News Summary
Allelo, a wine bar located in downtown St. Petersburg, has been recognized as the No. 5 wine bar in the United States by a leading travel and dining publication. This accolade makes Allelo the only wine bar in Florida featured on the national list. With a collection of 500 wines and a focus on small-batch and organic options, it exemplifies a commitment to quality and sustainability. The bar also received a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2023 and offers a unique dining experience in an elegantly restored building.
St. Petersburg, Florida – Allelo, a wine bar in downtown St. Petersburg, has achieved recognition as the No. 5 wine bar in the United States according to a recent ranking by a popular travel and dining publication. This distinction places Allelo as the only wine bar in Florida to feature on the national list, signifying its unique offerings and commitment to excellence in wine and cuisine.
Allelo boasts an impressive collection of 500 different wines and 1,200 bottles, with a strong emphasis on sourcing from small-batch wineries. The wine selection largely comprises organic options from family-owned vineyards, particularly highlighting wines from the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. Esteemed labels such as Gaja, Ornellaia, and Château Margaux are among the notable selections available at the bar.
In addition to its recent accolade, Allelo received a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2023, further validating its reputation in the wine community. The bar is situated in an elegantly restored Italianate building on Beach Drive, offering a picturesque setting complemented by a vibrant plaza.
Ambiance and Design
The interior of Allelo features soaring ceilings, exquisite chandeliers, and a striking glass wine wall, a piece specifically designed by local artist Annette Gloomis. The decor reflects the bar’s emphasis on communal gathering, encapsulated in its name “Allelo,” derived from the Greek word “allelomimesis,” which signifies a social or communal behavior similar to birds flocking together. Enhancing this ethos, a mural illustrating Florida’s endangered birds adorns the premises.
Culinary Offerings
Chef Tim Lentsch curates a menu of Mediterranean-inspired small plates, perfect for sharing among friends and family. Notable dishes include:
- Black squid ink linguine
- Spicy ‘nduja-sauced clams
- Charcuterie board
Popular wine pairings such as the Portuguese Touriga Nacional Musgo red wine, which complements fresh Branzino, and tableside beef tartare, highlight the gastronomic experience at Allelo.
Background and Ownership
Allelo opened following the transformation of a location that previously hosted the restaurants Annata and Alto Mare until mid-2021. The establishment is operated by owners Shawn and Jeanna Damkoehler of Volet Hospitality, who sought to create a space that honors sustainable practices while also providing high-quality wine and food experiences.
Commitment to Sustainability
The wine director and general manager, Michelle Richards, underlines the establishment’s dedication to supporting small production wineries and promoting sustainable farming efforts. This commitment resonates within the wine selection, showcasing wines that are not just delicious but also produced with care for the environment.
With its innovative approach to wine and food, coupled with a beautiful atmosphere, Allelo stands as a champion of communal dining in St. Petersburg, now recognized among the nation’s finest wine bars. The fusion of excellent wine, thoughtfully prepared dishes, and a welcoming environment makes Allelo a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
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Additional Resources
- WTSP: Best Wine Bar in St. Petersburg
- Q105: St. Petersburg Wine Bar ranks 5th Best in U.S.
- St. Pete Catalyst: Allelo Recognized as Top Wine Bar
- Wine Spectator: Restaurant Spotlight on Allelo
- WFLA: St. Petersburg Wine Bar Named One of the Best
- Wikipedia: Wine
- Google Search: Wine Bars
- Google Scholar: Wine Bars
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wine
- Google News: Best Wine Bars
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
