Bar Scene: The Independent

(Credit: Nathalie Voirin)

Photos:

The Bottom Line: A chic, edgy pub in downtown St. Pete serving rare imports to a chill, intellectual crowd. Be prepared to deal with a close and bustling crowd, especially on First Fridays or nights when there's no work the next morning. The core group is made up of young 20 to early 30-somethings in grad school or the area's artist community. It's a great meet up place for friends with seating inside and out. A long bench lined with tables and bar stools make up one wall. Large tables in the center will make friends out of strangers looking for a seat.

The Drinks: The Independent stocks wine and claims to have more than 100 beers either on tap or bottles. The beer runs the gamut from imported pale ales, porters, lagers and more varieties come from from Belgium, Germany, Poland and England.

The Decor: Muted lights and beer banners are de rigueur for the decor. You won't find any bud light neons around this place. The only neon comes from the glow of the dart board by the front.

The Damage: Definitely not a college bar. Drafts start at $5, but after one glass you may never touch a domestic brew again. Think quality and intense flavor.

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