The Hideaway Cafe and Recording Studio

OK   I only stopped by The Hideaway while eating next door at The Burg for lunch.  They were getting set up for the evening.  They welcomed me in and showed me around.  I was blown way by the clean and comfortable atmosphere.  This has to be one of the best venues to see local and out of town music in a night club/speak easy setting.   They do have food (didn't see the menu).   I plan to stop by some evening for a drink and music.  So I hope i have more to report soon.

Since moving to Tampa, I haven't really embraced the local music scene. Or any music really. In Miami I was fortunate enough to enjoy a brew pub that also had live music almost every time I went, and while the Ale and the Witch does have live music, their beer kinda takes my focus for some reason.

For my friend's birthday, he and his fiance invited me out to The Hideaway to hang out and listen to one of his friend's band. Sounded like fun, so I quickly drove over (seriously no one has the right to complain about "how far Tampa is from St. Pete" because the ride took me 15 minutes), parked for free, mind you, and went inside.

The atmosphere is that of the local bar with live music designed for people who appreciate good local music. The place was not filled with drunk college kids, but rather a range of people from late 20s to even 60s just sitting back. Oh yeah, the bar doubles as a recording studio, which adds to the charm and knowledge that you will be listening to something good.

Anyways, the beer selection is limited on draft, but they have a fridge filled with craft beers so even the snob can get something as homey as the band. There is also a selection of pizzas, sandwiches and salads, which my friend said was good, but I didn't feel like dropping $10 on a pizza without knowing how big (curse you Papa Johns and you're deals).

I recommend checking out at least one of their shows. We got to hear Paint The Town Red and would be willing to return even before they do.

Some friends brought me to the Hideaway for an acoustic performance, and before I even walked in the door, I was in love. Right there, on the front door, it says something to the extent of this is a listening room, please respect the artists and those here to listen by not talking during performances.

Of course, the night we went it was a) St Patrick's Day, and b) free, which meant that this wasn't so much followed. But either way, this place is awesome. Its small, intimate, and comfortable, with traditional tables and chairs, as well as very comfy looking couches and coffee tables.  There's a bar in the back, and a small menu, which is apparently new and a result of a recent expansion.  

The sound was excellent, and the space was perfect for an acoustic show. They also have a small recording studio in the back. Definitely some place I'd recommend to artists looking for acoustic venues and to music lovers looking for an acoustic show.