New Irish pub, Paddy Burkes, will open July 1 at Fourth Street S and First Avenue S downtown St. Petersburg

ST. PETERSBURG

Downtown will soon get yet another taste of Ireland.

Paddy Burkes, a new pub at the east corner of First Avenue S and Fourth Street S, is due to open July 1.

The new establishment will provide seating for 150 guests in the 2,550-square-foot pub and its 752-square-foot deck.

"We figured there were few real pubs and people will take a look if we offer them value for their money," said Tim Jones, 42, one of the pub's partners. The other partners include Pamela and Sebastian Huber.

"We've been planning this for a couple of months now," said Jones.

The Irish pub will operate on a restaurant license and thus include a full kitchen, opening from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends.

For those who'd rather skip the cake and go straight to the ale, 16 different beers will be served on tap at the 26-foot bar, which takes up a major part of the pub's length.

The Irish pub succeeds a Sir Speedy copy shop, which leased the space after a travel agency closed.

"I guess it's been empty for over two years now," said Jones, who oversees construction.

"We are trying to be a little upscale without scaring anyone away. We want people to have fun and enjoy great food. There'll be special nights for college kids, too."

The initial rent for the pub will be $2,550. The owners plan for a permanent staff of around 12 to 14, kitchen staff included.

Nine large LCD television screens will cater to sports fans.

"We are working hard to create a great atmosphere for our future customers," Jones said.

A party for the pub's opening is being planned, but the owners did not want to disclose any details.

"We are still working on that one, too."