Many were sad to see Bar Howard close. When people heard it was turning into a country bar, everyone was excited, including me. I thought that is exactly what Tampa needed and the location is perfect. I even followed them on Instagram to be the first to know about their grand opening.
The weekend before the first official opening, they hosted a giveaway on Instagram for an all inclusive all you can eat and drink brunch experience. They called it their influencer brunch, and I won two tickets. My boyfriend and I got there around 12, and it was immediately uncomfortable and awkward. There were about 30 workers and maybe a handful of guests. I have been to many soft launches of restaurants, bars, and event spaces in Tampa Bay, and this was by far the most disorganized and weird experience I have ever had.
I had to approach three different staff members to figure out what was going on with the giveaway, and no one knew. Our server had to go ask Barry, the owner, what I was even talking about. Eventually, she told us we could get one complimentary drink and order whatever food we wanted. This was not advertised and was a huge disappointment.
We both ordered strawberry margaritas. One came after 20 minutes, the second came 20 minutes later, and it tasted like straight syrup. Possibly the worst drinks I have ever had in my life. The food was decent for a bar, but the prices are ridiculous. Thirty dollars for pancakes is a complete joke.
There were more staff than guests, which was bizarre and off-putting. The owner, Barry, never introduced himself or checked on guests. He seemed completely self-absorbed. From someone who has worked in marketing for years, the purpose of a giveaway like this is to create a memorable experience that people rave about. You are supposed to make your guest feel special, that's what makes them want to return. Sunset Rodeo failed completely. The staff is untrained, the drinks are awful, the prices are outrageous, and the whole operation feels chaotic.
This place is Bar Howard with a fresh coat of paint and a fake country theme. It is a place for people to have an excuse to wear cowboy boots. There is zero authenticity or originality. Sunset Rodeo did not make me feel welcome, impressed, or happy in any way. It is overpriced, poorly run, and completely underwhelming. read more