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    CW's Gin Joint

    4.2 (576 reviews)
    Open 5:00 pm - 2:00 am (Next day)
    Updated over 3 months ago

    CW's Gin Joint Photos

    Business Info

    CW'S GIN JOINT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Classy

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    Oysters with Mignonette
    Lizeth S.

    Go back to the roaring 20's with a slamming good band and drinks that make you feel that you've touched gold. Roger the bar manager keeps the ice cool and spirits high. There's nothing I wouldn't recommend about this joint. Last time I was there tho, the bartender that I've never seen or met before was rather curt, short and he didn't bother to ask if we wanted any food. As a regular I was taken aback as I brought in a group of 6 with me. He promptly took the menus and walked away. Yikes.

    Steven O.

    Ordered the Horseshoe Lagoon because I had a tequila based drink at dinner. Rodrick was very short and called it a glorified margarita. It wasn't even close. Much sweeter and not good. They were closing soon so I didn't bother sending it back and he didn't check on me at all. Very happy that I've had much better experiences here compared to tonight

    Stephen R.

    Stopped in for happy hour drinks - what a surprise when you step inside. Big roomy space with swanky vibe. We sat at the bar - and had a great experience chatting with the bartender. Nothing too experimental when it comes to the drinks - but they were expertly presented. Definitely a treat when in Tampa and looking for an upscale bar experience.

    The rest of our meat and cheese platter. Delicious!
    Elizabeth S.

    Absolutely fabulous night at The Gin Joint. Proof that if you stay flexible, you can have an amazing night. We got there too late to get a table, so we grabbed a spot at the bar. What a fun night! The place is gorgeous and the staff is warm and welcoming. Derek, our bartender, recommended drinks and apps. We enjoyed an old fashioned, a Peaches be Crazy and a cheese and meat platter immensely. We will definitely be back for dinner. It felt as if we stepped back in time to a prohibition era speakeasy. Definitely worth the trip into the city!

    Floral French 75
    Jerr W.

    Wow! This restaurant was a 10 out of 10. From the moment you walk in you feel the ambience and the vibes. The decor and the artwork in there really set the tone for an amazing dinner and the jazz music... Which is live seals the deal. Our waitress, Issa, was absolutely stellar. I was there celebrating a birthday so good service was a plus. We ordered the crab dip, the scallop pasta, the half chicken meal, and the risotto. The star of the show was the pasta with the scallops. But then, after dinner we ordered the poundcake and honestly, I would go back just for that. Great food, great music, and the location was also great. Be sure to valet as the on Street parking was about $35 and the valet was only $15.

    Gin & tonic
    Watts M.

    If you had to describe CW's Gin Joint in one word, it would have to be "classy." Low lighting, live jazz, comfortable seats, friendly and efficient service, clubby atmosphere (in the best sense) -- it's the kind of place you want to linger at, probably over a gin and tonic. And, yes, the gin selection is amazing. If you're a gin drinker, it's paradise, and if you're not, they might just be able to convert you: gin's not-so-well-kept secret is that it's a great mixer. The drinks here are top-notch, down to the presentation. (It's the kind of place that serves you Coke in a big wine glass, so it still feels special.) It's not just a gin joint, though -- the food's top-notch, too. On my second visit, I had the grouper, poached in wine and then broiled to get the skin crispy; on a previous visit, I had the pork chop, which was good then but is, based on a companion's entree the second time around, now great, brined in sweet tea. (I'm not sure how you even make a sweet tea brine!) All the sides are good, too, even if one companion thought the green beans were a little too al dente. (I liked them as is.) The dessert I had, a bourbon vanilla pound cake, was also fantastic. I'll definitely be back, probably to try the gin flight -- just not on a night I'm driving any time soon after.

    The vibe! The live band! 5-star!
    Kimberly W.

    Absolutely LOVE this place. We recently celebrated my friend's 50th birthday here. The drinks are on point! Music and ambience is a vibe. A must spot to visit.

    Brussel sprouts
    Cristina P.

    This hidden spot feels like stepping into the 1920s; super cool vibe with vintage decor and a live band giving old songs a jazzy twist. Drinks were amazing! You can tell the bartenders really know what they're doing. Solid wine list too. Food-wise, the Lobster Mac and Cheese is a must. Local greens salad with honey dressing was my favorite , and the Brussels sprouts hit the spot. The baked Oysters were just okay--probably wouldn't get them again. I would recommend ordering tapas style to try a lot of variety! This spot is worth checking out if you're into specialty cocktails and fun atmosphere!

    Bridget S.

    Wonderful ambiance. We came in early so we didn't need a reservation for the bar area. Service was helpful and it was all around good vibes. Drinks were delicious and I could see myself coming here again when I'm back in town. Since this was our first stop of the evening, we shared the chargrilled octopus and it was perfection

    Delaina B.

    I came here a few years ago for a birthday but hadn't been back until recently. The drinks were delicious and the atmosphere is perfect for a date night or fun night out with friends. Their espresso martini was delicious. I didn't try the food and you definitely need a reservation as the place fills up with and there really is no seating without

    Drink time with mom
    Leah M.

    I LOVE THIS PLACE! Service, food and ambiance is TOP TIER! I get the same thing every time the Lobster Mac and cheese and the fried artichokes. This time I added in the panko eggplant and it was amazing. I always go and get drinks and split apps with my mom and we love it! This is a great place to stop at before going to the Tampa Theater. It's so pretty inside and the staff is always friendly.

    Alisha P.

    This is my new favorite place! From the time we walked in until we left it was an amazing experience. Very nice atmosphere and ambiance. There was no live music the day that we went, but it was still a nice vibe. Our server was amazing and attentive! The food was really good! My steak was cooked perfectly and well done. The drinks were on point! I have nothing but great things to say about this spot! I believe the bar is walk up, so I liked that. I thought it by reservation only, but now that I know I can just drop in for a quick drink and bite.

    Jillian O.

    I love this place. The charcuterie board is to die for and I have went just to have a drink and the board. The ambiance is kinda dark and sexy and the service is always top notch. The food was good but nothing that I'm like oh my gosh I go back for that except the board.

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    CW's Gin Joint Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - CW's Gin Joint

    Do they still have the shrimp and grits?

    I'm pretty sure they do, however they change their menu seasonally

    Do you have to wear masks?

    Not at this time

    Can you come in just for the bar?

    Sure

    Is there a dress code?

    Business casual to over the top formal. Your Choice it's an experience

    Will it accommodate large group of 10?

    Yes, must make reservations prior however

    How late is the kitchen open to serve entrees?

    What days of the week do they have music?

    It's a modern take on classic Jazz. Everytime we have been there they have had live music. Generally with 2-3 musicians including the singer. The music is great and the best… Read more

    Do they take reservation? What time is the best time to go on Saturday night?

    Yes they do. Reservations are a must for Friday-Sunday's. There's not really a best time to go, but earlier or later reservations will be easier to get than prime times.

    What time do they serve food till?

    12am

    What is the noise level? When does the band start?

    Not sure about the bad but the noise level is moderate. They do a great job of only allowing an limited number of patrons, so it feels busy but never crowded.

    What type of music does the band play?

    I've never heard anything but great jazz!

    View All 14 Questions

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    Morgan’s Cove - Gochujang Wings

    Morgan’s Cove

    4.4(72 reviews)
    0.2 miDowntown Tampa

    What a DOPE, PIRATE THEMED, speakeasy to go to grab some delicious drinks! Totally blown away!…read more Tucked, downtown Tampa you enter through a secret bookcase door and you enter a very low key pirate bar! Lighting is dim, which is part of the concept. (Auto flash is needed for pics) The joint, is VERY CLEAN! The staff is awesome and very attentive! They understand process. The drinks are SOOO WELL MADE! I had a Zombie as my first drink, and it is very well presented and STRONG! I prefer,my first drink at an establishment to be strong cause then I can lighten it up later. Then I had a Rum Barrel, not as strong, but well presented and delicious! Note: Prices for drinks are worth every dime! They have a small food menu, but everything on the menu looked delicious, but I did not eat there. This speakeasy is attached to a British pub which I went for food after. (Review to come) All-in-all great spot to come and have a drink you are well treated, appreciated and just a fun experience! I will DEFINITELY come back here for a delicious drink and DEFINITELY will try something off the food menu. I'll just make sure next time I won't go there after a big breakfast lol! Five stars alllllll day long!!!

    These are the coolest places in Fla. Secret cryptic entrances with a speakeasy like ambiance…read more Hidden passages and a clear throwback to the days of prohibition. With all that was going on, it's a wonder we could find the exit after all the drinks. The pirate theme was the caveat. A perfectly dimmed atmosphere and willing performers that can conjure up delicious delights. The red light and point on music only enhanced the experience. Plenty of signature drinks, a dozen different beers and even a few dishes are offered. They stir a nice whiskey sour. It's really what suits your fancy. Fear not. They have mocktails, too! 12/25

    Photos
    Morgan’s Cove - Secret entrance to the speakeasy!

    Secret entrance to the speakeasy!

    Morgan’s Cove - Rum Barrel

    Rum Barrel

    Morgan’s Cove - The bar area, tables surrounding it and another little closed off section.

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    The bar area, tables surrounding it and another little closed off section.

    Hotel Bar - Cocktails

    Hotel Bar

    4.3(229 reviews)
    0.2 miDowntown Tampa
    $$

    The bartenders really know what they're doing at Hotel Bar! I'm not usually a dirty martini person,…read morebut one of them took the time to ease me into it with just a slightly dirty version! You can tell they're skilled and actually care about your experience, not just making drinks. Oh and they have bar snacks now! It's not included with your drinks like in Europe. You have to order separately and they come in the most adorable tray for $5! The music is always on point, which honestly makes a huge difference in the overall vibe. Also, I love their hours...it's one of those places you can count on when you're not ready for the night to end.

    From the moment I walked in, I was treated like I wasn't wanted there. No greeting, no attempt to…read moretake my order, and no basic customer service whatsoever. I tried to be polite and patient, but the staff was rude from the very beginning and made it clear they didn't want to serve me. To make it worse, I was kicked out for absolutely no reason. They claimed I "argued" with them, which is completely false. I never raised my voice or caused an issue--I was simply responding to their hostility. Instead of owning their behavior, they chose to make something up and remove me. I've never experienced such unprofessional, disrespectful treatment at a bar. If you're looking for a place where you feel welcome or even acknowledged, this is definitely not it.

    Photos
    Hotel Bar - Hotel Bar

    Hotel Bar

    Hotel Bar - Old Fashioned

    Old Fashioned

    Hotel Bar - Bottle display

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    Bottle display

    Tanto - crafted cocktail

    Tanto

    4.8(19 reviews)
    1.0 mi

    Brought my husband to Tanto for his birthday and we were really excited to try it. We've been to…read morethe kaiseki experience at Kosen two years ago and been dying to try their cocktail bar concept. The entire dining area and booth is now Tanto and they have themed cocktail menus that changes seasonally. They have a small bites menu which includes handrolls! Service was good, attentive and we got a nice view of the bar where the bartenders were amazing! They were shaving down ice for the cocktails. Very cool. The seasonal menu has already changed, so I am not sure of the drinks we got lol both were fun and just okay.. mine came in a cone shape ceramic and very tart? The food was pretty good - some hits and misses. The caviar service was good but came with thin chips that break. I would recommend small pancakes. The sea bream hand rolls were good and the chirashi was very good. The karaage was good but the chive aioli was incredible. Overall cool concept but would love a bigger entree options on their menu. This would open up more patrons to visit who don't want to drop $500 for sushi

    Place is such a vibe, moody, focus is on cocktails but the food does not miss either…read more You recieved a welcome drink (tiny but fun + cool unique feature) and hot tea towards the end. The service is always top tier. Chuck always is on top of things, as our server/bartender. There is another young lady, she didn't really listen to what I said to her and kinda seemed like a rehearsed dialog but she was kind nonetheless. I mentioned "I've been here before, I'd like an omakase drink-- i truly like the dressed to kill" which a spirit forward, clean herbal/floral drink ... she suggested I start light and then work my way towards that - when initially , I just wanted an omakase cocktail. The servers/bartenders tend to take care of you on the spot, so one server is not designated to your table. The chicken sandwich is my fave food to eat, It was kimchi on it. My family tried the duck leg and loved it with a side of mushrooms for a somewhat full meal! The kombucha menu was nice for my father who doesn't drink too much, as well. On other visits, I've tried the caviar board. The mini dorayaki and lemon crème fraiche ... amazing! Pretty pricey but if your having drinks and want something to munch on and split with the girls, it's a cute option.

    Photos
    Tanto - Bar area

    Bar area

    Tanto - Chirashi

    Chirashi

    Tanto - Crafted cocktail

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    Crafted cocktail

    Alter Ego - Bar Area

    Alter Ego

    3.8(71 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown Tampa
    $$$

    The vibes are there 100%. Cocktails were pretty okay,…read morenothing super great or crazy but still a solid drink. Fries were delicious with the herb salt on them and of course the dipping! But go for the ambiance.

    I really like this spot overall...Alter Ego has smaller, moody dark vibes that feel super cool,…read morewith good cocktails and great music. It's got that all-around fun, energetic atmosphere that makes it a solid choice for drinks. Not sure how it is during the week, but it would make for a fun date night spot to grab some cocktails. That said, I had a real hang-up the last time I went with my girlfriend around Christmas. They tried to hit us with a $10 cover just to get in, on top of $15-20 cocktails. I don't mind paying for a nice spot, but the cover felt absurd, especially since it wasn't even busy. The bouncer said we could make a reservation to avoid it, so I did...and then he made us stand outside forever before letting us in. At that point, we should've just left, but since my friend had never been, we stuck it out to try the themed Christmas cocktails. Once inside, there was a two-drink minimum per person, which is kind of crazy. It feels like they jip you either way...cover or no cover, minimum spend or not. While waiting outside (for no real reason, since it was empty), we chatted with a party of six who came straight from Ash (the sister restaurant upstairs). They'd just spent over $1,000 on their meal and were still getting charged a cover to enter Alter Ego. That's poor business, don't force extra fees to guarantee money when good music, drinks, and vibes should bring people in naturally and make them want to spend. There's plenty of places on Water Street with great (and I'd say better) cocktails where you're not forced into minimums or covers. The Christmas cocktail menu was disappointing too, poor selections and way too sugary. Love the potential here, but the strict policies really turned me off and made me want to go elsewhere next time.

    Photos
    Alter Ego - Smother fries

    Smother fries

    Alter Ego - Bramble and Rickey cocktails

    Bramble and Rickey cocktails

    Alter Ego - Lighting

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    Lighting

    CW's Gin Joint - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

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