The Hangar - Where Aviation Meets Jazz
The Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge occupies a unique position in Tampa Bay's music and dining scene. Located on the second floor of the Albert Whitted Airport in St. Petersburg the venue offers stunning views of the runway and Tampa Bay waterfront creating an unforgettable backdrop for dining and live music.
Monday Night Jazz Jam
The Monday Night Jazz Jam is The Hangar's signature music event having celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2025. Presented by the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association this free weekly event runs from 7-9 PM and has become Tampa Bay's most authentic jazz jam session. Hosted by trumpeter Dwayne White the jam features a seasoned house band including Stretch Bruyn on keyboard Kenny Walker on bass and Ron Gregg on drums.
The event welcomes musicians of all levels from seasoned professionals to high school students creating an educational and performance opportunity that embodies the spirit of jazz tradition. Musicians can register in advance or simply show up on the night and there's always room for players to share their talents with an enthusiastic audience. The jam focuses on New Orleans style jazz and standards while encouraging spontaneous collaborations and improvisation.
Notable guest artists frequently join the sessions and the Monday night tradition honors the long-standing jazz custom of musicians gathering on their night off to play music they love. The supportive atmosphere and quality of musicianship have made this event legendary in Tampa Bay's jazz community.
Additional Music Programming
In addition to the Monday jam sessions The Hangar features the Dwayne White Trio on Friday nights providing another opportunity for guests to enjoy live jazz while dining with views of planes taking off and landing.
Dining Experience
Executive Chef Matthew Smith creates daily specials that complement the regular menu featuring items like burgers meatloaf and pork chops. The restaurant serves breakfast lunch and dinner making it accessible throughout the day. While some guests find the food average others appreciate the unique aviation-themed atmosphere and quality service.
Location and Accessibility
The Hangar's location at Albert Whitted Airport places it adjacent to USF St. Petersburg Campus and near several major hospitals. The venue offers a truly distinctive dining experience where guests can watch helicopters banner planes and private aircraft take off and land while enjoying their meals and live music. This combination of aviation atmosphere quality music and waterfront views makes The Hangar a special destination in the Tampa Bay area.