Looking for a place to impress out of town friends-or soak up the sunset by the water (both pool and river)? This! Is! It! My good friends were visiting on business-staying downtown-and wanted to meet up late on a Friday afternoon for drinks. I looked for something walkable from their hotel and this popped up. I drive right by the Aloft every day, on my way to work. Finally... I was going to get inside-but just for a minute. We walked right to the back-to the patio bar by the pool, overlooking the Hillsborough River, with a view of the gorgeous University of Tampa campus and the sunset. It was the perfect place for convo and cocktails. We got there right when it opened at 4pm and could pick our spot. I can't tell you anything about what was available to eat or drink, since my friend sent us to sit and grabbed 2 rounds of beer and wine for us. Likewise, I can't comment on the service. Forgive me-I'll return-do some research-and report back later on those. But I can tell you that's it's a delicious spot to bask in the warm glow of both sun and good company. I was so focused on my friends, I didn't think to check on whether there were stairs down to the Riverwalk, below the bar-but I'll find out on my next visit. And I can tell you it's an easy walk from the Fort Brooke parking garage. (You take your ticket with you and pay at a machine on the first floor when you return) It was clean-not too loud-not too crowded-nobody bothered us. I can't wait to go back and do some more reconnaissance and take photos.! Cheers to good times, good venues and great friends! read more

W XYZ Bar - Great night out with friends. We sat along the River but this view was great, too. February 2024 - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

My colleague and I were staying at aloft for a conference and every evening as we came back to decompress that Gabby was working (wishing it had been every night, honestly 'cause the guy we had one night was sour) she cracked us up. Hilarious, and in retrospect she was likely taking the piss - teased us with her sarcasm and wit. She was awesome! read more

I have an awesome time here. They have silent discos pretty frequently on Sunday. Those are a GREAT time. My most recent visit they had an RnB Sunday with more alternative RnB and it was an amazing time. Actually I'm not sure what the genre is, think Kaytranada so whatever there called. They have outside seating by the pool. A pool table, large Kenya. It's lots of fun. The bartender is accommodating. I asked for a coffee drink and he said if I grab some coffee he can make me a masterpiece and it was! (The bar is in a hotel so this wasn't an issue). It's more of a loungey vibey atmosphere. That's my ham read more

W XYZ Bar - a pool table with a red cloth - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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As the main bar at the Aloft Hotel, it certainly follows the design of most Alofts I've frequented. Fashionable yet minimalistic, the bar doesn't serve well when you return from your day of festivities or business and need a drink. Given we had complimentary drink tickets for their signature cocktail, we had that. With a mixture of Captain Morgan and Fireball, the cocktail surprisingly works well. The bartender was friendly and patient who served us the drinks. Additionally, I like that the bar is right by the pool that overlooks the river so you have nice views -- especially during sunset. read more

W XYZ Bar - Capt and Fireball. I call it a burning ship. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

My DH and I live within walking distance and find ourselves heading back to WXYZ for their craft cocktails on a regular basis. Sure, it's a chain hotel bar, but their bartenders are fantastic. FH says one of the best Old Fashions he's even had and that's saying something people!! We've also had a couple apps there and they were fantastic as well... Did I mention live music Cool spot to chill and have a cocktail! read more

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Second time back at this bar, and we had the pleasure of being helped by Ron, who was so astute, he remembered us from our last visit which was over a year ago. Only the late night menu was available, so we ordered buffalo chicken wings and a few drinks. Around 11pm it was pretty busy, drew in a nice crowd. Thanks for your wonderful service, Ron. read more

No food at the bar anymore. Should say something on the website. Went for a paint night and had to run down the street to get burgers. Booo read more

The local Gasparilla Music Festival shut down due to tornado warnings. We were staying at a nearby Marriott property without a bar, so we migrated here. Ron was absolutely amazing. Fast, friendly, always got out order right, and managed our tab during the rush and after like an expert. As long as Ron's here, I'll be back! read more

During a short stay in Tampa for my twenty-third birthday, we had the intent of visiting as many bars as possible. However, after visiting WXYZ on the second night of our trip, we had to return the very next day! The entrance to WXYZ is filled with artistic oddities, scattered sculptures, uniquely shaped chairs, and unusual paintings line the walls. As if your eyes could handle more sensory stimulation, WXYZ outlooks the stunning Tampa RiverWalk, right by the bridge. The second night we visited, there was a street jazz musician serenading passerbys. With the moon light bouncing off the river, the swirling pink, blue, and purple lights from the Riverwalk, and the sultry jazz- it was a very romantic step away from the busy downtown. We were served by Alex both nights, and had a great time. He was very patient, offered menu suggestions, and created beautiful drinks at both occasions. Alex lended a hand as a tour guide, suggesting various restaurants in the area. After much debate, I finally decided on the "Get Up, Stand Up", Stoli Razberi, Chambord, are mixed into a delicious concoction- but it won't last long! You'll be pleased to find that WXYZ does not, ever, serve straws. I will definitely return to WXYZ any time I'm in Tampa. read more

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An average hotel bar with one huge exception! Bartender Ron is just fantastic. I will go back for his craftsmanship with a cocktail and his old Tampa conversation! read more

First time going in Aloft and had a pleasure to meet this one bartender named Catherine, so welcoming and sweet, always bring a smile to my face. Such wonderful service will definitely come back again and play pool. read more

We were bar hopping on a Saturday afternoon along the Riverwalk. I've been here before, but several of my friends had never been here. The bar is inside of the Aloft Hotel. The hotel and bar face the waterfront on the Riverwalk in downtown Tampa. The hotel and bar are very modern and it has a lot of artwork that is very interesting. There is also a pool table. The bar overlooks a swimming pool located on the waterfront. Good drinks! Definitely a nice place to hang out and just enjoy a drink and the view. read more

great place to meet with friends, or have a casual evening business gathering. You can play pool, have drinks, enjoy the fireplace, soft lounge chairs and couches, and get a bite to eat from the bar. Nice quiet atmosphere, private areas available, parking in the attached parking garage on on the metered street is available. This is a cool and hip place to do some business. read more

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I love the look of this modern contemporary bar. The bar is no-frills and simple, offering a limited selection of liquor, wine, and beer. The view from the patio of the Hillsborough River and Tampa's Riverwalk is stunning. During the Aloft Hotel's first month of opening, I met some friends here very late night. Or rather, it was very early morning. The bar was surprisingly busy with a mixed crowd. I just can't seem to get away from the douchebaggery of South Howard, I guess...ha ha! The bartenders were somewhat novice, very slow, and not too efficient. We sat at the bar for a good ten minutes before we were even acknowledged. The bartenders seemed like they did not want to interact with any of the patrons other than taking their orders and making their drinks. W XYZ also offers a limited food menu. Keep in mind that Valet Parking for non-overnight guests is normally $10. However, if you spend $10 at the bar, parking is only $5. I will definitely be back because I would like to try their food. Hopefully, the kinks have been ironed out and service has improved. read more

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Came here after work in the Aloft hotel. Played some pool while I waited for my Korean wings. The wings were very crispy and tasty. The rest of the week, was packed with patrons. So I only got the one chance to try them. read more

Cool place. I went in knowing that a friend of mine actually worked on the design, and if you guys knew him like I did, you'd understand a lot of the visual oddities. I though it was funky fresh and swanky. Free pool is a plus, but there's no "house rules" for the table, so if you wanna get on there, it could cause a problem when alcohol is involved. The cocktails on the menu are creative and fun. I love that their names are a reflection of out city. Some large chains don't incorporate local features into the menu. I'd love to see a Cuban sandwich on there, even if it's a cold cut version. I gulped down an old fashion with Woodford Reserve and then followed that up with a Buckhorn. Both were excellent. The bar staff was friendly and attentive despite being busy. Lastly, I really liked the pool deck area, which is cigar friendly. Great views of the Kennedy Street bridge, the brand new River Walk and "The Beer Can." read more

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Great bar staff, Alexa and Doreen always do a great job behind the bar. Fun layout and atmosphere. Nice addition to a solid hotel. Couple HICCUPS, such as when my Yelp special "thank you" of a 50% off draft beer popped up - nobody seemed to have ever heard of it. So the hotel needs to get that off of there. I have found their food good for a small bar kitchen, EXCEPT the nachos. Came out as bagged chips with canned salsa and cold cheese sauce. Just nasty ! Stick with the wings. read more

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Great waterfront gem! And when I say gem I mean waterfront pool and bar in downtown Tampa! This place is easy to forget about or miss because the hotel does not really advertise that they have a pool and bar on the river that anyone can go to. I have never seen it busy except when they have months pool parties. I hope to go to one some Sunday this summer. Definitely recommend putting this place into your downtown Tampa rotation. Perfect for a group of friends looking for a place to hang out and enjoy a drink pool and waterside. read more

Favorite new Wednesday happy hour! Great little snacks and great drink choices! The sangria is awesome and I love that they offer champagne! It's all you can drink from 5-9!! The outdoor patio has a great view of the river walk and games to enjoy, like cornhole and jenga. I really enjoy the DJ.. he does a great job of mixing new and old school! You have to check this place out on Wine Down Wednesday! read more

W XYZ Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

The atmosphere at this place is nice it's in the bottom of the Aloft hotel during happy hour prices are good for drinks and food I had the flatbread pizza sliders which were really good The bar also faces the hotel swimming pool which is a nice view and you can sit outside as well enjoy the view I would recommend going to this place only thing parking is expensive so park on the street valet is $12 read more

Upscale hotel with a nice bar area. Happy Hour specials with a fantastic river side view on the poolside patio. Live music some nights and a new bar food menu makes this a nice place to wind down after a tough day at the office. read more

Second night in a row at WXYZ bar and I gotta say I'm really digging the vibe. Awesome outdoor patio and pool, great river views, and super nice staff. Ron hooked me up tonight with a kale and arugula Cesar salad and the "Aloft Trash Can" to drink - it was like a grape & elderflower lemonade and I'm here for it. read more

I was told the silent disco was off the chain and was full with a lot of people. I arrive to see a four year old and his parents, a few teens, and one adult sitting at the bar. read more

W XYZ Bar has amazing drinks. Ron the bartender is the best. Great service and great drinks.

WXYZ is located inside the Aloft hotel, and upon check in I received a free drink voucher. I certainly wasn't going to let a glass of wine go to waste, so we stopped at the bar for a drink before heading out to dinner. The view from the bar area is great. There is a patio with the hotel pool (it looked way classier than "hotel pool" sounds) and there was a river view beyond that. They have a nice assortment of liquors, and a few decent beers on tap. I went with a glass of pinot grigio. The bartender was friendly and chatted with us a little, offering advice about the area, and she served my wine extra cold in a chilled glass...no complaints at all. The prices here were fairly reasonable considering it is a hotel bar. Though you can definitely get a better deal walking to a happy hour down the road, it is a great option in the hotel to relax, have a drink, and enjoy the view. read more

One of the Yelpers seemed to have the same experience with the very unfriendly bartender Zoie. First and last time here. Worst service at a bar. I didn't know ordering was such a bother for a bartender. God forbid I order a beer! I might get a snarl before I finish pronouncing the brew. I figured she just wanted to tell everyone to leave the moment you walked in. It may be redundant but Zoie was the most unprofessional, rude bartender I have ever been served with. It has to be noted The vibe is very chic and ideal for downtown. Typical prices for a downtown bar. Overall has nice potential but service needs to be addressed. read more

Lively place that always seems to attract a crowd whether it's a group gathered round the pool table, folks hanging out just outside the building, around and in the pool, couples and others keeping close to the bar or those seeking a slighter lower volume level by spilling out into the hotel lobby. I like a light-filled room with big windows like this is designed and particularly because the bar side of the Aloft Hotel overlooks the Hillsborough River. This hotel lobby level well above ground so it provides a widespread view of passing boats, people kayaking or paddle boarding and, if you time it right, local rowing teams or visiting college teams in training. As much as I applaud the daytime views, I am really looking forward to fall nights when a cocktail by the inside fireplace or poolside fire pit can be enjoyed in the company of friends. The decor, color scheme and funky furniture add to the fun. There is a contemporary look and feel at WXYZ but folks will be comfortable arriving here in any attire, whether they are coming straight from an outdoor concert at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park or a classical music performance at the Straz. read more

I stopped by for a friends bday crawl. It was pretty empty for a Sat. Afternoon. They are doing Sunday pool parties, but I have not been yet. I would suggest doing more daytime happy hours to attract more people. read more

W XYZ Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I've been wanting to try this place a a while. So when Ty and I went to fourth Friday downtown last week we decided to check it out. This was one of the places that was giving discounts, so what better reason to try it. I must say it was nice. They have the pool outside and nice places to sit and relax. It's a bit of a different place. There was two thing I didn't really care for. One was that there's no wait staff to come around and check on the patrons. Every time you want a drink or something to eat you have to go to the bar. The second was the live music. It seemed like the music was more for a Tuesday or Wednesday type music. For a Friday I would expect more of an upbeat dance type. We will probably be back for a place to have a drink our two and relax. read more

Cute bar with a beautiful waterfront bar and the bartender was super friendly. I stopped in for a glass of wine (or two) and had a great time. It happened to be pretty cold night, but the fire pit on the patio was perfect. Very relaxing and a great place to hang out and chat for a bit. read more

Great bar food and amazing drinks! The bartender, Ron, is super friendly. He makes the best margaritas and is a great conversationalist. This the only hotel that we will stay at when we visit our son at UT. Ron always has a smile on his face and makes you feel at home! read more

I'm a fan of the Aloft bar WXYZ. Their happy hour has great deals and food is good. I like the outdoor area a lot for having some drinks, they have a little fire area out there. I will definitely return as the deals are good for happy hour and I like the atmosphere. read more

We stayed at the Aloft hotel for the Gasparilla festival. We specifically chose this hotel because it had a in house bar. I gave them 2 stars because the bar itself is lovely. Huge points for the free pool table and open layout. Bright new age decor and ample seating and pool area was a huge plus. The service was another story. I was told that many employees were hired specifically for the event and as a result I believe service suffered. The bartenders were rude and forgetful. We actually received 3 separate orders for free simply because no one remembered serving us and therefore never billed us. My mother asked for a patron shot and was told that they were out. There was a full bottle literally behind her on the shelf. They also advertised rum drink specials for th festival and they ran out of rum the first day. They also ran out of bud light. Many hotel guest purchased drink tickets a head of time and we're unable to redeem them since the specials they purchased ran out. They had Captain Morgan girls planned for the whole weekend and canceled them the second day because they had no alcohol to promote. I blame this on poor management. If you plan to have an event focused on a specific brand then you need to stock appropriately. My brother in law purchased a drink and gave the bartender a $20 bill. The bartender gave him change as if he gave her a $10. When he called her out she replied, "You've been drinking, I havent. I gave you your change." For the record my brother in law and I don't drink. We have 2 max. She was so rude he didn't want to deal with her and unfortunately didn't tell us what happened until the next day (we are very strong, opinionated women. He didn't want to cause any problems lol) Through all of this there were 2 highlights. The bartender Dakota and Lindsey. Love them!! Lindsey closed the bar at 2 am and was back bright and early the next morning just as sweet and bubbly as ever! She was professional and made amazing drinks. Dakota was super apologetic for his peers and very attentive. Even through the drama of running out of alcohol, they handled it all with grace. I commend them for riding the waves of complaints for the mistakes of their superiors. For them alone I will be back! read more

A gentleman and a A+ bartender by the name of Ron stood out with exceptional service. I was a bartender myself for 7years and I can be quite the critic when in comes to my drinks and customer service. He shook up a perfect dirty Tito's martini for me!! The Fried cod tacos soft also yummy! read more

Drinks overpriced & watered down. Customer service is blah & a bit rude. And the place doesn't seem too clean to me & has a stale smell, which is a total turn off. Staff act like they are doing you a favor by being there & serving you. That's their jobs, right ??? So the downtown views are nice. That's not enough to get me back to this underwhelming bar. Downtown Tampa has many better venues than this drab place. read more

Went here last night for some drinks. The Riverwalk drink was amazing! The whole atmosphere was fun and very relaxed. It was neat to be sitting out by the pool right on the river and the modern design was just perfect. Will definitely go here more often! read more

W XYZ Bar - Drinks by the pool - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Let's start by saying that this place may be ideal just for happy hour, there is not a restaurant and only "bar food" is offered. It's a very colorful hotel with a lovely pool. I went with friends, it's great for get together. They usually have a DJ but it's not a dancing place. read more

I went to WXYZ the other day for a happy hour. The best part of the bar is the view. Right outside is a patio with a beautiful pool and backdrop of the Hillsborough river. The downside, I thought, was the set up and the food. The only places to sit are either outside or on some kind of lounging chairs. It's kind of hard to describe, but suffice it to say that the seating situation was uncomfortable. Also, I got the hummus plate, which was good but had terrible ratios. There were few pita chips but a crazy number of olives. And to make things a little stranger, the olives had pits, which weren't easy to dispose of during a happy hour. I'll be back to WXYZ, though. It recently opened, and I think they're still working out the kinks. read more

Ron, our bartender is amazing. He made a signature drink for us and called if by our names. He noticed one of us was getting the flu and offered to make a drink w honey in it. He is truly the best bartender I've ever experienced. read more

After checking-in late at night to the hotel, I decided to have dinner at the WXYZ Bar, and I had the most terrible dining experience. As I was halfway into eating my dinner, a cockroach was right next to my plate! Once the bartender heard my scream, he rushed over to kill the cockroach. The cockroach was squirming all over my plate and my dining area, and finally the bartender got rid of the cockroach. I was in total shock, and as I went back to my hotel room I found myself traumatized and unable to sleep just thinking that I would find another cockroach in my room. The hotel staff was short and seemed to be uninterested in my situation, which makes them very unprofessional. Please be mindful of your surroundings while eating at the WXYZ Bar. read more