Pat Croce’s Rum Barrel the new home of the Key West Gator Club

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 13, 2012) -- The Southernmost Philly sports bar takes on the University of Florida's orange and blue as the new official Key West Gator Club.

Owned by former Philadelphia 76ers president Pat Croce, the Rum Barrel welcomes the Gator Nation from the Sept. 1 season kick off for the first season game against Bowling Green State University scheduled for 3:30 p.m. with the traditional Rum Barrel tailgate on Front Streetwith free beer and hot dogs in the lead-up to game time.

"We're excited about our new headquarters for southernmost Gator fans," said Greg Oropeza, KWGC president. "We're encouraging all UF alumni, fans, and friends to come out to the Rum Barrel on game days to cheer on the Gators."

Visitors and fans alike can view all University of Florida football games with like-minded allegiance at the Rum Barrel, complete with food and drink specials. A signature Rum Barrel/Key West Gator Club T-shirt will also be available for purchase at the bar, its online shoppe and via the fan club website, events and its members.

"We're very happy to host Key West Gator Club, especially with Island Dogs across the street hosting the Seminoles. It's going be great rivalry--the Front Street battle of college ball," said general manager JC Picco.

The Rum Barrel will team up with the KWGC for the Aug. 26 Conch Cup Golf Tournament between local clubs from the University of Florida, Florida State University and the University of Miami.

Rum Barrel owner Pat Croce hides treasures aboard soon-to-be-sunk USCG Cutter Mohawk

Divers tasked with finding stash on Mohawk Veterans Memorial Reef

KEY WEST, Fla. (June 20, 2012) -- Rum Barrel owner Pat Croce pillaged his own Pirate Museum for 17th century booty, raided Rum Barrel's Pyrate Rum stash and snuck aboard the soon-to-be-sunk U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk to hide the treasures for some lucky diver's discovery.

The 165-foot World War II cutter will be deployed one last time on July 2 in full fighting trim with replica guns, depth charges and a lifeboat on deck, roughly 28 nautical miles west of Redfish Pass off Sanibel Island on Florida's southwest coast--an unusually decked-out burial at sea. "Mighty Mo's" final duty is as the Mohawk Veterans Memorial Reef, honoring veterans and creating a world-class fishing and diving experience in Lee County, home to over 40,000 veterans.

Antique bottle with 17th century Port Royal
shot and hand-drawn map hidden aboard
USCG Cutter Mohawk

"It's not every day you see a ship of this caliber sunk with so much effort and attention to detail, and we wanted to ramp up the excitement by making it a true adventure for divers," Croce said.

Croce pirated authentic 17th century shot recovered from the former pirate stronghold of Port Royal, Jamaica, as well as an antique rum bottle from his St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, which he moved from Key West to St. Augustine, Fla., in 2010. With a case of Pyrate Rum stolen from the Rum Barrel stash also up for grabs, the first intrepid diver to find the treasures can also claim dinner and drinks for two at The Rum Barrel and passes to The Pirate Museum via reef organizers.

The effort to sink the Mohawk and create the artificial reef is led by Reefmakers shipwrecker Joe Weatherby, who also sank the U.S.S. Vandenberg off of Key West in 2009, and Mike Campbell, executive director of Lee Reefs, a nonprofit foundation that works to enhance the marine environment and protect natural reef ecosystems. It came after time and salt water took their toll on the old ship and the cost of keeping her afloat proved too much for the Miami-Dade Maritime Museum, led by Captain Bill Verge.

"We want veterans who served on the Mohawk to feel honored," Weatherby said. "It's the right thing to do for American history, for the environment and the economy, and its means the Mohawk's legacy will live on in every diver's experience."

The quality of the reef itself, the diving experience, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities and marine wildlife interaction are central to its creation, Weatherby added.

The Mohawk will lie in 90 feet of water with a 35-foot clearance over top. Most divers will be able to explore the replica guns, a huge smokestack, crow's nest, bridge, deckhouse and massive propeller, while trained and equipped divers can descend the smoke stack into the Mohawk's enormous engine room where the giant engine's inner parts and reduction gear will be uncovered. Who will find Croce's treasures, that's anyone's guess.


ABOUT THE MOHAWK

USCG Cutter Mohawk.
Photo credit: U.S. Coast Guard

Built in Wilmington, Del., in 1934 as an ice breaker, she was called to serve during WWII as part of the Greenland Patrol, protecting vital allied shipping throughout the war. The Mohawk fought in 14 U-Boat engagements and rescued hundreds of allied sailors torpedoed from the frozen North Atlantic. She is credited as the last ship to radio the weather to General Dwight Eisenhower before he green-lighted the D-Day invasion. After the war, the Mohawk was converted from steam power to diesel and functioned as a lightship, University of Delaware research vessel and Delaware Bay Pilot Boat. She languished in a New York scrap yard before being rescued 15 years ago by the Miami-Dade Maritime Museum, towed to Miami and converted to a museum. Six years ago, the museum was moved to Key West, Fla. But keeping her afloat proved too costly for the group, led by Captain Bill Verge, and the decision was made to reef her. As an artificial reef honoring veterans and providing Southwest Florida's newest diving and fishing attraction, the Mohawk should last 70 to 100 years.

Key West Songwriters Festival comes to The Rum Barrel again

KEY WEST, Fla. (April 23, 2012) -- The Key West Songwriters Festival is the largest festival of its kind in the world, featuring five days of over 20 free shows and 100 top songwriters performing at Key West's most popular drinking holes and hot spots.

It gives attendees a chance to meet the faces, voices and stories behind the songs and jam to informal adaptations of Nashville's signature in-the-round acoustic showcases.

"We had a great turnout last year and we can't wait to get in on the music action this year," said JC Picco, Rum Barrel general manager.

RUM BARREL SONGWRITERS' FEST LINE-UP 

Thursday, May 3, 2012

8 P.M.

SHERRIE AUSTIN: An ACM New Artist of the Year nominee, Sherrie started off as an actress, but pursued a singing career that led to signings with Interscope Records and then Arista Nashville. She's held a #1 Chart position on CMT's Countdown and penned "Streets Of Heaven", which reached Top 15. Sherrie landed multiple cuts, including Tim McGraw's "ShotGun Rider," Blake Shelton's "Good At Startin' Fires," George Strait "Where've Have I Been All My Life," and the hilarious duet by Trace Adkins and Blake Shelton called "If I Was A Woman." Austin's latest release, Circus Girl, is her first in eight years.

Bruce Wallace

BRUCE WALLACE: Bruce Wallace moved to Nashville in 1987 from Oklahoma. After 18 years touring the world as a guitarist for the likes of Matraca Berg, Shelby Lynne, David Gates, and Wynona, he turned his attention to full time songwriting. He currently writes for Ole Publishing and recently landed cuts with Katie Armiger, Trace Adkins, Montgomery Gentry, Kix Brooks, and Dierks Bentley. He also received the 2010 SOCAN Country Award for having the most played song on country radio in Canada, "make hay while the sun shines", which he also produced.

MORGAN MYLES: With her late 60's, early 70's influences, Myles turned heads at BMI's Buzz and Presents artist showcases and has played the Winter Olympics, Reba Tour, U.S. Troop shows and as a solo artist opening for Rick Springfield. Whether Myles is wailing on her guitar, mandolin, harmonica, organ or just plain straight from the heart vocally she will move you.

9 P.M.

MATT STILLWELL: Matt is best known as a performer with a rowdy sense of fun, and his single "Shine" entered the Top 5 on CMT Pure and Top 10 on GAC's Top 20 Countdown. Matt broke in on Billboard's Country charts with "Shine" (52) and "Sweet Sun Angel" (58). He signed a recording contract with average Joe's Entertainment and is now working on a brand new project, writing songs with the best. He headlines across the country in between Corey Smith shows, and is gearing up for the 4th Annual Stillwell Shinefest.

Rob Hatch

ROB HATCH: Rob Hatch is a North Florida-born songwriter, who currently writes for Magic Mustang/Dan Hodges Music. He has had cuts with artists such as Jamey Johnson, Gretchen Wilson, Jake Owens and George Jones.  Hatch recently hit the No.1 spot on the Country Singles charts with a song he co-wrote entitled "If Heaven Weren't So Far Away" recorded by Justin Moore.

LANCE MILLER: A soulful vocalist, Miller was a finalist on Nashville Star in 2004 and signed a recording deal with Warner Bros. He has toured with the likes of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill on the largest grossing tour in country music history and is now a staff songwriter with McGraw & Hill's StyleSonic Publishing Company. Miller has had his songs cut by McGraw, Randy Travis, Jerrod Niemann, Lee Brice, Craig Campbell and Clay Walker among others.

10 P.M.

Low Cash Cowboys

LO CASH COWBOYS: Preston Brust and Chris Lucas make up Lo Cash. They have shared bills with Toby Keith, Blake Shelton, REO Speedwagon, Tom Petty, Gretchen Wilson and  toured the country headlining Maxim's Red Man Roadhouse Tour. They have appeared on TV on Total Nonstop Action Wrestling's SlamiVersary and Fox News Network's New Year's Eve Broadcast before two million in Times Square. Now, Lo Cash is prepared for their album This Is How We Do It to take them nationwide this year and are enjoying the success as songwriters for penning Keith Urban's chart topping "You Gonna Fly".

Rum Barrel to host Formula H2O's 3rd Annual Vandenberg Underwater Grand Prix Racers

The Rum Barrel welcomes racers from Formula H2O's 3rd Annual Vandenberg Underwater Grand Prix on May 18 at 6:30 p.m. on the Quarterdeck for the Racers' Meeting!

The weekend celebration by the Wreck Racing League will kick off the 2012 Formula H2O Racing Circuit and honor the 3rd anniversary of the sinking of the Vandenberg with the annual race and events May 18 to 20, 2012.

Photo via DiverWire.com

Originally a U.S. Navy transport ship in WWII, the Vandenberg was sunk in May 2009. It is the largest artificial reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the second largest in the world. The ship is now home to pelagic and reef fish, and many other species of marine plants and animals.

The Vandenberg Underwater Grand Prix festivities begin with the Racers' Meeting on the Rum Barrel rooftop at the corner of Front and Simonton streets in Downtown Key West.

At 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, participants will meet at the Florida Keys Community College Lagoon for DPV certification, testing, and Manufacturers Races. Lunch, gear and tank rentals will be available through the FKCC Dive Club. A free BBQ will be held for racers and Wreck Racing League fans at 7:00 p.m. at the Seaduction Dive Shop on Truman Avenue.

On Sunday, May 20, divers will race around the superstructure of the ship in the 3rd Annual Vandenberg Underwater Grand Prix. Supporting hotel properties include the Quality Inn and Lexington Hotel in Key West. Visit www.wreckracingleague.com for booking discounts, information and race registration.

The Vandenberg was placed in her final resting place three years ago, six miles off the coast of Key West, and has become one of the world's premier scuba diving venues. It was the inspiration for the creation of the Wreck Racing League and Formula H2O.

"We wanted to mark the 1st anniversary of the sinking in a big way, we accomplished that and now the Wreck Racing League has its grown its own national and international following!" said Joe Weatherby, Co-Founder of the League. Weatherby is also responsible for spearheading the Vandenberg project.

"We are all about clean water and alternative power as well as promoting the sport of scuba diving and our host destinations," Weatherby said.

Anyone interested in competing or participating in the events should contact the Wreck Racing League at info@wreckracingleague.com. Visit www.wreckracingleague.com and Formula H2O Racing on Facebook for more information.

Movie filming at Pat Croce's Rum Barrel in Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (March 26, 2012) -- Movie producers for the suspense thriller "Exposure" starring Corey Feldman announced this week that they'll be filming on location at Pat Croce's pirate-themed Rum Barrel Restaurant/Bar on Friday from 4 p.m.

And Key Westers will have the chance to appear in the movie--the movie director and camera crew will be screen-testing candidates who want to appear as extras or possibly have a small speaking part in future scenes, said Gary Metz, executive vice-president at Destination Television, Inc.

"We're excited to be able to film this movie here, to show the rest of the world what we have to offer in Key West and to give locals the chance to be a part of it," said Rum Barrel general manager JC Picco.

Croce's Island Dogs Bar nearby was also selected as a shooting location for establishing shots to set the scene of the movie and to screen would-be actors. Filming will take place there on Thursday.

The movie highlights several South Florida locations, but Island Dogs and the Rum Barrel Restaurant/Bar at 528 Front Street are the only Keys location announced so far. The bars will receive all content filmed on location, which can be used for print or TV advertising, producers say.

"'Exposure' showcases South Florida while shining a much-needed light on the dangers of the unregulated modeling industry," according to the film's website.

Feldman and Spike TV's Ali Sonoma play a couple from small-town Alabama, who answer an ad seeking models in South Florida. Despite VIP treatment upon their arrival, things take a turn for the worse when models go missing.

Visit www.exposurethemovie.net for more information about the film.

Our rum cake maker debuts at Food Network's SoBe Food & Wine Festival

Kansas City Chef Craig Adcock creates the most delicious rum cakes, which happen to be available at The Rum Barrel. And we just got a note from him saying that he'll be at the South Beach Food & Wine Festie. Check it out!

 Kansas City Chef Craig Adcock Grillin' and Chillin' at Food Network's South Beach Food & Wine Festival:
Thursday, February 23, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (February 14, 2012) -- Chef Craig Adcock is the first Kansas City to appear at the SoBeWFF. And he'll be bringing the heat and some sweet in a big way.

Image via ongo.com

One of a few chefs in the nation that grills the 3.5" steak over an open flame, Adcock will present his signature dish of the "Tomahawk Chop," a massive 4.5-lb. bone in rib eye cut--inspired by collaboration with the beloved and late Kansas City chef John McClure--and two 35-inch pans of paella to be prepared over a  peach wood fire on the beach.

After the SOBE event, Adcock, owner of Belly Up Bar-B-Que, will have served well over 200 of the Tomahawk Chop from coast to coast over the past year.

His main SOBE entrees will be followed up with Adcock's famous dessert, Jude's Rum Cake. A mainstay of Adcock's catering business, thousands of the cakes are shipped annually nationwide. They're also sold at a dozen Kansas City restaurants, upscale grocery stores Dean & Deluca, and at Pat Croce's Rum Barrel restaurant in Key West. Adcock hopes to launch the Key West Rum Cake line later this year for cruise lines.

No stranger to celebrity catering, he recently cooked at the Playboy Golf tournament, backstage for Elton John concerts, and fired up the grills and 600 lbs. of meat at the SXSW Music Festival.

With his characteristic gleam in his eyes, Adcock jokingly refers to himself as the "only non-catering caterer" he knows.

When he's not "non-catering" for Playboy bunnies or baking rum cakes, Adcock takes an active role in community service, teaching at Culinary Cornerstones, a Kansas City based non-profit helping guide adults to stable employment.

"I need to stay true to that inner voice and be nice," Adcock says. "Hopefully, the success will follow."

Just four years ago, Adcock worked in a corporate cubicle, moonlighting on nights and weekends to feed his cooking passion. He made the life-changing decision to take his side business and passion, Belly Up Bar-B-Que, into a full time career.

"The leap was one of the best and hardest things I've ever done. Kansas City has an amazing food scene," Adcock said. "I get to share my fare locally and travel quite a bit. It's not just about the money, the journey and the experience matter. Being nice matters."

Adcock's spirit of doing things his own way is reflected by his catering style -- a blend of chef, charismatic host and sommelier.

"I get to cater my way, flying solo - sort of a modern day tapas experience of "small bites throughout the nite" from 6 p.m. until midnight," Adcock said. "A new dish comes out every 45 minutes or so."

Adcock's menus are eclectic, everything from grilled lobster tail paired with popcorn and a cool Central Coast Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier blend, to small plates of  bagna cauda, tuna tartare, seafood, or "old skool bbq" of ribs, brisket, pork, salmon.

Given his accomplishments in such a short time, Adcock seems to be taking the fast track to celebrity chef status.

Craig Adcock can be contacted online through Belly Up Bar-B-Que and Jude's Rum Cake, via phone at 913.526.6708 or email at craig @ bellyupbbq.com

A new menu, online ordering and Philly game specials!

There's a bunch of new things going on at the Rum Barrel that we had to share with you!


ORDER DELIVERY & PICK-UP ONLINE

Rum Barrel customers can now order food and some sodas online from our new menu and have it delivered or come in to pick it up. How convenient is that?! Here's where to order.


WE'VE LAUNCHED A BRAND SPANKING NEW MENU

And speaking of menus, have you seen our new one? Bet you're wondering what's new and what's no longer on it. Wonder no more!

• Captain Kidd's Crock was replaced with the Chicken Artichoke Dip
• The Balboa is now House Pulled Pork
• We added the Cuban Burger and Asian and Tropical Ribs
• We're no longer serving homemade chips; instead it'll be crinkle cut fries
• We added a mac and cheese side

DRAFT & BUCKET SPECIALS FOR PHILLY GAMES

Look out for draft and bucket specials during Flyers and Sixers games for the rest of their seasons! 

• $2.50 Yuengling Drafts
• $14 Imperial Buckets (5 per bucket on all buckets) 
• $16 Yuengling Light Buckets
• $20 Bud Light Platinum Buckets

Heading to Pat Croce’s Rum Barrel? There’s an app for that

KEY WEST, Fla. (January 31, 2012) --  Pat Croce's Rum Barrel is going the way of larger restaurant chains and making it easier for customers to enjoy its menu offerings with a new mobile application.

iPhone and Android users of the app can get directions to the Key West restaurant, view the menu, prices, and extensive collection of beers and rums with the touch of a few buttons. They can also access app-exclusive food and beverage deals and sign up for alerts on special events and offers as they happen.

"Our goal with the app was to give Rum Barrel guests the ability to plan their evening out, from who's on stage or on-screen to what's on special and what to have for dinner," said Rum Barrel general manager JC Picco.

"People come to Key West to slow down and have fun, but information can still be at their fingertips," Picco added. "Think of it as an extension of our guest experience beyond the restaurant and literally into their hands. That's a level of experience and coolness Key West rarely sees."

Designed by App Suite, The Rum Barrel app is available on iTunes for Apple devices in the Apple store and also on Android.

 DOWNLOAD THE RUM BARREL APP TODAY!

Mondays Suck Less for Key West Locals at The Rum Barrel

Pat Croce's Rum Barrel gives locals the ultimate hat tip with its new weekly Locals Night Out: Monday Sucks Less.

Mondays Suck Less on the Rum Barrel Quarterdeck, hosted and DJ'd by Comedy Central alum and Island 107 FM's Vinny K, features drink specials--$3 Kona Drafts and $5 Ultimat Vodka--and great music from 8 p.m. to midnight.

"Let's face it, Mondays suck. Now they just suck a little less thanks to us," said JC Picco, Rum Barrel general manager, with a chuckle.

Attendees also get a raffle ticket with each drink purchase and a chance to win a trip for two to Hamptons Summer 2012 thanks to 3rd Strike Entertainment. One lucky winner will be drawn every Monday at midnight to be a finalist to win the ultimate summer prize.

Listen to the Vinny K Show on weekday afternoons on Island 107 FM for a chance to win a Monday night bartab at The Rum Barrel.

The Rum Barrel makes national TV on HDNET's Drinking Made Easy

Lamprey and Friends roll into the Conch Republic to Uncover Unique Drinking Specialties and Time Honored Cocktail Traditions in Key West -- Wednesday, October 26 on HDNet!

Live shot from the show on Rum Barrel's Quarterdeck!

Pat Croce's Rum Barrel, Island Dogs Bar and the iconic Green Parrot will all be featured in a new episode of HDNET's Drinking Made Easy with cult sensation Zane Lamprey, which airs Wednesday, October 26, at 8 p.m. ET.

"You'll see the show, but we had a blast!" Croce said. "Wait for when Steve's speech starts to slur!"

In this episode, Zane visits Key West, where he stops at several bars, including Croce's, sampling a Key Lime Pie Martini at Island Dogs; Rum Barrel's intimidating Kill Devil bucket cocktail; and a dangerous Bloody Mary at the Green Parrot, a Key West institution.

OFFICIAL KEY WEST VIEWING PARTY:
Where: The Rum Barrel Quarterdeck, 528 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
When: Wednesday, October 26, from 7:30 p.m. ET
What: Extended $5 Happy Hour on food and drinks; 10% off the Kill Devil featured on the episode; stay to hear Colorado-based Celtic Pirate-Folk Rock Band Potcheen and Tony Baltimore

Hi Alan!

The show will also be shown live at Island Dogs and the Green Parrot.

The HDNet series features Lamprey and his drinking buddy Steve McKenna as they travel the U.S. in search of the local drinks and drinking customs that have contributed to the birth, growth and distinction of our great country. Definitely a road trip unlike any other, Lamprey and McKenna travel to cities like Monterey, Miami, Tampa, Cape Cod, Washington, D.C., Seattle, Santa Barbara and Aspen among many others. "Drinking Made Easy" airs Wednesday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET on HDNet.

HDNet networks are available nationally via DIRECTV and Dish Network and locally in Key West on Advanced Cable Communications, AT&T U-verse, Atlantic Broadband and Hotwire Cable Florida. Check your local listings for channels and more information.

Key West photographer Tom Filipkowski launches first book featuring Key West women and scenes at The Rum Barrel

Key West photographer Tom Filipkowski releases his first book, Flip, featuring Key West women shot at inherently Key West locations, on Wednesday at 8 p.m. at The Rum Barrel Quarterdeck.

"It's all local to Key West," said Filipkowski, 32. "The background scenery is all native to Key West; the women in the book are all local to Key West."

View an 11-page preview of Flip

Filipkowski has been a photographer for 17 years and has worked at FHM magazine and with Mark Selinger, head photographer at Rolling Stone. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts in NYC, Filipkowski's work has been shown at Gallery Duggal in New York and at Stone Soup Gallery in Key West. His work has also appeared in Time Out New York and Tattoo Arte magazine. He moved to Key West in 2004.

Flip was inspired by interest shown in his work in his early 20s by Goliath Books, a New York-based art and photography book publisher. Although Filipkowski was told he did not have a large enough body of work at the time to be published, he pressed on. Flip is the result.

"Somebody put the idea in my head that I was able to do this and I kind of ran with it," Filipkowski said.

Five years in the making, Flip is a full-color 80-page coffee table gem of an art book with tasteful nudity. It is a self-published work via Blurb.com and is available online. Look out for it in select Key West stores in the future.

According to Filipkowski's biography, his work is "a carefully constructed and compelling conversation on working-class underground culture, with its temporary state of subjective beauty, and often depicts young women as icons at the peak of their unflinching, hard-edged sensuality. His subjects give off a raw power and reflect an identity intimate with the harsh realities of a debased culture."

Former Rum Barrel bartender a finalist in Tommy Bahama's Rumologist Contest

Jack Terry, 39
Key West, FL

Jack Terry makes a mean rum drink. After all, he's been doing it for 15 years, honing his mixology skills behind The Rum Barrel Bar with our more than 150 rums from all over the world.

Read The Rum Barrel Rum Bible

Mix all that with a lot of personality and a life's philosophy based on the eternal weekend, and you have a Top 5 Finalist in Tommy Bahama's Rumologist™ Contest.

Terry, one of the Rum Barrel's first bartenders, is vying for $50,000 and the title of Tommy Bahama Rumologist™ with contestants from Osprey, Fla; Orange, Calif.; Seattle, Wash.; and Los Angeles.

See Jack Terry's video submission to Tommy Bahama

"We look forward to continuing our quest of being the foremost experts on rum, as well as the purveyors of amazing rum cocktails," said Rob Goldberg, Tommy Bahama senior vice president of marketing and restaurants in a prepared statement.

Besides being an all-round fun and carefree guy, Terry is also a self-published author of Chasing Ghosts, he has his BFA in acting from NYU, and he worked as a bartender in the late '90s in LA while trying to make it as an actor in Tinseltown. He's currently bar manager at Bagatelle in Key West, and has lived here for a little over two years.

Voting for Jack Terry ends on Oct. 10, so vote now on Tommy Bahama's Facebook page!

We plied Terry with a few questions--as opposed to liquor--about being a mixer, drinker, and big liver of life. Here's what he had to say:


How long have you been a mixologist and drinks connoisseur?

I've been in restaurant business for 17 years and a bartender for 15. It was something I fell into because I wanted to try something new. About six years ago, I was one of the first bartenders at the Rum Barrel when it just opened, and I was like a kid in a candy shop because the Rum Barrel has so many rums. I realized I could play with this stuff. That really took me from being bartender to being a mixologist.


What's your favorite rum and why?

Ron Zacapa XO, a Guatemalan 23-year-old aged rum. It is the best rum. It's unreal. People think rum is Captain Morgan or Bacardi, but this sets the bar. It'll change what you think of rum. It's full of flavor from beginning to end. I give it to scotch drinkers and I say, "You think this is rum? Follow me down the rabbit hole, let's have some real fun."


What's your favorite drink?

If I had one drink left to have, it would be Captain Courageous. It's one I did and it's a great combination of flavors. You're familiar with what's in it, but you don't expect it to taste that good: spiced rum (Kilo or Capt Morgan), aperol, fresh mango, and simple syrup. Of course, when I'm done with my shift and mixing drinks all day, I go for a shot of Jameson and a bottle of Bud Light. When you see me with those, you know I'm done.


What's your process for coming up with a good drink?

I look at what I have and how they play with each other. Is it sweet? Is it bitter? It's knowing what flavors work with each other.


What's your 'fondest' drunken customer memory?

This guy walks into the bar and says, "Oh my God, I'm so drunk." So I said, "Well, I can't serve  you." And he fussed and ranted and eventually left. I just think it's funny that people come to Key West and they think it's an R-rated Disney World, but it's not. We've got rules, too!


Why did you enter Tommy Bahama's Rumologist Contest? Did you expect to get this far?

A friend sent me the link to it and I entered on the last day. I was like, someone wants to pay me to travel the world and sell rum? I'm on it like you won't believe. The fact that I got this far is really mind-blowing. It's so awesome and scary that I get to be here. Tommy Bahama says that life is one long weekend and that's all I do. I'm just trying to promote that lifestyle and I'm lucky enough to live it. It's something I've been training for my entire life. Anyone can study rum and be a rumologist, but it's the joy of living the carefree lifestyle. And that's my lifeline; it's what I've been doing. I can create a whole new generation of rum drinkers and it's awesome to think I can influence people to drink rum.


What do you want to be when you grow up?

Do I have to grow up? *chuckles* I just see every new opportunity as a chance to do something different. I want to be a writer and bar owner and a friend. A nice neighborhood bar owner, who sells novels and sells great drinks. Give me that.

The Rum Barrel joins the new Off Duval Pub Crawl

Rum Barrel Quarterdeck

Key West resident Joe Cortner has spotted innumerable pub crawls on Duval Street, and so the obvious thing came to mind: "A blind chimp could find a bar on Duval, but what about the really great bars elsewhere?"

And so the weekly Off Duval Pub Crawl was born. Its first weekly four-bar hop on Sept. 16 included The Rum Barrel Quarterdeck.

The Rum Barrel Restaurant/Bar was added to the bar crawl early on because it sits just off the beaten path--like the other bars on the bar-hop roster--with an extensive rum and craft beer menu along with its oft-missed, scenic Quarterdeck overlooking historic Old Town Key West, Cortner said.

"It's good to see a pub crawl with a different focus," said JC Picco, Rum Barrel general manager. "Our Quarterdeck has an amazing ambience and great view. We think crawlers will definitely dig it."

Cortner's fast-growing Off Duval Pub Crawl takes participants to some classic Keys bars, new and old, that visitors might not find so easily on their own. In addition to The Rum Barrel, stops include craft beer testing at Krawl on Southard Street; the new Smokin' Tuna Saloon on Charles Street; and one of Mile Zero's only country bars, Cowboy Bill's Reloaded on Greene Street.

Cortner said he'll likely keep the Off Duval Crawl limited to four bars, so participants don't have to rush through their drinks or their good times. The tour lasts for three hours and includes craft beer testing, domestic beers of participants' choice and wells drink cocktails, along with a T-shirt and giveaways for $35.

The Rum Barrel features nightly entertainment on The Quarterdeck. To reserve a spot on the weekly Off Duval Pub Crawl, visit www.kokomojoes.com. 

Yes, we deliver... drinks

You probably know that The Rum Barrel delivers a full choice of menu items anywhere in Key West via Key West Food-To-Go. Now you can order soda along with your tasty meal for $2 a pop.

Totally worth the convenience, don't you think?

Unfortunately, we don't deliver beer or other alcoholic beverages. But then again, if you're at work, you shouldn't be drinking anyway!

Don't forget to check out our Delivery Loyalty Program for free Philly cheesesteak rolls or discounted food or drink at the restaurant/bar.

Got cams?

So you're in Detroit or Cleveland or Timbuktu and you'd rather be in Philly or Key West for the Eagles game. We know.

That's why we've set up live webcams at the Rum Barrel main bar and upstairs on the Quarterdeck stage, so you can view the Philly game action live in the tropics and check out our nightly live performances no matter where you are in the world. Especially if it's cold or storming where you are. :)

It's like you're at The Rum Barrel! And who could ask for anything more?

To view our cams, visit The Rum Barrel homepage and click on the Rum Cam or the Deck Cam.

The Deck Cam's on Tuesday through Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight when performances take place. To check out who'll be on stage, keep up with our music calendar.

The Rum Cam's on every day from 11 a.m. to midnight. Check out the crowd action on game day and the bar mixin' on a regular day. If such a thing exists in Key West.

Can't wait to see you see us!

Pat Croce's Rum Barrel honors Joey Vento with his spirit of giving

In 1966, the brash-talking, straight-from-the-hip, Philly-to-the-core Joey Vento opened the equally colorful Geno's Steaks in Philadelphia and built a Philly cheesesteak institution from the dilapidated ground up.

R.I.P Joey

On Tuesday, Joey died at 71 of a massive heart attack, but his big hearted, deep-pocketed legacy lives on at The Rum Barrel, the southernmost spot for all things authentically Philly--including Joey's spirit.

On Thursday, August 25, through Friday, August 26, The Rum Barrel will donate 50 percent of all proceeds from our signature Philly cheesesteaks sales to Joey's foundation, which donated generously to the American Cancer Society and Philadelphia policemen killed in the line of duty.

"We don't have that many great personalities in Philly and Joey Vento was one of them. He was larger than life and he was giving. The Earth literally shook the day Joey passed," said Rum Barrel owner Pat Croce, referring to the earthquake that rocked the East Coast Tuesday.

Joey was the kind of man, who after 9/11, held a 3-day fundraising marathon and raised $120,000, who often tracked down and sent checks to unemployed families or terminally ill children after reading about them in the newspaper. This is what we honor this week.

Read the Philadelphia Inquirer tribute to Joey

"I read story after story about the hundreds of thousands of dollars Joey Vento raised and donated out of his own pocket, many times anonymously, to complete strangers in need," said Rum Barrel General Manager JC Picco. "It's a privilege to honor a man who helped so many."

The Philly cheesesteaks are available at The Rum Barrel's restaurant and via the Key West Food-To-Go delivery service by calling (305) 292-7862 to order.

The Rum Barrel rolls out Delivery Loyalty Program

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 25, 2011) --  Free Philly Cheesesteak Rolls or $10 off food or drink buys at The Rum Barrel? Say it ain't so?

But it is indeed so. So good, that is.

The Rum Barrel Restaurant/Bar, in conjunction with local restaurant delivery service, Key West Food To Go, is rewarding Rum Barrel delivery customers with Loyalty Cards, where each delivery goes toward food and/or drink rewards.


Our infamous Philly Cheesesteak Rolls

Every Rum Barrel delivery customer will receive a card from their delivery driver, to be presented at each delivery. Key West Food To Go delivery drivers will custom punch the card and, after 10 deliveries, the customer can redeem the card for a free delivery order of Philly Cheesesteak Rolls or $10 off any food or drink purchase in-house.

"I know from personal experience that there are quite a few delivery customers who never come to the restaurant, so my hope is that people will see the value in visiting the restaurant," said General Manager JC Picco.

ABOUT THE RUM BARREL: Launched in 2006 by former Philadelphia 76ers President Pat Croce, the Rum Barrel evokes the aura of a 17th-century pirate hangout. This southernmost Philly sports bar is the local hotspot for all things Philly. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the Rum Barrel's scenic Quarterdeck overlooks Key West's Old Town with daily specials, nightly entertainment, and an outstanding dining experience crafted by Executive Chef Patrick Dunn. For more information about the Rum Barrel, visit www.rumbarrel.com

New GM JC Picco brings “fresh look” to The Rum Barrel

JC Picco

Pat Croce's Rum Barrel Restaurant/Bar has added JC Picco as General Manager of Mile Zero's popular 17th century-styled pirate tavern.

Picco, owner of a successful local restaurant delivery service and a food and beverage industry stalwart, will head Rum Barrel operations and its top-notch staff.

"I just want to bring that positive vibe that Key West is famous for and offer a fresh look at a great brand," said Picco, who owned and operated his own bar in Texas.

The former shift leader and trainer at Key West's Hard Rock Café has also been director of food and beverage at full service event venue, Kelly Square, in Sherman, Tex., and assistant GM at Crabby Bills Seafood and Big Daddy Conch's in Key West. Picco currently runs Key West Food to Go, a rapidly growing local restaurant delivery service.

"I'm very much a hands-on kind of guy, more than your typical "office manager" type," Picco said. "I love mingling with customers and working alongside staff."

Picco has lived abroad and across the U.S. as the son of a military civil serviceman. But one thing that never changed was his love for music--he's a bonafide drummer--and the food and beverage scene.

"It's the only thing I've been able to find that comes close to playing live on stage," said Picco, who visited Key West 12 years ago, took a job as bartender at a local hotel, and never quite left.

"There's this rush in a busy restaurant, the clanging plates, customers murmuring," Picco said. "It's a part of me that just never left. It started in high school and here I am today."

Rum Barrel Managing Partner Jeff Sorg weighed in on the team's new addition.

"We're psyched to have JC join our management team," Sorg said. "He brings a wealth of restaurant industry knowledge, an entrepreneurial mindset and strong leadership abilities."

It doesn't hurt that Picco looks the pirate part, Sorg added with a laugh.

If you're a member of the media and need more information on JC or The Rum Barrel, please contact Kari Cobham at kari@thepiratemuseum.com.