News Summary
The Studio Public House in St. Petersburg, a beloved British pub, is set to close due to a lease dispute with its landlord. Owners Mike and Ali Crippin announced the closure and will host events in their final weekend to celebrate the pub’s community impact. Regulars express sadness, highlighting the pub’s role as a gathering place, with plans for a customer appreciation event and a final performance scheduled. The Crippins also plan to revive Moon Under Water at a new location, sparking excitement among residents.
St. Petersburg, FL – The Studio Public House, a cherished British pub located at 2950 Central Ave. in St. Petersburg, has announced it will be closing its doors due to a lease dispute. The official closing date is set for Thursday, but the establishment will host special events throughout the weekend to celebrate its impact on the community.
The pub’s closure was made public last month when the landlord opted not to renew the lease and chose to sell the building for development purposes. The owners, Mike and Ali Crippin, had previously reached an agreement for a five-year extension on a 10-year lease but found themselves left in a state of “lease limbo.” This situation ultimately led to the decision to close the beloved pub.
In response to the closing, staff member Meg Hollingsworth voiced her devastation over the news, emphasizing how the Crippins transformed the space into a special gathering place. The pub has been known for hosting early morning soccer games and showcasing local art, creating a vibrant atmosphere for patrons.
Regulars have expressed sadness at the news, with artist James Hartzell mentioning the close familial bonds formed between the pub’s owners and the community. The sentiment reflects the significant role that The Studio Public House played in the local social scene.
As part of their appreciation for loyal customers and to acknowledge the staff, a customer appreciation event is planned for Wednesday, featuring complimentary samples of Guinness, giveaways provided by 3 Daughters Brewing, and music from DJ Hicksey. This event aims to celebrate the thriving culture the pub fostered over the years.
During the final weekend, from Friday through Sunday, all profits will be directed to a staff appreciation fund. Customers are encouraged to show their gratitude by tipping their favorite staff members during this period. Additionally, the Sunday Jazz Project will perform one last time at the pub on Sunday from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM, allowing patrons a final opportunity to enjoy music in the space they cherish.
The Studio Public House has long been a staple in St. Petersburg, known for its lively atmosphere and community engagement. Prior to establishing The Studio, Mike Crippin served as the executive chef at another local establishment called Moon Under Water, which was situated on Beach Drive. This background laid the foundation for the authentic British fare and warm hospitality the pub has offered its patrons.
Looking toward the future, the Crippins have plans to revive Moon Under Water in a new location. In March, it was announced that they would be partnering with Kevin and Jeanne Milkey to create a new version of the restaurant. This new establishment is anticipated to be approximately 5,000 square feet, a size that is almost double that of the original location. This upcoming venture has created excitement among St. Petersburg residents, as it promises to bring back a beloved dining experience.
The Studio Public House’s closing marks the end of an era for many in the St. Petersburg community. It has served as a meeting place filled with laughter, entertainment, and camaraderie. As the pub prepares for its final days, the community reflects on the memories made within its walls, ensuring that its legacy will not be forgotten.
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Additional Resources
- Patch: St. Pete British Pub Closing Its Doors Soon
- Google Search: closing British pub St. Petersburg
- St. Pete Rising: Beloved St. Pete Bar to Close
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Patch: Beloved St. Pete Restaurant to Close Soon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Fox 13 News: St. Petersburg Restaurant Closing After 15 Years
- Google News: restaurant closing St. Petersburg
- St. Pete Rising: Downtown St. Pete Sports Bar to Close
- Google Scholar: St Petersburg restaurant closures
