CHILL OUT at One of These Wine Cafes

There’s nothing like sipping a nice glass of sparkling rosé as the sun goes down on a summer afternoon. St. Pete’s downtown is chock full of options for doing just that with a plethora of outdoor cafes, bistros and wine bars. Our SPL editors clinked a few glasses and have come up with a list of their favorites.

Here’s our Top 10 in no particular order:

Cassis, 170 Beach Drive NE

We love the lively happy hours from 4 to 7 pm (later on Tuesday) in the bright, airy indoor bar of this popular dining spot in the heart of downtown. Grab a table on the sidewalk for one of the best people-watching spots around.

Bacchus Wine Bistro, 124 2nd Avenue NE

Tucked just off Beach Drive behind Cassis, Bacchus has a devoted following of downtowners who pop in regularly to relax in the Old World charm, sip a glass of vino and nibble the variety of imported cheese. The menu boasts nearly 100 wines from around the globe.

Veranda at the Vinoy

Veranda at the Vinoy, 501 5th Avenue NE

Why let only tourists enjoy the modern elegance and magnificent waterfront views from the sprawling front porch of the Vinoy Resort? Take a seat at the bar or one of the comfy cushioned chairs and enjoy a delightful glass of wine. Who knows, you may meet a sports legend or two.

Allelo, 300 Beach Drive NE

While the outdoor patio is nice, we prefer sitting at the indoor bar so we can gaze upon the stunning mural behind the bar of native Florida habitat by local artist Annette Gloomis. The Mediterranean influenced restaurant also is one of the best brunch spots in town.

Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria, 241 Central Ave.

Longtime favorite of locals who appreciate a sophisticated wine selection with food and service to match. This upscale hideaway upstairs on a busy block of Central Avenue offers New Orleansstyle charm with sommeliers to help you wade through the massive wine menu.

Cafe Gala at the Dali Museum

Café Gala, Dali Museum

You don’t need to have an admission ticket to savor the European ambiance of this airy café in the lobby of the Dali Museum. With a Spanish theme honoring the birthplace of Salvador Dali, you can’t go wrong with a plate of tapas and a chilled signature Cava Rosado (Spanish rose champagne).

Baba, 2701 Central Avenue

For al fresco relaxing with a Mediterranean flair, Baba will soothe your soul on the patio or at the airy bar inside. For an adventure, work your way through uncommon varietals of wines from across Greece.

Book + Bottle, 17 6th Street N.

Part bookstore, part coffee shop and part wine bar, this cozy storefront café is an inviting place to chill with a glass of white any time. A great place to meet with the gal pals for a sip and a chat.

Must Wine Loft, 442 2nd Street N.

The place to go for a smart social scene, outstanding wine menu, delicious nibbles and monthly Wine Tasting Dinners featuring wines and cuisine from around the world. Happy, happy, Tuesday is 20 percent off for St. Pete locals.

Left Bank Bistro, 1225 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N.

Choose from the cozy indoor bar or take a seat on the outdoor patio at this charming French restaurant in the Crescent Lake area. A happy hour menu features light fare such as Escargot, Fromage & Charcuterie Board, and Bistro Frites with garlic and truffle aioli. Bon appetit!