gems in the Tampa Bay area.

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Ciro’s Tampa

2109 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, 813-251-0022
This classic cocktail bar is located inside the historic Bayshore Royal Building and requires a password to get in. It specializes in unique and unexpected drink concoctions that elevate the exclusive-feeling experience.
Photo via Ciro’s/Facebook

Photo via Dirty Laundry/Website

Dirty Laundry

1742 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-493-0040
You better pick up the phone when it rings in this ordinary-looking laundromat. A voice will tell you a code to punch into the washing machine, unveiling a vibrant indoor space and a relaxing outdoor patio.

CW’s Gin Joint

633 N. Franklin St., Tampa, 813-816-1446
As a throwback to a time when “style and gentility” persisted, Carolyn Wilson (CW) created a space with a fine range of cocktails and food suited for sophisticated palates.
Photo via CW’s Gin Joint/Website

Lee’s Grocery

2210 N. Central Ave., Tampa, 813-374-0179
Originally built in 1884 as a local grocery store that catered to the local community of migrant workers, Lee’s four-year-old makeover means the joint now offers stone baked pizza, arguably the best wings in the Heights and craft beer, plus package sales available for takeout only.
Photo via Lee’s Grocery/Facebook

Photo by Skyler June via inbetweendays.co/Instagram

In Between Days

2340 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg, no reservations
You won’t have to knock when you arrive at Florida’s first Tokyo-style listening bar with its own sound hi-fidelity system and signature food, drinks and even craft sake.