Word on the street about SoHo is rumors
There's plenty of talk about a stretch of Howard Avenue, but not much is certain.
By RICK GERSHMAN
Published November 3, 2006
One thing is certain: Over the next couple of years, the complexion of the S Howard Avenue restaurant and bar strip is going to change.
But just how? It's tough to separate the truth from the rumors.
The stretch of Howard from Kennedy to Bayshore boulevards has already seen its share of changes in the 21st century.
Sure, it's cool to snag a panini at Panera, but does anyone else miss chugging a brew and a chaser at the Chatterbox?
And sure, you can catch games on multiple TVs at various places, but SoHo really hasn't had a true sports bar since Mac's closed.
These days, restaurants and bars might be more likely to replace S Howard's food and beverage spots than condominiums, thanks to the recent housing bubble burst.
But don't make any bets on your favorite watering hole or dining option staying put. Here's the buzz on a few projects:
Howard at Swann
Word on the street: Whiskey Park SoHo, favored destination for bachelorette parties and stretch H2 limos, will be replaced by condominiums.
The horse's mouth: That's the plan, though Whiskey Park isn't talking. Post Properties plans to build SoHo Square, a 248-unit condo and retail complex on the Whiskey Park site, which also houses Tampa Digital Studios.
The skinny: Whiskey's still jamming every weekend while Post works out its plans. The nightclub's owners want to stay in SoHo, which brings us to ...
Howard at Azeele
Word on the street: The building that houses the Dubliner Irish Pub, Sangria's Tapas Bar and Restaurant and other businesses will become the new spot for Whiskey Park.
The horse's mouth: Building owner Frank Kane couldn't be reached for comment, but he did recently apply for a wet zoning permit that would allow full liquor service in the whole structure. Sangria's owner Victor Perez said he couldn't comment on the rumors but said he has about 18 months left on his lease "and we're not leaving until our lease is up."
The skinny: We should know more after the permit goes before the City Council Nov. 16.
1502 S Howard Ave.
Word on the street: St. Bart's Island House is becoming a ritzy private club.
The horse's mouth: In January, Philip Glassman indicated he would open a members-only club, at $5,000 a pop, on part of the property.
The skinny: The entire establishment now is called "Chateau Prive at St. Bart's Island House," said Nancy Kipnis, a spokeswoman for the restaurant. And she wants everyone to know that while the club is an option, the vast majority of St. Bart's is and will always remain open to the public. Along with the Chateau Prive name, the restaurant has made several upgrades in decor, added new managers and is improving the quality of service, Kipnis said. As for the private club, it's Web site says its first membership party was Oct. 13.
Got some dirt on what's going down on S Howard? Rick Gershman can be reached at rgershman@sptimes.com or 226-3431.