Casual and inviting, Full Speed Patio & Lounge hopes to be the place "where everybody knows your name." - Story by Heather Dubuisson This Big Buzz is supported by our Partners: The newest addition to the Bay St. Louis social scene isn't downtown, as you might expect. Instead, it provides a much-needed gathering place for the steady stream of foot traffic making its way between the Depot District and Old Town. Situated just beyond the tracks in the newly renovated Farragut Lofts sits Full Speed Patio & Lounge, the city's newest local hotspot. This quirky little gem has an atmosphere unlike anything else in Bay St. Louis. Cozy groupings of couches, floor cushions, and intimate seating areas both inside and out blend effortlessly with eclectic artwork and colorful décor, creating the kind of space where you're encouraged to settle in, order another round, and stay awhile. The patio has quickly become one of Full Speed's biggest draws. Comfortable pillows atop the patio decking turn what would be a back porch feel into something special. They have done a great job of building a homey environment and creating a hangout that feels elevated yet cozy and unpretentious. It's the sort of spot where you'll inevitably recognize someone you know. More than once, I've had friends call me over to join them as I rode by on my cart — which, as anyone in Bay St. Louis knows, rarely ends up being a quick hello. Full Speed has also done a fantastic job of listening to locals and creating reasons to gather throughout the week. Tuesday nights belong to trivia, where Zach keeps the competition lively as teams battle for bragging rights and prizes. Wednesdays are all about bingo, with Shannon and her now-famous dunce hat bringing laughter to every game. Sunday Sips and Porch Pal gatherings round out the schedule, often accompanied by talented local musicians who provide the perfect soundtrack for an afternoon or evening spent catching up with friends. While Full Speed is certainly a cocktail lounge, it offers something for everyone with handcrafted mocktails, house-made bar bites, and a menu that changes with the seasons. The staff clearly enjoys getting creative, introducing limited-time specials that keep regulars coming back to see what's next. For the Fourth of July, the featured cocktail was the "Fizzy Bomb Pop," a festive blend of Western Sun Blueberry Vodka, Freixenet Blanc de Blancs Cava Brut, and an actual Bomb Pop serving as the stir stick. The drink can also be transformed into a mocktail, ensuring everyone gets to join the celebration. Another standout is the Cucumber Basil Crushini, a refreshing frozen cocktail featuring cucumber vodka, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, fresh cucumber, fragrant basil, and crushed ice blended until perfectly smooth. Pair it with Shannon's homemade cucumber mint salsa, and you've got one of the most refreshing combinations on the menu. Food hasn't taken a back seat, either. In addition to their popular handmade bar bites, Full Speed has recently expanded into light lunch offerings with options like a tzatziki and hummus buddy plate and the Southern classic chicken salad croissant. Everything is prepared in-house, giving the menu the same thoughtful, handcrafted feel as the cocktails themselves. Whether you're taking a break before continuing your walk downtown or making Full Speed your destination for the evening, this hidden treasure has quickly become one of Bay St. Louis' favorite gathering spots. Don't let its relaxed atmosphere fool you, though. I've attended bingo nights where every seat was filled, and the patio buzzed with conversation long before the games even began. If you're planning to attend one of their scheduled events, arriving early is a good idea. In just a few short months, Full Speed has managed to create something every great town needs – a place where neighbors become regulars, visitors feel like locals, and an ordinary weeknight transforms into one of the best evenings of the week. That's an impressive accomplishment, one that speaks volumes about what this crew has built just a few steps from the tracks. Full Speed Patio & Lounge 301 S Toulme Street, Bay St. Louis (228) 533-2276 Tues-Wed 4-10 pm; Fri 11-11 pm; Sat 11-10; Sun 2-7 pm Enjoy this feature?Comments are closed.
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