Sarasota's Best Vape-Friendly Restaurants and Venues: A Local Guide

Image: Anvesh Reddy / Unsplash
Florida's Clean Air Act prohibits smoking and vaping in all enclosed indoor workplaces, including restaurants, bars, and other businesses.
However, a stand-alone bar is defined as a licensed establishment that primarily serves alcohol for on-premises consumption, does not share common entryways or indoor areas with other businesses, and generates less than 10% of its gross revenue from food sales. These bars allow smoking and vaping.
"The vaping community often faces uncertainty about where they can legally and comfortably use their devices," says James Smith, Head of Vaping Community at Discount Vape Pen, the online vaping store.
Those who want to get their vape fix will find it challenging to find a legal, vape-friendly bar or eatery. So, a guide to help vapers find places to eat, drink and indulge their habit without breaking the law in Sarasota was long overdue.
Best Indoor Vaping Venues
Memories Lounge
Address: 3428 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234
Website: memoriesloungesrq.com
This classic dive bar stands out as one of Sarasota's most vape-friendly indoor venues, allowing both smoking and vaping, creating a welcoming environment for the ‘puffing’ community. Memories Lounge radiates an authentic old-school atmosphere and offers affordable drinks and legal vaping. Seriously, a must-visit venue.
Gator Club
Address: 1490 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Website: thegatorclub.com
The Gator Club was voted one of ‘US Today’s’ best bars in 2024. This downtown venue offers vaping enthusiasts a place to relax and inhale, but only in its upstairs section. Don’t try your luck downstairs as there are ventilation problems that prohibit vaping. If you are a vaper and a viber, this club will see you on the floor dancing to its live music and enjoying the nightlife entertainment.
Corona Cigar Company
Address: 22 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Website: coronacigar.com
For the vapers who are not into the club scene, the Corona Cigar Company will direct you to dedicated smoking areas in a sophisticated lounge setting. While primarily focused on cigars, the venue accommodates vaping alongside a premium drink service and seating so comfy you don’t want to move.
8-Ball Lounge
Address: 3527 Webber St, Sarasota, FL
Website: N/A
Feel like shooting a few rounds of pool while enjoying your smokes or vape experience, this casual dive bar is the place for you. Aptly named, the 8-ball Lounge has loads of pool tables and a relaxed environment that appeals to the locals who just want to chillax and shoot the breeze.
Crescent Club
Address: 6519 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Website: N/A
This venue even has a sign which says “No non smoking area” so it’s safe to assume that vapers are welcome. Additionally, the bar has been designated as a stand-alone bar
Best for Vaping Outdoors
The Shamrock
Address: 2257 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34237
Website: shamrocksarasota.com
Known for its Irish pub atmosphere, The Shamrock has appeared in discussions about vape-friendly venues in Sarasota. The establishment offers a traditional pub experience with potential vaping accommodation, particularly in outdoor areas.
Marina Jack
Address: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
Website: marinajacks.com
This waterfront establishment offers outdoor seating areas where vaping can be accommodated. The scenic location provides an appealing backdrop for vapers who prefer outdoor dining experiences.
Moondoggy's
Address: 2234-2236 Gulf Gate Dr, Sarasota, FL 34231
Website: zuzumoondoggys.com
If you’re a big NFL fan, this place is a Buffalo Bills bar. You have a choice of 26 TVs, but will have to watch one of the many outside screens while vaping. The venue is casual, attracting mostly locals. Located in a strip mall in Gulf Gates, it's only a few minutes from Siesta Key beaches.