As it turns out, us Floridians will have our beer and drink it, too. According to Tampa Bay Business Journal, Florida ranked third in the nation for beer consumption. In 2012, 12.88 million barrels of beer were shipped to vendors in the state, which is almost a barrel for each of the 14.6 million Florida residents over 21. That’s a lot of brews!

However, Florida placed 34th in the country for per capita beer consumption, which means that the per person average for beer consumption in Florida isn’t high compared to residents of other states. There’s no doubt we love our beer in the ‘Burg. Just take a look at all the awesome places to carouse for a cold one!

Ale and the Witch
Serving only craft beer, The Ale and the Witch is a laid back bar with 32 American craft beers on tap, a list which is frequently updated and made available via Twitter. Inside the bar the giant chalkboard lists each beer, the alcohol percentage and where the beer is brewed. Comfy chairs and board games are available for those who want to relax and hang out. The Ale and the Witch books live music outside in the courtyard frequently and is an excellent venue because of the acoustics provided by the surrounding buildings. Check out the lineup here. 111 2nd Ave. NE.

Steel City Brewhouse
Steel City is sits snugly in the 20 block of Central Ave, near Haslam’s Bookstore. This particular section of the building used to be a seafood joint, but is now home to an interesting little craft beer bar. With 20 different beers on tap at a time and a selection of bottled beer, Steel City is definitely a beer enthusiast’s hangout. Ample seating is available at tables inside and out. Check out the little living room-esque corner in the back with comfy chairs and a dart board. Great atmosphere. 2061 Central Ave.

Octave
Octave is a relatively new bar in the ‘Burg, occupying the space where Durty Nelly’s used to be back in its heyday. What’s interesting about this bar is that it has a little bit of everything. It’s got ample space at the bar for those who like to sit in the front of the class and tables and couches for those who want to sit on the outskirts (or if the bar is crowded and you don’t have a choice.) The bar is split into two sides: the side with the bar has a jukebox and the other side has a stage and lounge area for karaoke as well as a pool table, foosball and darts. They have an excellent happy hour, 4-9pm every day with 2 for 1 wells, drafts and house wines. We’ll take it! 661 Central Ave.

Empouria
Empouria, very cute. This new-ish bar used to be the St. Pete staple, The Independent. It is still a craft beer bar offering just as wild of a variety of beer as The Independent. They’ve got Lagunitas Pale Ale, Smuttynose IPA, Dogfish Head and Jever just to name a few. If you want it, they’ve probably got it. At night the bar has minimal lighting, creating an intimate lounge vibe. The outside seating provides for great people watching opportunities. Stop by Empouria and when you’re done tying one on you can head next door to Burrito Boarder to cure the munchies. 29 3rd St. N. 

Old Northeast Tavern 
A good ol’ St. Pete haunt, Old Northeast Tavern hosts a beer fest every year featuring over 30 draft beers. We’re thinkin’ they know their stuff. They also have a full menu if you’re there by day. Indoor seating only. 201 7th Ave. N. 

Don’t forget about the highly anticipated businesses launching beer breweries right here in downtown St. Pete. Make sure to stay updated with Green Bench Brewing Co. and Cycle Brewing for their grand opening dates.

‘Burgers, what are some of your favorite places to imbibe?

Photos via Empouria, Octave, Steel City, Ale and the Witch.