Happy hours are a fabulous invention, but the sad thing is, they usually end too early for those of us that work. That's why Brio Tuscan Grille's extended Rooftop Happy Hour is an excellent idea - it goes from 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm every Wednesday night!

Brio Tuscan Grille can be found on Bay Street in Tampa's swanky International Plaza. This gorgeous eatery is light and airy, with soothing butter yellow walls and soaring arches, reminiscent of the lavish villas in the hills of the Tuscan countryside. Brio also features a hip rooftop bar, overlooking the fashionably dressed shoppers of the popular Bay Street, and it's the perfect setting for a relaxed, early evening happy hour. 

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While Brio's main dining room offers a luxurious yet affordable menu filled with Northern Italian culinary delights, the Rooftop Happy Hour features an exceptional menu from Brio's sister restaurant, Coastal Bar & Kitchen. Start your party off the right way with some tasty bar plates meant for sharing. Choose from delicate carpaccio served with parmesan flat bread and house-made mustard aioli, the new classic feta, watermelon, and tomato salad, or proceed directly to tasty Italian comfort food - meatballs and polenta.

  • Fun fact - polenta is sometimes referred to as "Italian grits." Usually made from yellow maize, this versatile dish has been around since the Roman times. Some legends say the dish was first prepared right inside a Roman legionnaire's metal helmet!

Their unique Rooftop Happy Hour menu also offers exciting artisanal cocktails for your after-work drinking enjoyment. Brio's rooftop bar will be serving up one of my special favorites, a Basil Mule. Traditionally served in an ice-cold copper mug, this mule features Svedka vodka, fresh lime juice, tangy ginger beer, and muddled fresh Italian basil. If you're looking for something more adventurous, be sure to check out the Spicy Mango Margarita, with pepper-infused tequila and mango essence. 

Of course, there's plenty of craft beers as well, starring several delicious options from Tampa's own Cigar City Brewery - Jai Alai IPA, Maduro Brown Ale, and Florida Cracker Belgian Ale. 

There's something for everyone at Brio's extended Rooftop Happy Hour on Wednesdays from 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm,  see you there soon! Be sure to register above to stay connected to information about happy hours, restaurants in Tampa and much more. Your subscription is FREE!