If you've ever watched Cheers and wished you could find a place where everybody knows your name,…read moreI'm here to tell you it exists, and it's called The Fountainhead Wine & Beer Bar!
I moved to Tampa in July 2021 and wanted to start a book club. Owners Terri and Chip graciously offered us their back room for our monthly gatherings, and what started as a simple book club has turned into years of wonderful friendships and memories at this little gem of a bar.
And then there's Dean. Oh, Dean! The English version of Sam Malone from Cheers. Dean works Monday nights and quickly became a beloved fixture of our book club. Visit once, tell him what you drink, and somehow he remembers it forever. I'm convinced the man has a photographic memory when it comes to beer and wine!
About six months ago, I started a biweekly Monday night mahjong club at Fountainhead. Once again, Terri and Chip welcomed us with open arms, reserving tables for our group. And once again, Dean became everyone's favorite bartender. He remembers what everyone drinks, makes everyone feel welcome, and somehow manages to make a busy bar feel like your own living room- only better, because someone else is pouring the drinks!
I also have to give a special shout-out to Cameron, whom I don't see as often because she doesn't work Mondays. She is an absolute sweetheart. When a friend's daughter was involved in a car accident right outside the bar, Cameron immediately stepped in to help. She called the police, stayed with her, and made sure she wasn't alone. That's the kind of person she is, and it speaks volumes about the people who work here.
And Fountainhead is SO much more than just a great neighborhood bar! Tuesday night trivia and Wednesday night music bingo with DJ Carrie are an absolute blast. Even if you have zero interest in bingo, go for the music alone! Carrie plays such a fun mix that it's worth showing up just to listen.
I've also hosted numerous birthday celebrations here over the years. They have an adorable courtyard with space for an outdoor DJ, making it a fantastic place to celebrate with friends.
One last Dean story, because I can't resist. Just last Monday, while our mahjong group was playing and other customers were enjoying a baseball game, a very intoxicated and rather demanding Buffalo sports fan walked in minutes before closing and insisted that Dean turn on the audio for his game. Despite the man's behavior, Dean remained calm, courteous, and professional. He handled the whole situation with the patience of a saint. Just another day in the life of Sam - I mean, Dean!
I seriously could go on and on. This review is LONG overdue.
Terri and Chip have created something genuinely special. Fountainhead isn't some trendy bar you visit once and forget. It's the kind of place where you become a regular without even realizing it, where the staff become friends, and where you always feel welcome.
After more than five years in Tampa, I can confidently say I've found my very own Cheers.
And yes, everybody really does know your name.
Five stars simply aren't enough!