A great cocktail speaks for itself. Some of the best may appear simple in the glass, but each sip reveals expertly layered flavors and balance. Across Tampa Bay, bartenders are perfecting the art of combining spirits, syrups and thoughtful inclusions—creating drinks that tell a story from the first taste. Whether you prefer smoky, spirit-forward pours or lighter, herbaceous blends, this guide spotlights some of the region’s most elevated cocktails.
Cantaloupe Paloma – Miko Lakkapää, Bar Manager
Bar Terroir | 3636 Henderson Blvd., Tampa | (813) 535-7922
Bar Terroir, Tampa’s newest French concept, serves elevated cocktails and inventive French fare in an intimate bistro setting. The cocktail list strikes a balance between refined classics and unique creations, such as the light and refreshing Cantaloupe Paloma.
Coconut Margarita – Lauren Pizzo, Bar Manager
Streetlight Taco | 4004 Henderson Blvd., Tampa | (813) 217-9158
A Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, Streetlight Taco’s cocktail program focuses on fresh-squeezed juices, house-made syrups, and small-batch tequilas and mezcals—but its driving force is the expansive margarita selection. Escape to the tropics with the Coconut Margarita.
World Famous
Palihouse Hyde Park | 1509 W. Swann Ave., Tampa | (813) 820-1685
Simple yet refined, the cocktails at Palihouse Hyde Park put a twist on the classics. Made with housemade ingredients, the menu offers a warm, curated experience with drinks like the spiced, whiskey-forward World Famous.
World Famous
Castle & Key Restoration Rye
Benedictine
Bitter Bianco
Angostura Bitters
Memories Of Capri
Jekyll Hyde Park | 1500 W. Swann Ave., Tampa | (813) 358-2037
Each page of the cocktail menu at Jekyll Hyde Park tells a story of evolution and ephemeral moments. “Memories of Capri” evokes the Italian seaside with tomato water shrub, balsamic, citrus and Italian liqueurs. The memory transports you to the Italian seaside in a bygone era. Relax, soak up the sun, and revel in the nostalgia and Mediterranean charm.
Macallan 12 Dbl Cask Smoked Old Fashioned
Tommy Deaddio, General Manager | Leah Peters, Bartender
Corona Cigar Co. | 4142 W. Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa | (813) 513-7560
While cigars and rare brown spirits are the main draw at Corona Cigar Co., the cocktail menu is crafted to complement them, using high-quality ingredients and expertly balanced flavors—like the popular Smoked Old Fashioned, served in a smoke-filled glass.
Macallan 12 Dbl Cask Smoked Old Fashioned
Macallan 12-year Double Cask
Angostura Bitters
Cane Sugar
The Perfumer
SiX Tampa
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street | 510 Water St., Tampa | (813) 314-6666
Inspired by Indian spice markets, this gin-vodka fusion is one of many globally influenced, locally inspired cocktails at SiX Tampa.
The Exclusive – Kayley Yancer, Manager
My Rich Uncle | 260 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg | (727) 200-1979
Since opening, My Rich Uncle has evolved into a refined cocktail bar with a martini-focused menu—featuring clean builds and bold flavors, from the cucumber-basil “The Exclusive” to seasonal favorites like strawberry shortcake and key lime pie.
The Exclusive
Gin
St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
Fresh Cucumber
Basil
Lemon Juice
Lime Juice
Simple Syrup
Basil Breeze – Zach Covert, Bar Manager
82 Degrees
The Saint Hotel | 7203 Sunset Way, St Pete Beach | (727) 292-0282
Inspired by its coastal surroundings, the cocktail menu at 82 Degrees features light spirits, fruit-forward flavors and edible garnishes—balancing the feel of an elevated craft lounge with the laid-back vibe of the nearby beach.
Basil Breeze
Ketel One Vodka
Blackberries
Basil
Lime Juice
Agave
Bourbon Optional
Cordova Club – Austin Phillips, Bartender
The Scott
The Cordova Inn | 253 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg | (727) 822-7500
Located inside the historic Cordova Inn, The Scott offers a laid-back vibe and a menu of craft coffee, specialty drinks and elevated cocktails. Try the Cordova Club, a gin-based cocktail with egg white and raspberry.
Cordova Club
St. George Gin
Lemon
Dry Vermouth
Egg White
Raspberry
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