If you enjoy craft cocktails, unique nightlife experiences, and discovering hidden gems, there’s a new destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast that deserves a spot on your must-visit list. A secret speakeasy has quietly opened inside one of the state’s most successful craft distilleries, bringing a touch of Prohibition-era glamour to downtown St. Petersburg.
A Hidden Cocktail Lounge Above the Distillery Floor
The new venue, called 31 South Speakeasy, is tucked away inside the working facility of St. Petersburg Distillery at 800 31st Street South in St. Petersburg. The intimate lounge occupies a hidden room overlooking the active production floor where whiskey, rum, vodka, gin, and specialty spirits are distilled. Guests typically pass the location during daytime tours, but after dark, the space transforms into an exclusive cocktail destination.
The 45-seat speakeasy officially debuted on May 1 and currently operates Thursday through Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. Access requires a daily password, adding to the authentic speakeasy experience. Password information is released through the venue’s social media channels.
Inspired by the Roaring Twenties
Walking into 31 South Speakeasy feels like stepping back into the 1920s. The design embraces classic Art Deco styling with rich colors, vintage glassware, warm wood accents, historic photography, and carefully selected furnishings sourced locally. The atmosphere is designed to evoke the elegance and mystery of America’s Prohibition era while maintaining a distinctly St. Petersburg personality.
According to company leadership, the concept was created to offer a completely different experience from the daytime distillery tours and tastings that have helped make St. Petersburg Distillery a popular attraction for both locals and visitors.
Signature Cocktails Highlight Local Spirits
The cocktail menu showcases spirits produced onsite and features both classic and contemporary creations. Guests can enjoy drinks such as:
- Matcha Latte Martini made with Banyan Reserve Vodka
- Hibiscus Gimlet featuring Old St. Pete Tropical Gin
- Mai Tai crafted with Old St. Pete Righteous Rum & Spice
- Maple Old Fashioned using Old St. Pete Sunshine Whiskey
- Espresso Martini and other specialty cocktails
Visitors can also order curated tasting flights that allow them to sample multiple spirits produced by the distillery. Suncoast readers who follow the region’s craft beverage scene may also remember when Good Liquid Brewing Company expanded with a Bradenton brewery, distillery, and restaurant, another sign of how quickly local drink destinations are evolving.
Elevated Food Menu Complements the Experience
Unlike many cocktail lounges that offer only light snacks, 31 South Speakeasy features a food program developed by Chef Johnathan Rodriguez. Rodriguez is known throughout the Tampa Bay culinary scene and previously worked at Tampa’s Sal Y Mar. His accolades include multiple “Best Chef” honors at the Savor St. Pete Food & Wine Festival and recognition from other regional culinary events…