Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

O Brien's in Brandon

Well, let's just start off saying, at one point in time I was impressed with this place, but now. Nah. If I had to say one thing about this place it would be not to go there. Just the sure fact that this establishment sucks a fat one and you won't have fun unless you're redneckish or insecure makes me want to never go there again. This is not the place for a mature young adult if there is such a thing. You're better off hanging out in Hyde Park or Channelside. Oh and please beware of the Sheriff's outside stalking. You'd might as well leave and hand them your license as soon as you get outside... lol Whatever, This place has truly left a bad taste in my mouth that I can't shake. Yuck.
Any and everybody is welcomed at this place and sometimes that can be too much of a good thing. You get the wrong crowd and then the shit just blows up. Oh well. I don't know if I can say that I'll honestly ever visit this place again... but I know it's not on my top places to go on a Friday or Saturday night... but if you're feeling brave and are into a dive bar then this is your place. This establishment gets 1 and1/2 stars, and that's only because the bartender we had kicked ass... other than that Blah. Just Blah.

Ciao,
Night Life Lady

Sunday, March 23, 2008

J.F. Kicks

J.F. Kicks! The name says it all, get your kicks here at the fantastic little bar. You have to really know where you're going to find it but once you do you won't be disappointed at all. A friendly little bar where everyone is having a good time, you'll get to know several people in your area. This is a good place to go if you've just moved into the area and you're looking for a good drama free time. I love the bartenders and the drinks are made very well. Give this place a shot, I know I'll be frequenting this one...


http://www.jfkicks.com/

Mojito's

What to say about Mojito's. It's a lovely little place nestled in the Winthrop Shopping Plaza it's truly a local's favorite. From the wide array of mojito's to the awesome Tapas menu, there's something for everyone.

My old friend "K" and I decided to meet up here because the week was stressful and we need to drink and let loose. "K" beat me there and decided to grab a spot at the bar. Our friend "T" also was there. "K" and I choose to drink Raspberry Mojito's while "T" drunk something else. We all decided to get a bunch of little plates to share and I'm glad we did.
The food was really really good much to my surprise, and although the mojitos could have used less mix I think it was a successful time. I ended up eating way to much and not drinking enough. Go figure.

I love this place and will definitely be visiting again, maybe with the hubs next time.

I give this place 3 stars, the service was great, food awesome, drinks, not so much. Less mix next time guys, less mix.

http://www.mojitoslatingrill.com/html/index1.html

Saturday, March 22, 2008

Banana Joes

So, after we left the fly the gang and myself went down to Channelside... well, I like Channelside it's a pretty neat little spot... we figured we'd go somewhere that I'd never been... so I picked Banana Joe's.... Why did I pick Boring Joe's? I guess it was the bright yellow banana that had me so intrigued... Anyway, we go inside and order drinks... the bartenders were very livly and talkative, so that was cool... besides isn't that what they are supposed to do? Nothing is worse than a bartender who doesn't say anything and just makes a drink and walks away... like I said before, it's always the experience that counts...

Anyway, I have a lot more to say on this place, but at the moment I have the Bro In Law over, so I'll complete this at a later date.

Ciao,
Night Life Lady

Fly Bar and Restaurant

So, I find this little spot through a friend's recommendation and the day we decide to go and check it out a baby hurricane decides to blow through downtown Tampa. Which I think is going to put a damper on the evening but in the end it makes it a bit better... although the girls and I didn't get to try out the rooftop deck... I know the view would have been absolutely beautiful... but I digress.

Anyway, "K" and I arrive around 7:45 and the place isn't as crowded as we thought it would be, we were seated instantly in a Godfather type table and could see everything around... Once seated we called Van and Krist to when they would be joining us, then ordered our drinks... We choose the Raspberry Mojito's which by the way, were freaking delicious. I almost got a St. Tropez but decided to follow my gut instinct and I'm glad I did...

Fast forward about 30 minutes later, Van and Krist showed up... Their take on the place was that it was pleasant but loud... I agreed. We decide on some plates to share and what we chose were the Kobe beef sliders, hot sesame tuna tartar, and panko crusted goat cheese. What a great treat for our mouths! We were even treated with a guest appearance by our girl "C".

We spent a good 2 1/2 hours at The Fly, I loved the vibe of this place, it was very very chill, definitely a place to hang out with friends unwind and let the mojitos take you away!

I give this place 3 stars, Atmosphere was awesome! Decor great, The drinks are a little pricey, but the plates were reasonable., but if you can get past that you've found a winner.

Ciao,
NLL

Thursday, March 6, 2008

So...

I've been slipping a bit and I haven't been out all week... Damn. What really sucks is that I haven't had the desire to go out... I know, I know... How is the N.L.L. not going to want to go out out... I'll tell you... I've been sick and I (being the caring person that I am) have not wanted to afflict anyone with this thing that I've had. Ugh... I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy... lol

Anyway, while I was sitting here it dawned on me that I don't have a myspace... and since I wasn't doing anything anyhow I figured now is a great a time as any to get myself one... So... add me you addicts...

www.myspace.com/nightlifelady

Be sure to leave comments on where to go and what to do in the bay, places that you've been and think that other people should experience as well...

OK, so this is it. I'll be out and about all weekend, so wish me luck in my journey around the bay area scoping out the best.

Ciao,
The Night Life Lady

Saturday, March 1, 2008

Bamboo Martini Bar (Gasps) The Review

I must say my first thought upon walking in this place was like... Great... a dive... but... after sitting at the bar and looking at the menu of 101 different martini choices... Yes... I repeat 101 different martini choices, it was at that moment that I thought wow! What a cool place... This is one of those looks can be deceiving places...

Sandal the bartender I encountered was pretty freaking cool... she made a great Woo Woo and I was pleasantly surprised by the people in there as well... Everyone was so cool, even though the location isn't as easy to find as say... Ybor... it still is a great place to go, have a martini and chill... It's a fabulous weekday unwind take away the stress bar!

Ladies night is Thursday and ladies drink 2-4-1 with great acoustic music in the background...

I give this place 3 and a half stars and I'm looking forward to heading back there next Tuesday for Karaoke! Yes, I karaoke... What night life lady doesn't?

Who should go here?
Everyone... This place is an equal opportunity bar, any and everybody is welcomed, and that right there is a freaking PLUS!

So, If I may repeat myself, I say go ahead and check this place out... just be sure to google map it and print out directions... haha! I hope to see you in there... and VERY soon! ;-)

Ciao,
The Night Life Lady

Bambo0 Martini Bar
www.myspace.com/bamboosmartinibar
www.bamboosbar.com
http://www.myspace.com/sandalsanders (One of the Best Bartenders in Tampa Bay)

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Bamboo's Martini Bar

Checking this out tonight, It's ladies night on Thursday's 2-4-1 drinks for the ladies from Open to Close, Live music, and great martini's from what I hear... More on this place later!


Ciao,
Night Life Lady

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Club 360

While I try to do my best to look for the good in clubs, this one just doesn't have to much good things for me to say about it... The inside is nice and I love the DJ's but man, does the staff have some problems...

Let's just say that you need to be in the inner circle of the owner's son to be treated like anyone in this club, and this I say is very unfair... You really never know who you have coming into your club to check it out, so I think it would be in a manager's best interest to treat everyone with a little respect... I don't mean VIP everyone by no means, but damn... Get over yourself and your sleepy little club...

I will, give 360 on more try... and I hope my next time is truly better... Damn... oh and be thankful that it's just I writing this review and not my girl "C" who was also in this monstrosity of a club with me... Ugh!

Monday, February 18, 2008

Coyote Ugly Ybor City

Soon has come and while I have the time I'm going to give you the cliff notes on this establishment...

1. Please don't go in with high expections, you will be disappointed.
2. Don't say anything about water. Period. Just like in the movie you will be blasted... (not a good idea if you're going to another bar later)
3. The water blasting is the only thing in here comparable to the movies... The girls and the dancing sure isn't.
4. Well... The shots are good... but pricey.

I guess, since I'm from Panama City and know what a real Coyote Ugly should be like, this is a far cry from it... Come on girls... Step it up... Coyote ugly is supposed to be more than a bar... It should be an EXPERIENCE, one that you shouldn't soon forget...

Ciao,
Night Life Lady

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Full Moon Saloon

Hello Darlings!

My experience at the Full Moon Saloon was extremely interesting... I met 2 guys, whom by the way were very friendly... (I would insert their names here but I forgot them) I'm sure that I'll run into um... Let's call them Rob and Big shall we... again.

Anyway,

The night I decide to go to this particular party establishment was the manager's birthday! Woot Woot for Aquarius!!! Well Dustin, is a very friendly guy because a third of the bar was with his party... and I... being the party princess that I am decided to join in on the festivities because:

A. I'm Me
B. I like friendly people
C. Did I mention champangne was involved? I heart Champagne...

This part of the night was a far cry from the BS that ensued on my way in and while at the bar waiting for a drink... From what I was gathering at the beginning of my night is that:

A. All women are out for free well drinks
B. If you're a black woman you're definitely out for free well drinks
C. Only ghetto people go to this bar...

I don't know what is up with me, but I'm liking using the alphabet today... Hmmm... Strange. Anyway, I give this club a strong 2 and a half stars...

I'll try and brave it again, but next time I don't think I'll do it alone... next time I'll have "C" with me... My barhopping pal!

I loves ya "C" ;-)

Ciao,
Night Life Lady

Friday, February 8, 2008

Tis Friday,

And The Night Life Lady is on the prowl... Now which hot spot will I write about now... I'm thinking I should head down to Hyde Park, I hear it's quite happening after dark.

Haha, I guess I'm in a rhyming mood, don't laugh at me or give me no "tude"! Nah, but really this part is fun, I'm acting silly, Tis Friday All, and this is my city!

Stay tuned for another lovely post from Yours Truly!

xoxo,
Night Life Lady

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

The Good Luck Cafe

I can honestly say that The Good Luck Cafe is reinventing the Tuesday nights, especially for hip hop. With a great location and parking, not having to deal with the junk from the other 2 clubs surrounding it, the TGLC is on point.

Tuesday night showcases the new and upcoming local hip hop talent hosted by Vision, doors opening at 10:00 this is the place to be and be seen on Tuesday nights, especially if good music is your thing. Strizzo like always is doing his damn thing on the ones and twos, working the crowd and getting it crunk, while keeping it oh so cool.

I enjoyed myself in here, I went solo and was happy that I could park damn near in front of the club, the only down side I guess you can say is that it really doesn't start poppin off until 12:00 but it's truly worth a visit down. The decor is great, the service is on point, and the VIP areas are a great place to lounge and relax all while letting the sounds from speakers take you away into a euphoric blissfulness of cool.

This place gets 3 and a half stars.... Check it out, I know you won't be disappointed... as a matter of fact hit me up on aim and I'll check it out with you ;-)

Until the next time,
Night Life Lady

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Prana

Photo Courtesy Of ClubPrana.com
So... after I left Fuego, my girl C and I ventured down to Ybor... The one of the most over-rated place in America next to my hometown of Panama City Beach... but you got to make due with what you got and even as I hate to admit it, all places in Ybor are not created equal and if you look hard enough you may even find a few diamonds in the rough... but you have to LOOK and hard...

From my experience last night I think Prana is a gem. I love the club, the energy and the DJ last night was spot on! I have to say I throughly enjoyed myself there and highly recommend that you check it out if you're ever down in Ybor, but where else would you be? Ha!

The wait to get into Prana wasn't as bad as I had anticipated and right away we were taken upstairs to none other than the VIP... It isn't that hard to access the VIP area... just buy a bottle of something... just be forewarned that bottles aren't cheap and can set you back 150 bucks and up. Our bottles of choice, Moet Nectar... Yummy Yummy Stuff~

Whilst in VIP you can look down on the crowd and be thankful that you're not down there in it. I know I was, it was freaking packed last night... with scantily clad beautiful women and some of the hottest guys Tampa has to offer... This truly is a wonderful thing for the average single person... I know that if I wasn't already spoken for... Hmm... lol

Anyway, back to the review right?

So, there is the second level, VIP on the second Level, XVIP on the third level, and I think there are 2 more levels after that... C and I didn't venture past the 3rd Xtra VIP... Anybody, who's anybody is on the 3rd level... It's a beautiful thing...

So, after being tired of partying on the 3rd level, we head back down to level 2 and what do we find... Our oh so incompetent waitress grinding very whorishly all over C's hubster... It was quite a sight to see, especially as he was trying to get her off of him.

I think she weighed all of 98 pounds soaking wet... plus she'd been taking shots all night... A good rule of thumb for all you nightclub servers... Suck and spit, just suck and spit... I'm not saying that you shouldn't drink... just don't get hammered like our server did... It's not a good look. Trust me.

Anyway, All in all;

Prana is a very good club, check it out.
http://clubprana.com/


Alright...

Club Summary:
1. It's a nice dance spot
2. Bring the extra 150... It's totally worth it and you won't be disappointed
3. Explore the club, with as many levels as it has, Prana truly is a great spot for everybody...
4. Don't drink to much with your waitress... It can turn into a bad night... especially if you're a guy and your girlfriend/wife is there... lol

Stay Tuned For More,
Nightlife Lady

Fuego Pictures...








Forgot to add that, in spite of my experience at Fuego, they do have a pretty good salsa dance crowd... If that's your cup of tea, I say go for it.

FUEGOOOOOOOOO!!!

So, I and a couple of friends were fortunate enough to go to this restaurant/bar last night and let me just say I was extremely and utterly disappointed from the time I walked in to the place...

From the outside it looked promising with the big bright red and orange sign that said Fuego with the fire on it... Your immediate thought is Damn! this place is going to be AWESOME... then you get inside and are greeted with a couple of dirty looks, you know, the ones that look make you think you have dog shit on your face or something... but I digress... I did not want to let that first impression taint my experience so I moved to the right on over to the bar... I was highly disappointed to find that at the bar there were only 2 barstools and one was being taken by a gentlemen who again gave me the shit face look, and the other by someone who worked the door of the club... Whatever... I didn't need to sit anyway...

So... A little bit of details from this point... The restaurant side looked O.K. The decor was nice, I loved the exposed brick on the inside, as well as the deep red walls... and all the candlelights. It was a great place for couples who wanted to have a nice dinner... or groups of couples who wanted to have a nice dinner...

When I arrived it was around 10... which by the flyer I had was when the club was supposed to jump off... but... much to my dismay, No one was there... Loud house music was playing and The staff reminded me of that at the Bada Bing... very very serious andthey all thought they were more important than the really are. I can only say the one good thing that came from the staff was the extra dirty martini that Andrea made...

Well, by this time I'd been there almost an hour and nothing... oh... I had gotten the seat that the shit face guy had gotten up and left, then about 3 seconds after I sat down one of the Sorprano's walked over to me and told me to get up. Whatever.

Finally around 11 couples started to come in, and you could tell they were all very serious about their dancing... frilly skirts and dresses... guys looking their best... even with pulled up collars and (just when I thought it couldn't get worse) cuffs...

Ladies were supposedly drinking free until midnight... but I ordered 2 lemon drop shots and paid damn near 20 bucks for them... and... there was basically no alcohol in them, just sweet and sour mix... but this is where they get you, you have to ask about the drink special in order to get it... so... I said Adios to Fuego and ventured off to my next victim of the night...

Club Summary:
1. It's a Restaurant until 11... don't let the flyer or anyone else fool you.
2. The staff sucks... so be prepared for attitudes and antics of the dumb.
3. Shell out the bucks... If you are ballin like that and can drink 10.00 shots of things and 14.00 martini's by all means this is your place...

http://www.myspace.com/fuegoclub

You ask would I go back... At this point, I don't think so... unless it was for dinner, which I hear isn't all that great... but I believe in second chances... and I never say never... so, maybe the hubs and I will make a date...

Ciao,
Nightlife Lady