13 Best Dive Bars in Tampa [2023 UPDATE]

Tampa is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and dive bars are a staple of that scene. These bars offer a unique experience that is often hard to find in more upscale establishments. Dive bars are typically laid-back and unpretentious, with a focus on cheap drinks, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere.

For those looking to explore the best dive bars in Tampa, there are plenty of options to choose from. From historic spots that have been around for decades to newer establishments that have quickly gained a following, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these dive bars are worth checking out if you want to experience the true essence of Tampa’s nightlife.

Historical Best Dive Bars in Tampa

Tampa has a rich history when it comes to dive bars. These establishments have been around for decades and have become a staple of the city’s nightlife scene. Here are two historical dive bars in Tampa that are worth checking out.

The Hub Bar

The Hub Bar, located in downtown Tampa, has been around since 1949. This dive bar is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. The interior of the bar is adorned with vintage photos and memorabilia, giving it a nostalgic feel. The Hub Bar is a great spot to grab a cold beer and catch up with friends.

Tiny Tap Tavern

Tiny Tap Tavern is another historical dive bar in Tampa. This establishment has been around since 1937 and has a loyal following of regulars. The bar is small and cozy, with a jukebox and pool table for entertainment. The bartenders are friendly and welcoming, making it a great spot for locals and visitors alike.

Both The Hub Bar and Tiny Tap Tavern are great places to experience the history of Tampa’s dive bar scene. These establishments have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among locals and tourists.

Beachfront Best Dive Bars in Tampa

If you’re looking for a dive bar with a beachfront view, Tampa has quite a few options. Here are two of the best:

Undertow Beach Bar

Located on St. Pete Beach, Undertow Beach Bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. This beachfront dive bar has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its live music and daily drink specials.

One of the unique features of Undertow Beach Bar is its indoor/outdoor seating. The bar has an open-air deck that overlooks the beach, as well as an indoor area with air conditioning for those hot Florida days.

The Bends

Another great beachfront dive bar is The Bends, located in downtown St. Petersburg. The bar has a grungy, divey vibe and is known for its cheap drinks and live music.

The Bends has a small outdoor seating area that overlooks the water, as well as an indoor area with a pool table and jukebox. The bar also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music shows.

If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a drink and enjoy the beachfront view, Undertow Beach Bar and The Bends are both great options.

Themed Dive Bars in Tampa

If you’re looking for a unique dive bar experience in Tampa, you might want to check out some of the themed bars in the area. Here are two of the most popular options:

Mermaid Tavern

The Mermaid Tavern is a nautical-themed dive bar that has been a local favorite for years. The walls are adorned with ship’s wheels, anchors, and other maritime decor, and there are even mermaid statues and paintings throughout the bar. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. They have a great selection of craft beers on tap, as well as a variety of cocktails and spirits.

One of the highlights of the Mermaid Tavern is their outdoor patio area, which is perfect for enjoying a drink on a warm Florida evening. They also have live music on most nights, featuring local bands and musicians.

The Dirty Shame

If you’re looking for a dive bar with a bit of a wild side, The Dirty Shame is the place to be. This biker-themed bar is located in the heart of Ybor City and is known for its rowdy atmosphere and cheap drinks. The walls are covered in biker memorabilia, and there are even motorcycles parked inside the bar.

The Dirty Shame is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it’s not uncommon to see people dancing on the bar or taking shots with the bartenders. They have a great selection of beers and spirits, and the prices are some of the best in town.

Overall, if you’re looking for a unique dive bar experience in Tampa, these themed bars are definitely worth checking out. Whether you’re in the mood for a nautical adventure or a wild night out, there’s something for everyone at these two popular spots.

Best Dive Bars in Tampa With Live Music

Tampa is known for its vibrant nightlife, and dive bars are a significant part of it. These bars offer a unique experience, with live music being a staple in many of them. Here are two of the best dive bars in Tampa for live music:

The Emerald Bar

The Emerald Bar is located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood and has been a local favorite since 1949. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and live music. Many local musicians play at the Emerald Bar, and the bar is a great place to discover new talent.

The bar has a stage where bands play, and the sound system is excellent. The Emerald Bar has an extensive selection of craft beers, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly. If you’re looking for a place to relax, have a beer, and listen to live music, the Emerald Bar is the place to be.

The Blue Note

The Blue Note is another great dive bar in Tampa that offers live music. It is located in the Seminole Heights neighborhood and has been around since the 1940s. The bar has a vintage feel, with a jukebox, pool table, and dartboard.

The Blue Note has live music every night of the week, with a mix of local and national acts. The bar has a great selection of beer and cocktails, and the prices are reasonable. The Blue Note is a great place to hang out with friends, listen to live music, and enjoy a few drinks.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a dive bar in Tampa with live music, the Emerald Bar and the Blue Note are two of the best options. Both bars offer a unique experience and are a great place to discover new music.

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Conclusion

Tampa has a variety of dive bars that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere or a lively crowd, there is a dive bar in Tampa that will suit your needs. From the historic Ybor City to the trendy South Howard district, Tampa has plenty of options for those who want to enjoy a cold beer and good company.

The dive bars in Tampa offer a unique experience that cannot be found in other types of bars. They are often unpretentious and provide a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can socialize and have a good time. Many of these bars have been around for decades and have become local institutions that are beloved by the community.

One of the great things about dive bars is that they are often affordable. Many of the bars in Tampa offer cheap drinks and food, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, dive bars often have a loyal following of regulars who are friendly and welcoming to newcomers.

Overall, Tampa’s dive bars offer a unique and enjoyable experience that is worth checking out. Whether you are a local or just passing through, be sure to visit some of these bars and experience the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that they provide.