Largo Dives and Bars: A Blind Shark Attack

Mid March lends itself to bars. Especially sport bars, especially Florida sport bars.

Out-of-state college students flock to the Sunshine State during spring break to join natives at the local tavern. They relish in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and the first four days of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's tournament.

Big screens display the best of collegiate athletics in high definition, while others sport green clad. This weekend patrons hold their pints of Guinness and drape green beads around their necks for St. Paddy's. 

One locale that embellishes this behavior and cheers sports fans on, is , located on 11301 Starkey Rd.

Blind Shark is a modestly sized neighborhood bar that offers few frills. Four television sets rest above a bar that has a basic beer selection. Chicago Cubs and Bears affects are strewn among the walls, and in between other televisions and tables. The lighting is sparse, and as the silky haze of cigarette smoke wafts through the room one imagines that Blind Shark would fit nicely by Wrigley Field in the South Side of the Windy City.

Aside from the booze and conversation, patrons occupy themselves by playing pool and throwing dart. Live local acts, like Peter Hill, can be heard on most weekend nights.

Famished bar goers enjoy Blind Tavern’s menu of patty melts, burgers, wings and nachos. The dining tables, of which there are no more than ten or twelve, have an oaky feel to them.

I stopped in for a quick drink just before the first March Madness games got underway. There are a few beers on tap, mostly Bud products, and standard bottled domestic fare. If you are looking for a Belgian import, or a microbrewery option from Maine, you are in the wrong place.

Instead, offers a relaxed atmosphere for nearby residents. Equipped with a decent food menu, many blue collar workers and retirees stopped by the tavern for a quick bit and a drink. 

At night opens up, as drinkers are attracted to the low prices and friendly ambiance. There is even a case near the kitchen that houses an assortment of dart colors and designs. Different days offer different specials, Sundays are reserved for NASCAR buffets and Mondays allow free pool, that cater to clientele that Blind Shark attracts.

In all, the Tavern blends in well with Largo’s shopping-mall bar scene.