The Last Page is dedicated to individuals who are making a positive impact on the LGBTQ community in Tampa Bay and Central Florida.
This issue, we check in with Mike and Ali Crippin, owners of St. Petersburg’s The Studio Public House, formerly Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria. Learn even more about their rebranding at TheStudioPublicHouse.com and keep an eye on this space to learn more about the movers and shakers in your community.
Hometowns: Manchester and Watford, United Kingdom
Identifies As: We have always been allies, especially as we have seen the struggle of family members coming out.
Pronouns: He/Him/His and She/Her/Hers
Professions: Independent small business restauranters
Professional Role Models: Tom Kerridge, Mahur Jaffrey and Anthony Bourdain.
Autobiography Title(s): Mike, “Where Did That Go?”” and Ali, “One Door Closes, Another One Opens”
Hobbies: Watch Manchester United (a lot), golf (not enough)
What do you do professionally?
We own a The Studio Public House. We purchased Pom Pom’s Teahouse in October 2019 and it was very daunting opening during COVID-19, but we added a lot more tables outside. We were lucky as we had the space and took the necessary steps to keep our staff and customers safe.
We slowly transitioned to rebranding as we understand people do not like change. This gave us the time to try out new dishes. We have also changed the look – which Ali loves to DIY. We have added more beer/wine and are having music most days and opening later. Soon we will be opening for breakfast too.
How do you champion for the local LGBTQ community?
We champion all of the nice people in our neighborhood and circle. We wanted to show our support for the LGBTQ community so we have also incorporated the Rainbow flag in our mural on the side of our building. We are very open to having any events held at The Studio Public House and are hoping we strengthen the bonds within our neighborhood. We have also supported Come Out St. Pete with their food drive and blanket drive in the past.
What is your favorite thing to read in Watermark?
We like reading about the information on new places and hangouts.
What is your favorite local LGBTQ event?
The T-Dance Party at The Garage on Central Ave. for Come OUT St. Pete. We actually catered and donated for this event so were able to see some great acts performing as well as everyone have a happy time together.
What is your favorite thing about the local LGBTQ community?
The unity, diversity and sense of fun.
What would you like to see improved in the local LGBTQ community?
We’d like to see more events west of 28th and Central.
What would you like our readers to know about you and The Studio Public House?
We would like everyone to feel welcome at our casual, quirky hangout for good food and drinks. We have a record player, so anyone can bring their own vinyl to listen to and we hang local art from artists in the area. We are also supporting the build a bed charity in St. Petersburg.
What advice would you give your younger selves?
For Mike, travel more and work less. For Ali, control the controllables and stress less.
How did your relationship and careers prepare you for operating The Studio Public House together?
We helped run The Moon Under Water for 20 years and have 30+ years experience cooking in different countries and kitchens.
What have been some of the rewards and challenges of running The Studio Public House?
We are happy when people genuinely love what we are doing and what we cook, and to see our staff happy and engaged is great. Of course, staffing and long hours are a challenge but we are excited for this next chapter in our lives and to be part of a great community.
Do you have an LGBTQ person you think should be the subject of a future Last Page? Send recommendations to Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com or Tampa Bay Bureau Chief Ryan Williams-Jent at Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com.
