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    CW's Gin Joint

    4.2 (579 reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 11:00 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    CW's Gin Joint Photos

    Business Info

    CW'S GIN JOINT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Intimate

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    Recommended Reviews - CW's Gin Joint

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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

    Purse Hook
    Germanie J.

    This is a very asthetically pleasing lounge. Upon entering I was immediately captivated by the ambiance, the beautiful wall art, the plush furniture and unique details that went into making this place special. The dim lighting sets the scene and allows you to time travel into another world.... There was plenty of seating but we chose to sit at the bar. We were greeted by a female bartender who took some time to warm up to us but by the end of the night she was great! We ordered a variety of drinks including some off the menu specialty drinks made by the bartender. All were really good! Restrooms are tucked off down a back hallway that's fill with more art. They were spacious and clean. Live music was pretty good! They played a variety of genres and sang happy birthday to a few people. It was sort of hard to hear them over the crowd, but not sure if that's intentional or not. One other concern was the smell. Upon walking in there's a flatulence smell that many customers also noticed and we could hear rumblings about. I'm hoping it's a one off because it's such a beautiful place! Overall pretty good joint!!

    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.

    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!

    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.

    Filet

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    4 months ago

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    12 days ago

    We had an excellent experience. Our server was knowledgeable about the gin, and the food was amazing.

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    2 months ago

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    16 days ago

    Oh this place is quaint, cozy and all sorts of fabulous!! Their snack and drink menu is amazing! Definitely a go to spot in

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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

    Morgan’s Cove

    4.3
    (75 reviews)
    0.2 mi

    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!!!

    Snacks and pirate tiki vibes on point. Always do the Saturn and the 3 dots this time also had a…read moremount gay daq which was good. The dates are delish and the bartenders on point. They were a bit busy for a Sunday due to the event but solids showing and lots of tiki peeps.

    Photos
    Secret entrance to the speakeasy!
    Secret entrance to the speakeasy!
    Rum Barrel
    Rum Barrel
    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

    Hotel Bar

    4.3
    (231 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    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
    Old Fashioned
    Old Fashioned
    Bottle display

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    Bottle display
    Tanto

    Tanto

    4.8
    (20 reviews)
    1.0 mi

    Went to dinner solo and called the restaurant ahead of time as the app wouldn't let be book a…read morereservation for 1. They were super accommodating and told me just to come in. The hostess was pleasant when arriving and presented herself with exceptional sleek style. Someone brought me a palate cleanser drink which was rhubarb and lemongrass water. It was smooth and refreshing. The server guided me through the cocktail menu which was an exploration all its very own. I choose the cocktail called Opposite Day- Japanese whiskey, sweet Sauvignon Blanc, salted wine and roasted beets- twist on a whiskey sour but flipped! Oysters were light and fresh and the juice in the shell was precision clean. It really pops the flavors of the oyster. Yellowtail jalapeño handroll- it is designed to be eaten similar to a taco. The yellowtail was superbly fresh, the jalapeno was a mild touch to accompany the dish and didn't try to be the star. and the homemade soy sauce didn't over power the fish. Duck leg finished with a Szechuan spice and finished a pear au jus. The duck fell off the bone and was bursting with a complex blend of elegant flavors. As you check is presented they served you the tea of the day which was Hibiscus citrus Japanese tea in the most sophisticated teapot sitting on Japanese bamboo, which was a nice touch in the meal Upbeat modern music vibe Helpful, friendly weight staff that explains every item in detail as you order it, and when it brought to the table.

    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

    Photos
    Bar area
    Bar area
    Chirashi
    Chirashi
    Crafted cocktail

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    Crafted cocktail
    The Dan

    The Dan

    3.8
    (149 reviews)
    0.2 mi

    Location: The Dan Date: June 29th, 2026…read more Service: Lunch Friend and I decided to stop by the Dan located at the Hilton Flor. I love fries and my friend ordered Cobb salad which they said was it was amazing salad. I literally ate all of the burger and fries that's how good the food was very appealing. I will ordered my burger medium well. The damn was clean everything was placed in order the silverware the napkins. The staff was very helpful and assistant to their customers. Check out the photos attached to this review.

    No food is worth a 4 hour dining debacle. If we were not celebrating a birthday for someone else,…read morewe would have left. As patient as I am, this was the most absurd dining experience we've ever had. It's a shame because the food wasn't bad. The staff was apologetic but their honesty, that service would be slow for whatever reason they had going on given we had four little kids with us, would have been much appreciated. No one came to our table to take our drink order, so we just went to the bar to order instead. There were more bartenders behind the bar than customers at the bar and none of them assisted the servers with table drink orders. It took half an hour to order appetizers afterwards, then another half hour to order entrées. We didn't have utensils at one point to eat the food we got, food orders came out incorrectly, the tables weren't cleared when dessert came out, and we had to excuse the entire table to head home with the kids as it was 10pm and we still hadn't received the check we asked for 30 mins prior to dessert coming out. The only reason we were still there when the dessert came was because we ordered it with the pre-fix entrée and we couldn't get anyone to bring us our check so we could leave. This was a manager problem, not a staff problem. I could not imagine leaving my staff in such disorganized distress over dinner service on a Saturday night.

    Photos
    Marinated olives
    Marinated olives
    Interior dining room
    Interior dining room
    Bunless burger

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    Bunless burger
    Alter Ego

    Alter Ego

    3.8
    (74 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$$

    We were told about Alter Ego from their sister business "Rooster & The Till" as our server…read morerecommended we come and try it, and we loved everything about it. We came during a Michael Jackson themed night so the music was already amazing. Vibes here were absolutely unmatched, everyone was dancing having a good time. Bit of a wait to get inside but all in all it was totally worth the wait (about 35 minutes) the host at the door was extremely kind and friendly, the server who was attending us at our table was also very kind and attentive. The drinks were definitely the highlight of the night, I got the "What's Your Fantasy" and my Girlfriend got the "Like a Virgin" and we both loved the drinks, we also had some lemon drop shots to accompany our drinks.

    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
    Smother fries
    Smother fries
    Bramble and Rickey cocktails
    Bramble and Rickey cocktails
    Lighting

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    Lighting

    CW's Gin Joint - cocktailbars - Updated July 2026

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