Copper Shaker

Copper Shaker – St. Pete: 169 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

My friend Mike and I were in St. Pete for a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game. The place we were staying recommended that we try Copper Shaker, as it was known for its cocktails. So on Sunday evening, we drove into downtown St. Petersburg, FL. It’s an area I knew well from being there for work often. However, this was the first time I had tried out this restaurant.

The Restaurant:

When you are on 1st Ave, N., you need to pay attention as the sign for Copper Shaker is very small and not too distinguishable from the street. As a matter of fact, we drove past it twice because we missed seeing the sign outside the restaurant. There is a Hyatt across the street from Copper Shaker to remember as a landmark.

Inside you will find a handful of large booths set against a cork wall. It looks pretty cool and is a very comfortable sitting area if you want a more private setting. In the middle are a couple of large tables where several couples or a group can sit. This is where Mike and I chose to sit.

A large bar area adorns the other wall; one feature that sets this Copper Shaker apart is its lockers. Exclusive members-only access to a coveted stock of premium liquors. This will only set you back $1500/yr, but imagine how cool it would be to walk into the place and have your stock of favorites available to you.

The Food:

For starters, we tried Copper Shaker’s Smokey Stilton Beef Tips. The tips were cooked perfectly, juicy and tender, with an aged balsamic drizzled over them. A lovely tomato marinated in soy sauce and topped with fresh basil. It did not take long for us to devour this scrumptious appetizer.

I decided to try the Chicken Schnitzel. It’s always been one of my favorite dishes. Copper Shaker makes it with thin fried chicken breast with great breading. Served on top of spaetzle and topped with bacon. Overall I enjoyed every bite, but the spaetzle was a little dry and not what I was used to. Mike even tried it and said the same thing.

Mike chose a handheld and went with the La Hamurguesa. You have the option to make it a few different ways, and he decided to go with a chef special known as the “Jam.” It’s a short rib and brisket mix for the burger and topped with bacon jam and gouda. Mike also chose to add a fried egg to his burger for a completely different taste. He was very satisfied with the mix of flavors and the perfection they cooked his burger. He couldn’t stop smiling.

We highly recommend trying Copper Shaker out when you are in St. Pete or visiting their other location in Ybor City.

Pricing $$-$$$:  Copper Shaker’s prices will vary based on if you have starters, handhelds, or entrees. The cocktails you choose to have will also impact pricing.