Over the weekend, I checked out a new beer destination in Grand Central: The Rex. Officially opened about two weeks now, The Rex is the newest location for the brilliant owners of The Independent in downtown St. Pete and Seminole Heights in Tampa. They’ve done an extraordinary job creating a ravenous following in beer geek circles around the Bay.
Owners John and Veronica Vellines took the space over just a short while ago when the former Biegarten Central Pub fell under some financial difficulties. They weren’t looking for another location — the turnkey opportunity fell into their lap. So they’re running with it.
The space isn’t as decorated or as designed as the other two bars yet but they will be sprucing it up a bit and installing a new sign, according to Vellines. They’re also in the process of obtaining a sidewalk license. Good thing, since the place is pretty smoke-saturated.
The concept is American craft beers. Where Heineken, Miller and Bud once held court are now 20 taps pouring strictly domestic brews.
On tap last weekend: two ciders, Allagash Witbeir, Anderson Valley Poleeko Gold Pale Ale, Great Divide Hercules Double IPA, Laguitas Pils, North Coast (ACME Pale Ale, Old Rasputin, Red Seal, Scrimshaw Pilsner), Smuttynose Porter, Sprecher Black Bavarian, Weyerbacker Hops Infusion, Lost Coast Downtown Brown and my favorite, Ommegang Hennepin Saison.
Longtime bartender/manager Dan Schmidt will be operating The Rex. Go say hi.
The Rex
2061 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL
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mmmmm… Lagunitas.