Tag: DUI Attorney Tampa

DUI While Visiting Florida, Expert Attorney WF Casey Ebsary Jr, Tampa

Tampa DUI Bars and Restaurants – Map of Hot Spots

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

DUI Hot Spots 2025 Update

Tampa boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife, with bustling bars and entertainment venues spread across the city. This project provides a helpful resource for navigating Tampa’s bar scene while prioritizing safety. We’ve compiled key data on popular bars, including locations in areas known for their active nightlife. The map provided here offers a convenient way to visualize these locations on a map, aiding in transportation planning and awareness. It’s crucial to remember that enjoying Tampa’s nightlife responsibly means planning a safe ride home. Use the data to explore Tampa’s bars and make informed decisions. For DUI defense information and resources, please visit dui2go.com. or call or contact us online to speak to a highly qualified DUI Lawyer.

Top 10 Questions & Answers about Tampa Bars and DUI Hot Spots:

Here you’ll find answers to common questions about navigating Tampa’s nightlife scene responsibly. We address concerns like where DUI enforcement is common and how to plan a safe night out. This information is intended to help you make informed decisions and prioritize safety. For information on cops watching bars at the beaches and Pinellas County visit here. For further details on DUI laws or legal resources, please cal 813-222-2220 visit dui2go.com.

FAQ USF
FAQ USF
Where are the main areas in Tampa where police tend to focus on DUI enforcement due to the number of bars?

Areas with a high concentration of nightlife, such as Ybor City and South Howard Avenue (SoHo), are often areas where DUI enforcement is heightened, especially during evenings and weekends.

Is there an official list of Tampa bars that police are specifically “watching” for DUIs?

No, law enforcement agencies typically do not release a public list of specific bars they are targeting for DUI enforcement, as this would likely compromise their efforts.

Can you name some specific bars in Tampa that are located in areas known for nightlife and potential DUI enforcement?

Some specific bars in areas with active nightlife include MacDinton’s and The Lodge in SoHo, and Gaspar’s Grotto and The Castle in Ybor City.

I saw a list from “dui2go.com” of Tampa DUI “hotspot” bars. Is this list accurate and up-to-date?

Lists like the one from “dui2go.com” can provide some insight, but their accuracy and how frequently they are updated can vary. It’s always best to cross-reference information and be aware that law enforcement focuses on impaired driving generally, not just specific establishments.

Are the bars listed as possible DUI Hotspots still open in Tampa?

Most of the long-standing bars we discussed, such as MacDinton’s, Hyde Park Cafe, Gaspar’s Grotto, The Castle, Peabody’s, CDB Pizza, and The Drynk, are likely still open. However, “Liquid” in Ybor City appears to be permanently closed, and the current status of “G Bar/Fusion” is uncertain.

Can you provide the addresses for some of these Tampa bars?

Yes, addresses for some of these bars include MacDinton’s at 405 S Howard Ave, Gaspar’s Grotto at 1805 E 7th Ave, and Hyde Park Cafe at 1806 W Platt St. A full table with addresses is available in our conversation.

Can I see these bar locations on a map?

Yes, I can provide Google Maps URLs for the locations of these bars, which will allow you to see them on a map.

Besides specific bars, are there other times or locations in Tampa where DUI enforcement is common?

Yes, DUI enforcement is often increased near large events where alcohol is served, on major roadways leading away from entertainment districts (like Kennedy Boulevard), and in areas with a history of DUI arrests. Enforcement is also typically higher during weekend evenings and holidays. Enforcement is also typically higher during weekend evenings and holidays.

What’s the most important thing to remember to avoid DUI issues when going out in Tampa?

The most crucial thing is to always plan for a safe ride home before you start drinking. Utilize ride-sharing services, taxis, designated drivers, or public transportation.

Where can I find the most up-to-date information about DUI enforcement or lists of “hotspot” bars in Tampa?

While official lists are rare, you can look for recent news reports from local Tampa news outlets, information from the Tampa Police Department or Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office regarding DUI enforcement campaigns or checkpoints (which are often announced beforehand), and be aware of general trends in nightlife areas. Websites like ours may offer lists, but their accuracy and timeliness should be considered.

Law enforcement agencies like the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office don’t typically release a public list of specific bars they are actively “watching” for DUIs. Doing so would likely reduce the effectiveness of their enforcement efforts.

However, based on the knowledge of popular nightlife spots in Tampa, here are some specific bars and entertainment venues that are located within those higher-risk areas where DUI enforcement is often concentrated. Keep in mind that this is not an official “watchlist,” but rather a list of establishments in areas known for nightlife:

DUI Hotspots In and around Ybor City:

  1. The Castle: A popular nightclub in the heart of Ybor City.
  2. Crowbar: A live music venue and bar on 7th Avenue.
  3. Gaspar’s Grotto: A well-known pirate-themed bar in Ybor.
  4. Cigar City Cider & Mead: Offers a variety of alcoholic beverages in Ybor.

DUI Hotspots In and around South Howard Avenue (SoHo):

  1. MacDinton’s Irish Pub: A popular bar on SoHo.
  2. The Hyde Park Cafe: A long-standing bar and club in the SoHo area.
  3. Yard House: A restaurant and bar with a large selection of beers on tap.

DUI Hotspots Near the University of South Florida (USF) area:

  1. The Brass Tap (near USF): A chain bar with a wide selection of craft beers.
  2. World of Beer (near USF): Another popular spot with a large beer menu.

DUI Hotspots In the Channelside/Sparkman Wharf area:

  1. American Social: A waterfront bar and restaurant.

Important Reminders:

  • This is not an exhaustive list: There are many other bars in Tampa where people consume alcohol.
  • Police focus on drivers, not just bars: Law enforcement targets impaired drivers regardless of where they were drinking.
  • Be responsible: Always plan for a safe ride home, no matter which bar you visit.

Think of these locations as being in areas with a higher density of bars and nightlife, which naturally leads to a greater potential for DUI incidents and thus, increased police presence. The best way to stay safe is always to avoid drinking and driving.

In our original Post below from the 2010’s we had a list of bars and restaurants identified as DUI hotspots in Tampa:

  • MacDinton’s
  • The Kennedy
  • Hyde Park Cafe
  • Seminole Hard Rock Casino
  • Peabody’s
  • The Lodge
  • Blue Martini
  • CDB Pizza
  • The Drynk
  • Gaspar’s Grotto
  • G Bar/Fusion
  • Liquid

It’s important to remember a few things:

  • This does not mean these are the only places where DUI enforcement occurs.
  • Police focus on drivers, not just bars: Law enforcement targets impaired drivers regardless of where they were drinking.
  • Be responsible: Always plan for a safe ride home, no matter which bar you visit.

2025 Table of DUI Hot Spots in Tampa Florida

Okay, here’s the updated table including the addresses of the establishments, based on available information as of Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:17 PM EDT:

Bar NameAddressLocationLikely Open?Notes
MacDinton’s405 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606South Howard Avenue (SoHo)YesPopular and well-established.
Hyde Park Cafe1806 W Platt St, Tampa, FL 33606South Howard Avenue (SoHo)YesLong-standing establishment in the area.
Gaspar’s Grotto1805 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605Ybor CityYesIconic and enduring bar in Ybor.
The Castle2004 N 16th St, Tampa, FL 33605Ybor CityYesProminent nightclub.
Seminole Hard Rock Casino (Bars)5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610TampaYesBars within a major entertainment complex. Address is for the casino.
The Kennedy240-A S Meridian Ave, Tampa, FL 33602Downtown TampaYesListed as an active bar/nightclub.
The Lodge516 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606South Howard Avenue (SoHo)YesPopular bar on South Howard.
Blue Martini2223 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607International Plaza areaYesTypically a stable establishment.
Peabody’s15333 Amberly Dr, Tampa, FL 33647North Tampa (near USF)YesOpen as Peabody’s Restaurant, Bar & Billiards.
CDB Pizza3671 S Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33629South TampaYesRestaurant with bar service.
The Drynk302 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606South Howard Avenue (SoHo)YesAppears to be open as The Drynk Lounge and Bar.
G Bar/Fusion1401 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605Ybor CityUncertainCurrent operation under this name is unclear; may be closed or rebranded.
Liquid1502 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605Ybor CityLikely NoMultiple sources indicate it is permanently closed.

Notes:

  • Addresses are based on available information and may represent the primary or most well-known location.
  • The “Likely Open?” status remains as previously determined.
  • The status of “G Bar/Fusion” still requires further local verification for complete certainty.
  • “Liquid” in Ybor City appears to be permanently closed at the listed address.

Original Post from 2018 Below Updated to 2025

Dine, Dance, and Detained: How to Avoid DUI Charges – Tips From a Tampa DUI Attorney

Hyde Park DUI Lawyer Which Bars are Cops Watching?
Dine, Dance, and Detain

DUI attorneys in Tampa know there are certain locations generally and several bars, specifically that generate much of the DUI traffic stop action for law enforcement agencies. Police are tracking where drivers who have been arrested reported having their last drink. Unfortunately, for the bars on the lists published by the Tampa Tribune, these bar owners cannot control the police or the surveillance of their locations and their customers. Not surprisingly, in general, the neighborhoods close to the Tampa Police Department headquarters are hot spots for DUI arrests. Hyde Park and Ybor City are frequent entries on incident reports according to the media. Best advice – make sure to arrange a ride home.

“Aside from the decision to waive their Miranda rights, the only good that comes of honest answers to these questions will be finding out where drivers can go to increase the probability of an arrest ending the evening.”

Video of a driving under the influence traffic law enforcement officer from court proceedings at the Hillsborough County Courthouse told drivers what many already knew – cops watch bar parking lots. Now drivers and visitors know which geographic areas and which bars are most likely to have officers waiting to issue DUIs.

Avoiding DUIs in Tampa from WF Casey Ebsary Jr 813.222.2220

 
Tampa DUI AttorneyMap DUI Arrests
Map of DUI Arrest Locations in Tampa, Florida
 
 

“The last-drink survey system does have some flaws, Morgan admitted.” Some of the people with DUI charges were drinking at a private residence or refuse to answer deputies’ questions.
TBO.com

 
The Town N’ Country area located just west of Tampa International Airport is one of the Tampa DUI hot spots. The roads near the airport are confusing and with so much construction. The signage is unfamiliar and is not always clear. The basis for some of these traffic stops is improper lane changes. Visitors are the frequent victim of DUI patrol officers in this section of Hillsborough County, Florida.
 
Another Tampa DUI hot spot, the Hyde Park neighborhood has several streets that are one-way only. Officers wait for moving violations like not coming to a complete stop, going the wrong way on a one way or weaving to investigate the potential DUI.


5 Bars in Hillsborough County

“Bars on the lists published by the Tampa Tribune, these bar owners cannot control the police or the surveillance of their locations and their customers.”
  • MacDinton’s 405 South Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606
  • The Kennedy 2408 West Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33609
  • Peabody’s 15333 Amberly Drive, Tampa, FL 33647
  • G Bar/Fusion 1401 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
  • Liquid 1502 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605

Source: http://tbo.com/news/crime/where-did-dui-drivers-have-their-last-drink-hillsborough-deputies-know-20141121/

How to avoid a DUI in Tampa Florida

 

10 Tampa Bars in 2013

 

“Police officer candidly admits the obvious – cops sit in bar parking lots.”

 
The most frequently reported last drink taken occurs at some of the places listed below. Cops ask people they have arrested:
 
Where have they been?
How much they drank?  and
Where were they going?
 
Aside from the decision to waive their Miranda rights, the only good that comes of honest answers to these questions will be finding out where drivers can go to increase the probability of an arrest ending the evening.
 

Where to go to Increase the Odds of a DUI Arrest 

 
“Next time you visit some of the area’s more popular bars, make sure you arrange a ride home if you plan on partaking in more than one or two alcoholic beverages.’ TBO.com
 

1-MacDinton’s
2- The Kennedy
3- Hyde Park Cafe
4- Seminole Hard Rock Casino
5- Peabody’s
6- The Lodge
7- Blue Martini
8- CDB Pizza
9- The Drynk
10- Gaspar’s Grotto

Source: http://tbo.com/news/crime/where-did-dui-drivers-have-their-last-drink-hillsborough-deputies-know-20141121/

How to avoid a DUI
Link to Interactive Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=zWwaTmFIBMis.k6pwIUV3dnNM
 
 
1st Time DUI, Commercial DUI, Underage DUI

First-Time DUI Diversion

W F Casey Ebsary Jr

A first-time DUI diversion of prosecution after a DUI arrest in Hillsborough County can be overwhelming. Understanding the RIDR program, designed to reduce DUI recidivism, is crucial for those seeking a path to resolution. This guide provides essential Q&A and a detailed table summarizing the program’s eligibility, benefits, and restrictions, offering clarity to individuals facing DUI charges and exploring their diversion options. If you’re looking for expert legal guidance, especially concerning the details found below, contact Casey the Lawyer at DUI2Go.com to discuss your case.

Q&A: RIDR Program in Hillsborough County Florida – Answers from an Expert

RIDR Questions and Answers from a DUI Expert

Questions and Answers

from a

DUI Expert

As a DUI expert serving Hillsborough County, I understand the anxiety and confusion that follows a first-time DUI arrest. The RIDR program offers a potential path to resolution, but navigating its complexities is vital. This comprehensive guide breaks down the RIDR program through essential Q&A and a detailed table, clearly outlining eligibility, benefits, and restrictions.

My goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. If you’re seeking clarity and personalized legal guidance on your DUI case and the RIDR program details presented below, reach out to Casey at DUI2Go.com for expert assistance.

Why was the First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) program created?

The program was created to address Hillsborough County’s high rates of DUI crashes, injuries, and fatalities. It aims to reduce recidivism and improve community safety by imposing enhanced sanctions on first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders.  

Who is eligible for the First-Time DUI Diversion program?

Eligibility criteria include: the case must be a misdemeanor DUI offense; there can be no children in the vehicle; the breath alcohol concentration must be below 0.200%; there cannot have been a crash; there cannot be a prior DUI, alcohol-related reckless driving, driving while license suspended with serious bodily injury or death, leaving the scene of an accident with injury or death, or vehicular homicide charges; there cannot have been a prior DUI diversion program and no more than one non-DUI diversion program as an adult; and in the five years prior to the date of offense the driver cannot have had a prior adjudication withhold or any portion of a felony sentence.

How are cases selected for the program?

Your attorney can request consideration. The State Attorney’s Office evaluates cases individually based on the specific facts. They have the sole discretion to determine eligibility. Sanction levels are determined by BAC and the nature of the offense.

What are the benefits of accepting a plea offer under this program?

Benefits include: No Conviction; reduced charge to reckless driving; withhold adjudication; 12 months probation; vehicle immobilization for 10 days; avoidance of a DUI conviction on their record; and completion of DUI school and any recommended treatment.

What are the restrictions during the diversion program?

Restrictions include: no possession or consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs, or non-prescribed drugs during the 12-month probation period; payment of standard court costs and cost of supervision; and completion of DUI school and any recommended treatment.

Table Summarizing the First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR) Program:

CategoryDetails
Program GoalReduce DUI recidivism and improve community safety in Hillsborough County.
EligibilityMisdemeanor DUI, BAC < 0.200%, no crash, no prior DUI-related offenses, no children in vehicle, limited prior diversions, no recent felony convictions.
Case SelectionState Attorney’s Office discretion, individual case evaluation.
Sanction LevelsLevel 1: BAC < 0.15%; Level 2: BAC 0.15% – 0.20% or refusal; Level 3: Drug-related DUI.
Plea Offer BenefitsReduced charge (reckless driving), withhold adjudication, 12 months probation.
Restrictions10-day vehicle immobilization, no alcohol/drug consumption, payment of court costs, DUI school completion.

Don’t Navigate Your DUI Alone: Connect with Casey Today.

If you or someone you know is facing a first-time DUI in Hillsborough County, contact Casey at DUI2Go.com today. Learn more about Casey here: https://dui2go.com/about/ For expert legal assistance regarding the First-Time DUI Diversion program, reach out to Casey at DUI2Go.com. Contact Casey here: https://dui2go.com/contact/

Original Announcement from 2018

Why Start New First-Time DUI Diversion (RIDR)?

New First-Time DUI DiversionHillsborough County has consistently been ranked the worst or near the worst in Florida for DUI crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Given the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of reducing recidivism to promote long-term Community safety, the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office has established the reducing impaired driving recidivism initiative. The program seeks to aggressively target and reduce impaired driving by imposing enhanced sanctions like alcohol monitoring devices and DUI education programs on first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders. This First-Time DUI Diversion program also promotes consistency in the prosecution of DUI cases by eliminating the incentive for offenders to refuse to provide a breath sample during the investigation.
 

Who Is Eligible for First-Time DUI Diversion Program?

To be eligible for the First-Time DUI Diversion program, first, the case must be a misdemeanor DUI. There can be no children in the vehicle. Also, the breath alcohol concentration must be below .200% and there cannot have been a crash. Additionally, there cannot be a prior DUI alcohol-related reckless driving, driving while license suspended with serious bodily injury or death, leaving the scene of an accident with injury or death, or vehicular homicide charges in the driver’s past. Finally, there cannot have been a prior DUI diversion program, more than one non-DUI diversion program as an adult, or in the five years prior to the date of offense the driver cannot have had a prior adjudication withhold or any portion of a sentence on a felony.
 

What Is The Process For Selecting Cases In This DUI Diversion Program?

The state attorney’s office will evaluate all cases on an individual fact-specific basis. The state attorney’s office solely determines the individual’s eligibility for the RIDR First-Time DUI Diversion Program. There will be three sanction levels for eligible cases. Level one cases will have a breath level below .15%. Next, Level two will have breath alcohol levels above .15% but less than .20% or there has been a refusal to provide. Last, Level 3 will be for drug-related DUIs.
 

Why Would Someone Want To Accept A Plea Offer Under The New DUI Program?

Mainly the driver will be offered a reduced charge of reckless driving and withhold adjudication. There will be 12 months probation. Individual must pay standard court costs and cost of supervision. They will have their vehicle immobilized for 10 days. The first-time DUI offender cannot possess or consume alcohol, illegal drugs, or non prescribed drugs during that 12 month period. Also, the offender must successfully complete the DUI school and any recommended treatment.
 
Breath Test Over 08, DUI On Drugs

Can you get a DUI in a Tesla or self-driving car (Video)?

W F Casey Ebsary Jr
DUI In Tesla’s Self-Driving Car?DUI in a Tesla – What happens when an officer pulls over a self-driving car? Can the officer charge anyone with a DUI in a self-driving Tesla? Some Scholars have written about this and I thought we might review this issue. Tesla automobiles have an autopilot feature. It is not truly self-driving as Tesla has referred to it as semi-autonomous driving. Other car companies have also tried developing autopilot technology.

What happens when an officer pulls over a self-driving car?

Understanding DUI Charges and Self-Driving Teslas

Read on to learn about the legal implications of being pulled over in a self-driving Tesla.

Can an Officer Charge Anyone with a DUI in a Self-Driving Tesla?

Self-driving technology has been gaining momentum in recent years, with companies like Tesla at the forefront of this emerging industry. However, this technology has raised questions about how law enforcement officers will handle DUI charges when it comes to self-driving cars. In the case of a self-driving Tesla, the driver is not technically in control of the vehicle, which complicates matters for law enforcement officials.

Scholars’ Perspectives on the Issue

Legal scholars have written extensively on this topic, and there is no clear consensus on how the law should treat self-driving vehicles. Some argue that the driver is still responsible for any DUI charges that may arise, as they are ultimately in control of the vehicle, even if they are not physically driving it. Others believe that the responsibility should fall on the car’s manufacturer, as they are the ones who designed and produced the vehicle’s self-driving technology.

Navigating the Future of Transportation

As the technology behind self-driving cars continues to develop, it is likely that we will see more legal and regulatory changes in how they are treated under the law. In the meantime, it is important for both law enforcement officials and the general public to educate themselves on the current state of the law and how it may apply in cases involving self-driving vehicles.

Stay informed about the latest developments in self-driving technology and the law by following reputable sources and consulting with legal professionals as needed.

Here are a few sources to support the information presented:

These sources provide in-depth analysis of the legal and regulatory issues surrounding self-driving cars, including the potential implications for DUI charges.

California Highway Patrol Charges Driver With DUI in a Tesla.

In January 2018, in San Francisco, a person in a Tesla car had an alcohol level twice the legal limit. The Tesla’s operator received a DUI. Tesla has instructed drivers using autopilot to maintain consciousness while driving. Also, Tesla tells drivers using autopilot to keep their hands on the steering wheel. In this arrest, the driver explained that the Tesla was on autopilot to the California Highway Patrol. Even with the driver’s explanation, the officer arrested and charged the driver with DUI. The California Highway Patrol tweeted that the car did not drive itself to the tow yard.

Will Florida Officers Charge Drivers With DUI in a Tesla?

Florida law prohibits an intoxicated driver from being in actual physical control of a vehicle. The car does not need to be moving at the time of a DUI arrest. Florida only requires that the vehicle is capable of being moved. The case law discusses the location of the keys and whether or not the car is operable. Under this broad definition of driving that includes the capacity of physical control of the car, it is highly unlikely the operator of a self-driving car would beat a DUI on that defense. It is probable that the court would find the driver was in actual physical control of the vehicle. Hence, some cars equipped with these automatic driving features have contracts that require the user to keep hands on the steering wheel even when the vehicle is in autopilot mode.