At Barterhouse Ybor

we believe in the simple act of hospitality, sharing a love for food and drink, while encouraging guests to eat, drink, and experience outside their known.

BarterHouse is an honest homage to the local farmers market, an enriched way of life prior to planes, trains and automobiles. Guests will find the bar to be equally as committed to the times and traditions that ignited iconic bars and classic drinks that continue to reign on menus today, all encased by a casual environment well designed to include the rich history of Tampa and the historic Ybor district.

In 2015 Kenneth Emery met Kevin Lilly in famous food city, Charleston. Emery at one of his restaurants there, Lilly promoting his Tampa Brewery throughout the South East. Over dinners, drinks and years, the duo continued beyond the earliest visions for developing something for Tampa Bay - now growing into a more focused food city. Each have long been fascinated by, and in fact pioneers themselves, transforming run down areas or buildings through launching great hospitality venues that can inspire new traffic. Great food and cocktails have transformed many areas and cities like Charleston, Detroit, New York and the team could not be more excited to add this area of Tampa. “Having a concept in mind and finding a suitable location is not what we do,” says Emery. Rather, “the space always tells us what to do and no two spaces are alike. This city and venue, Emery partnered with local Ybor artist, Ron Francis, to execute the commitment to Ybor, mob lore and the post prohibition era.

hard at work

Massive plastered wall panels float over ample banquette seating, both dominating the main dining room. A residential feeling permeates the environment as the unique Chef’s kitchen radiates a warm glow throughout, adding depth and truth to the raw, artistic interior. Front and center, a 28 foot bar capped with high gloss marble beneath original warehouse windows and trusses. Barterhouse collaborated with popular Tampa designer, Thomas Lamb, on decor, furniture and all the details he would kindly lend his time to.

Textures, Steel from local Tampa Steel, and well stocked liquor shelves thoughtfully divide the dining room from the oversized, street scape bar and lounge. A sense of speakeasy, floor to ceiling glass of dark tint, ensure a luxurious atmosphere and warm departure from the otherwise rowdy district. 

Our wish is for the experiences and memories made at Barterhouse to foster a sense of hospitality, community, and a greater wonder and caring for where our food, drink, and ingredients come from. Barterhouse steps up the game in caring for the people, the products and the resources that provide us the greatest food and drinks.