If you’ve spent any time on the Pinellas beaches, you know the Friendly Tavern (18121 Gulf Blvd, Redington Shores) isn’t just a bar. It’s a landmark, a reunion, and a low-stakes social experiment where the goal is to walk in for “one quick drink” and leave with three new friends and a karaoke nemesis.
Great news: Friendly Tavern is back, following extensive damage in the 2024 hurricane season that forced closure. After a massive restoration led by Kenny Davis, the man behind the Saltwater Hippie and a local hero for preserving our “Old Florida” soul, the Tavern officially reopened its doors this past December. And I have to tell you, it looks fantastic. They’ve added massive windows to let in that beautiful Gulf sunset, which is a significant upgrade for the local gem.
But don’t worry, purists: the spirit remains. This is still the home of one of the longest-running karaoke nights in the state. If you haven’t heard a retired actuary belt out “I Will Survive” after three rum runners, have you even lived?…