The Velvet Gypsy

Friday night, showed up around 9:15. Pretty quiet and chill plenty of seating at tables or the bar. Dee was friendly and greeted us. Gave us a cocktail menu, I was looking for something else and told her I like tequila and something more spirit forward and she came back with the Disco Ball, fantastic taste and presentation wasn’t lacking either. After 10pm there was a big influx of people, really a mixed bag, made for some interesting people watching. Service from Dee and the other bartender was great they checked on us multiple times. Would recommend this spot in Seminole Heights. The craft beer offering looked legit in the fridge, didn’t try anything, but some interesting choices that will have me heading back next time I’m in the area.

I used to come to Red Star on a regular basis; this is my first visit to Velvet Gypsy. It is, quite possibly, the polar opposite of Red Star. Posh, upscale feel, clean and classic. Drinks are good, and I love that they have some very good Mocktails, making it a good place to go if someone doesn't drink. Good whisky selection and the $6 happy hour house Old Fashioned is pretty dang good. I will definitely be back here.

Solid bar with a very cool atmosphere inside and out! I went during the day on a weekend and it was pretty slow, but we were well taken care of by the staff. They do not sure food, but at time offer food trucks outside. Parking is limited. The highlight to this place is the well manicured outdoor seating area that is pretty relaxing when it's later in the afternoon and the sun is setting.

The upgrade on Red Star. The place feels posh with some great music. Pet friendly which is a huge bonus. The bar tenders were attentive and quick. The drinks made were had the right amount alcohol to mixers ratio. One more neighborhood spot in seminole to stop by.

We came here as we were waiting on a table at a nearby restaurant. We weren’t acknowledged when we walked in and only after our bartender was finished closing out tabs did she even come over. She was super unfriendly, no smile or anything. We asked what beers were on tap and she said “yuengling, bud light and a few IPAs” we asked her to repeat it and then she said there was also a seasonal ale. I asked what that was and all She said was a “brown ale”. Nothing about the type or the breweries for the IPAs and seasonal ale which…they aren’t all the same. Maybe to her they are, but to those of us who drink beer a bit more effort and information would be nice. Or heck. A beer list and then we don’t have to bother her. Which, we clearly were. She seemed friendly with some other patrons. Not sure if they are regulars or what but we were pretty much ignored once we got our drinks. The atmosphere is cute. There are five benches that can seat maybe 3-4 people? And then the bar comfortably seats 12-15ish. The music was chill and it was decorated for Christmas which made it feel cozier. There were a few cocktails and mock tails listed on the wall but other than that no cocktail or alcohol list. I don’t know if they get business outside of people waiting on a nearby local establishment but I won’t be back.

I went to have a couple of drinks with a friend and I really liked the place. We sat on the backyard, super cozy and cute. Will come back to try more things!

One of my favorite local watering holes. I regularly attend and vend at their Empress Market nights and cannot wait to come by for more events. The staff are so welcoming and really take the time to get to know you. Before I began my journey with sobriety, this was one of my favorite bars to drink at. They have a specialty cocktail menu and a full bar. I love that I don’t have to ditch this place just because I’m not drinking anymore. I can still enjoy an amazing mocktail here and dive in on the food trucks that they host as well. This place really is a gem and I adore the VG crew!

Change of ownership with a vibrant splash of bright colours. Drink prices are about the same as they were before. The venue is a lot brighter and uppity. Which isn’t a bad thing. The oitside is much nicer. The bathrooms cleaner. Now they even serve wings. As I was let known. Which is pretty cool. Same exp with a new coat of paint. I’m optimistic on how this place will develop. Albeit. Like another reviewer said. The touch tunes is disabled. So you’re at the mercy of whomever is choosing the music. So that’s a toss up. Depending what your vibe is. Murals are cool. As well as the touch of neon. . Doggo friendly. This place grows on you. The more you go. The more there is to it. Officially one of my spots in tampa. They also have a cool vendor showing at least once a month. To showcase local artist. Great vibes. Depending who’s there.

I stopped by here in the late afternoon for a quick mocktail. The decor is so beautiful, I think it probably looks even better at night. The bartender was very sweet and had a nice chat with me. I'll definitely come back to unwind and chill out from work.

Great experience and atmosphere! They have an excellent beer selection and an even better liquor selection. The bartender, Nick, was very friendly and helped us find a place to go to for dinner! Can't wait to go back soon!!

Directions to The Velvet Gypsy with public transportation

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