To compliment the wine, Hardesty offers a rotating selection of crudos, fresh salads, and Mediterranean-style small plates like cheese and charcuterie boards, olives, and freshly baked bread.
“We want to collaborate with local businesses as much as we can,” said Schuch, who previously worked as an event coordinator at Golden Isles Brewing Co.
The bar features three beer taps, and the duo hopes to partner with Golden Isles and other breweries in St. Pete to offer local brews.
They’re also stocking a small selection of locally printed merchandise including tote bags, shirts, and hats made by St. Pete-based Sick Dope Fresh Print Co.
The bar’s soft-opening weekend kicks off tonight, Friday, October 10th, with a special event featuring Florida-based Nada Wine.
“Our dear friends Nada Wine and the 86 team have curated a fantastic natural wine menu, along with delicious bites, to offer you a first look of our newly soft-open space,” the owners shared on Instagram.
Weekend hours will vary as they fine-tune operations, with plans to eventually open seven days a week.
“Mondays may be slow, but we want our neighbors and friends to have a place to go after work,” Schuch said. “We’ll even offer a discount for hospitality workers.”
The couple plans to host more tastings and private events as the bar grows.
As for the name, “86” nods to classic restaurant slang, meaning to cancel or remove an item from the menu.
“To us, it means the day is done,” Schuch said. “So come have a drink, hang out with your friends, and listen to some music.”
Follow 86 Wine Bar on Instagram for updates, events, and future hours.